Why Study in Japan? High academic standards and attractive programs. Well-developed financial support for international students

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2 Why Study in Japan? High academic standards and attractive programs Japanese scientists have been awarded Nobel Prizes in Physics, Physiology or Medicine, and Chemistry. Therefore, you can learn cutting-edge science and technology in Japan. You can study not only law, economics, science and engineering, but also environment, information, disaster prevention, tourism, and pastry making, through to pop culture such as manga, anime, games, fashion, and many other fields. The number of degree programs conducted in English is also increasing. Well-developed financial support for international students Tuition fees are comparatively low in Japan. Furthermore, a wide range of scholarships is available. Enables you to seek employment in Japan Recently, more and more international students work in Japanese companies after graduation. Likewise, Japanese companies are also actively hiring international students. Enables you to learn in an international environment About 200,000 international students from more than 170 countries and regions of the world are studying at, among others, universities and Japanese language schools in Japan. Recently, student dormitories where international students and Japanese students live together are increasing. They will have a broader view through exposure to Japan, as well as diverse cultures of the world.

3 CONTENTS Japan Facts and Figures... 2 Japanese Educational System... 4 Q & A about Study in Japan... 6 Japanese Language Institutes... 8 Universities (undergraduate) and Junior Colleges...10 Transfer Admission and Short-term Study Programs...12 Colleges of Technology...13 Professional Training Colleges...14 Graduate Schools...16 Degree Programs in English...19 Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU)...20 Other Exams Required for Studying in Japan Interview with International Students in Japan Tips for Students Wishing to Study in Japan...23 Immigration Procedures...24 Academic Fees...28 Scholarships Living Cost and Price Funds to Prepare before Studying Abroad Part-time Work Accommodation Medical Insurance and Accident/Property Insurance Internship and Job Hunting...37 Employment in Japan Statistics Useful Information Photos provided by:osaka International University, The University of Tokyo, Waseda University, Bunka Fashion College, UNITAS Japanese Language School 1

4 Japan Facts and Figures High level of science and technology, as well as Japanese culture of monozukuri One of the factors contributed to Japan s economic growth as a leading country of monozukuri manufacturing despite scarce resources is knowledge and technology backed by excellent education. Japan has been offering many products using the stateof-art science, technology and medicine to the world, including electric vehicles, digital cameras, optical fibers and artificial heart. Instant noodles, which have changed the dietary life of the world, and Karaoke are also innovation of Japanese origin. The culture to use innovative ideas and come up with creative products is rooted in Japan. Conducive living environment and safe and secure infrastructures Japan is known as a good place to live with its low crime rate. Even if you misplace something, it will be returned to you most of the time. Public transportation system in Japan boasts of its on time departure and arrival and helps you reach the destination safely and securely. With well-established health insurance system, you can receive advanced medical care when you fall ill just with a small amount of payment. Japan is a country to live with peace of mind for international students who feel anxious after leaving their home country. Rich natural environment, attractive modern and traditional cultures, and omotenashi hospitality Surrounded by the sea, Japan has four seasons to enjoy. In Japan, pop culture, such as anime and fashion, coexist with traditional cultures, such as tea ceremony and flower arranging. There are a number of world heritages such as Mt. Fuji, a symbol of Japan, as well as Himeji Castle and Itsukushima Shrine. Washoku (traditional Japanese cuisine), a registered intangible cultural heritage, is a colorful and healthy food using the ingredients of the season and contributes to Japan being one of the countries with the world s highest life expectancy. Japanese people are known to have a sober nature and attach importance on discipline. In Japan, the omotenashi hospitality, which is a spirit to care about the guest with the highest priority, is deeply rooted and international students are welcomed warmly. 2

5 Land area: 377,962 km 2 Population: 126,876,000 As of September 1, 2015 Source: Population Estimates, Statistics Bureau, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications GDP of Japan: The third in the world Source: Cabinet Office, Government of Japan The number of Japanese Nobel laureates is 24, which ranks the seventh in the world (or the first in Asia). Source: Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology - Japan, º 145º Aomori Akita Iwate Hokkaido Hokkaido region Tohoku region 40º Yamagata Miyagi Tokyo Nagasaki Fukukoka Saga Kumamoto Chugoku region Yamaguchi Oita Tottori Shimane Kyoto Hyogo Shiga Okayama Hiroshima Osaka Mie Ehime Kochi Kagawa Fukui Nara Tokushima Wakayama Shikoku region Chubu region Ishikawa Toyama Gifu Aichi Gunma Nagano Yamanashi Shizuoka Kinki region Niigata Saitama Tochigi Tokyo Fukushima Ibaraki Chiba Kanagawa Kanto region 140º Ogasawara Islands 25ºN 35º Kyushu region Kagoshima Miyazaki Kagoshima Okinawa 30ºN 125ºE 130º 25ºN Web Japan Introduction on Japan DISCOVER the SPIRIT of JAPAN Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) 3

