Explore Japan
Study in Japan.
Picture ancient temples beside high-tech cities. Explore Japan through the programmes and everyday life that suit you.
At a glance
Studying in Japan, at a glance.
Main intakes
April (main), with many English-taught programmes starting in September or October
Bachelor’s degree
Usually 4 years
Master’s degree
Usually 2 years
Teaching language
Japanese, with a growing range of English-taught programmes
Tuition (indicative)
¥535,800 a year standard at national universities
Some national universities now charge international students more; private universities cost more.
Living costs (indicative)
About ¥105,000 a month on average
The average for international students in the latest JASSO survey. Tokyo is higher, at about ¥130,000.
General guidance, reviewed in November 2026 against official and published sources. Fees, living-cost figures and requirements change and differ by institution and course, so always confirm with the institution and official sources such as Study in Japan (JASSO) before making decisions.
Why Japan
What draws students to Japan.
Technology and engineering
World-class research in engineering, robotics and science.
Culture and safety
A safe country with a deep culture.
Scholarship support
Government scholarships such as MEXT.
Study opportunities
Subject areas with a wide choice of programmes.
English-taught degrees are growing, especially at graduate level. Start with what you want to learn, then check each course’s modules, teaching approach and entry requirements.
- Engineering and robotics
- Computer science
- Natural sciences
- Japanese studies
- Business
- Animation and media
Where to study
Examples of well-known institutions in Japan.
In no particular order. These are examples to start your research, not rankings or recommendations, and many other excellent institutions exist.
University of Tokyo
- City
- Tokyo
- Type
- National university
Kyoto University
- City
- Kyoto
- Type
- National university
Osaka University
- City
- Osaka
- Type
- National university
Tohoku University
- City
- Sendai
- Type
- National university
Waseda University
- City
- Tokyo
- Type
- Private university
Keio University
- City
- Tokyo
- Type
- Private university
Check programmes, entry requirements and fees on each institution’s official website.
Admission requirements
What applications usually ask for.
Requirements are set by each institution and course. Use this as a starting checklist, then follow the official course page.
Most applications
- Academic transcripts and certificates from your previous study.
- Evidence of your proficiency in the language of instruction.
- A personal statement or statement of purpose, written in your own words.
- One or two academic or professional references.
- A CV, particularly for postgraduate applications.
- A valid passport.
Specific to Japan
- Many undergraduate programmes use the Examination for Japanese University Admission (EJU).
- Japanese-taught programmes usually need JLPT results.
- English-taught programmes may ask for English test scores.
Scholarships
Scholarships worth researching.
Public information only. Eligibility, deadlines and amounts are set by each provider; WINAR does not provide or arrange funding.
MEXT Japanese Government Scholarship
Government scholarships for international students, applied for through Japanese embassies or universities.
JASSO scholarships
Scholarships administered by the Japan Student Services Organization.
Student life
Everyday life in Japan.
Transport
Fast, reliable trains connect every major city.
Language
Learning Japanese makes daily life easier.
Seasons
Four distinct seasons, from cherry blossom to snow.
Visas and immigration
Visa and immigration rules are set by the government of Japan and change regularly. WINAR does not provide immigration advice or services. Read the official guidance published by Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (Visas), and speak to a suitably qualified and regulated adviser if you need advice on your own circumstances.
Questions, answered plainly
Questions about studying in Japan.
What would your Japan chapter need?
Discuss your study goals, the information still to verify and possible next steps with WINAR. Support scope and destination coverage are subject to confirmation.