Acrosophy

Japanese Studies Personal Statement Examples

  • 1 Personal Statement Example Links
  • 2 Career Opportunities
  • 3 UK Admission Requirements
  • 4 UK Earnings Potential For Japanese Studies
  • 5 Similar Courses in UK
  • 6 UK Curriculum
  • 7 Alumni Network

Personal Statement Example Links

  • Personal Statement Example 1
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  • Personal Statement Example 5

Are you interested in exploring the rich culture and history of Japan? If so, Japanese Studies could be the perfect subject for you. This interdisciplinary course combines elements of history, language, literature, and culture to provide a comprehensive overview of the country.

In a Japanese Studies degree program, you will gain an understanding of the country’s past and present. You’ll learn about the language, literature, and cultural practices of Japan, as well as its geography and politics. You’ll also explore the nation’s art and architecture, and gain an appreciation of its religion and philosophy.

When writing your personal statement for a Japanese Studies course, you should focus on the reasons why you’re interested in the subject. Explain why you’re passionate about learning more about Japan and how you plan to use your knowledge in the future. You should also mention any relevant experience you have, such as language classes, travel, or volunteering.

To get a better idea of what a Japanese Studies course entails, here is an overview of some of the topics you’ll cover:

• Japanese Language: You’ll learn the basics of the language, including grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.

• Japanese History: You’ll explore the country’s past, from its ancient origins to the present day.

• Japanese Literature: You’ll study various works from both classical and contemporary Japanese authors, analyzing themes, narrative styles, and cultural context.

• Japanese Culture and Society: You’ll examine the unique societal structures, traditions, and customs of Japan, as well as contemporary issues facing the country.

• Japanese Art and Aesthetics: You’ll delve into traditional and modern art forms, understanding their historical significance and the principles of Japanese aesthetics.

👍 When writing a personal statement: Highlight your passion for the course, demonstrating your understanding of it. Use relevant personal experiences, coursework, or work history to showcase how these have fostered your interest and readiness for the course.

Career Opportunities

Someone with a degree in Japanese Studies can pursue a variety of careers in different industries and sectors.

1. Education: A degree in Japanese Studies can lead to a career in education, such as teaching Japanese in secondary schools, universities, and language schools.

2. Business: A degree in Japanese Studies can be beneficial for a career in business, such as working in international trade, working for a Japanese company, or working in a related field such as marketing, finance, or consulting.

3. Government: A degree in Japanese Studies can be beneficial for a career in government, such as working in foreign affairs, international relations, or diplomacy.

4. Media and Arts: A degree in Japanese Studies can be beneficial for a career in media and the arts, such as working in journalism, translation, or interpreting.

5. Technology: A degree in Japanese Studies can be beneficial for a career in technology, such as working in software development, web design, or localization.

6. Tourism: A degree in Japanese Studies can be beneficial for a career in tourism, such as working in travel agencies, tour guides, or hospitality.

7. Research: A degree in Japanese Studies can be beneficial for a career in research, such as working in academia, think tanks, or research institutes.

UK Admission Requirements

In order to get accepted into the Japanese Studies course at the University of Kent, applicants must have achieved a minimum of a 2:2 at undergraduate level in a relevant subject, such as Japanese, East Asian Studies, or a related field.

Applicants must also have a good level of proficiency in the Japanese language, as demonstrated by a minimum grade of B in the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) or equivalent.

This entry criteria is similar to other universities offering Japanese Studies courses, such as the University of Sheffield and the University of Manchester. However, some universities may require a higher grade at undergraduate level, such as a 2:1, or a higher level of proficiency in the Japanese language, such as a grade of A in the JLPT.

UK Earnings Potential For Japanese Studies

The average earnings for someone with a degree in Japanese Studies will vary depending on the job they pursue. Generally, those with a degree in Japanese Studies can pursue a variety of careers in areas such as translation, international business, and teaching. According to PayScale, the average salary for a translator with a degree in Japanese Studies is $48,000 per year. For international business positions, the average salary is $65,000 per year. For teaching positions, the average salary is $48,000 per year.

In terms of trends in the job market, there is a growing demand for professionals with a degree in Japanese Studies. This is due to the increasing number of businesses that are doing business with Japan and the need for professionals who can speak and understand the language. Additionally, there is an increasing demand for teachers of Japanese language and culture, which has created more job opportunities for those with a degree in Japanese Studies.

Similar Courses in UK

Other university courses related to Japanese Studies include Japanese Language, East Asian Studies, and Asian Studies.

Japanese Language focuses on the language itself and the development of language skills, while East Asian Studies focuses on the culture, history, and politics of the region, and Asian Studies is a broader course that covers the cultures, histories, and politics of the entire continent.

Japanese Studies, on the other hand, is a more comprehensive course that covers language, culture, history, and politics of Japan. It also includes topics such as Japanese literature, art, and religion.

UK Curriculum

The key topics and modules covered in a Japanese Studies course will vary depending on the institution, but generally they will include the following:

  • Introduction to Japanese Language and Culture: This module will provide an overview of the history, culture, and language of Japan. It will cover topics such as the Japanese writing system, basic grammar, and common phrases.
  • Japanese Literature and Film: This module will explore Japanese literature and film from different periods and genres. It will also discuss the influence of Japanese culture on the world.
  • Japanese History and Politics: This module will provide an overview of the history and politics of Japan from ancient times to the present. It will cover topics such as the Meiji Restoration, World War II, and the post-war period.
  • Japanese Society and Culture: This module will explore the social, cultural, and economic aspects of contemporary Japan. It will cover topics such as gender roles, family dynamics, education, and religion.
  • Japanese Business and Economics: This module will provide an overview of the business and economic environment of Japan. It will cover topics such as the Japanese economy, business culture, and international trade.

In addition to coursework, many Japanese Studies courses will include hands-on experience or practical work. This could include field trips to Japan, internships, or volunteer work. It could also involve learning about the Japanese language, culture, and customs through activities such as cooking, calligraphy, and the like.

Alumni Network

One notable alumni from the Japanese Studies course is Yoko Ono, who graduated from the University of Tokyo in 1953. She is a renowned multimedia artist, singer, songwriter, peace activist, and author. She has made significant contributions to the field of Japanese Studies, particularly in her work to promote peace and understanding between Japan and the rest of the world. She is also a strong advocate for women’s rights and has worked to promote gender equality in Japan.

In addition to her work in the field of Japanese Studies, Yoko Ono has also been involved in alumni events and networking opportunities. She has attended several alumni events at the University of Tokyo, including the 2017 Alumni Reunion, where she spoke about her experiences as a student and her current work in the field. She has also been involved in alumni networking events, such as the 2018 Tokyo Alumni Networking Night, where she discussed her work and her vision for the future of Japanese Studies.

Finally, Yoko Ono has also been involved in alumni organizations, such as the University of Tokyo Alumni Association. Through this organization, she has been able to connect with other alumni and promote the field of Japanese Studies. She has also been involved in fundraising efforts for the university, including a recent campaign to raise funds for a new building dedicated to Japanese Studies.

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What to include in a Personal Statement

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Personal Statement Tips

Personal statement example korean studies, japanese studies personal statement.

Submitted by Polly

Korean Studies, Japanese Studies Personal Statement

Becoming fluent in a second language is one of my greatest aspirations in life, and when picking which language to pursue, I knew an established deep interest in the language and country from which it comes is vital. So when deciding on my choice of degree, I settled on either of two languages which throughout my life have intrigued me tremendously: Japanese and Korean.

My deep interest in Korean has continued to grow ever since I first began to teach myself the language last year. Initially, I started off with some basic vocab and grammar, but then realised, in conjunction with this, I was desperate to learn Korean in practice, and in a more natural way. Therefore, after finding some penpal sites, I quickly made friends with Korean people online, with whom I continue to communicate daily in Korean. I feel this has given me invaluable knowledge of colloquial Korean, idioms, and cultural aspects of the language. Improving my knowledge whilst simultaneously forming bonds with people thousands of miles away is one of the most rewarding aspects of my self-taught Korean. I am also fascinated by the grammatical dissimilarity between Korean and English as this can give us an insight into how and why the countries’ societal hierarchies are structured so differently.

The Hangul alphabet also interested me immensely; its intriguing efficiency and simplicity, and entirely different structure to other scripts, led me to research it further and to discover the history of its unique formation. This summer I worked on an Extended Project Question entitled: “Why was an entirely new Korean writing system invented in 1443 as an alternative to using Chinese Characters?”. For my research, I signed up to the Korean Cultural Centre Library in London, and here I found an English translation of the original manuscript of Hunminjeongeum Haerye. Reading the words of King Sejong himself and the scholars of the Jiphyeonjeon felt like an incredible insight into the rich history of this writing system.