6 Japanese Educational System In Japan, its higher education starts upon the completion of 12 years of education: elementary education (6 years of elementary school) and secondary education (3 years of lower secondary school and 3 years of upper secondary school). There are 5 types of higher education institutions where international students can be admitted to, which are 1 Colleges of technology, 2 Professional training colleges (postsecondary course of specialized training colleges), 3 Junior colleges, 4 Universities (undergraduate) and 5 Graduate schools. Depending on the founding bodies, these higher education institutions are categorized into three types: national, local public and private. Higher education institutions accepting international students Japanese Educational System Duration of course Miscellaneous schools Specialized training Colleges (General course) Colleges of technology Universities (Undergraduate) Graduate schools Upper secondary schools Elementary schools Professional training colleges (Specialized training colleges postsecondary course) Junior colleges Specialized training colleges (Upper secondary course) Lower secondary schools (*There are also integrated lower and upper secondary schools.) Asterisk mark indicates the advanced course. 18 year old Higher education year old Secondary education 6 12 year old Elementary education University transfer program is an example only. Academic year and school term system The academic year of schools in Japan normally starts from April and ends in March of the following year. Many universities in Japan adopt a semester system (two terms), with a first semester from April to September and a second semester from October to March. Some of the universities adopt a trimester system (three terms) or a quarter system (four terms). Q I understand students are typically enrolled in April in Japan. Is there a September or October admission system in Japan? A Yes, there is. Especially many graduate schools adopt a September or October admission system. Q When are school vacations? A Typically there are three long school vacations summer (from late July to early September), winter (from late December to early January) and spring (from February to March). 4

7 Eligibility for admission In principle, you must have completed 12 years of education to apply for admission to a university (undergraduate), junior college, or professional training college in Japan. You must have completed 11 years of education to apply for admission to a college of technology and 16 years of education, for admission to a graduate school (master s program). Students from countries such as India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Myanmar, Mongolia, and other countries who have completed 10 or 11 years of elementary and secondary school education wish to apply for admission to higher education institutions, such as universities, in Japan, they must meet either of the following eligibility criteria: 1 Have completed 12 years of formal school education by accumulating an additional one or two years of schooling at university preparatory programs for students wishing to enter universities or higher education institutions, such as universities, in their home countries. 2 Have completed university preparatory courses authorized by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology-Japan (provided, however, that they must have completed a level of education equivalent to a high school diploma in Japan). In a situation where you have completed less than 12 years of education, you are considered to be eligible for admission upon completion of the 11 years or more of education at an education institution that are approved by the Minister in your home country, not necessary needed to complete the university preparatory courses (Junbi Kyouiku Katei) authorized by the Minister. If you are unsure whether your qualifications meet the entry requirements, talk to the school of your choice. List of University Preparatory Courses authorized by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology-Japan Academic degrees, titles and required study period Program Academic degrees and titles Required study period Doctorate program Doctoral Degree 5 years Master s program Master s Degree 2 years Graduate school Master s professional degree 2 years Professional degree program Juris Doctor 3 years Master of Education (Professional) 2 years General faculties, Faculty of Pharmacy (four-year program) 4 years University Bachelor s Degree (Undergraduate) Faculties of Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary and Pharmacy (six-year 6 years program) Junior college Associate Degree 2 or 3 years College of technology Associate 3 years (3 years and 6 months for mercantile marine studies) Specialized training Postsecondary course Diploma 2 years or more college (Professional training college) Advanced Diploma 4 years or more Japanese Educational System *Graduate school doctorate programs are sometimes divided into the first phase (2 years) and the second phase (3 years). The duration of a doctorate program in medicine, dentistry, veterinary and pharmacy (six-year program) is 4 years as their required periods of undergraduate study are 6 years. *It is possible for junior college graduates to earn a bachelor s degree by completing one or two-year advanced courses after graduation. *The required period of study at a college of technology is normally 5 years, and international students are accepted from the third year. It is possible for college of technology graduates to earn a bachelor s degree by completing two-year advanced courses after graduation. *Associates from a college of technology, diploma and advanced diploma from a professional training college are the titles, not degrees. After completing an advanced course in a junior college or college of technology recognized by the National Institution for Academic Degrees and Quality Enhancement of Higher Education (NIAD-QE), you can obtain your bachelor s degree if you pass the examination set by the NIAD-QE. Please check further details from the school you are applying in. National Institution for Academic Degrees and Quality Enhancement of Higher Education (NIAD-QE) Q Is a degree earned in Japan valid in other countries? A Normally, a degree earned in Japan is recognized as equivalent to those earned in other countries. In some countries, however, the Department of Education or a qualifications assessment institution (a non-profit organization, private enterprise, etc.) appraises academic degrees obtained in foreign countries. It is recommended that you check with the authorities concerned in your home country. 5

