How to Study in Japan as an International Student | High School & University Guides

Are you wondering, “I want to study abroad in Japan, but I’m not sure where to begin?”

In this article, we will explain the five main ways to study in Japan, how to apply for Japanese high schools and universities, and the typical costs of studying abroad in Japan.

We will also introduce the level of Japanese language ability generally needed to study in Japan, along with recommended ways to improve your Japanese skills, so please feel free to use this guide as a helpful starting point.

Ways to Study in Japan

There are mainly five different ways to study in Japan:

• High school study abroad programs
• University study abroad programs
• Japanese language schools
• Vocational schools
• Educational travel and training programs

Let’s take a closer look at each of these study abroad options.

High School Study Abroad Programs

High school study abroad programs in Japan allow international high school students to attend Japanese high schools while learning about Japanese language and culture.

The details of each program vary depending on the organization offering it. For example, the international educational exchange organization AFS offers programs for high school students that range from one term to one full academic year.(Source: AFS Exchange Program)

University Study Abroad Programs

University study abroad programs in Japan allow international students to study at Japanese universities.

There are several different styles of study abroad, such as:

• studying at a Japanese university partnered with your home university
• independently enrolling in a Japanese university at your own expense
• participating in short-term programs during long vacations such as spring break

Depending on the program, students may be able to earn academic credits at the host university or receive tuition exemptions.

Japanese Language Schools

Japanese language schools are institutions established by educational organizations or private companies to teach Japanese to people whose native language is not Japanese.

In addition to general Japanese learning, many schools offer courses focused on preparing for higher education or business Japanese.

Students can usually choose study periods ranging from a few weeks to two years, depending on their goals and plans.

Vocational Schools

Vocational schools are educational institutions designed to help students acquire the practical skills and knowledge needed for specific careers and everyday professional life.

After graduation, students may be able to use their specialized skills to find employment in Japan.

Because classes at vocational schools are conducted in Japanese, applicants are generally expected to have a certain level of Japanese ability, such as scoring 200 points or higher on the Japanese section of the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU).

Educational Travel and Training Programs

Educational travel and training programs are organized by travel agencies and educational institutions with the goal of helping participants improve their language skills and deepen their understanding of different cultures.

Program contents vary, but common activities include homestays with Japanese families and visiting Japanese schools to interact with local students.

How to Study Abroad at a Japanese High School or University: 5 Steps

In general, studying abroad at a Japanese high school or university involves the following five steps:

1. Choose a study abroad program or school
2. Take academic or language proficiency tests
3. Apply to your desired school and take the entrance examination
4. Complete the enrollment procedures
5. Prepare for your move to Japan

The process may vary depending on the school or program you choose, but this can serve as a helpful general guide.

Choose a Study Abroad Program or School

The first step is to choose a program or school based on your goals for studying in Japan.

For example, if you would like to study at a Japanese university, it is helpful to look not only at whether the university offers courses you are interested in, but also whether it provides support systems for international students, as well as dormitories or student housing.

It is also important to check the admission requirements and necessary application documents in advance.

Take Academic or Language Proficiency Tests

For both high school and university study abroad programs, it is common for schools to request proof of Japanese language ability as part of the application process.

Because of this, many students are required to take exams such as the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU) before applying.

The required tests vary depending on the organization or school, so be sure to confirm the details ahead of time.

★Also try reading:
What Are the Best Tips for Learning Japanese on Your Own?

Apply to Your Desired School and Take the Entrance Examination

Once you receive your test results, you can apply to your desired high school or university and proceed with the entrance examination process.

Entrance exams may include document screening, academic tests, and interviews. Depending on the university, applicants may also need to submit essays or take standardized exams such as the Common Test for University Admissions.

Be sure to carefully check the school’s official website for the latest information and requirements.

Complete the Enrollment Procedures

After the entrance examination, if you receive an acceptance notice, you will need to complete the enrollment procedures.

The required steps differ depending on the school, but may include submitting enrollment documents and paying tuition fees. Since deadlines are strictly set, it is important to complete everything on time.

Prepare for Your Move to Japan

Once your enrollment procedures are complete, you can begin preparing for your move to Japan by applying for a visa and arranging flights and insurance.

If your school does not provide dormitories or housing, you should also begin searching for a place to live as early as possible.

The Cost of Studying in Japan

Here, we will introduce the average tuition fees and living expenses required for studying in Japan.

We will also explain scholarship programs that can help reduce costs, so be sure to take a look.

Average Tuition Fees

According to the Japanese government-approved study abroad website “STUDY in JAPAN,” the average annual tuition fees for universities in Japan are as follows.

(Source: Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO), STUDY in JAPAN Basic Guide, April 2026) 

In addition, for students entering graduate school, the average annual tuition for doctoral programs is said to range from approximately ¥535,800 to ¥663,923.

Average Living Expenses

Living expenses vary depending on the region and housing situation, but the government-approved website “STUDY in JAPAN” suggests around ¥105,000 per month as a general guideline.

(Source: Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO), STUDY in JAPAN Basic Guide, April 2026) 

Average Monthly Living Expenses:

• Housing: ¥41,000
• Food: ¥32,000
• Utilities: ¥8,000
• Hobbies and entertainment: ¥8,000
• Transportation to school: ¥4,000
• Insurance and medical expenses: ¥3,000
• Other daily expenses: ¥9,000

What Are Scholarships?

To help reduce the cost of studying in Japan, international students may consider using scholarship programs, which provide financial support for studying at Japanese educational institutions.

There are various types of scholarships available, including:

• scholarships provided by government organizations
• scholarships offered by local governments and private organizations
• scholarships provided directly by schools and universities

Some scholarships may include tuition reductions or full tuition exemptions.

Specific scholarship information is available through organizations such as the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO), so be sure to check their official resources for the latest details.

(Source: Japan Student Services Organization — Scholarships for International Students)

How Much Japanese Ability Is Needed to Study in Japan?

The level of Japanese ability required to study in Japan depends on the school or program you choose.

For example, if you enroll in a university program where a degree can be completed entirely in English, basic Japanese for everyday life may be enough in some cases. However, many universities require applicants to meet standards such as scoring 200 points or higher on the Japanese section of the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU).

In addition, some high school study abroad programs also require students to take Japanese proficiency tests, so it is recommended to build at least a solid foundation in Japanese before studying abroad.

★Also try reading:
The Best Way to Learn Japanese Online: A Comprehensive Guide Introduction

Prepare for Studying Abroad with Oku Sensei’s Japanese

If you are wondering how to improve your Japanese before studying in Japan, Oku Sensei’s Japanese is highly recommended.

Through Zoom lessons, students can learn from Oku Sensei, who has taught Japanese at American universities for over 20 years. The lessons provide comprehensive support in reading, writing, listening, conversation, grammar, and kanji.

Students can develop practical Japanese skills without relying heavily on homework, while also learning about Japanese culture, customs, and values, making these lessons an excellent choice for anyone who wants to prepare thoroughly for studying abroad in Japan.

How to Study in Japan as an International Student — Summary

In this article, we explained the five main ways to study in Japan, how to apply for Japanese high schools and universities, and the typical costs involved in studying abroad in Japan.

If you are hoping to study in Japan and would like to improve your Japanese ability while learning in a fun and engaging way, why not try the online lessons at Oku Sensei’s Japanese?

The lessons are designed to encourage active participation and conversation, and because Oku Sensei is also highly experienced having taught at Universities across America, students can comfortably ask questions and continue learning with confidence.

Right now, Oku Sensei’s Japanese is offering a “free 30-minute consultation,” so be sure to check it out.