My interest in Japanese stems from an early age. When I was young, my father would often visit Japan for work reasons, and brought me back films and various quirky little toys from the country. I grew up on the mainstream Japanese media of Studio Ghibli, with the films’ non-Hollywood narrative trajectory, strong female protagonists and the everyday aspects of Japanese life intertwined with Japanese folklore making an intoxicating mix for the enraptured child.

In more recent years, I have enjoyed other elements of Japanese media; the work of author Banana Yoshimoto is an example. It was whilst reading her novel Kitchen that I came to a realisation I wanted to understand her writing on a deeper level, one not entirely conveyed through translation. Where Yoshimoto’s character Eriko writes that “just this once [she] wanted to try using men’s language”, I was made aware of almost a cultural gap: it is a confusing sentence in English, but one making perfect sense and conveying the struggle with gender that Eriko goes through in Japanese. I have enjoyed films such as Seven Samurai and Tampopo, which, whilst vastly contrasting in terms of tone and storyline, show insights into the Japanese psyche and humour of different eras. I also found Tokyo Story moving and poignant in the way it portrays the generational gap and struggles of a family living in postwar Japan.

My experience of formal language lessons from French A-Level, and ability to commit to learning a language and native script so thoroughly different to my own, I hope means I would be suited to a degree in either of these languages, and the challenges they provide. My strong interest and love for language learning, combined with my genuine and broad interest in the culture of both countries means I would treat the course with enthusiasm and dedication.

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  • STUDY ABROAD
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How to Apply for Study in Japan

Japanese University Application Process Step by Step-by-Step Guide ....

Standyou Team

Standyou Team

Feb 21, 2024 02:12:10

Japan University Application Process

1. research and select universities and programs.

Start Early : Begin your research at least a year before you plan to start your studies. Consider factors like the university’s reputation, program curriculum, location, tuition fees, scholarship opportunities, and language of instruction.

Language Requirements : Determine if your program is offered in English or if you need proficiency in Japanese. For programs in Japanese, you typically need to pass the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), usually at the N1 or N2 level.

2. Understand the Admission Requirements

Academic Records : You’ll need your academic transcripts, and for non-Japanese institutions, you might need to provide an explanation or conversion of your grades.

Language Proficiency : Prepare for and take any required language proficiency tests (e.g., JLPT for Japanese, TOEFL or IELTS for English).

Entrance Exams : Some universities require entrance exams, which can include general education, subject-specific tests, or both. EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students) is common for programs taught in Japanese.

3. Prepare Your Application

Application Form : Fill out the application form provided by the university. Some universities use an online application system.

Personal Statement or Essays : Write a personal statement or essays if required, tailored to each university or program’s specific prompt or questions.

Letters of Recommendation : Obtain letters of recommendation from teachers or professionals who can attest to your academic or professional abilities.

Portfolio or Audition : For certain programs, like art, music, or acting, you may need to submit a portfolio or audition tape.

4. Submit Your Application

Application Deadlines : Pay close attention to application deadlines, which may vary depending on the program and whether you’re applying for a spring or fall intake. Deadlines can be as early as six months before the start of the program.

Application Fee : Be prepared to pay an application fee for each application you submit.

5. Entrance Exams and Interviews

If required, take any entrance exams either in your home country or in Japan. Some universities also conduct interviews, which can be in person, by phone, or via video conference.

6. Receive Your Admission Decision

Wait for the admission decision. This can take several weeks or months, depending on the university and the specific program’s application process.

7. Secure Funding and Scholarships

Apply for scholarships and financial aid. Japan offers various scholarship programs for international students, such as the MEXT scholarship, JASSO scholarships, and university-specific scholarships.

8. Visa Application

Once admitted, you’ll need to apply for a student visa. This process involves submitting your university acceptance letter and proof of financial capability to cover your tuition and living expenses in Japan to the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate.

9. Prepare for Your Arrival in Japan

Arrange your accommodations, enroll in health insurance, and familiarize yourself with Japan’s customs and laws to ensure a smooth transition.

Tips for a Successful Application

Detailed Research : Spend ample time researching universities and programs to find the best fit for your academic and career goals.

Early Preparation : Begin preparing your application well in advance, especially if you need to improve your language skills or take entrance exams.

Follow Instructions Carefully : Make sure you understand and follow all application instructions and requirements for each program to which you apply.

Stay Organized : Keep track of deadlines, documents, and correspondence from each university.

Eligibility to Study in Japan

1. academic qualifications.

Undergraduate Programs : Typically, you need to have completed 12 years of schooling or have an equivalent qualification recognized by the Japanese education system. Some universities may require specific subjects or grades.

Graduate Programs : For master's programs, you generally need to hold a bachelor's degree, and for doctoral programs, a master's degree or equivalent is required. The degrees should be in a field relevant to the program you're applying for.

Preparatory Education : For those who do not meet the 12-year schooling requirement, completing a preparatory education course in Japan might be necessary.

2. Language Proficiency

Japanese Programs : If the program is taught in Japanese, you will likely need to demonstrate proficiency in the language. The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is widely accepted, with most programs requiring a minimum of N2 or N1 level.

English-Taught Programs : For programs offered in English, proof of English proficiency through tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent is usually required for non-native speakers.

3. Entrance Examinations

Undergraduate Programs : You might need to take the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU), which assesses Japanese language proficiency and basic academic abilities.

Graduate Programs : Requirements vary significantly. Some programs may require GRE, GMAT, or specific graduate entrance examinations, in addition to interviews and research proposals.

4. Financial Requirements

Proof of Financial Support : You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses. This can be through personal savings, scholarships, or financial guarantees from a sponsor.

Scholarships : Applying for scholarships, such as those offered by the Japanese government (MEXT), private foundations, or the universities themselves, can help meet these requirements.

5. Health and Insurance

Health Check : Some universities require a medical check-up form to be submitted along with your application.

Insurance : Enrolling in Japan’s National Health Insurance (NHI) system is mandatory for residents, including international students. Some universities also offer their own health insurance plans.

6. Visa Requirements

Student Visa : Upon acceptance into a program, you will need to apply for a student visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate in your country. This requires submitting your university acceptance letter, proof of financial capability, and other documentation.

7. Application Materials

Transcripts and Academic Records : From your most recent completed level of education.

Recommendation Letters : Usually from academic instructors or professionals familiar with your work.

Statement of Purpose or Research Proposal : Especially for graduate applicants, detailing your academic interests and goals.

Portfolio or Audition : For certain programs like art, music, or acting.

Preparation Tips

Start Early : Begin your preparations well in advance, especially if you need to improve your language skills or gather documents.

Research Thoroughly : Look into various universities and programs to find the best fit for your academic goals and personal preferences.

Understand the Culture : Familiarizing yourself with Japanese culture, norms, and the education system can help ease your transition.

Documents Required to Study in Japan

For university application.

Application Form : Completed and signed, usually obtained from the university's website or requested directly from the institution.

Academic Transcripts : Official transcripts from your high school (for undergraduate programs) or your undergraduate institution (for postgraduate programs). Some universities may require transcripts from all educational institutions attended after high school.

Proof of Graduation or Expected Graduation : A diploma or certificate from your most recent educational institution, or a letter indicating your expected graduation date if you're currently studying.

Proof of Language Proficiency :

For programs taught in Japanese: Results from the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), typically N1 or N2 level, or other recognized Japanese language tests.

For English-taught programs: TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent English language test scores.

Letters of Recommendation : Usually one or two letters from teachers, professors, or professionals who can attest to your academic abilities and character. The specific requirements (such as who the letters should be from) can vary by program.

Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Personal Statement : An essay written by you, explaining your academic interests, career goals, reasons for choosing the program, and why you wish to study in Japan.

Passport-Sized Photos : A specified number of recent photos, typically with specific dimensions and guidelines.

Health Certificate : Some universities may require a medical examination report or health certificate, completed by a licensed physician.

Portfolio or Audition Tape : For applicants to arts and performance-related programs, a portfolio of work or an audition recording may be required.

Research Proposal : Particularly for postgraduate applicants, detailing your proposed research topic, methodology, and objectives.

For Visa Application

1. Certificate of Eligibility (COE) : Issued by the Japanese Immigration Bureau through the sponsoring school in Japan, this document is crucial for the visa application.

2. Valid Passport : Must be valid for the duration of your study period.

3. Visa Application Form : Obtained from and submitted to the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country, along with your COE.

4. Photograph : Passport-sized photo to be attached to the visa application form.

5. Proof of Financial Means : Documents to prove you or your sponsor have sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses in Japan. This can include bank statements, scholarship award letters, or a letter of guarantee from a sponsor.