8 Q & A about Study in Japan Q & A about Study in Japan Q How do I apply for university from outside Japan? A The typical procedure that you must take before starting your study in Japan is as follows: Before entering university, many students learn Japanese at a language institute in Japan. 1 Planning and Information Gathering Gather information Be sure to language proficiency requirements Be sure to the amount of money required to study in Japan 2 Selecting 3 National 4 Applying 5 Taking 6 Implementing 7 Preparing Schools Check school brochures and application guidebooks Be sure to eligibility requirements for admission Compare schools and develop a short list of potential schools of choice Standard Test for University Admission Sit the exams required for application e.g. Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU) Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) TOEFL, IELTS, TOEIC for Admission Prepare application documents Arrange to send application fee the Entrance Examination of Your Target School e.g. Interview Take an academic achievement test Admission Procedures Receive an admission acceptance letter Arrange for the remittance of admission fee for Travel Look for a place to live Reserve airline ticket and apply for insurance Apply for visa 8 Enrollment Travel to Japan Submit admission documents Q When should I apply for admission to an undergraduate or graduate school? A The timing for applying for admission varies, depending on schools. For accurate information, be sure to check the application guidebooks. You can also check the application periods on the JASSO and JAPAN STUDY SUPPORT websites. Q How can I find out more about the application procedure? A Many schools make their application guidebooks and application forms available on their websites. You can search for keywords such as 外国人留学生募集要項 Application Guidebook for International Students, 入学案内 School Admission Guide, or 受験案内 Entrance Examination Guide on the website of a school you are interested in applying. If they are not available on the website, you should ask the school you are interested in applying to if it can send you the information by post. Q Can I use one single application form for applying to all universities in Japan? A No, you can t. The application form varies according to schools. So you should get the application guidebooks. Q 1 I was enrolled in an elementary, junior high, or high school in Japan for several years. 2 I graduated from a high school in Japan. 3 I am a dual citizen (a citizen of two countries). If any of the conditions above apply, am I entitled to apply to take the entrance examination for international students? A How they treat your situation may vary from school to school. So you should contact the school before applying in order to have your eligibility reviewed by the school. Some schools may ask you to follow the same entrance examination system that applies to Japanese students. Q I have a disability. Can I receive assistance and support from the school to take the exam or during my schooling? A Some international students with disabilities are studying in Japan with assistance from their schools. If you need any support to take the entrance examination or in your schooling due to illness, a disability or a specific condition, please contact the school before applying. 6

9 Q Should I go to Japan to take the entrance examination? A It depends on the school. Some schools determine admissions by screening application documents alone, conducting interviews remotely or by holding an exam in the applicant s country. However, many schools still require international students to take entrance examinations in Japan. Q What level of Japanese language proficiency is required to study at a university or a professional training college? A You have to have Japanese language proficiency that is at least equivalent to 200 points in the EJU exam (Japanese as a Foreign Language) or the Level N1 or N2 of the Japanese- Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) to keep up with classes. If you have not reached this proficiency level, you are encouraged to study Japanese in your own country or at a Japanese language institute in Japan. Q Are there any programs that allow me to earn a degree by taking classes conducted in English only? A Yes, there are. The number of such programs is increasing each year. However, please note that colleges of technology, junior colleges, and professional training colleges do not provide programs conducted in English only. Q For some universities, a guarantor is required along with the admission application. Why? A The reasons why guarantors are required include financial assurance for the payment of academic fees or to avoid problems when applying for status of residence upon admission. Students are sometimes required to notify the school of a person who can contact their family in an emergency. The following information is available on the JASSO website! admission for international students online applications pre-arrival admissions application period list of degree programs offered in English Japanese or English proficiency required for admission EJU score required for admission university transfer admission programs short-term study programs Q & A about Study in Japan 7

