Japan, also known as the Land of the Rising Sun, is a popular destination for students seeking a unique cultural and academic experience. The country’s safe and well-organized environment attracts a large number of international students. Japanese culture is a blend of pop culture and Zen Buddhism, shaped by limited contact with the outside world due to its island location.
Japan has a temperate climate with four seasons and experiences extreme weather conditions such as typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. While the population is predominantly Japanese, the country boasts rich regional cultures with unique customs and traditions. Food plays a significant role in Japanese culture.
Japanese universities are highly respected for their quality of education and research, with 49 universities featuring in top world rankings and some of them are- The University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, Tohuku University, Osaka University, Nagoya University and many more.
Why Study Abroad in Japan?
Japan is often regarded as one of the top places to study in Asia due to its focus on high academic standards and appreciation for education. Many Japanese universities consistently rank highly in international rankings, demonstrating their excellence in academics, research, and student satisfaction. Some reasons to choose Japan for higher studies-
- In comparison to other developed countries, Japan has lower tuition fees- Japan provides excellent education without putting students in debt, as it is among the top 7 economies in the world. International students can also take advantage of financial help options such as scholarships offered by numerous Japanese universities.
- There are many job opportunities in the tech industry in Japan- In terms of advances in technology the nation leads the globe, especially in the fields of electronics, robotics, and automotive engineering. Japan is home to numerous start-ups and research institutes that are developing cutting-edge technology, in addition to multinational corporations like Sony, Toshiba, and Toyota. Students can gain important contacts and first-hand knowledge in this fascinating field by studying in Japan.
- The thrilling combination of long-standing customs and advanced technology- Japan offers a distinctive fusion of technological innovation and cultural legacy since it is a nation that cherishes both its history and its future. In addition to learning about classic art forms like ukiyo-e and kabuki, students can explore historical religious sites while experiencing the newest developments in robotics, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology. For overseas students, Japan is an intriguing study destination because of this combination.
- Japan is famous for its strict adherence to rules, punctuality, and cleanliness- Students may concentrate on their studies without having to worry about the practicalities of everyday living thanks to effective transit networks, well-maintained facilities, and strict respect to norms and regulations. Additionally, this facet of Japanese society can impart to kids important lessons about self-control and accountability.
- Japan possesses a distinctive and diverse culture that sets it apart from all other nations- People all over the world enjoy the distinct Japanese cuisine, They also admire various forms of Japanese art, including origami, the tea ceremony, manga, and the traditional craft of making kimonos. The Sakura festival and other longstanding customs in Japan reflect the values of simplicity and beauty that are integral to their rich culture. Those who have a passion for Japan often dedicate their lives to learning and exploring its culture, ensuring that studying it is always engaging and fulfilling.
Exploring Japan’s Premier Study Destinations: Top Cities to Study
Japan’s exceptional quality of life, job development prospects, and renowned high academic standards have made it one of the world’s top study destinations for years. Japan offers a wide selection of excellent cities to consider, and here are a few of the top choices:
- Tokyo: For those seeking a fast-paced lifestyle in the world’s largest city, Japan’s capital is the perfect place to be. Tokyo, a city of more than 37 million people, is home to 12 universities with a global reputation and excellent living and educational standards. Tokyo doesn’t have cheap living expenses, but the city’s high standard of living provides more than makes up for it. The top-ranked university in Japan, the University of Tokyo, offers strong chemistry, physics, and space science degrees.
- Osaka- Osaka, the second-largest metropolitan area in Japan, is a popular choice for international students. It is known for having a more relaxed and friendly environment compared to Tokyo. Osaka University, the third best higher education institution in Japan, is also located in the city.
- Kyoto- Kyoto is a great place for international students who want to experience cultural immersion, with over 13,000 international students studying there. The city is home to prestigious universities like Kyoto University, as well as Ritsumeikan University and Doshisha University. Kyoto is famous for its historical significance and has numerous UNESCO Heritage Sites, which adds to the unique mix of tradition and modernity in the city.
- Sendai– Though less well-known than other Japanese cities, Sendai is a great option for those seeking a more genuine Japanese experience rather than a tourist hotspot. The city is home to both the women-only Sendai Shirayuri Women’s College and Tohoku University, which is ranked fourth in Japan. Shinkansen from Tokyo Station takes 90 minutes.
- Nagoya– Nagoya is a great option for those who prefer a more manageable urban experience compared to Tokyo. Nagoya University, ranked fifth in Japan, offers programs primarily in Japanese, but there are also English language options available for some courses.