6. Admission Letter : From the Japanese educational institution where you have been accepted.

Additional Documents

Flight Itinerary : Some embassies may require proof of booked flights.

Accommodation Proof : Information about where you will stay in Japan, if required.

Student Visa for Japan

1. secure admission to a japanese educational institution.

Before applying for a student visa, you must be accepted into a Japanese university, college, language school, or other educational institution. The institution must be recognized by the Japanese government.

2. Obtain the Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

What It Is : The COE is an important document issued by the Immigration Bureau of Japan. It verifies that you meet the entry requirements to study in Japan.

How to Get It : After being admitted, your Japanese school will apply for the COE on your behalf. You'll need to provide the school with various documents, such as proof of sufficient funds, academic records, and a passport copy. The process can take 1-3 months, so it's important to start early.

3. Apply for the Student Visa

Once you receive your COE, you can apply for a student visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country.

Required Documents:

Valid Passport : With at least six months of validity remaining.

Visa Application Form : Available from the embassy or consulate, filled out and signed.

Photograph : Passport-sized photo taken within the last six months, adhering to specific requirements.

Certificate of Eligibility : You must submit the original COE and a copy.

Admission Letter : From your Japanese educational institution.

Proof of Financial Means : Documents showing you have enough funds to cover tuition and living expenses. This can be bank statements, a scholarship letter, or a letter of guarantee from a financial sponsor.

Flight Itinerary and Accommodation Details : Sometimes required to show your travel and living arrangements in Japan.

4. Attend the Visa Interview (If Required)

Some Japanese embassies or consulates may request a visa interview. This is to further assess your application and discuss your study plans in Japan.

5. Visa Issuance

If your application is successful, the embassy or consulate will issue your student visa. The processing time can vary but typically takes from a few days to a few weeks.

6. Prepare for Your Arrival in Japan

With your student visa in hand, you can finalize your travel and accommodation arrangements. It’s also a good time to familiarize yourself with Japanese customs, culture, and any regulations related to international students.

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Coto School Finder | Study in Japan

japanese university personal statement

How to Apply to a Japanese University as an International Student Life in Japan December 23, 2022 Coto Editorial Team Applying to a Japanese university (daigaku; 大学) as an international student (ryuugakusei; 留学生) can be exciting and daunting all at once. With almost 800 universities in Japan, you may need help figuring out which ones you want to apply to. What do you need to qualify to get into a university in Japan? What are the different types of university? We’re here to help explain the general process as well as some tips to make applications smoother. Choosing the Right University in japan

The first thing to know is that there are three types of universities: National (kokuritsu 国立) , Public (kouritsu 公立) , and Private (shiritsu 私立) . National and Public universities are managed and funded by the country and the district respectively, and therefore cost lower at a standard rate of 535,800 yen per year, with some additional enrollment and other fees. On the other hand, private universities can cost between 1-2 million yen or more depending on the university and major.

Interestingly, national and public universities are generally regarded as more prestigious than private universities, with greater competition and difficulty in the entrance examination.

Apart from the type of university, location, and price range, you can also narrow down your search by the intake period, courses offered, and the ranking of the university.

The standard intake period of universities in Japan is in April (shigatsu nyuugaku 4月入学) , which is why many people in Japan associate the start of a school year with cherry blossoms (sakura 桜) . However, recently some universities have also opened some courses with an autumn or summer intake period for students graduating from non-Japanese schools.

Courses are generally categorized into the Arts (bunkei; 文系) and the Sciences (rikei; 理系) , and universities may be stronger in one compared to the other. Some universities may even offer special courses completely in English, but in most cases, the entire application and course will take place entirely in Japanese. However, some universities may also offer an additional introductory Japanese program for international students, so make sure to check their websites for more information!

University rankings in Japan differ from how they are commonly ranked internationally, as it is based on how difficult it is to enter a university. This is also known as 偏差値 (hensachi) , a number representing how the entrance examination scores of the university’s incoming students compared to that of the national average. A hensachi of 50 means the university is average, 60 means it is about one standard deviation above average, and 40 means it is about one standard deviation lower than average. This can help determine which universities are ‘reach’, ‘match’, or ‘safety’ choices.

Admissions process for a university in Japan

All universities in Japan have a separate admissions process for international students, often referred to as 外国人留学生特別選考 (gaikokujin ryuugakusei tokubetsu senkou) . This process usually consists of two steps: 出願 (shutsugan) and 入試試験 (nyuushi shiken) .

出願 (shutsugan) means application and involves submitting your application and other requirements such as EJU scores, JLPT scores, and maybe even English proficiency exam scores. 入試試験 (nyuiishi shiken) means entrance examinations, which usually consist of interviews with admissions officers and writing short essays.

This process and the necessary exams and requirements for each exam differ by university and course, so make sure to check the university’s website for the most accurate information!

Requirements and examinations often differ from the general process aimed toward Japanese citizens, to accommodate the differences in standard education curricula across different countries.

1. EJU (nihon ryu-gaku shiken 日本留 学 試 験 )

The EJU, short for Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students, is used to evaluate whether international applicants have the appropriate Japanese language proficiency and academic skills. As it is required in many universities in Japan, taking the EJU will open your opportunities to a broader range of universities.

A lot of international university students started off as Japanese language school students. This is because these schools act as preparatory programs, with curriculums specifically for students who want to take the EJU and JLPT.

At Coto School Finder, we partner with great Japanese language schools. Our goal is to match you with the right program that fits your needs and future plans — including going to higher education in Japan. If you are interested in our free study abroad support, contact us today !

The exam subjects consist of Japanese (nihongo; 日本語) , Science (rika; 理科) , General Subjects (sougou kamoku; 総合科目) , and Mathematics (suugaku 数学) . The Science subjects consist of Physics (butsuri; 物理) , Chemistry (kagaku; 化学) , and Biology (seibutsu; 生物) . Generally, Bunkei 文系 applicants are required to take Japanese, General Subjects, and Mathematics Course 1, and Rikei 理系 applicants are required to take Japanese, Mathematics Course 2, and two Sciences.

The exam can be taken in either Japanese or English, except for the Japanese section which is only offered in Japanese.

Universities usually specify the required subjects and language of the exam, so make sure to check the admissions requirements for the specific university and course you are applying to! 

The EJU is administered twice a year in June and November and costs 10,000 yen for a single subject and 18,000 yen for at least 2 subjects. It is also offered in several other countries in Asia, so you may not necessarily have to visit Japan to take the exam.

To prepare for the exam, it is important to practice past papers to be familiar with the content and format of the exam. Official past papers (kakomon; 過去問) and textbooks can be found and purchased online, and you can even find EJU preparation courses to take online or in Japan.

2. JLPT (nihongo nouryoku shiken 日本語能力試 験 )

Many universities also require proof of Japanese ability, which is measured with the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT). It consists of a Vocabulary (goi 語彙 ) , Grammar (bunpou 文法 ) , Reading (dokkai 読 解 ) , and Listening (choukai 聴 解 ) section, and has 5 different levels: N1, N2, N3, N4, and N5, in order of most to least advanced. Universities with JLPT requirements usually require at least an N2 level to apply.

The JLPT is administered twice a year in July and December, in almost 100 countries around the world. It costs 6,500 yen in Japan, but this may differ for other countries. Check out this article on how to register for the JLPT.

Getting to an N2 level will require an upper-intermediate to advanced level of Japanese, which would take a beginner 2200 hours of study with no prior kanji knowledge. An N1 level would take even longer – 3900 hours.

At Coto Academy, we offer online and in-person JLPT preparation courses as well as self-study courses, workbooks, and other resources. Check out our ultimate guide to passing the N1 and N2 exams to learn more about what it takes to ace these levels, and what Coto Academy has to offer you.

3. English proficiency exams

The next common requirement is proof of English proficiency, although this may not be mandatory for all universities and courses. Some universities may prepare their own English examination, but many universities ask applicants to submit scores from exams such as TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, and Cambridge ESOL.

If you have a separate certification or graduated from an English-speaking school and are not sure whether you can apply with those, it is always a good idea to contact the admissions office to clarify.

4. Submitting your application (shutsugan 出願 )

After taking all the necessary examinations, it’s time to prepare and submit the application.

Most universities will have an online application method available for overseas applicants, but there is no unified platform in Japan for submitting university applications like in some other countries, so applicants will have to apply separately to each university.

This also means that you will have to pay a separate application fee (jukenryou 受 験 料 ) for each application, which can cost around 10,000 to even over 30,000 yen each.

