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Study in Japan

Japan’s universities are known for engineering, robotics and research. Growing numbers of English-taught programmes sit alongside the traditional route of language school followed by university.

Main intakes
April is the main start; many English-taught programmes start in September or October
Student visa
Student visa with Certificate of Eligibility
Region
Asia-Pacific
Country
Flag of JapanJapan

The education system in Japan

Bachelor’s degrees take four years and master’s degrees two. Many students attend a Japanese language school before entering a Japanese-taught degree.

Why students choose Japan

  • Research strengths in robotics and engineering
  • The MEXT government scholarship
  • Safe, efficient cities and a distinctive culture

Popular courses and study areas

These fields are well established in Japan. Availability, language of instruction and entry requirements still vary by university and level.

  • Robotics
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Design
  • Japanese Language
  • Business

Universities in Japan

A few of the well-known universities students often consider. Drag or swipe to see more.

Listed for reference only — this is not a list of partner institutions. We shortlist from all recognised universities in Japan based on your profile, budget and goals.

Choosing a university in Japan

Rankings are a starting point, not the answer. When we build a shortlist for Japan, we compare:

  • Course modules, teaching style and any placement or project components
  • Entry requirements against your marks, backlogs and test scores
  • Total cost — tuition, living costs in that city and visa funds
  • Intake dates and deadlines that fit your timeline
  • Recognition of the institution and what your final certificate will state

See how we approach this in course and university selection.

Admission requirements

Requirements depend on the programme. Japanese-taught undergraduate programmes may require the EJU exam.

Typical documents are listed in our guide to preparing university application documents.

Language requirements

English-taught programmes accept IELTS or TOEFL. Japanese-taught programmes require JLPT or EJU results.

Not sure which test to take? Compare IELTS, PTE, TOEFL iBT and the Duolingo English Test.

Tuition fees and living costs

National universities have standard fees, while private universities set their own. Living costs are higher in Tokyo and Osaka.

Fees and required funds change, so we don’t publish fixed figures here. We confirm current costs for each programme on your shortlist using the university’s and government’s own websites.

Scholarships and funding

MEXT scholarship

Japanese government scholarship, applied for through the Embassy of Japan in India or a university.

JASSO support

Need- and merit-based support for privately financed students.

Eligibility, amounts and deadlines are set by each provider and change yearly. Read more about scholarship planning or ask about education loan guidance.

Student visa: Student visa with Certificate of Eligibility

Your school applies for a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) in Japan; you then apply for the visa at the Japanese Embassy or Consulate.

Official resources

Application timeline

April is the main start; many English-taught programmes start in September or October.

  1. 1
    10–12 months before

    Research & tests

    Profile review, destination and course research, book language or admission tests.

  2. 2
    8–10 months before

    Shortlist & documents

    Finalise your shortlist, prepare statements and request recommendations.

  3. 3
    6–9 months before

    Apply

    Submit applications and scholarship applications.

  4. 4
    3–6 months before

    Offer, funds & visa

    Accept an offer, arrange funds and apply for the Student visa with Certificate of Eligibility.

  5. 5
    1–2 months before

    Get ready to fly

    Accommodation, travel and our pre-departure briefing.

  6. Intake

    Start your course

Information on this page was last reviewed in October 2026. Always confirm requirements on the official websites linked above.

FAQs about studying in Japan

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