10 Japanese Language Institutes What are Japanese language institutes? Japanese language institutes are intended to teach Japanese language for non-japanese speakers. For international students aiming to be admitted to higher education institutions in Japan, many Japanese language institutes offer foundation courses, such as EJU, JLPT, English, mathematics, science or liberal arts. Types of Japanese language institutes There are two types of Japanese language institutes for international students aiming to enter higher education. Japanese Language Institutes 1 Japanese language institutes Controlling entity: Educational foundations (Specialized training colleges, miscellaneous schools), public interest incorporated foundations, corporations, voluntary organizations, individuals and etc. Objective: (1) Acquire Japanese language proficiency for academic purposes (2) Receive preparatory education for admission to universities (3) Acquire Japanese language proficiency for purposes other than academic purposes Status of residence: Student To be eligible for the status of residence of student, international students must be enrolled in Japanese language institutes designated through official notification by the Japanese Minister of Justice (and published in the Official Gazette of Japan). Japanese language institutes publicly notified by the Minister of Justice (Ministry of Justice) Search for Japanese language schools (Association for the Promotion of Japanese Language Education) 2 Preparatory Japanese language programs offered at private universities and junior colleges Controlling entity: Private universities and junior colleges Objective: Acquire Japanese language proficiency for academic purposes Status of residence: Student Preparatory Japanese language programs ( Ryugakusei bekka or Nihongo bekka ) are set up in private universities and junior colleges. Japanese language, Japanese culture, Japanese affairs and other basic subjects for entrance into universities are offered. Students planning on further study in universities may use the admission on recommendation system, if available, for admission into the university or proceed to other university of their choice. The advantages here would be the ability to use the university s facilities and services. List of preparatory Japanese language programs offered at private universities and junior colleges (JASSO) Eligibility You must have completed 12 years of education (elementary school and secondary school) to apply for courses for admission to a higher education institution. Students who have completed secondary education (including high school) only, who have completed 10 or 11 years of elementary and secondary school education, and who have not completed certain programs designated by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology-Japan are not qualified for admission. In case of that, they will become qualified for admission after completion of a Junbi Kyouiku Katei (University preparatory course) designated by the Minister if they are aged at least 18. In such preparatory courses, subjects other than Japanese, including basic subjects such as English, mathematics, social science, and science for entrance into universities are offered. List of university preparatory courses authorized by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology-Japan (JASSO) 8

11 Application, Entrance, Course duration Many schools accept applications about 6 4 months before entrance and start courses in April or October. Generally, the course duration is 1 2 years. Application requirements application form personal statement transcript of an upper secondary school or a university certificate of graduation (or anticipated graduation) of an upper secondary school or a university proofs of financial means others Documents for submission may vary according to schools. It is best that you inquire directly with the relevant school for details. Entrance exam Most Japanese language institutes determine the admission of applicants by screening their application documents. But there are some institutes which conduct interviews with them and their guardians or conduct a written exam in their home countries. Japanese Language Institutes Key Points of Selection 1 Is the Japanese language institute notified by the Minister of Justice? 2 Objective General Japanese? Academic purpose? Japanese for business? 3 Class Composition Are classes distinguished by the level of student s proficiency in Japanese? What is the number of students in a class? 4 Number of Students and Teachers How big is the school? What is the ratio of the number of teachers to the number of students? 5 Ratio of Students by National Origin 6 Number of Class Hours 7 Preparing for entrance exams Are there many international students from countries that use Chinese characters? Do they pay special consideration to international students from countries that do not use Chinese characters? What are the number of total class hours and the number of class hours by subject? Does this Japanese language institute offer classes for examination preparation (such as EJU or JLPT) or general foundation subjects (such as English, mathematics, science and liberal arts)? 8 Does this Japanese language institute offer guidance on further study or lifestyle counselling? 9 What are career paths for graduates? Do the number of class hours and teachers and school facilities, among other things, justify the 10 School Expenses amount of school expenses to be incurred? Does this Japanese language institute require the screening of application documents only? Does it require interviews with a guarantor and a contact person in Japan? Does it conduct 11 Entrance exam entrance exams for international applicants in their home countries or somewhere else outside Japan? Is this Japanese language institute located in a big city or a local city? Is the weather suitable for 12 School Location me? Does this Japanese language institute have a dormitory or attached residential quarters? Do they 13 Student Housing refer students to apartments? Japanese Language Institutes Q I am not going to enter a university. Can I just learn business Japanese at a Japanese language school? A There are various courses available depending on your purposes of studying Japanese language, such as general Japanese, as well as courses for academic purposes or business. It is best that you inquire directly with the relevant school for details. Q Can I transfer between Japanese language institutes? A In general, transfer between Japanese language institutes is not permitted. Choose your school carefully by gathering as much information as possible on that school, browsing the school s website, studying the school prospectus or talking to current students or graduates of the school. Japanese Language School Association (JaLSA) 9