Applications will usually require you to submit the following:

  • Application form (shigansho 志願書 )
  • Passport-sized photos (shashin 写真 )
  • EJU examination voucher (jukenhyou 受 験 票 ) or score certificate (seiseki tsu-chisho 成績通知書 )
  • High school diploma (sotsugyou shousho 卒業証書 ) and transcripts (tsu-chihyou 通知表 )
  • Scan or copy of valid passport and/or personal ID
  • Personal statement (shibouriyu-sho 志望理由書 )
  • Letter of recommendation (suisenjou 推薦 状 )
  • Proof of payment of the application fee

These materials usually need to be in either Japanese or English, and anything in other languages must be translated.

Double and triple-check the university’s admissions information to make sure that your documents meet the requirements!

5. Interview (mensetsu 面接 )

Many Japanese universities conduct interviews with international students in Japanese in order to see if the students will be fit for their school. These interviews are usually individual, with one or many interviewers for each applicant. Often, universities will want to also confirm that students have the academic and financial ability to enroll in the university.

Some common questions that are asked are:

If you’re nervous about this or are not sure how to prepare, there are lots of resources online for interview preparation. Prepare answers for commonly asked questions and try to practice with family and friends.

More than anything, don’t forget to say よろしくお願いします (yoroshiku onegaishimasu) and ありがとうございました (arigatougozaimashita)!

6. Getting your results (goukaku happyou 合格 発 表 )

It’s the end of the process, and you’re waiting for your results. The dates of the release of results are usually written on the admissions information, so make sure to have it marked on your calendar! Depending on the university, results may be uploaded online onto the application website, sent by email, or they may be sent by post to your house.

When you open the results, you will see one of the following:

合格 (goukaku) = Pass

不合格 (fugoukaku) = Fail

We hope everyone is able to see the shining words of 合格 (goukaku) , and move on to the next step: enrollment (nyu-gaku 入 学 ) .

Follow the steps on your results page or check the admissions procedure guide for procedures specific to your university. This may include filling out some forms and will definitely include payment of enrollment and other related fees (nyu-gaku shohiyou 入 学 諸費用 ) . Make sure to contact the admissions office of your accepted university department if you’re unsure about anything!

When making inquiries, here is a way you can introduce yourself:

来 年 ・ 今年から 〇〇 学 部に入 学 する留 学 生の(名前)です。

Rainen/kotoshi kara 〇〇 gakubu ni nyu-gaku suru ryu-gakusei no (namae) desu. 

I am (name), an international student who will enroll in the School of 〇〇 this year/next year. 

入 学 手 続 きについて質問があります。

Nyu-gaku tetsuzuki ni tsuite shitsumon ga arimasu.

I have a question about the enrollment procedure.

Scholarships (shougakukin; 奨学金) in japan

Since international students pay the same rate as local students, tuition fees (gakuhi 学 費 ) in Japan can be relatively low, especially in National and Public universities. In addition to this, there are many government scholarships as well as other public and private scholarships available for international students. These scholarships are usually provided based on the financial situation and academic performance of students.

JASSO (Japan Student Services Organization) is a well-known organization offering different types of scholarships and support services to international students.

Please visit their website to learn more: https://www.jasso.go.jp/ryugaku/scholarship_j/index.html  

Studying abroad is an amazing opportunity to take an adventure, experience an entirely new culture, and grow as an individual. Choosing Japan will mean lots of preparation with the language and the EJU, as well as understanding the university system and the application process. In the end, it will all be worth it to see the 合格 (goukaku) in your results!

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How to Apply to a Japanese University

A step-by-step guide for international students who want to apply to a Japanese university.

By GaijinPot Blog Sep 17, 2019 12 min read 40

There are hundreds of private, public and national universities in Japan, and Japan has one of the most competitive admissions processes in the world. But how competitive would it be for foreign students? Do they also need to take the same tests Japanese students have to take?

Read on for information on how to apply to be a student at a university in Japan. You should also check out our GaijinPot 101 section on Higher Education and Studying Japanese .

Why study at a Japanese university?

Japan was recently ranked as the No.2 study abroad destination in Asia  thanks to its low tuition fees, the high number of government scholarships given to international students and the positive employability prospects both in Japan and abroad post-graduation.

Both the current Japanese government and Japanese higher learning institutes are actively trying to increase the number of foreign students by offering scholarships and making the path to admissions much easier.

You will have to meet entry requirements, but in most cases, these requirements relate to attendance at a language school and overall language ability.

If you  study at a language school  and can get your Japanese to a suitable level, it’s possible to have Japanese universities contacting you with scholarship offers.

In addition, there are also several international programs at Japanese universities that are conducted in English and do not require any Japanese language ability to apply. These courses are typically combined with language lessons as part of the degree.

Types of universities in Japan

You will find three types of university depending on how they were founded.

  • National  universities (established by the Japanese government)
  • Public  universities (established by local public entities)
  • Private  universities (established by educational corporations)

Private universities account for about 80% of all universities and have about 80% of all university students on their registers.

Types of degree in Japan

  • University Bachelor’s degree = 4 years
  • Graduate School Master’s degree = 2 years
  • Doctor’s degree = 5 years
  • Professional degree = 2 years
  • Junior College Associate’s degree = 2 or 3 years
  • College of Technology Associate’s degree = 5 years
  • Specialized School Specialist’s degree = 2 or 3 years
  • High-level Specialist’s degree = 4 years
  • Medicine, Dental Surgery, Pharmacy degree = 6 years

Quick overview of the admissions procedure for a Japanese university

The academic year begins in April and ends in March. Classes are usually divided into two semesters from April to September, and then October to March. Students normally enroll in April, but some universities allow entry at a different time such as October.

Most Japanese universities offer a special entrance examination for privately financed foreign students which is different from the one taken by students in Japan. This may be separate or in addition to the EJU and the university’s official entrance exam.

General eligibility for an undergraduate degree program for international students:

  • Have completed or will have completed 12 years of school education in your home country. You will need to submit a transcript
  • You should not have any immigration issues, which may interfere with your entry into Japan or with your study in a Japanese university
  • You will take the examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU) 

As for the application, some universities require a personal statement, the result of your Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) and the result of your TOEFL score. Letters of recommendations are needed based on the university you will be applying to, so check with the university website.

If you are receiving funding from the Japanese government, it is best to go to the funding organization’s website for specific instructions.

What is the EJU?

The EJU is an examination introduced in 2002 by the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) and is considered as a part of the entrance examination for international students who wish to study at universities or other higher educational institutions in Japan.

This examination is conducted in Japan twice annually in June and November and is scheduled to be held in about 17 cities outside Japan, mainly in the Asian region. The examination subjects are Japanese as a Foreign Language, Science, Japan and the World, and Mathematics.

Questions are available in Japanese and English. Applicants will take the examination on the subjects and in the language designated by the respective colleges or universities.

Some of the universities consider the result along with grades at a senior high school without requiring students to sit the university’s own entrance examination.

If you apply to such a university, you could receive permission to enter that university without even leaving your home country.

Find out more about the EJU here .

Getting a student visa for Japan

Once you get accepted into a Japanese university, you will be asked to apply for a student visa to study in Japan .

This involves completing a Certificate of Eligibility form, providing a copy of your passport, and also having proof of funds which demonstrates that you have sufficient money to pay for your studies and to live in Japan without a part-time job, at least for the initial few months.

The amount varies depending on your school’s tuition fees, the period of stay in Japan and your living circumstances after arriving in Japan, but it is recommended to show access to an average of ¥2,000,000 or more for the first few months of your stay. Read more about providing proof of financial viability .

The international student center at the Japanese university will then submit your application to the immigration authorities in Japan. It takes about 2 to 3 months for immigration to process the application and issue the Certificate of Eligibility (COE).

After you receive a COE from your Japanese university, you will need to visit the Japanese embassy in your home country and bring the following documents:

  • Application materials for your student visa
  • Student visa application form
  • Certificate of Eligibility (must be original)

The embassy will then issue your student visa in about 7 days, and you’re set!

For more information about the student visa visit our GaijinPot Study FAQ page on How to apply for a student visa to study in Japan .

Japanese universities that offer degree programs in English and Japanese

japanese university personal statement

For English programs, you generally do not need to have Japanese language ability, although having some basic skills or being able to show some efforts in studying the language will strengthen your application.

Tokyo University

Programs in english at komaba (peak).

Having a long history and status as the best university in Japan, Tokyo University or “ Todai ” offers a learning environment not only for native Japanese elite students but also for talented students around the world. The PEAK initiative consists of two programs: “International Program on Japan in East Asia” and “International Program on Environmental Sciences”, that are taught in all-English.

Global Science Course (GSC)

The Global Science Course is a bit unique in that it is not a four-year undergraduate program but a program designated for transfer students that have completed at least two years of undergraduate studies in a scientific field. GSC transfer students receive monthly stipends of ¥150,000 as well as accommodation fully funded by the university, and other privileges.

More information on international programs at Todai can be found here .