- Fukuoka– With around 20,000 foreign students, the Fukuoka Province is the third-most international student-heavy region in Japan. The Japan University of Economics and Kyushu University ranked as Japan’s sixth university, are located in the city. One of the oldest towns in Japan, Fukuoka has emerged as a “startup city” due to the numerous initiatives it has put in place to help local companies, such as the “Start-Up Visa,” a unique kind of visa intended for foreign business owners.
- Chiba– Chiba, situated in the Kanto region, is a short train ride from Tokyo and offers international students an affordable living expenses and a convenient lifestyle while still being close to the bustling city. Chiba University, ranked 17th in Japan, hosts a diverse student body of over 1,000 individuals from around 50 nations.
- Kobe– Kobe is a great option for international students looking for a more relaxed lifestyle while still having easy access to major cities like Osaka and Kyoto. Kobe University, ranked-12 in Japan, has a high number of international students, making it a diverse and welcoming environment.
Study in Abroad-Japan with GMC STUDIES
Welcome to GMC STUDIES, your gateway to an enriching academic experience in Japan! With our expertise and dedicated support, you can embark on a transformative journey of studying abroad in the Land of the Rising Sun. Discover the exceptional educational opportunities, vibrant cultural immersion, and promising career prospects that await you in Japan. Let us guide you towards realizing your aspirations and shaping your future in this dynamic and globally renowned study destination.
- In addition to our main office in the United Kingdom, we have operations in several locations throughout the world.
- Our professionals will help you with every aspect of choosing a course, including academic support, enrollment, travel arrangements, and visa application.
- We provide outstanding customer service.
- Free Initial Consultation
- Quick assessment
- Skillful and informed visa support
- The post-visa service fee
- As of now, our success rate is 100%.
Japan Student Visa Requirements
To pursue your academic journey in Japan, it’s essential to understand and fulfill the visa requirements. Here’s a comprehensive list to guide you through the process:
Types of Student Visa
- Short-Term Visa: Designed for students attending language schools, this visa allows stays for 90 or 180 days, depending on agreements between Japan and the student’s home country. It’s suitable for bridging periods between enrollment periods but cannot be extended.
- Student Visa: This visa is necessary for students planning to study in Japan for an extended period, typically up to one year with the possibility of extension to two years. Eligibility may require applicants to have studied Japanese for at least six months with a minimum of twenty hours per week through institutions like Nihongo Center.
- Japan Student Visa Fees- The current fee for Japan Study Visa is 3000 Yen.
Study Visa Documents List
- For Study (College/University)-
- Application form
- Valid Passport and Photocopy
- Old Passport (if any) and Photocopy
- One Photo (2 inch X 1.4 inch)
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE) (Japanese Government Scholarship awardees are not required)
- Resume (Japanese Government Scholarship awardees are not required)
- Acceptance letter issued by a Japanese institute (if any)
- Original academic certificates and photo registration cards (if any)
- Document certifying financial capabilities (if any)
- Payment receive receipt and remittance receipt for tuition (if any)
- Airline Booking Slip
- For Study (Japanese Language School)-
- Application form (duly filled up)
- Passport and One photo (2 inch X 1.4 inch)
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
- Admission certificate from a Japanese language school in Japan
- Receipt for admission/tuition fee from Japanese language school)
- Certificate of Japanese Language Proficiency Test N1-N5 (if you have one)
- Language school certificate from a language school in Bangladesh or other countries
- Academic certificate, Registration card, Mark sheet of S.S.C. and H.S.C.
- Valid airline booking slip
- Bank Statement for 6 months from the financial supporter.
- Tax certificate and paid amount receipt for 3 years from the financial supporter.
- Family tree with necessary passport copy /NID card/ Nikahnama to prove the relationship with financial supporter (if the supporter is not your parents)
Japanese University Tuition Fees Range
The average tuition fees for international students in Japan range from 6 lac Yen to 15 lac Yen per year, but some programs can be cheaper or more expensive. There are universities with Master’s degrees costing as low as 30 thousand Yen per year and some can be over than this. Doctorate programs typically cost between 4-8 lac Yen per year. Overall, tuition fees in Japan are lower compared to the USA or UK, and some students may qualify for waivers or exemptions based on academic merit or financial need.
Visa processing time for Japan
A Japan Visa is typically processed within five working days after the Embassy or Consulate receives your application, but additional documentation may result in a longer processing time.
Popular Japanese University Courses-
- Engineering
- Business
- Data Science
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Education and Training
- Architecture
Available Scholarships to Study in Japan
There are many scholarships available for international students studying in Japan, which can help cover the costs of their degree program. There are also collaborative scholarship opportunities available. For Example-
- Scholarships by MEXT- The Japanese Embassy in Bangladesh is promoting its MEXT scholarship opportunities for students in the country.
