Japan, the land of the rising sun, is one of the countries with the most impressive education system. You will be in one of the world’s most heavily populated and urbanized countries. For many reasons, about 300,000 international students have chosen to study in Japan over the years. No matter what major you are interested in, studying in Japan will allow you to live in the world’s third-largest economy, as Japan is a major financial power.
Several Japanese universities are of national and international importance, and enrolling in a program there can help you achieve your career goals.
Study in Japan 2024: Highlights
| Aspects | Details |
| Universities in Japan | 200+ |
| Languages of Instruction | English, Japanese |
| Eligibility | Relevant Academic Transcripts.
IELTS, GMAT, TOEFL, and GRE. Japanese Proficiency Tests. |
| Application Deadlines | 3 Intakes (Spring: October/November, Summer: February- April, Autumn: April to July) |
| Average Tuition Fee | INR 2,71,365 to INR 5,42,730 (JPY 500,000 to JPY 1,000,000) |
| Average Living Expenses | INR 1,91,995 (JPY 353,759) |
| Visa Requirement | Student Visa |
| Top Universities | The University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Osaka University, Tohoku University |
| Top Courses | Engineering and Technology, Business, Management, Data Science |
Reasons to Study in Japan for Indian Students
- Quality of Education
Japan has a highly regarded educational system, frequently among the top ten countries regarding educational quality. Japan is noted for its commitment to education. Japan is also a major economic and business center.
- Job Opportunities
Because the Japanese corporate market is fluid, there is always a great demand for internationally minded people. Another reason to study in Japan for Indian students is that nearly half of Japanese companies expect to hire foreign graduates soon.
- Accessible & Travel-Friendly
Many Japanese cities have excellent public transportation systems. Millions of people use them daily, particularly in major cities where public transportation is the quickest and most convenient.
- Experience the Japanese Culture
Japan is noted for its flamboyant, high-tech, and entertaining culture, complemented by a rich historical heritage that contributes to its strong cultural identity.
- Affordable Tuition Fees & Generous Scholarships
The tuition fees for studying in Japan are comparatively cheap. High-achieving students may be eligible for partial or full scholarships.
- Learn the Language while Studying
Learning Japanese is an excellent way to strengthen your CV, especially if you want to work for a Japanese company.
Top Universities in Japan
| Universities | Top Universities QS Ranking (2025) |
| University of Tokyo | 32 |
| Kyoto University | 50 |
| Tokyo Institute of Technology | 84 |
| Osaka University | 86 |
| Tohoku University | 107 |
| Kyushu University | 167 |
| University of Tsukuba | 377 |
Top Courses to Study in Japan for Indian Students
If you are planning to study in Japan, then you should know that some of the most popular courses offered by top universities in Japan are
- Engineering and Technology in Japan
- Business in Japan
- Management in Japan
- Data science in Japan
Requirements to Study in Japan for International Students
The documents required for admission to Japanese Universities may vary from university to university or course to course. However, the following are the general requirements:
- A valid passport
- Application fees receipt
- Documents proving that you can afford to live and study in Japan
- Previous education transcripts (High school degree to apply for bachelor’s program, bachelor’s degree to apply for master’s program)
- 6 passport-size photographs
- Health certificate
- Japanese Language Proficiency Test, TOEFL or IELTS exam score
- Clearing the entrance exam of the Japanese university
- LOR
- Motivation letter
Approximate Fees to Study in Japan
| Universities | Approximate Annual Tuition Fee |
| University of Tokyo | INR 2,90,058 or JPY 535,800 |
| Kyoto University | INR 2,90,058 or JPY 535,800 |
| Tokyo Institute of Technology | INR 3,44,014 or JPY 635,400 |
| Osaka University | INR 2,90,058 or JPY 535,800 |
Intake and Application Deadlines
Japan’s universities have different application deadlines. Candidates must check the deadline for the course they want to pursue on the university’s official website. However, the following is the general idea of the application deadline for admission to Japanese Universities:
- Spring Intake- The deadline for the application would be between October and November.
- Summer intake- The application deadline would be between February and April.
- Autumn intake- The application deadline would be between April and July.
Study in Japan – Scholarships for International Students
Many scholarships are available to study in Japan for Indian students and international students. Some of them are:
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Key Features |
| MEXT Scholarships | ● Available only to international students
● Applicants must belong to a country with diplomatic ties with Japan, have the relevant academic transcripts and be interested in learning Japanese |
● Offered by the Japanese government
● Given on either the embassy’s or the university’s recommendation |
| Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES) Scholarships | ● Applicants must be privately financed students with student visa
● Applicants can only get other scholarships that offer up to JPY 50,000 or INR 21,800 per month |
● The duration of each scholarship is 2 years
● Stipend each month is JPY 40,000- JPY 50,000 or INR 21,800 – INR 27,254 ● Given to promote international educational exchange |
| Japan Foundation of United Nations University (JFUNU) Scholarship | ● Offered to students from developing countries
● Available for Master’s and PhD programs. |
● Covers the entire tuition fee
● Provides a monthly allowance of JPY 150,000 or INR 81,763 for living expenses for up to two years |
| KUAS Undergrad Scholarship | ● Applicants must demonstrate outstanding academic performance | ● KAUS-E Scholarship has different levels of tuition exemption and admission fee reduction ranging from 30% to 100%.
● The Super KUAS-E Scholarship provides full tuition, admission fee exemption, and an annual stipend of JPY 1,200,000 or INR 6,54,104. |
| Waseda University Japanese Government Scholarship | ● Applicants must be privately financed students with student visa
● Applicant must be enrolled in a regular degree-seeking course |
● Waseda University offers this scholarship
● 3 categories of scholarship: internal scholarships, which is Waseda’s scholarship system; university recommendations, where you apply to the institute you are enrolled in; and open recruitment, where you apply to the scholarship foundation. |
What to do After Studying in Japan?
After completing their education, international students who want to work in Japan must have either a Senmon Gakko Diploma or an undergraduate degree from a University in Japan or abroad. International students can work as a:
- Human Resource Manager
- Engineer
- Marketing Coordinator
- Hotel Manager
- Finance Manager
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does it cost to study in Japan?
The average tuition fee of top Japanese Universities is INR 2,71,365 to INR 5,42,730 (JPY 500,000 to JPY 1,000,000). Japan’s average annual living expenses are INR 1,91,995 (JPY 353,759).
Can I study in Japan as an Indian student?
Yes, anyone can study in Japan if they meet the admission criteria. You will also need relevant academic transcripts, an eligible visa, and the required language proficiency tests.
Which course is best to study in Japan?
Japanese Universities offer many courses, such as Engineering and Technology. You can choose the one that suits your interests, skills, and vision.
Can I study in Japan after 12th for free?
Many universities in Japan offer partial or full scholarships. The requirements and eligibility differ from course to course and from university to university.
