Japan is fast becoming a sought-after destination for international students, offering top-tier
education, rich cultural experiences, and excellent post-graduation opportunities. Whether you’re
interested in undergraduate (UG) or postgraduate (PG) studies, Japan offers a unique blend of
world-class academic programs, vibrant student life, and exciting career pathways. Here’s
everything you need to know about studying in Japan.
1. English Prociency Test & Score Requirements
Japan has many English-taught programs for both UG and PG levels, with the following key
English prociency tests accepted:
• TOEFL: UG programs generally require scores between 61–80, while PG programs
typically need scores between 80–100.
• IELTS: For UG courses, a score of 5.5–6.0 is expected, while PG courses require 6.0–
7.0.
• TOEIC: Some universities accept TOEIC, with minimum scores of 700 for UG and 750+
for PG.
For Japanese-taught programs, students must demonstrate prociency in Japanese, typically at a
JLPT N3 level for UG and JLPT N2 for PG programs.
2. Funds and Financial Support
Studying in Japan requires students to prove they have enough funds to cover tuition and living
expenses.
• Minimum Funds: Typically, students need to show at least ¥1 million (~$7,500 USD) in
their bank accounts.
• Scholarships: The MEXT Scholarship is a prestigious option that can cover tuition,
living costs, and airfare. Many universities also offer their own scholarships.
• Part-Time Work: International students are allowed to work up to 28 hours per week
during the semester, which can help support living expenses.
3. Lifestyle and Cost of Living
Japan is known for its high standard of living, but costs can vary signicantly depending on the
city:
• Tokyo & Osaka: These major cities are the most expensive, with living costs ranging
from ¥100,000–¥150,000/month (~$750–$1,100 USD), including rent, food, and
transport.
• Smaller Cities: Cities like Fukuoka, Sapporo, and Kyoto are more affordable, with costs
typically around ¥70,000–¥100,000/month (~$500–$750 USD).
• Accommodation: Rent for shared apartments ranges from ¥30,000–¥70,000/month,
while private apartments in major cities can cost ¥80,000–¥150,000/month.
• Public Transport: Japan boasts an excellent and affordable transport system, with
student discounts available for trains and buses.
4. Experience and Exploration
Living in Japan offers international students a chance to experience a mix of modernity and
tradition:
• Cultural Immersion: Explore ancient temples, enjoy traditional tea ceremonies, and
participate in vibrant festivals like Hanami (cherry blossom viewing) and Gion Matsuri.
• Nature & Adventure: Japan’s diverse landscape offers hiking in the mountains, skiing in
Nagano, and relaxing on the beaches of Okinawa.
• Student Life: Japan has a welcoming environment for international students, with
numerous student organizations, cultural exchange programs, and opportunities to make
lifelong friends.
5. Application & Visa Process
The application process for studying in Japan is straightforward but requires some preparation:
1. Apply to Universities: Submit your academic transcripts, proof of English prociency,
and other documents.
2. Certicate of Eligibility (COE): Once accepted, the university will issue a COE, which
is required for the student visa application.
3. Apply for a Student Visa: Apply at the Japanese embassy or consulate, submitting your
COE, passport, proof of nancial stability, and visa application form.
4. Visa Fees: Visa application fees generally range from ¥3,000–¥6,000 (~$25–$50 USD),
depending on the embassy. + Tyche Nexus’s Processing Fee*
6. Post-Study Work Permit
After graduation, international students can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Visa under the
Designated Activities visa. This allows students to work in Japan for up to 1 year. Students in
elds such as IT, engineering, and healthcare often nd it easier to extend their stay with:
• Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa or Engineer visa.
• Highly Skilled Foreign Professional visa: This visa is designed for graduates with highlevel expertise and can fast-track the transition to Permanent Residency (PR) in 3–5
years.
7. PR & Citizenship Scope
Japan offers clear pathways for students who want to stay long-term:
• Permanent Residency (PR): Students can apply for PR after living in Japan for 10
years. However, those on the Highly Skilled Foreign Professional visa may qualify for
PR in as little as 3–5 years.
• Citizenship: After 5 years of continuous residence, students can apply for Japanese
citizenship. This process requires prociency in Japanese and other criteria, including
stable income and a clean criminal record.
Conclusion: Why Choose Japan?
Japan is an excellent choice for international students seeking a world-class education, rich
cultural experiences, and solid career prospects. With top-ranked universities, exciting postgraduation work opportunities, and pathways to long-term residency, Japan is becoming one of
the most attractive destinations for students worldwide.