12 Universities (undergraduate) and Junior Colleges What are universities and junior colleges? Universities and junior colleges constitute the core of higher education institutions in Japan. In principle, the required period of study for universities is four years, while that for junior colleges is two years. Some universities and junior colleges offer audit and credit-earning programs, both intended for part-time students. Also, in addition to degree-programs or long-term research programs, non-degree, short-term programs are also available. Finding out more Information on universities and junior colleges (JASSO) Japanese colleges and universities search (JASSO) Search for universities and junior colleges (JAPAN STUDY SUPPORT) Universities (undergraduate) and Junior Colleges 私費外国人留学生のための大学入学案内 (Guide to University Entrance for Privately-Financed International Students) A guidebook that contains valuable information, such as the contents of entrance examinations of each university and junior college and the number of international students who successfully passed the entrance examinations. Edited and published: The Asian Students Cultural Association (sold in Japan) Eligibility for admission Students must satisfy any one of the following eligibility criteria. 1 Students who have completed 12 years of education in countries other than Japan. 2 Students who are 18 years of age or older and have successfully passed an academic qualification examination that is equivalent to the completion of 12 years of education in countries other than Japan. 3 Students who are 18 years of age or older and have completed studies at international schools in Japan that are officially recognized as equivalent to high schools in countries other than Japan. 4 Students who have completed the 11 years or more of education at education institutions that are approved by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology-Japan at education institutes in countries other than Japan. 5 Students who are 18 years of age or older and hold an International Baccalaureate qualification, German Abitur qualification, French Baccalaureate qualification or meet GCE A level course requirements specified by each university. 6 Students who are 18 years of age or older and have completed 12 years of curriculum at education institutes that are accredited by any of the following international accreditation organizations: the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), Council of International Schools (CIS) or Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). 7 Students who are 18 years of age or older and have successfully passed an academic qualification examination that is equivalent to a high school diploma in Japan. 8 A student who satisfies any one of the admission qualifications specified in the School Education Act, other than those outlined above. 9 Students who are 18 years of age or older and are recognized by the educational institutions to which they apply for admission, through their individual admission qualification examinations, as having an academic ability that is equivalent to a high school diploma or above. With regard to 1 through 3 above, if a student has completed less than 12 years of education and not completed certain programs approved by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Japan, he/she may be needed to complete an authorized university preparatory courses or an authorized course at a training facility, among other things. Application requirements application form (university-specific form) certificate of upper secondary school graduation (or anticipated graduation) upper secondary school transcript letter of recommendation from the principal or a teacher from the originating upper secondary school certificate of proficiency in Japanese or English others Documents for submission may vary according to universities. It is best that you inquire directly with the relevant school for details. 10

13 Entrance exam Many schools conduct entrance exams not only for Japanese students but also for international students. The admission procedure consists of the following: Admission procedure and requirements vary depending on the school. It is best that you check the school application guide book for details. document screening test on academic ability interview short essay other competence and aptitude tests EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students) JLPT (Japanese-Language Proficiency Test) National Center Test ( 大学入試センター試験 ) Qualifications for graduation and completion 1 Universities (undergraduate) A student will be awarded the bachelor s degree ( 学士 ) upon graduation provided that the following criteria have been satisfied. Regular undergraduate departments, 4-year faculty of pharmacy Faculties of Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Sciences, and Pharmacy (six-year program only) Required study period Total credits earned 4 years 124 credits or more 6 years Universities and Junior Colleges Medicine and dentistry 188 credits or more Veterinary science 182 credits or more Pharmacy 186 credits or more Key Points of Selection 2 Junior colleges A student will be awarded the associate degree ( 短期大学士 ) upon graduation provided that the following criteria have been satisfied. For a 2-year course For a 3-year course Total credits earned 62 credits or more 93 credits or more Universities (undergraduate) and Junior Colleges 1 Content of Classes and Research 2 Suitable Program 3 Research Facilities 4 Entrance Examination 5 Support Systems for International Students 6 Career Paths of Graduates 7 School Expenses 8 Chances of Getting a Scholarship 9 Student Housing 10 School Location Does this university or junior college offer classes that I am truly interested in? Does it provide an opportunity for me to conduct research? Are classes under this program attended by both Japanese and international students? Does this program allow international students to earn a degree by only taking classes conducted in English? Is this a short-term or longer-term study program? Is this university or junior college well equipped with research facilities? Does this university or junior college offer a Pre-Arrival Admission system? Does this school have a special admission procedure for international students? Does this university or junior college offer supplementary Japanese classes? Does this university or junior college have staff who support international students and also tutors who assist international students in studies and living? Does this school provide career-related support to students? Is it possible to go on to graduate schools? What about the graduates employment record? How much are school and other necessary expenses for the first year? What about the amount of expenses for the second year onwards? What about the total amount of expenses to be incurred before graduation? Does this university or junior college offer its own scholarship program and tuition exemption or waiver program? What is the possibility of receiving a scholarship? Will I be told of any decision on the approval or disapproval of a scholarship before I come to Japan? Does this school have a dormitory or attached residential quarters? Do they refer students to apartments? Is the location of this school suitable for studying and living? Is this school located in a big city or a local city? Is the weather suitable for me? 11

