Why Study in Japan?

Japan is one of the world’s most technologically advanced countries, home to globally leading companies in automotive, electronics, robotics, and materials science. A degree from a top Japanese university opens doors across Asia and internationally.

For international students, Japan offers a unique combination: top education, extremely low crime, a distinct and rich culture, and — through the MEXT scholarship — the possibility of fully funded study.

Top Universities

University of Tokyo (UTokyo)

Japan’s most prestigious university, ranked in the Asian top 5. Strong across engineering, medicine, law, and the sciences. Offers numerous English-taught graduate programs.

Kyoto University

Second only to UTokyo in Japan. Known for research in physics, chemistry, biology, and the humanities. Beautiful campus in Japan’s cultural capital.

Osaka University

Strong in medicine, engineering, science, and information technology. Located in one of Japan’s liveliest cities.

Tohoku University

Japan’s leading research university outside Tokyo-Osaka. Strong international environment with English-taught programs.

Waseda University

Japan’s leading private university. Strong in political science, economics, engineering, and international studies. Extensive English-medium programs.

Visa and Work Rights

International students receive a College Student visa sponsored by their university. Students can work part-time up to 28 hours per week (40 hours during long vacations) with a permission stamp from immigration.

After graduation, students can apply for a Designated Activities visa to job-hunt for up to one year. Japan’s tight labor market means employers look for international graduates, particularly in engineering and technology.

Scholarships

MEXT Scholarship

The Japanese government’s flagship scholarship. Fully covers tuition, provides a monthly living stipend, and covers travel costs. Highly competitive; available for undergraduate and graduate levels.

JASSO Scholarships

Japan Student Services Organisation scholarships for enrolled international students. Monthly stipend of approx. JPY 48,000.

University Scholarships

Most major Japanese universities offer merit-based tuition reductions and stipends for international students.

Living in Japan

Japan is one of the safest countries in the world. The transport system is among the most efficient globally. The food is great and affordable. The culture values punctuality, cleanliness, and respect — things most international students quickly come to appreciate.

University dormitories are affordable and well-maintained. Many universities offer English-language support services and buddy programs pairing new international students with Japanese students.

The Japanese language is challenging to learn, but even basic Japanese really helps with daily life and professional prospects. Most universities offer free or subsidised Japanese language classes for international students.

Career Outcomes

Japan faces a significant skilled labour shortage and encourages international graduates to stay and work. Technology, engineering, and business graduates are in particularly high demand. Many international students who study in Japan find that their Japanese language skills, combined with their technical education, create unique career opportunities that are unavailable anywhere else.