Some of the criteria to apply for MEXT scholarship:
- Applicants must be under 35 years old.
- Those applying for a Master’s Course must have completed a bachelor’s degree or have 16 years of education.
- Those applying for a Doctoral Course must have completed a master’s degree or have 18 years of education.
- Only Bangladeshi nationals are eligible to apply from Bangladesh.
- Achieving consistent high grades, Mark maintained a first-class performance throughout his academic career with a 60% average or a CGPA of 3.5 out of 4 and GPA 5 out of 5 in SSC/HSC.
JASSO (Japan Student Services Association)
The Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) is a government organization that provides various services for students. These services include scholarships, loans, and support for international students, and programs to enhance student life. JASSO’s goal is to nurture talented individuals who can lead society in the future and promote global understanding and cooperation.
Monbukagakusho Scholarship
This scholarship is for International Students is available to students who have outstanding academic achievements and positive character traits, but also struggle financially. It is open to both undergraduate and postgraduate students, including those pursuing a Masters or PhD degree.
Study Options in Japan
- Bachelor’s
- Master’s
- Doctoral
- Research
Study in Japan from Bangladesh without IELTS
Whether the curriculum is taught in English or Japanese, most Japanese institutions have English language requirements, according to JASSO. Besides, by enrolling in the appropriate English exam preparation course, you can improve your language abilities to achieve the required scores for exams such as, IELTS, TOEFL, and others.
Learning Japanese is essential for the best experience and opportunities in Japan. If you plan to apply to a university that requires proof of language proficiency, you will need to take the JLPT exam, which has five levels ranging from N5 to N1. Universities usually expect at least an N2 level for admission.
Costs of studying and living in Japan
Japan’s cost of living vary according to where you live, just like it does in many other nations. When comparing rural and urban locations, expenses in Tokyo are often greater. Japanese students typically pay about four thousand yen a month for housing, but that amount rises to 5 thousand yen in Tokyo. It is also important to keep in mind that finding housing near university might be more difficult in large cities, resulting in higher transportation costs.
The student will have to spend approximately 5 to 6 thousand yen (3k to 4k BDT) every month on housing, transportation, meals, and utilities.
Tuition fees for international students vary depending on the type of institution they attend and the degree they want to pursue. The details have been discussed in the tuition fees portion.
Part-Time Jobs/Work Opportunities
There are various part-time job options available for students in Japan, such as working in restaurants, convenience stores, language schools, and customer service roles. It is important to note that many of these jobs require a basic understanding of the Japanese language.
If this is not possible for you, there are also opportunities for work-from-home jobs or freelance work in English. Students on a Japanese student visa are allowed to work up to 28 hours per week, but it is necessary to apply for a work permit separately after arriving in Japan.
Post-Study Work Permit
Applying for a student work permit at the local immigration office in Japan is the first step toward being granted authorization to work. Only a student visa will not allow you to work in Japan. Once you get your work permit, you can begin looking for work, but keep in mind that you can only work 28 hours per week if you are on a student visa. In addition, certain jobs are forbidden, including those in massage parlors, adult stores, bars, clubs, and so forth.
Study in Japan: FAQ
Can students apply for internships while they are still in the university?
More international students are now taking part in internships at various companies before they graduate. If you are interested, you should contact your institution to inquire about the availability of internship programs and obtain the required permissions.
What courses do students from Bangladesh study in Japan?
Major courses that international students visit to Japan to study include engineering, business, data science, pharmaceutical sciences, education & training, and architecture. Another well-liked program among overseas students is language study.
Is it beneficial to study in Japan?
Japan is known for having a top-notch and affordable education system, making it a desirable choice for students compared to countries like the US or UK. Additionally, Japan is a safe country with a distinct culture, making it a worthwhile destination for an enriching experience.
Is it possible to study in Japan without taking the IELTS exam?
In Japan, some universities require proof of proficiency in both Japanese and English language, while others may only require proficiency in one language depending on the language of instruction. To demonstrate proficiency in Japanese, students must take the JLPT exam, and for English, exams such as IELTS and TOEFL are accepted.
What are the necessary qualifications to enroll in a university in Japan?
Requirements for studying in Japan vary depending on the educational level and program. Generally, applicants must have completed secondary education, show language proficiency, and meet any additional criteria set by the university they are applying to.
Does studying in Japan require a visa for international students?
Applying for a student visa in advance of their studies is mandatory for all international students who wish to attend a university in Japan.
Which language is used across Japan?
Japanese is the dominant language used in the country. While most people only speak Japanese in their daily lives, many also have a basic understanding of English due to it being taught as a second language in institutions.