14 Transfer admission Transfer Admission and Short-term Study Programs Transfer Admission and Short-term Study Programs There are many universities offering university transfer programs in different formats and requirements. It is not necessarily allowed every year. It is not necessarily applicable for all departments and faculties. The terms completed and the credits earned at another university are not always transferable. To transfer to an undergraduate course, usually one of the following requirements must be met. Graduates of junior colleges Graduates of colleges of technology Students having the diploma title (graduates of professional training colleges) Graduates of the advanced course of upper secondary schools Students who have completed the university s general education (Year 1 and above) and fulfill the necessary credits required by the transfer institution. Graduates of the undergraduate program Compared to regular admission, information on university transfer program is very limited. Get early information from your school of choice on its availability and other details. Search for universities with a transfer admission program (JASSO) Short-term study programs Short-term study program refers to a program of any period from a few weeks to a full school year, but which does not lead to a degree. Some programs consist of classes conducted in Japanese only while others offer classes in English only or in both Japanese and English. There are various formats, depending on the university, such as special classes exclusively for short-term international students or those accepting international students in classes on general departmental courses. Additionally, for those who have graduated from a university, there are six-month or one-year programs in which they can study a specialized field at a graduate school as a research student. There are also international exchange student programs, in which students can study abroad at a university with which their university of enrollment has concluded an exchange student agreement. Please check whether your school has an exchange student agreement with a university in Japan. Credits: The credits acquired at a university in Japan are generally recognized as credits at your school of enrollment within the range of the exchange student program agreement. Academic fee: Usually, students pay school fees for study abroad to their current school of enrollment and are exempt from payment at the university of destination. Inquiries: Current school in home country Programs Other Than International Exchange Student Program Programs that are not under international exchange student agreements and which are open to other international students can be found via the JASSO website. Credits: Some programs grant credits, while others do not. Academic fee: Usually, students pay school fees to the school of destination. Inquiries: Host school in Japan Search for universities and junior colleges which offer a short term study program (JASSO) Audit and credit-earning students Both of these are part-time and non-degree students, unlike full-time students. Audit students are not awarded any credits but credit-earning students are. Both students must attend at least 10 hours of classes a week, as stipulated in relevant law, in order for them to be granted the Student status of residence. Q Are there any scholarship programs available for short-term study abroad? A The following scholarship programs are available. Student Exchange Support Program (Scholarship for Short-term Study in Japan) Japan Student Services Organization(JASSO)provides scholarship for international exchange students who are accepted under an inter-university exchange program agreement. Monthly stipend: JPY 80,000 Inquiries: Current school in home country. Japanese Government (Monbukagakusho: MEXT) Scholarship (Japanese Studies Students) This scholarship is for undergraduate students majoring in fields related to the Japanese language or Japanese culture. Monthly stipend: JPY 117,000 Inquiries: The nearest embassy or consulate in your home country or current school in home country. In addition to the aforementioned, some schools and various organizations may offer their own scholarships, so please inquire with the school of destination. 12