Sophia University (Tokyo)

Faculty of liberal arts (fla).

Sophia University’s Faculty of Liberal Arts is known for its program taught entirely in English, which is the oldest and one of the most distinguished of its kind in Japan. Students can take courses from various fields, including Comparative Culture, International Business and Economics, and Social Studies, which examine modern Japan and its traditions in a global context.

Faculty of Science and Technology

Sophia University also offers English-conducted programs for more specialized fields in science. The Green Science program is designed to foster cross-disciplinary knowledge in chemistry, physics, biology, and their application to environmental issues. The Green Engineering program teaches the fundamentals of physics, mechanical and electrical engineering, as well as application of such knowledge to the development of energy conservation technology. As each program has an enrollment capacity of 25 students, students can communicate closely with their professors.

Sophia Program for Sustainable Futures

Selected as a “Top Global University” by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT), Sophia has decided to launch a third English-taught program starting in September 2020. This new program allows students to take courses in English in existing departments that teach courses in Japanese.

Through this program, students can obtain a Bachelor’s degree in journalism, education, sociology, economics, management, or international relations, and there will be more opportunities for field research and internships.

More information on each program can be found here .

For those that wish to enroll in a Japanese-taught program starting in April alongside native Japanese applicants, information can be found here .

Waseda University (Tokyo)

Seven undergraduate schools in Waseda offer English-based degree programs where international students can take English courses and earn a Bachelor’s degree without Japanese language proficiency.

The School of Political Science and Economics (often referred to as Waseda Seikei ) is known as one of the most prestigious schools in Japan and started their English-based degree program in 2010.

Unlike the other schools, Waseda only takes students once a year in September. Other schools like the School of Social Sciences Transnational and Interdisciplinary Studies in Social Innovation (TAISI), School of Fundamental Science and Engineering, and the School of International Liberal Studies (SILS) take students in both April and September.

More information on English programs for each school can be found here .

Information on Japanese-based degree programs can be found here .

Keio University (Tokyo)

English-based degree programs.

The undergraduate degree programs offered in English at Keio are the Programme in Economics for Alliances, Research and Leadership (PEARL) under the Faculty of Economics and the Global Information and Governance Academic (GIGA) Program under the Faculty of Policy Management and the Faculty of Environment and Information Studies.

Japanese-based degree programs

A number of Keio’s undergraduate departments also offer all-Japanese courses with a special admission procedure designated for international students, which they call “ Ryugakusei Nyushi .” Required documents vary among each department, and some departments are relatively demanding, such as the Faculty of Law that requires a short essay with a thesis statement that is separate from the statement of purpose.

More information can be found here .

Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (Beppu, Oita)

Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU) has two undergraduate programs under the College of Asia Pacific Studies focusing on tourism, international relations, and culture, and the College of International Management, focusing on finance and marketing. Students can choose between a Japanese-track program and an English-track one, allowing for a diverse group of people to study together on one campus.

Prospective students may also apply for a tuition reduction scholarship at the time of admission.

A more comprehensive list of “Top Global Universities” selected by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology can be found here .

japanese university personal statement

How much does it cost to study at a Japanese university

The cost for each university program obviously varies among each university, but for national universities (国立,  kokuritsu ), the tuition fee itself is fixed at ¥585,800 . Private universities usually cost twice as much ranging from ¥1 to 2 million .

Each university has scholarships, some of which cover all of a student’s tuition fee based on their financial situation and academic performance.  More than 100 kinds of scholarships programs offered by public or private institutions are available , and of these, about 60 are reserved for foreign students with a college student visa.

JASSO (Japan Student Services Organization) also offers scholarships which can be applied to through the university, giving out a stipend of ¥48,000 per month for one academic year.

Student housing in Japan

Most universities provide student dormitories, but oftentimes they are not located on campus and are a couple of stations away by train. In some cases, the commute time takes up to an hour, but the dorm fee may be cheaper. The monthly rent for student accommodation is ¥20,000 – ¥30,000 for a single room with water and electricity bills included .

This can go up to ¥60,000 – ¥90,000 depending on the extra amenities, such as a kitchen attached to each room or access to community space with table tennis and movies. Cafeteria meals in Japan are cheap and filling, with a lunch set of rice, miso soup, and a main dish like karaage chicken costing ¥500.

For more information on housing, take a look at the Moving In and Moving Out section on the GaijinPot 101.

Do I need to be able to speak Japanese to be a student in Japan?

In order to increase your chances of studying at a university in Japan, the most important thing is to have all the proper immigration documents and get the visa situation straightened. The application process may seem tedious but the better prepared you are the faster it will go.

The next thing is to start studying the Japanese language.

For English-based programs, as mentioned above having fluent Japanese language skills is not always a requirement though you can strengthen your application by being able to show efforts in learning the language before you get here.

For Japanese-based programs, you will need at least N2 of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) in order to keep up with lectures that are taught entirely in Japanese. For prestigious universities (Waseda, Keio, Tokyo), you may be required to have the top-level of N1.

Finding a job in Japan after studying at a Japanese university

japanese university personal statement

After completing a four-year university program, students can consider job hunting in Japan as companies are increasingly hiring those with an international background .

Career centers in universities often hold special sessions for international students, giving out information such as a general guideline on when companies start accepting applications, the types of exams that are commonly used, advice for interviews , and unspoken social rules and etiquette in Japanese business settings.

Check out GaijinPot Jobs for listings in a variety of industries to get a feel for what’s out there.

For any international student, it is important to determine what the purpose of your stay in Japan is, and to figure out the program most suitable for you, also keeping in mind financial costs of tuition and housing. Check out this article on the average cost of living in Japan in 2019  and the average cost of rent in Tokyo for further information.

Another great resource for international students is the JASSO Gateway to Studying in Japan website .

For more on learning Japanese

  • Learn Japanese with our original study materials on  GaijinPot Study
  • Questions about studying Japanese in Japan? Take a look at the Japan 101 section on  Higher Education and Studying Japanese
  • Join our  GaijinPot Study Facebook group  to connect with fellow learners
  • Learn more about the  GaijinPot Study Placement Program

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Can you explain me more about Certificate of eligibility?

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I have applied for EJU and TOEFL scheduled to be held in november and december respectively..I am from India and currently studying in grade 12,i looked up some website of universities like waseda, tokyo Institute of tech,Tokyo university,Tohoku,osaka etc for admision in molecular biology undergraduate program…none of the website sites about what subjects to be taken during the EJU scienc test and about the maths courses…so can you please help me out.

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I wanted to ask a few questions…

I am from Dubai and currently in high school (grade 11), i plan to be a surgeon and want to study medicine in Japan. But, will the medicine courses all be in English? It would be fun learning Japanese but it will also take a while just to know the basics of the language. I plan to waste no time in my early years as a student. please provide an answer.

much appreciation.

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i am a japanies national completing my a levels abroad in english in 2017 how i can get admistion in japan in enginiering course (english)

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Hey, I’m 18 years old from England, I am going to be going to a language school in Japan for two years (i saved up the money to pay for this). After Language school I would like to go to an actual university in Japan, is it possible to get a student loan in Japan or is that not something the government does?

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I’m 16 years old from Japan but now living in Finland cause my family’s circumstances. I moved to Finland about 8 years ago and I was thinking to move back in japan when I’m 18 or 19 because that is the time when I graduate from Finnish highschool. I was searching quite a while that witch Japanese university are good for me but I don’t understand a bit of there system. How they work? Many of Japanese university’s websites are explaining to foreign students how to apply to their universities but I’m not a foreign student and also I have Japanese passport. Am I foreign student? I don’t know what do and where exactly I can start? Also I can’t write or read kanjies only kanjies I can write and read are primary school level so I’dont know how can I manage. This is also huge problem for me. Please help me!! And I’m also aware of the cost.

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SEO doesn’t pass through disqus Google doesn’t even see the link.. just FYI 😀

Dude from what I’m experiencing just getting into Fukuoka Japanese Language school I hope that getting into university well be easier.. Also being I’m a horridly old person at the age of 31 I know I’m already going to get the looks. But I just finished apply for April 2017, I actually wrote a freak’n million word essay to get into school: http://wp.me/p7daX8-cp …. then I found out I didn’t need to do it! Then at the same time I’m going through Go! Go! Nihon (com). They’ve never had someone my age, married, have their own business (sponsor both himself and his wife) and not have a High School Diploma (I got my GED)… Crazy stuff man! …how bout engage isn’t of delete bro?

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hello Im Pratik. I wanna study msc in English in Japan. So when should I apply for Japanese universities and what is the requirements for it?

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well I just contacted Tokyo university and they stated that you have to complete 12 years of education prior to university to prove that you need a total of 3 A-Levels, the grades doesn’t matter much since you are going to take an entrance exam anyway

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So have you done A-Levels?

