Tokyo · Japan
Study in Japan from India: universities, MEXT scholarships & visa
Cutting-edge technology and research, remarkably low public-university tuition, and a job-seeker visa that lets graduates stay on to find work.

Study in Japan – National Universities, MEXT Scholarships & Career Pathways
Our Bangalore consultants help with university selection, MEXT scholarship applications, language preparation and visa documentation.
01 · Why study
Why Study in Japan?
- Affordable Education: National universities cost far less than Western tuition, and MEXT scholarships can cover full tuition plus a stipend for top candidates.
- World-Class Innovation: A global leader in robotics, electronics, automotive engineering and materials science.
- Safe & Well-Run Cities: Ranked among the world's safest and cleanest countries.
- Globally Recognised Degrees: Respected by employers in Asia, the US and Europe.
- Growing English-Taught Programmes: More Master's and PhD programmes are fully taught in English.
- Work Opportunities: Work up to 28 hours a week while studying, with a post-study job-seeker visa of up to one year.
02 · Costs
Cost of Studying in Japan
Cost of Admission
| S.no. | Expense | Estimated Cost (JPY) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Application Fees | ¥9,800 – ¥17,000 per university | Varies by institution |
| 2. | Standardised Tests | IELTS: ¥33,000, TOEFL: ¥31,000, JLPT: ¥6,500 | JLPT is needed for Japanese-taught courses |
| 3. | Certificate of Eligibility | ¥3,000 (processing) | Needed before the visa application |
| 4. | Entrance Examination Fee | ¥17,000 – ¥30,000 | Some national universities charge this |
| 5. | SOP & LOR Preparation | ¥0 – ¥12,000 | If using professional editing |
| 6. | Student Visa (CoE-based) | ¥3,000 | Handled through the Japanese embassy or consulate |
| 7. | Proof of Funds | ¥2,000,000 minimum (1 year) | Bank certificate or sponsor letter |
| 8. | Health Insurance (National Health Insurance) | ¥2,000 – ¥3,000 per month | Mandatory for all residents |
| 9. | Flight Tickets | ¥60,000 – ¥120,000 | Depends on season |
| 10. | Total Estimated Cost | ¥150,000 – ¥600,000+ | Excludes tuition, proof of funds and living expenses |
03 · Tuition
Tuition and Living Costs in Japan
Tuition Fees (Per Year)
| S.no. | Institution Type | Estimated Cost (JPY) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | National Universities | ¥535,800 per year | Standard fee set by MEXT |
| 2. | Public (Local) Universities | ¥500,000 – ¥900,000 per year | Varies slightly by prefecture |
| 3. | Private Universities | ¥900,000 – ¥2,000,000 per year | Higher for medicine, dentistry and art |
04 · Process
Admission Process in Japan (Step-by-Step)
- Choose Universities: Shortlist national, public or private options by programme and budget.
- Check Requirements: Review eligibility, JLPT/IELTS/TOEFL scores and department criteria.
- Prepare Documents: Transcripts, test scores, SOP, LORs and a research proposal for postgraduate study.
- Apply Online or via Agent: Apply directly or through a designated agent.
- Sit Entrance Exams: Some universities require written tests or interviews, including online ones.
- Receive Certificate of Eligibility: The university applies to immigration after admission.
- Arrange Finances: Proof of funds or a scholarship award letter.
- Apply for a Student Visa: Submit the Certificate of Eligibility to the embassy or consulate.
- Arrange Accommodation: Dormitory or private housing before arrival.
- Enrol at University: Complete registration and residence card procedures on arrival.
05 · Intakes
Student Intakes in Japan
| Intake Season | Application Period | Semester Start | Availability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| April Intake | September – January (previous year) | April | Most programmes available | Primary intake for most universities |
| October Intake | March – June (same year) | October | Fewer courses, mainly postgraduate | Popular with English-taught Master's programmes |
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