15 Colleges of Technology What are colleges of technology? Colleges of technology are higher education institutions and are called 高専 (KOSEN) for short. They offer a comprehensive five-year program (a five and half year program for mercantile marine studies) for junior high school graduates. As a general rule, international students start from the third year of the college of technology s program, skipping the first and second years. Finding out more Center for International Exchange, National Institute of Technology Features KOSEN offer education programs that develop handson engineers who acquired world-class expertise and can handle the latest technology, with focus on lab works, practical works and hands-on exercises as well as having advanced theoretical knowledge. Though most departments in KOSEN are related to the industrial field, department on mercantile marine that aim to develop mariners are also available. Graduates of KOSEN are awarded the title of an associate ( 準学士 ). After a five-year curriculum, a two-year advanced course is offered to provide a further higher level of education. A student who has successfully completed a twoyear advanced course after his/her graduation from the college of technology will be awarded a bachelor s degree if he/she passes the examination set by the National Institution for Academic Degrees and Quality Enhancement of Higher Education (NIAD-QE). Eligibility for Transfer Admission Students must satisfy any one of the following eligibility criteria. 1 Students who have completed 11 years of schooling in countries other than Japan. 2 Students who have successfully passed an academic qualification examination that is equivalent to the completion of 11 years of schooling in countries other than Japan. 3 Students who have completed studies at international schools in Japan that are officially recognized as equivalent to high schools in countries other than Japan. 4 Students who hold an International Baccalaureate diploma, German Abitur diploma or French Baccalaureate diploma. 5 Students who have completed 11 years of curriculum at international schools in Japan that are accredited by any of the following international accreditation organizations: the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), Council of International Schools (CIS) or Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). 6 Students who have successfully passed an academic qualification examination that is equivalent to a high school diploma in Japan. 7 A student who satisfies any one of the admission qualifications specified in the School Education Act, other than those outlined above. 13 Application requirements The National Institute of Technology conducts the common selection exam for all the colleges of technology (KOSEN) nationwide. The application document has been standardized. It is best that you visit the KOSEN admissions website for details. Entrance exam The National Institute of Technology determines the results by overall evaluation of the following items 1 application form 2 results of EJU Examination 3 transcript of TOEFL R, IELTS or TOEIC R 4 assessment of interview Interviews are conducted in Japan. Career or academic path after graduation After graduating from KOSEN, students can choose to go on to higher education or to seek employment. Many international students go on to national universities. Junior colleges Doctorate Master s degree University transfer Universities Upper secondary schools Advanced studies at graduate schools Lower secondary schools Employment Advanced course Colleges of technology KOSEN accepts international students from the third year onwards Colleges of Technology

16 Professional Training Colleges What are professional training colleges? Specialized training colleges offering postsecondary courses are called professional training colleges and is one of the institutions classified under higher education institutions. These colleges provide the learning of knowhow, technology and skills useful in one s future job and life as well as to improve their education. Finding out more Search for professional training colleges (National Association of Vocational Schools of Japan) (Metropolitan Tokyo Professional Institution Association) List of professional training colleges that accepting international students (Association for Technical and Career Education) Professional Training Colleges Features It is generally recognized in Japan that professional training colleges produce key talents who can serve as a foundation for society. Professional training college graduates are expected to have acquired professional skill sets in their respective areas of expertise. Professional training colleges develop specialists who can support a variety of industries that have high growth potential in global markets, ranging from Japan s pop culture called Cool Japan, such as manga (comics), animations, games and fashion, to environment and energy, information technology, and medical care and welfare. Another characteristic of professional training colleges is that, regardless of economic conditions, the employment rate of graduates remains high. Japanese proficiency requirements Classes in professional training colleges are conducted in Japanese, so international students must be proficient in Japanese. Any one of the following qualifications must be met. 1 Students who have undergone Japanese language education for more than 6 months at institutions accredited by the Minister of Justice. 2 Students who have passed Level N1 or Level N2 of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) conducted by Japan Educational Exchanges and Services and the Japan Foundation. 3 Students who have undergone Japanese elementary school, lower secondary school and upper secondary school education for more than 1 year. 4 Students who have scored more than 200 points in their Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU) [Japanese as a Foreign Language (the total of reading comprehension, listening and listening-reading comprehension)] 5 Students who have scored more than 400 points in their BJT Business Japanese Proficiency Test conducted by The Japan Kanji Aptitude Testing Foundation Eligibility for admission Students must satisfy any one of the following eligibility criteria. 1 Students who have completed 12 years of schooling in countries other than Japan. 2 Students who are 18 years of age or older and have successfully passed an academic qualification examination that is equivalent to the completion of 12 years of schooling in countries other than Japan. 3 Students who are 18 years of age or older and have completed studies at international schools in Japan that are officially recognized as equivalent to high schools in countries other than Japan. 4 Students who are 18 years of age or older and hold an International Baccalaureate diploma, German Abitur diploma or French Baccalaureate diploma. 5 Students who are 18 years of age or older and have completed 12 years of curriculum at international schools in Japan that are accredited by any of the following international accreditation organizations: the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), Council of International Schools (CIS) or Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). 6 Students who are 18 years of age or older and have successfully passed an academic qualification examination that is equivalent to a high school diploma in Japan. 7 Students who are 18 years of age or older and are recognized by the educational institutions to which they apply for admission, through their individual admission qualification examinations, as having an academic ability that is equivalent to a high school diploma or above. 8 A student who satisfies any one of the admission qualifications specified in the School Education Act, other than those outlined above. With regard to 1 through 3 above, if a student has completed less than 12 years of schooling, he/she must complete an authorized university preparatory courses or an authorized course at a training facility, among other things. 14