You might wanna have to do “A2″…. Because Japanese Universities need 12 years of education..

what if I don’t have A-Levels but my diploma is accepted in my country and i have spent 12 years in education would I still be acceptable ?!

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Hi I’m from the Philippines and I’m currently 15 years old. I’m a high school student and I’m on my 10th grade. I’m planning on studying engineering and I want to study it at a university in Japan. In addition, i’d like to a admit for a scholarship because I’m not really rich. You may think that it’s still to early for me to inquire but if there is somebody that could brief me in the things that I should prepare, it will be much appreciated. Thank you.

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i have a idea that if u want admit into japan university there is only option and it is pretty easier….at first why dont u go to japan and get nationality in japan and there is many option(legal and illegal)..then try ur best to learn japan as soon as possible….and if u dont have money take part time job…….that is the easir way i think….ur first option is to go to japan and take any part time job and try ur best learn japanese and other stuff GAMBATTE KUDASAI

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Hello Yumi, I m from Nepali and want to study the B. com what shall i do

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It’s okay ⌒.⌒ thank you so much for the detailed reply. I definitely understand how hard A-levels are X_X But I was wondering, if they don’t require a specific grade, do they require specific subjects or a 12 tear education or can a home schooled student take the EJU, pass it and get accepted? And is this EJU in Japanese or English @_@ Also, hope you did well on your exams *^^*

To apply for any universities in Japan, applicants are required to have completed or scheduled to complete education that corresponds to that of 12 years in Japan.

If you get A-Level of the British System, you will have completed education that corresponds to that of 12 years in Japan.

On the first examination of Class-1 in Special Screening Test, we will make a thorough study of your grades of official high school transcripts for the last three years, your EJU and TOEFL scores(or IELTS scores), and your other test scores.

After you passed the first examination, you will write an essay and have an interview both in Japanese as the second examination. The second examination will be held only in our university.

Yeah all the guides n stuff is in Japanese and some universities require form to be filled in Japanese. As far as I know they don’t set minimum or maximum grades u just have to pass at the Entrance Exams that’s what they (In my case UTokyo) told me for A-Levels. You will also need IELTS or TOEFL but If you are a native speaker of English u might have to ask about that. Happy to Help!

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Hello Yumi I’m Lalioui from Morocco, I’m so pationnate about the japanese culture, I have always wanted to go to japan, I also want to study there in a university, currently I’m studying in an engeneering school here in Morocco, I already have my high school diploma, truth to be told I can’t afford going there, same goes for the unoversity fees so a schoolarship will be really helpful and once I get there I’m thinking of doing a part time job. So if any of you have some idea that could help me please notify me here is my adress: [email protected] , thanks in advance

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Hello Yumi, what services would you recommend to beginners hoping to master the language?

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Hi! I’m Jocelyn and I am a high school freshmen from Michigan of the United States. I know I have a long way a head before thinking about college. But, I swear I’d love to go to university of Tokyo it seems soo new and interesting to me. I honestly love the food and the music in Japan. Like, I love sushi, fish, and all that other stuff. I am also currently listening to crossfaith, cold rain, and of course one ok rock. They are the best Japanese American rock bands the I have ever heard. Anyway, I’d just love to go to Japan for collage can experience all the cool things there. I am already learning abit of writing and speaking in Japanese but, I’m still in the basics of the language. But, in the collages are there dorms on campus like America? Also, what other things should I know about Japan and their collages? I’d really, appreciate it a lot. Thank you. – the one and only Jocelyn Underwood (:

Oh and P.S. Have a fantastic and 2016

Hi, Everyone……… I am currently doing my A-Levels and had done IGCSE….So, I wanted to ask does Japanese universities accept A-Levels and what are the minimum grades they accept? I am taking 3 Subjects in A-Levels Chemistry, Physics and Biology and I want to become a Doctor. Do japanese universities need TOEFL, IELTS or GRE?

Hi, Everyone……….

I would like to ask about Admission in a Japanese university (Requirements)…

Right now I am doing my A-LEVELS and had done IGCSE… So, I would like to go to a Japanese university after I finish my A-LEVELS….. So, what are the minimum grades that would be accepted? (I have taken 3 subjects Chemistry, Physics and Biology and I want to become a Doctor)…. And do I have to give TOEFL, IELTS or GRE…

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Hello, I am Cindy from Singapore. I would like to ask, how many universities are you allowed to apply for as a foreign student? For example, from what I heard from my teacher, Japanese students are only allowed to apply to a maximum of 3 universities.

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Hello!I’m Deepthi from Sri Lanka.I earned my bachelor of Arts degree in 2013 with GPA 3.54.I studied Japanese as a subject for my B/A. Also I got JLPT N2. Then I have been Japan for 2 years as a company worker.My visa category was as specialist in human./transnational services.I worked there as a translator & interpreter . At that time I had some harassment from my boss and I decided to leave Japan.I really need to go to Japan for my higher studies. For my ambition I searched so many scholarships but some of them asked about working experience in mother land and some of them was for international students who already study in Japan.Please some tell me how I can get a scholarship to a Japanese university for my Master degree.

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Hello! I was wondering how the transition between an American high school to a Japanese university worked. I know that high schools in the U.S. end in June but the universities in Japan (most of them) begin in April. So if I do get accepted to a Japanese university, do I just leave high school early or do I have to wait until April of the following year?

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This was very helpful, thank you so much. However, I need help finding the applications. On all of the websites I’ve been on so far they only give us admission advice and list of requirements but I cannot seem to find a place to acquire their application to apply for their school. Does this mean that I have already missed the deadlines or am I just not looking in the right place? Do all universities in Japan require an application? I would appreciate it very much if you could let me know ASAP. Thanks so much again!

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I currently have a B.SC. and looking to get a second bachelors in Japan for IT. My question is, will the process still be the same? i can’t seem to find the right keywords to put on google.

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I am so nervous about doing this now, I didn’t do very well in school could this affect my chances?

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Yes! If there could be an article about the G30 program soon, that would be great!! Things like 1st hand experience or 2nd hand knowledge of the program, it’s reputation, etc.

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Some more tips from grad student. I come to Japan “as a feral”: no scholarship, no financing, limited assistance, no Japanese language experience, and with other problems

Language: Instead of TOEFL, some universities require TOEIC score which is easier and less restrictive. If you’re applying for non-International or non-English-program courses, you WILL need JLPT N1, which is remarkably harder than everyday (or specific-field academic) Japanese.

Time frame: If you’re taking an exam privately (non-“program” stuff), you might be joining in something I would call “third round examination”. I don’t know about other universities, but in mine it’s on March, and the school year starts April. You have about three weeks from results announcement to beginning of school term to prepare visa documents. Time yourself well so you don’t need to rush or request expedition of your paperwork, which can incur fees or get nasty.

Level of Japanese for Privately-Financed International Programs: Since you’re a feral rogue here and you may not need Japanese to do homework, they don’t give a damn about your communication. Ditch JLPT exams, you don’t need that. You need real conversational skills. Find out how to open bank accounts, credit cards, rent a home, send letters, etc. (GaijinPot of course helped me a lot!) If they offer senior natives to be your guides, then you’re in luck. If they don’t, find someone to help you.

Do Japanese universities accept A-Levels??

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Yes, they do. You can check on their websites, look for application requirements/ application guide for more information.

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Hello! That is very interesting. the information posted in my article is based on the national university’s guidelines and requirements but I am sure that private universities have different guidelines and if you are attending Japanese university with your own funding, they have less restrictive requirements. I agree with you that JLPT N1 is extremely difficult even for native Japanese speakers. 🙂

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You really have to figure important part by yourself. Although article and website gives you general idea. (Currently in japan,going to apply for university masters course in April). Even if you have Top class japanese you cannot get to top/National universities in Japan(unless you are exceptional student). I suggest getting a guarantor which is again is difficult part if you dont know any japanese people.

that is very true. Getting into Japanese national universities is extremely difficult and although the universities offer different exams for foreign students, it is still extremely challenging to keep up with classes taught in Japan.

' src=

For anyone interested in studying in Japan without having previously studied Japanese as a requirement, check out the G30 initiative

G30? I have never heard of that but I will check it out.

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Japanese Studies

Author: anastasia ulianova, applied in: winter 2013, university offers: soas.

Today, Japan’s position as one of the world’s cultural superpowers makes its language an invaluable skill to possess. As I am fluent in Russian, French and English, exposure to different cultures since an early age has not only developed in me an affinity towards languages, but also cultivated a profound appreciation of other cultures and their literatures. I can see now the influence one’s culture has on relations. And, in light of Japan and Russia’s conflicted affairs, I would love to someday take part in establishing an understanding between these two civilizations, which is why I choose this course. My interest in Japan stems from genuine admiration and curiosity for its culture and language. It is my driving ambition to fully immerse myself in the study of this fascinating world.

