In recent years, Japan has become a popular study-abroad destination for international students. This is due to its world-class institutions, affordable tuition fees, scholarships, and the first job market after graduation. International students can study in Japan in both English and Japanese and use the flexible work-and-study option to support themselves while gaining industry knowledge.
Japan is a vibrant and exciting place to study. The country is known for its rich culture, advanced technology, strong economy, and world-class universities. This is the mix of attractions that draws thousands of international students who seek to study in the country every year.
Aside from being a vibrant place for international students to study, Japan also offers affordable universities and living costs, making Japan a globally recognised destination for international students.
In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about studying in Japan, including tuition fees, living expenses, student visa requirements, language expectations, and career prospects.
Study in Japan: Cost and Requirements
The cost of studying in Japan is significantly lower than in other popular study-abroad destinations such as Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. To assess the cost of studying in Japan, we’ll consider tuition fees, living costs, and overall expenses for international students.
Tuition Fee
The tuition fee varies in Japan depending on the institution and the program you’re applying for. There are different types of universities in Japan, including public, private, and language schools.
- National Universities: ¥535,800
- Public/Local Universities: ¥665,000 to ¥810,000
- Private Universities: ¥800,000 to ¥1,500,000
- Language Schools: ¥600,000 to ¥1,300,000
Living Costs in Japan
Living as an international student in Japan can vary greatly depending on the institution’s location. For example, Tokyo and other major cities in Japan are more expensive to live in than smaller cities. On average, in a month, you spend on accommodation, food, transportation, internet, and other basic utilities.
- Cost of living in Tokyo and urban cities: ¥100,000 to ¥150,000 per month
- Other parts of Japan: ¥60,000 to ¥90,000 per month
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Health Insurance
International students studying in Japan on a student visa for more than 3 months are required to register with the National Health Insurance (NHI) program, also known as Kokumin Kenko Hoken or Kokuho. The NHI covers about 70% of their medical costs while studying in the country. The students are required to pay the remaining 30% of the fees, which can range from ¥1,000 to ¥2,000 per month.
Within 14 days of entering the country and registering your address, you must visit the NHI office in your local city Hall or ward to register. International students are expected to bring their passports, residence card (Zairyu) and other important documents to register.
Once you have completed your registration, you will be issued an NHI card. This will be useful when you go to hospital visits, the pharmacy to get medication, dental care, and other medical care. Upon completing your studies and moving back to your home country, you must notify your local city hall to cancel your registration.
Student Visa Requirements for International Students to Study in Japan
To study in Japan, international students need to apply to and be admitted to a reputable Japanese institution. Also, the students will need to be issued a certificate of eligibility by the university, which may take 1 to 3 months. Upon receiving these certificates, international students will need to apply to their local Japanese embassy in their own country to proceed with their student visa application.
Before you can receive your Certificate of Eligibility (COE), you must provide certain documents to your institution. These include:
- Academic transcripts from your previous university.
- Financial proof showing you can cover your living costs while you study in Japan. International students must have at least ¥2,000.000 for the first year of study.
- Language proficiency. International students in Japan can study in English or Japanese. If you are studying at Japanese-language schools, you must provide proof of language proficiency, such as the JLPT N5 or an A1-level Japanese language test score.
Upon receiving your COE, you can apply for a student visa at the Japanese embassy in your home country. Documents to submit during the application include:
- Passport
- Certificate of Eligibility COE
- Passport photographs
- Admission letter
- Completed visa application form
After submitting these documents, pay the visa fee, which may vary by visa type. For a single-entry visa, you can pay up to ¥3,000; for a multiple-entry visa, ¥6,000. The visa decision can take up to 5 to 10 working days. However, obtaining the COE takes longer, sometimes up to 3 months.
Working While Studying in Japan for International Students
Working while studying in Japan as an international student does not follow an automatic method like in some other study destinations. In Japan, international students must obtain a separate work permit known as Shikakugai katsudou kyoka. This translates to the Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted by the Status of Residence Previously Granted.
Students with this permit may work up to 28 hours per week during academic sessions and up to 40 hours per week during vacation. You can apply for the work permit at the immigration checkpoint as you arrive at the airport. You can also apply at the local immigration bureau in Japan. The entire process may take between 1 and 2 weeks. Working without this permit or exceeding the time limit can result in deportation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Japan a good choice for international students in 2026?
Japan offers a vibrant economy, affordable tuition, strong scholarship opportunities, and a safe environment for international students. Although there are language barriers outside Japan’s major cities, it is still a good place for international students to blend in, enjoy academic excellence, and access a vibrant job market.
Can international students stay in Japan after graduation?
Yes, international students can stay in Japan after graduation, but they must apply for a visa change to remain in the country while seeking employment.
What are the best courses to study in Japan in 2026?
Japan offers a wide range of strong academic fields, including engineering, computer science, artificial intelligence, business and economics, healthcare and biomedical services, and international relations.
Can international students work while studying in Japan?
Yes, international students can work while studying in Japan. Students can work up to 28 hours per week during the academic term and up to 40 hours per week during the vacations.
Final Thoughts,
Japan is a vibrant country and a good fit for students seeking to experience a new culture, with safe living, affordable tuition, and world-class university facilities. Japan is establishing itself as a popular destination for students abroad in 2026. With highly affordable tuition, great scholarships, and strong employment opportunities for students after study. Japan provides a great combination of academic excellence and real-world career prospects. Studying in Japan can be a life-changing opportunity for your education, your worldview, and your future career success.