17 Application requirements application form (school-specific form) certificate of upper secondary school graduation transcript of the last school attended certificate of attendance at a Japanese language institute and the transcript (if applicant is residing in Japan) Japanese language proficiency certificate (if applicant is residing outside Japan) others Documents for submission may vary according to the school. It is best that you inquire directly with the relevant school for details. Entrance exam The exam includes some or all of the following tests: document screening, subject test, interview, short essay, aptitude test, practical test, Japanese language proficiency test, etc. The entrance exam mainly examines whether students are focused in their objective in the field they have chosen, whether they have the Japanese language proficiency and academic skills required to cope with the classes after their admission and whether the students have the desire to study. Qualifications for graduation and completion Diploma ( 専門士 ) Advanced diploma ( 高度専門士 ) Course term 2 years or more 4 years or more Total class hours 1700 hours or more 3400 hours or more Qualification for completion Exam results are evaluated for the qualification of course completion Course structure The curriculum is systematically structured Upon fulfillment of above conditions, students are awarded the title of a diploma or an advanced diploma when they complete courses recognized by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Japan. Students with diploma may be eligible for transfer admission to universities, while students with advanced diploma may be eligible for admission to graduate schools. You should check with your school of choice if you will be deemed to have the application eligibility. Intensive Japanese language programs at specialized training colleges are in most cases categorized as Japanese language institutes. It is recommended that you confirm in advance with your school of choice if they award a diploma or not. Professional Training Colleges Professional Training Colleges Key Points of Selection 1 Officially Accredited Program 2 Content of Education and Number of Teachers 3 Facilities and Equipment 4 Career Guidance Program and Career Paths of Graduates 5 School Expenses 6 School Reputation Is this professional training college authorized by the relevant prefectural governor? You will not be awarded the title of a diploma if the professional training college is unauthorized. What about curriculum? What about the ratio of the number of teachers to the number of students? Does this professional training college have adequate facilities and equipment that allows you to acquire skill sets that you are looking for? Be sure to check photos and school brochures. What is the school s career guidance policy? What about the graduates employment track record? How much are school expenses for the first year? What about the total amount of school expenses to be incurred before graduation? When is the payment due date? Take advantage of a network of graduates, international students, etc. to learn about the school s reputation. 15

18 Graduate Schools Finding out more Information on graduate schools (JASSO) Search for graduate schools (JAPAN STUDY SUPPORT) Eligibility for admission Graduate Schools Students must satisfy any one of the following eligibility criteria. 1 Master s program Doctorate program (First phase) 1 Japanese university graduates. 2 Students that have been conferred their bachelor s degree through the National Institution for Academic Degrees and Quality Enhancement of Higher Education (NIAD-QE). 3 Students who have completed 16 years of education in countries other than Japan. 4 Students who have completed more than 3 years of program at universities or equivalent education institutions in countries other than Japan and awarded an overseas degree equivalent to a bachelor s degree. 5 Students who have completed 16 years of education at education institutions in Japan recognized as having overseas undergraduate programs. 6 Students who have completed designated professional training college courses. 7 Students recognized as having academic abilities equivalent or better than university graduates in an individual entrance qualification examination conducted by the graduate school, and have reached 22 years of age. 2 Doctorate program (Second phase) 1 Students with a Japanese master s degree or students with a Japanese professional degree. 2 Students who have been awarded with an overseas degree equivalent to a master s degree or professional degree. 3 Students who have completed graduate programs at education institutions in Japan recognized as having overseas graduate programs and have obtained a degree equivalent to a master s degree or professional degree. 4 Students who have graduated from universities and have been involved in research study at universities or research centers (including overseas universities and research centers) for more than 2 years, and recognized as having academic competency equivalent to persons with a master s degree by the graduate school. 5 Students recognized as having academic abilities equivalent or better than a master s degree or professional degree in an individual entrance qualification examination conducted by the graduate school, and have reached 24 years of age. 3 Doctorate program Faculties of Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Sciences and Certain Pharmaceutical Programs If you apply to a program in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine or certain pharmaceutical science, please confirm directly with the school of your choice before applying. Application requirements application form (graduate school-specific form) certificate of bachelor s degree (or anticipated degree) certificate of master s degree (or anticipated degree) (In case of a Doctoral course) transcript of the last school attended Documents for submission may vary according to graduate schools. It is best that you inquire directly with the relevant school for details. letter of recommendation graduation research thesis and summary research plan others 16