The first time I became aware of this passion was through the beauty I witnessed, as an artist, in the depiction of emotions in the eyes of anime characters several years ago. This led me to hearing spoken Japanese for the first time. I didn’t take me long to become completely infatuated with it and determined to learn it. Through self-study books at home, I have achieved a reasonably good level. My goal, of course, is to achieve complete fluency. My strong interest in Japanese culture has also led me to captivating masterpieces such as Murasaki Shikibu’s Genji Monogatari and Yasunari Kawabata’s Yukiguni. I was deeply touched by the central notion of mono no aware and awestruck at the beauty of the descriptions of nature. But despite Edward Seidensticker’s wonderful translations, I couldn't deny the disappointment in myself that I couldn’t read the original versions. This only served to strengthen my determination to study Japanese.

Yet, in all of my reading, one discovery that particularly caught my imagination was that Japan had inherited a multitude of cultural legacies from China, such as Kanji. I was drawn to this new mystery and started watching many cultural documentaries. One I was especially intrigued by, entitled “When the Louvre meets the Forbidden City”, explored Western and Chinese Art, relating these two civilizations, using art and history as a medium to build a bridge between them. From this I learned that, in the future, I want to be the one building bridges by working in and with East Asia. Currently, to gain more perspective on Chinese culture, I am reading Jonathan Spence’s “The Chan’s Greatest Continent – China in Western Minds”. Though the center of my interests is Japan, I would love to expand my knowledge of East Asian cultures.

As a student of the French educational system, specialized in the scientific pathway, I have learned to be analytical and pragmatic. My preference for subjects such as Art and Philosophy has provided me with an open and deliberative mind, which I have demonstrated by continuously acquiring high grades in my art projects. Through my love for literature, I have found that I take great pleasure in writing, having won first prize in a short story writing competition for two consecutive years in 2009-10. Currently I am developing my own novel and I have no doubt that through the study of Japan’s culture I will discover new ideas and notions that will further shape my visions of the world and help my writing evolve accordingly. I also devote myself to art. Having been heavily influenced by my fascination with Japan, I now specialize in Manga Art illustrations. After years of continuous practice, I have now reached a level that has enabled me to win an Art competition in May 2013. I also plan to participate in the 2013 Manga Jiman Competition held by the Embassy of Japan.

I strongly believe that, despite the difficulty presented by my chosen course, my ability to understand the nuances of different languages and pure hearted dedication to my work will help me undertake the fascinating challenges in Japanese studies. I feel prepared to start learning and enthusiastically welcome this new challenge!

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As a child growing up in a family interested in business, I developed a passion to learning mathematical numbers and how they relate to the bottom line income, earnings, and profits. From the days of my High School, I envisioned bigger and better times and profits if and when I started my own business. Globalization and technological advances made me realize that I could play a pivotal role in converting small family businesses into a national or even international powerhouse.

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Feb. 22, 2024

Study suggests anti-black racism may account for conservatives’ negative reactions to jobs requiring dei statements.

Photo of a DEI statement

According to new research from Rice University and the University of Nebraska at Omaha, conservative-leaning job applicants indicate being less likely to pursue positions that require personal statements on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), and those negative reactions are not independent of anti-Black racism.

Photo of a DEI statement

The paper appears online in the Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology . The researchers, including Mikki Hebl , the Martha and Henry Malcolm Lovett Chair of Psychological Sciences at Rice, and lead author Abigail Folberg , an assistant professor of psychology from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, analyzed job applicant reactions to statements inquiring how they would support and contribute to DEI at an organization. Known as “diversity statements” or “DEI statements,” these are commonly used in higher education for faculty and staff positions and government jobs.

Across three studies of more than 1,100 Black and white job applicants, the researchers found that those who identified as more conservative perceived the organization as less fair, expected a worse fit with the organization and showed less job interest overall after they read a request for these statements versus when they read a request to provide a teamwork statement. “These responses are consistent with conservative complaints that diversity statements were unrelated to job function, politicized and therefore inappropriate,” Hebl said. In the second study, the researchers varied whether requests for DEI or teamwork statements were paired with a rationale (e.g., to create a more welcoming environment for employees). The researchers discovered that when study participants were given a reason for asking for DEI statements, their negative feelings about the practice did not change. Even when DEI statements were linked to job-related reasons, conservatives mostly still responded negatively to requests for them.

Abby Folberg.

However, participants who were more conservative liked requests for personal statements that aligned with their conservative values, such as statements about family values. “So it appears that participants didn’t have issues so much with the seemingly political nature of a personal statement — it was more they had an issue specifically with the DEI statement,” Folberg said. Across all studies, participants completed a widely used measure of anti-Black racism in a separate session. Participants rated the extent to which they agreed with statements such as “Black leaders are trying to push people too fast,” and “Blacks are responsible for creating much of the racial tension that exists in the United States.” Strikingly, self-reported scores on anti-Black discrimination accounted for conservative participants’ negative reactions to DEI statements, suggesting that seemingly race-neutral conservative backlash to requests for DEI statements may reflect their true beliefs. Not surprisingly, Black individuals were more likely to evaluate requests for DEI statements more favorably than white individuals. “We believe it’s important to continue asking job applicants to provide statements of DEI support, not only because this reflects who is supportive of diversity but also clearly identifies who is not,” Hebl said. “Furthermore, reporting from multiple news outlets indicates that there is a well-organized and well-funded conservative effort to do away with organizational diversity programming.” “Although conservative objections to DEI initiatives are often framed as having little to do with race, our work

Mikki Hebl

suggests that it may be motivated by anti-Black racism,” Folberg said. “Certainly, organizations have a duty to respond to employee and applicant complaints about organizational programming. However, they should also realize that they cannot do away with DEI policies just because some groups frame them as anti-white and discriminatory.” The study was co-authored by Laura Brooks Dueland, Matthew Swanson, Sarah Stepanek and Carey Ryan from the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

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February 23, 2024

This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

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Study suggests anti-Black racism may account for conservatives' negative reactions to jobs requiring DEI statements

by Amy McCaig, Rice University

job application

According to new research from Rice University and the University of Nebraska at Omaha, conservative-leaning job applicants indicate being less likely to pursue positions that require personal statements on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), and those negative reactions are not independent of anti-Black racism.

The paper is published in the Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology . The researchers, including Mikki Hebl, the Martha and Henry Malcolm Lovett Chair of Psychological Sciences at Rice, and lead author Abigail Folberg, an assistant professor of psychology from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, analyzed job applicant reactions to statements inquiring how they would support and contribute to DEI at an organization. Known as "diversity statements" or "DEI statements," these are commonly used in higher education for faculty and staff positions and government jobs.

Across three studies of more than 1,100 Black and white job applicants, the researchers found that those who identified as more conservative perceived the organization as less fair, expected a worse fit with the organization and showed less job interest overall after they read a request for these statements versus when they read a request to provide a teamwork statement.

"These responses are consistent with conservative complaints that diversity statements were unrelated to job function, politicized and therefore inappropriate," Hebl said.

In the second study, the researchers varied whether requests for DEI or teamwork statements were paired with a rationale (e.g., to create a more welcoming environment for employees). The researchers discovered that when study participants were given a reason for asking for DEI statements, their negative feelings about the practice did not change. Even when DEI statements were linked to job-related reasons, conservatives mostly still responded negatively to requests for them.

However, participants who were more conservative liked requests for personal statements that aligned with their conservative values, such as statements about family values.

"So it appears that participants didn't have issues so much with the seemingly political nature of a personal statement—it was more they had an issue specifically with the DEI statement," Folberg said.

Across all studies, participants completed a widely used measure of anti-Black racism in a separate session. Participants rated the extent to which they agreed with statements such as "Black leaders are trying to push people too fast," and "Blacks are responsible for creating much of the racial tension that exists in the United States."

Strikingly, self-reported scores on anti-Black discrimination accounted for conservative participants' negative reactions to DEI statements, suggesting that seemingly race-neutral conservative backlash to requests for DEI statements may reflect their true beliefs. Not surprisingly, Black individuals were more likely to evaluate requests for DEI statements more favorably than white individuals.

"We believe it's important to continue asking job applicants to provide statements of DEI support, not only because this reflects who is supportive of diversity but also clearly identifies who is not," Hebl said. "Furthermore, reporting from multiple news outlets indicates that there is a well-organized and well-funded conservative effort to do away with organizational diversity programming."

