Japan, renowned for its blend of rich cultural traditions and modernity, is an appealing destination for international students. The country is home to several universities ranked highly in global educational standings, offering a superior standard of education. Beyond its academic offerings, Japan is known for its hospitable locals, historic landmarks, and dynamic cultural landscape, making it a perfect setting for international students to advance their education.
International students will need to obtain a visa to study in the country. The process involves first securing an offer from a Japanese university. Following acceptance, students must then apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) through their school, which is a requirement for applying for a student visa.
To support your visa application, you will need to demonstrate financial stability to cover tuition fees and living expenses during your stay. The estimated living costs can vary widely depending on the city, but generally range from JPY 80,000 to JPY 120,000 per month.
Once you have the COE, you need to apply for the student visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country, submitting the following documents:
The visa application fee varies depending on the country but is generally around JPY 3,000 for a single entry.
It’s crucial to apply for your visa well ahead of your planned travel date to Japan, as processing times can vary.
Upon arrival in Japan, students must present their COE and passport to receive a residence card at the airport. This card is essential for various administrative procedures in Japan, including opening a bank account and registering at the local municipal office.
Japan offers some work opportunities for international students on a student visa. Students are allowed to work part-time up to 28 hours per week during the term and up to 40 hours per week during extended holidays, such as summer break, provided they obtain a “Permission to Engage in Activity other than that Permitted under the Status of Residence Previously Granted” from the immigration office.
This opportunity enables students to gain work experience, improve their Japanese language skills, and manage their living expenses. Following the completion of their studies, graduates can explore opportunities to remain in Japan, such as seeking employment or further studies, potentially transitioning to a work visa or another relevant visa category to continue their stay in Japan.
For further information about student visas, see our International Student Visas article.
Study in JapanBrowse our list of higher education providers in Japan.
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