Japan faq

Study in Japan – FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Get clear answers to the most common questions about studying in Japan, covering visas, exams, costs, and career opportunities.

Why should I choose Japan for higher studies?

Japan offers world-class education, cutting-edge technology, affordable tuition, generous scholarships, and one of the safest, most advanced environments for students.

Are Japanese degrees globally recognized?

Yes. Japan’s universities are highly respected worldwide for their excellence in engineering, technology, science, and research.

What are the most popular courses in Japan?

Engineering, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Computer Science, Biotechnology, Business, International Relations, Architecture, and Design.

Are programs available in English?

Yes. Many Japanese universities offer Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs in English, especially in STEM and business fields.

Do I need to know Japanese to study in Japan?

Not mandatory for English-taught programs, but knowing Japanese helps with:
-Part-time jobs
-Internships
-Career opportunities
-Daily life

How much does it cost to study in Japan?

-Public universities: ¥535,800/year (~₹2.8 lakh)
-Private universities: ¥900,000 – ¥1,600,000/year 

Cost varies by course and institution.

What is the cost of living?

Tokyo: ¥100,000 – ¥130,000/month
Other cities: ¥60,000 – ¥90,000/month
Japan offers student discounts and affordable food/transport options.

Is Japan safe for international students?

Yes. Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, with clean cities, low crime, and excellent public transport.

Does Japan offer scholarships?

Yes, including prestigious options like:
-MEXT Scholarship (FULLY FUNDED)
-JASSO Scholarships
-University-specific scholarships
-Local government and corporate scholarships

What is the MEXT Scholarship?

A Japanese government scholarship covering:
-Full tuition
-Monthly stipend
-Round-trip airfare
-Accommodation support
One of the world’s best scholarships for international students.

What exams or tests are required?

-For English-taught programs: IELTS/TOEFL
-For Japanese-taught programs: JLPT N2/N3

Some universities conduct entrance exams or interviews.

What is the EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission)?

A test for students entering Japanese-taught Bachelor’s programs. Not required for English-medium programs.

Which are the top universities in Japan?

-University of Tokyo (UTokyo)
-Kyoto University
-Tokyo Institute of Technology (Tokyo Tech)
-Osaka University
-Tohoku University
-Nagoya University
-Keio University
-Waseda University
-Hokkaido University

What are the major intakes?

April (Spring) – major intake
September/October (Fall) – popular for international programs

Can I work part-time while studying?

Yes. Students with a work permit can work:
–28 hours/week during semesters
-Full-time during vacations

What kinds of part-time jobs do students get?

Language tutoring, restaurant/café jobs, convenience stores, research assistant roles, translation, and IT internships.

Does Japan accept backlogs?

Varies by university. Competitive universities prefer strong academic records.

What documents are needed for admission?

-Academic transcripts
-English test/JLPT scores
-Personal statement
-Recommendation letters
-Research proposal (for master’s & PhD)
-Passport

What visa do I need to study in Japan?

The Student Visa (Ryugaku Visa) issued for full-time academic programs.

How long does the visa process take?

Usually 4–8 weeks.
Universities first issue a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE), required for the visa.

Can I stay in Japan after graduation?

Yes. Graduates can apply for:
–Work Visa (Engineer/Specialist in Humanities)
–Highly Skilled Professional Visa
-Startup visa (for entrepreneurship)

What industries have strong job demand in Japan?

-IT & Software
-Robotics & AI
-Automotive engineering
-Electronics
-Biotechnology
-Healthcare
-Finance
-Education

Do I need JLPT certification to work in Japan?

Not always, but JLPT N2 significantly improves employability. Tech jobs may accept English-speaking candidates.

How is the culture for international students?

Japanese culture is respectful, disciplined, peaceful, and student-friendly. Universities have strong international student support.

Is Japan a good choice overall for international students?

Yes. Students choose Japan for:
-Affordable education
-Research excellence
-Safe environment
-High-tech industries
-Great scholarships
-Strong job market
-Unique culture