Study Bachelor’s in Japan – Eligibility, Fees, Intakes & Top Universities 🇯🇵
Japan has become one of the leading destinations of Asia for undergraduate education offering world class education and advanced technology. International students can choose from hundreds of English-taught and Japanese-taught bachelor's programs across engineering, business, AI, robotics, medicine, humanities, and more.
Why study for a Bachelor's degree in Japan?
Studying a bachelor's degree in Japan is an increasingly popular choice for international students, and for good reasons:
- World class education
- Growing English-Taught Programs
- Cutting-Edge Fields
- Safety and Quality of Life
- Strong Alumni and Business Networks
- Scholarships for International Students
Top 10 Universities for Bachelor’s in Japan (With Details)
| University | Bachelor’s program | QS rankings |
|---|---|---|
| University of Tokyo | Engineering, Computer Science, Economics, AI | Top 30 |
| Kyoto University | Engineering, Natural Sciences, Global Studies | Top 60 |
| Osaka University | Engineering, Robotics, Biotechnology | Top 90 |
| Institute of Science Tokyo | Science, Engineering, Computing, Medical Sciences | Newly established leading science university |
| Tohoku University | Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, AI | Top 110 |
| Nagoya University | Engineering, Physics, Automotive Engineering | Top 200 |
| Hokkaido University | Agriculture, Environmental Science, Engineering | Top 200 |
| Waseda University | International Liberal Studies, Business, Computer Science | Top 200 |
| Keio University | Economics, Business, Information Technology | Top 200 |
Top Bachelor’s Specialisations in Japan
- Computer Science & Information Technology
- Business Administration & Management
- International Business
- Economics
- Medicine & Healthcare
- Animation, Game Design & Digital Media
- Japanese Language & Cultural Studies
Admission Requirements to Study Bachelor’s in Japan
Admission requirements vary by university and program, but most institutions follow a similar application process for international students. Here are the steps:
Academic Qualification
To apply for Bachelor's degree, the applicant must complete his or her secondary education and requires Completion of Class 12, Recognized high school diploma or equivalent qualification and good academic performance (typically 70–80%+ for competitive universities, though minimum requirements vary by institution)
Language requirements
This depends on the language on which the program is: if it's Japanese-taught language, students need JLPT N2 or N1 and for English- taught language IELTS (typically 5.5 -- 6.5), TOEFL iBT (usually 61–90+), etc.
The EJU
If your program requires it, this exam typically covers Japanese language, Science, Japan and the world, and Mathematics, though the exact subjects depend on your intended major.
Application documents
Completed application form, academic transcripts and certificates, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose / motivation letter and passport copy.
Student Visa Process for Japan
If you plan to study in Japan for more than 90 days, you must obtain a Student Visa.
Receive Admission from a Japanese Institution
Secure an official letter of acceptance from an accredited Japanese university, junior college, vocational school, or language school.
Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
The sponsoring institution submits the COE application to the regional Immigration Services Agency Office in Japan on applicant's behalf, and without a COE you cannot apply for the visa. The typical process time is 1–3 months, depending on the application period and case. The Immigration Services Agency reviews your application and issues the COE if approved.
Apply for Student Visa
After receiving COE, the applicant can apply for Student Visa and these documents are required- Original COE, Valid passport, Visa application form, Passport photo, Visa fee.
Travel to Japan and Receive Residence Card
After receiving your visa, book your flight. After arrival, register the address at the local municipal office, enroll in Japan's National Health Insurance (where required) and complete other local resident registration formalities at least 14 days after the arrival.
Intakes for Bachelor’s in Japan: When to Apply
| Intake | Application period | Classes begin |
|---|---|---|
| Spring Intake (April) | September–January (previous year) | Early April |
| Autumn Intake (September/October) | February–May | September or October |
Scholarships for Bachelor’s in Japan
| Scholarship | Funding | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| MEXT Scholarship | Full tuition, monthly stipend, airfare, preparatory Japanese language course | Outstanding academic record, completed 12 years of education, age requirements vary by intake |
| JASSO Honors Scholarship | ¥48,000/month for eligible undergraduate students | International students enrolled at Japanese institutions with good academic performance and financial need |
| University Merit Scholarships | Partial or full tuition waiver | Depends on university and academic merit |
| Local Government Scholarships | Living allowance and tuition support | Students studying in specific prefectures or cities |
| Private Foundation Scholarships | Tuition and living expenses | Tuition and living expenses |
Cost of Studying Bachelor’s in Japan
| University type | Average Annual Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| National Universities | ¥535,800 admission fee: around ¥282,000 |
| Public Universities | ¥535,800–¥600,000 admission fee: around ¥282,000 |
| Private Universities | ¥800,000–¥1,800,000+ admission fee: ¥200,000–¥400,000 (varies by institution) |
Cost of Living in Japan for International Students
| Category | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | ¥30,000–¥70,000 |
| Food & Groceries | ¥25,000–¥40,000 |
| Utilities | ¥8,000–¥15,000 |
| Internet | ¥3,000–6,000 |
| Health Insurance | ¥2,000–¥3,000 |
| Personal & Entertainment | ¥10,000–¥20,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | ¥85,000–¥160,000 |
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SIEC made my dream of studying in Australia come true! The team guided me throughout the application and visa process. Special thanks to my counsellor for being so patient and helpful.

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I am currently preparing for my IELTS exam through these online classes, and my experience so far has been excellent. The classes are well-organized and cover all four modules — Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking — in detail.

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The visa process seemed overwhelming until I contacted SIEC. Their expert team made everything smooth and stress-free. I got my student visa approved on the first attempt!

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