"Although conservative objections to DEI initiatives are often framed as having little to do with race, our work suggests that it may be motivated by anti-Black racism," Folberg said. "Certainly, organizations have a duty to respond to employee and applicant complaints about organizational programming. However, they should also realize that they cannot do away with DEI policies just because some groups frame them as anti-white and discriminatory."

Provided by Rice University

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Oriental Studies and Japanese Personal Statement Example

Through Japanese animation and manga, I found that the language resembles a puzzle. It is constructed of three scripts, all with epochal influences. This occurs most noticeably in Kanji with the adoption of the same characters and meanings as Chinese, my first language, all the while having different pronunciations. Japan overflows with rich traditions that are preserved in their intricate culture and a market-orientated economy that has revolutionised the methods of production. All these pieces of the culture, history and society fit perfectly together to create the beautifully complex picture of Japan we know today.

In English, I independently studied Golden's 'Memoirs of a Geisha' for my NEA, looking into whether it is a sensationalist novel. This allowed me to research into Japanese society. Sugimoto's 'An Introduction to Japanese Society' aided in my exploration of the representation of women as he delved into household roles and marriage. I drew upon this when discussing the presentation of the protagonist's sexual freedom as a geisha. While the novel was a window into Japanese culture, it is not an authentic reflection, but rather a result of the male Western gaze. I hope that studying Japanese would enable to me to read Japanese literature in its original form to gain a deeper understanding of the culture.

Japan's place in the global economy fascinated me. I discovered in Neary's 'The State and Politics in Japan' that the integration of Japan with the rest of the world during the Meiji period meant that they were more financially and politically secure, allowing the government to invest in the technological industry. For this reason, the paradox in their rapid development of technology and slow economic growth in recent years intrigues me since Japan is not the isolated feudal state they once were.

Working in my family's Chinese takeaway has led to my curiosity of adapting languages to a business management environment. By communicating with my parents in Cantonese for customers, I'm able to experience the use of language in a business on a small scale. My work experience at the Japanese bank Mizuho allowed me to experience this on a bigger scale. While being in Global Transactions, I was asked to organise data and figures for an oil deal. Through this, I saw that being multilingual and possessing an understanding of the client's culture were key in marketing products and maintaining a solid relationship with a global firm. It was also an opportunity for me to see the influence Japanese culture had on the work dynamic, from their strict work ethic to their willingness to take risks. The bank showed me how harmonious languages and business can be and the extent to which language skills can enable a firm to blossom globally.

I fervently enjoy reading manga, a favourite of mine being Tsukasa Hojo's shounen 'City Hunter'. The peculiar combination of Ryo's heroic and perverse nature resulted in me taking a Japanese subculture online course by Keio University where I delved into the rise of promiscuity and battle narratives in manga, in relation to the modernisation of Japan. The course also let me engage with others with similar interests to mine; I hope to further embrace this in university through societies and clubs. My involvement in Japanese taster lessons led by a SOAS student let me familiarise myself with Hirigana and has motivated me to self-study them. Taking part in the Rivers of the World art project and being part of the planning team for the Sheriff's Challenge also allowed me to explore art within different cultures and enhance my organisational skills.

With Japan being a principal hub of innovation in various sectors, I believe this degree will provide me with the language aptitude and cultural understanding to not only open up the prospect of working in a global firm, but be a stepping stone in elevating a more fluid business environment where language will not be a barrier to any ventures.

Profile info

There is no profile associated with this personal statement, as the writer has requested to remain anonymous.

Author's Comments

Received offers from Oxford, Cardiff, Sheffield, Leeds and Manchester. Applied for Japanese and Business Mangament at all unis except from Oxford.

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    Profile info This personal statement was written by pebbleblu for application in 2011. Degree Japanese at Oxford University pebbleblu's Comments Well, I tried my best, I still feel content with it and I suppose others like it as well, seeing as it got me an interview and ultimately a place at Oxford University.

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    Personal Statement Example Links. Personal Statement Example 1; Personal Statement Example 2; Personal Statement Example 3; ... In order to get accepted into the Japanese Studies course at the University of Kent, applicants must have achieved a minimum of a 2:2 at undergraduate level in a relevant subject, such as Japanese, East Asian Studies ...

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    Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Personal Statement: An essay written by you, explaining your academic interests, career goals, reasons for choosing the program, and why you wish to study in Japan. Passport-Sized Photos: A specified number of recent photos, typically with specific dimensions and guidelines.

  10. How to Apply to a Japanese University as an International Student

    Applying to a Japanese university (daigaku; 大学) as an international student (ryuugakusei; 留学生) can be exciting and daunting all at once. With almost 800 universities in Japan, you may need help figuring out which ones you want to apply to. ... Scan or copy of valid passport and/or personal ID; Personal statement (shibouriyu-sho ...

  11. How to Apply to a Japanese University

    You will take the examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU) As for the application, some universities require a personal statement, the result of your Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) and the result of your TOEFL score. Letters of recommendations are needed based on the university you will be ...

  12. Japanese Studies Personal Statement Example 1

    Japanese Studies Personal Statement Example 1 A one-day introductory Japanese course as part of my school's Gifted and Talented programme was where I began. I came away intrigued and determined to find out more about this truly unique country and its customs.

  13. Frequently Asked Questions about Admissions

    The personal statement is a chance for applicants to introduce themselves; discuss their interest in Japan; describe long-term personal, academic or career goals; or share any other information pertaining to academic goals that the applicant would like the Admissions Office to consider. Be clear and concise and stay within 250-400 words.

  14. Personal Statement

    Japanese Studies Personal Statement It was during my first visit to Tokyo at the age of 12 that the foundations of my interest in Japan were laid. What struck me first about the city was how distinctly unique it is. Each building seems increasingly more elaborate and individual than its neighbour, tightly crammed next to each other to save space.

  15. Japanese Studies

    Author: Anastasia Ulianova Applied in: Winter 2013 University Offers: SOAS Give us your email and we'll get back to you Today, Japan's position as one of the world's cultural superpowers makes its language an invaluable skill to possess.

  16. Personal Statement

    The deeply impressive. I hope to benefit from the expertise and enjoyment offered by a degree in History and use the skills I ability of coming to a substantiated conclusion from a variety of conflicting sources is something which I find will learn in a future career in the civil service.

  17. Japanese Courses & Undergraduate Degrees

    Japanese Studies. BA (Hons) 4 years Full-time 2024. UCAS Points: 128-153. Similar courses (7) Shortlist. Oxford Brookes University | Oxford.

  18. PDF Undergraduate Application Handbook

    7) To send information on post-enrollment living matters (accommodation services, personal injury insurance, university co-op, etc.) 8) To send various questionnaires after admission 2. Management of Personal Information Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University will manage the personal information of applicants in compliance with

  19. Japanese Personal Statement Example 1

    Japanese Personal Statement Example 1 My initial contact with Japanese came through literature. When I first read the short stories of Ryunosuke Akutagawa I was moved, since even when translated, the picture of Japanese society was remarkable in its richness and diversity.

  20. Text analysis of personal statements written in English by Japanese

    This study aims to explore the organisation and elaboration of text in personal statements written by Japanese medical students for international elective programme application. Methods: Drawing ...

  21. Japan Personal Statement Examples That Really Inspire

    Free About My Major Personal Statement Sample. The business person who is both socially astute and civilly responsible is the one that will go the farthest. I firmly believe this, and take it to heart in my interaction with both the world of academia and the world outside the university system. I come to that system intending to pursue a major ...

  22. "And leave with a smile on their face:" Public Service Through Free

    On Wednesday, the Pre-Dental Education and Community Service (PEACS) organization might be working on personal statements for dental school, but come Thursday, the organization transforms into a team of volunteer dental assistants. ... The two have both recently committed to dental school — Strachan to the University of Utah School of ...

  23. Japanese Studies Personal Statement Example 2

    Profile info There is no profile associated with this personal statement, as the writer has requested to remain anonymous. Author's Comments Worked hard on this and fairly proud with the result. Got me an offer from Cambridge so I hope it provides a decent template for people looking to study japanese at oxbridge. Ratings

  24. Study suggests anti-Black racism may account for conservatives

    According to new research from Rice University and the University of Nebraska at Omaha, conservative-leaning job applicants indicate being less likely to pursue positions that require personal statements on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), and those negative reactions are not independent of anti-Black racism.

  25. Study suggests anti-Black racism may account for conservatives

    According to new research from Rice University and the University of Nebraska at Omaha, conservative-leaning job applicants indicate being less likely to pursue positions that require personal ...

  26. Oriental Studies and Japanese Personal Statement Example

    With Japan being a principal hub of innovation in various sectors, I believe this degree will provide me with the language aptitude and cultural understanding to not only open up the prospect of working in a global firm, but be a stepping stone in elevating a more fluid business environment where language will not be a barrier to any ventures.