Study in Japan

The Education System in Japan

The academic year, both in schools and universities, begins in April and ends in March of the following year.

There may be two to four semesters in different educational institutions. In some universities, it is possible to enter in September (autumn enrollment) with the end of the semester in August of the following year.

Elementary school: 6 years.

Age: 6-12 years.

Period of study: from April to March.

Junior High: 3 years.

Age: 12-15 years.

Period of study: from April to March.

High school: 3 years.

Not compulsory.

Age: 16-18 years.

Schools can be public or private.

After completing high school (9 years of education), it is possible to enter a Professional / Technological college, where, starting from the 3rd year of study, vocationally oriented subjects are taught.

College education after high school can last from one to four years.

University

To enter a university, a 12-year school education is required.

Undergraduate studies at the university last 4 years and are mainly conducted in Japanese, but there are also programs in English.

Studies in the specialty of medicine, veterinary medicine, and pharmaceuticals last 6 years.

Master's degree lasts 2 years and then you can continue your studies in postgraduate studies to obtain a PhD degree.

Admission to a Japanese university

Study in Japanese language

EJU Exam EJU (The Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students) was introduced in 2002 to replace the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) and the General Examination for Foreign Students (GEFS).

EJU is a combined examination of Japanese language and basic academic concepts to assess whether international students who wish to study at the undergraduate level at universities or similar higher education institutions in Japan have the Japanese language skills and basic academic knowledge required for study at those institutions.

It is held twice a year (June and November) in Japan and overseas (16 cities in Japan and 18 cities in 14 countries and regions).

A choice of academic subjects is possible.

!! The EJU will not be offered in Russia (Vladivostok) from the 2024 exam.

The requirements of Japanese universities for exam subjects and languages for the EJU vary depending on each institution. Therefore, it is necessary to check with the specific university for the latest requirements before applying.

For English-taught majors, proof of English proficiency is required by taking the TOEFL (80 points or higher) or IELTS (6.0 or higher). For English-language programs, international test results may be required: SAT or ACT for undergraduate programs, GRE or GMAT for graduate programs.

Frequently asked questions

1. What types of educational institutions are available for international students in Japan?

In Japan, international students can enroll in language schools, vocational colleges (senmon gakko), universities (undergraduate, graduate, postgraduate programs), and technical colleges.

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2. Do I need to know Japanese to apply?

It depends on the program. Many universities offer English-taught programs, especially at the graduate level. However, most programs require Japanese proficiency (usually JLPT N2 or higher). Language schools help students prepare for the JLPT exam.

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3. What level of education is required to enter a Japanese university?

For undergraduate programs, a completed secondary education (11 or 12 years, depending on your country) is required. For graduate programs, a bachelor’s degree is necessary. Some programs may also require entrance exams.

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4. What type of visa do I need to study in Japan?

You will need a Student Visa. To obtain one, you must receive an official acceptance letter from a Japanese institution and provide financial documentation proving your ability to support yourself.

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5. How much does it cost to study in Japan?

Average tuition costs:

• Language schools: ¥600,000 to ¥800,000 per year

• Universities: ¥500,000 to ¥1,200,000 per year (depending on the program and institution)

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6. Are there scholarships for international students?

Yes, there are government and private scholarships available, such as MEXT, JASSO, and scholarships offered directly by universities. Requirements usually include academic excellence and often Japanese language proficiency.

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7. Can I work while studying in Japan?

Yes, international students can work part-time up to 28 hours per week (with permission from immigration). During school vacations, up to 40 hours per week is allowed.

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8. Is it hard to adapt to life in Japan?

Japan is a safe and convenient country to live in. Language and cultural differences can be a challenge, but most schools offer support services and orientation programs for international students.

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9. Where do international students live in Japan?

Housing options include:

• Student dormitories

• Private apartments

• Homestays with Japanese families

Costs and availability vary depending on the city and accommodation type.

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10. How can I apply through your agency?

Just contact us through the form on our website. We’ll provide a consulta, help you choose a school, assist with document preparation, visa application, and pre-departure arrangements.

Step-by-step guide

STEP 1: Choose your university and program.

STEP 2: Meet the education requirement (12 years).

Japanese universities require 12 years of formal education. If you completed:

11 years (Russian high school):
- Option 1: Complete a foundation or preparatory program in Japan,
- Option 2: Study 1 year at a Russian university before applying,
- Option 3: Enroll in a Japanese language school, then apply to a university.

STEP 3: Prepare your application documents

Most English-language programs require the following:

High school diploma (with official English or Japanese translation,
English proficiency:
- TOEFL iBT: 80+
- IELTS: 6.0+
Statement of Purpose (motivation letter),
Recommendation letter from a teacher,
Resume (CV),
Passport copy.

STEP 4: Submit your application

Applications are typically submitted online via the university’s website.

September intake: Apply between January–April,
April intake: Apply by October–December of the previous year,
Some programs require an online interview or creative test.

STEP 5: Receive admission and apply for a student visa

Once accepted, the university will send you:

Admission Letter,
Certificate of Eligibility (COE) – required for your visa.

Visa processing usually takes 4–8 weeks.

STEP 6: Arrange housing and prepare for departure

Many universities offer dormitories or housing support,
Private apartments are also available for international students.

Scholarship opportunities:

MEXT Scholarship – Apply through the Japanese embassy (start ~Autumn),
JASSO Scholarship – Monthly financial support after enrollment,
University-based tuition reductions – Many universities offer tuition discounts (30%–100%) for international students based on grades and portfolio.

Knowing basic Japanese (JLPT N5–N2) is very helpful for everyday life and part-time jobs, even if your course is in English