Akita University for International Students: Guide to Admissions, Tuition, Scholarships, Student Life & Careers

Thinking about a research-led national university in northern Japan that balances hands-on science with a supportive student community? Akita University sits in a safe, mid-sized city with easy access to mountains, the Sea of Japan, and one of Japan’s most storied festivals. With distinctive strengths in resource sciences, engineering, and medicine—and a growing global network—the university offers practical pathways for study and careers in Japan and beyond. Below you’ll find quick facts, a plain-English history, what makes Akita University stand out, and the details most international applicants ask for, from student clubs and housing to climate and career support.

Quick Facts

Type	National (public) university. About Akita University
Total Students	≈ 5,195 (Undergraduate 4,347; Graduate 848) as of May 1, 2024. International students 278 (UG 157; Grad 121). Guide for International Students (2025)
Campuses	Tegata (main), Hondo (School of Medicine & University Hospital), Hodono (Affiliated Schools). Campus Location
Faculties / Schools	International Resource Sciences; Education & Human Studies (School of Teacher Education; School of Regional Studies & Humanities); Medicine (School of Medicine; School of Health Sciences); Engineering Science (Science & Engineering). Faculties & Graduate Schools
Frais de scolarité	Undergraduate & Graduate tuition ¥535,800/year; Admission fee ¥282,000 (standard national rates). Tuition & Fees
Gender Ratio (UG)	N/A (aggregate not published on a single English page); see faculty-by-faculty counts in the official outline. University Outline 2024
Intl-Student %	≈ 5.3% (278 / 5,195). Guide (2025)
Students per Staff	≈ 8.2 : 1 (5,195 students / 633 education staff; total staff 1,841). University Outline 2024

Notes: “National” refers to Japan’s National University Corporation system. Tuition and admission fees follow standard national rates; some waivers and scholarships are available case-by-case. Student totals reflect the university’s 2024 data cut-off in the official Guide.

Campus Maps

Tegata Campus (Main / Headquarters, Akita City)

Address: 1-1 Tegata Gakuen-machi, Akita City 010-8502, Japan

Hondo Campus (School of Medicine & University Hospital, Akita City)

Address: 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita City 010-8543, Japan

Mission, History & Founding Story

Akita University was formally established in 1949 when three local institutions—Akita Normal School (teacher training, est. 1878), Akita Youth Normal School (1944), and Akita Mining College (1910)—were merged into a single national university. That origin still shapes its profile today: teacher education and humanities remain a pillar, while resource sciences, engineering, and medicine carry forward the legacy of applied science tied to Akita’s mining and materials tradition. About Akita University University Outline 2024

As a comprehensive national institution, Akita University states a mission to contribute to regional revitalization while connecting to global challenges—especially sustainable use of resources, community health, and next-generation engineering. The campus footprint mirrors this mission: the Tegata main campus concentrates undergraduate education and core research laboratories; the Hondo campus houses the School of Medicine and the university hospital for clinical training and community care; and the Hodono campus serves affiliated schools. Campus Location Faculties & Graduate Schools

Recent years have emphasized internationalization and cross-disciplinary collaboration. The university’s Global Center for Higher Education manages exchange agreements and outbound mobility, while research hubs support materials science, energy, and regional policy. As of mid-2024, Akita University maintained dozens of inter-university and inter-faculty partnerships, enabling credit transfer and joint research; those relationships continue to expand. Overseas Partner Universities University Outline 2024

Key Strengths & Unique Features

Flagship: International Resource Sciences

Akita University’s Faculty of International Resource Sciences is nationally distinctive, integrating geology, mining, resource economics, and environmental policy. The program combines lab work with field training and industry collaboration, reflecting Akita’s global mining heritage and ongoing needs for responsible resource development. Applicants focused on energy transition, critical minerals, and circular economy find a clear academic home here. Faculty of International Resource Sciences University Outline 2024

Medicine & University Hospital: Strong Clinical Training

On the Hondo campus, the School of Medicine and Akita University Hospital anchor clinical education. The university highlights a top-tier performance in Japan’s National Medical Practitioners Qualifying Examinations and a training environment that connects hospital practice with community health across Akita Prefecture. For students aiming at medicine, rehabilitation, nursing, or public health, the combination of a teaching hospital and regional networks is a clear advantage. Faculty of Medicine University Outline 2024

Engineering Science: Materials, Energy & Advanced Manufacturing

The Faculty of Engineering Science spans applied chemistry, materials, electrical/electronic systems, computer science, and mechanical engineering. Research centers support advanced materials and energy systems, while new university-level initiatives aim to accelerate data and AI adoption in labs and local industry. Students looking for hands-on projects, regional internships, and research collaboration will find a practical environment here. Faculty of Engineering Science University Outline 2024

Education & Human Studies: Teacher Preparation + Regional Studies

Akita University retains a strong teacher-training tradition through the School of Teacher Education, alongside the School of Regional Studies & Humanities that links culture, policy, and community engagement. International students interested in education in Japan or regional development can build a course plan that includes field experiences with local schools and municipalities. Faculty of Education & Human Studies

Student Life for Internationals

Clubs & Circles

Akita University hosts a wide range of student-run clubs, from cultural groups and festival committees to the Akita University Student Space Project and disaster-reconstruction volunteer teams. These circles are open to new members every year and welcome overseas students who want to join campus life beyond the classroom. Club/Circle Activities

Dedicated Support Offices (visa, housing, counselling)

The Global Center for Higher Education coordinates international programs and provides day-to-day guidance. The Student Support Center offers counselling and health consultations in confidence, with referrals to specialized staff when needed. International students can also find employment guidance tailored to job-hunting in Japan. Global Center (International Exchange) Health & Consultations Guide for International Students (2025)

Language-Exchange & Community Programs

Akita University regularly hosts “Multilingual Café” sessions and other international events where students mix languages in a friendly setting. These are low-pressure ways to meet Japanese peers and other international students while practicing conversation. International Events (Multilingual Café)

Housing for International Students

Two on-campus options are common for inbound students. The International Student House offers single rooms from ¥5,900/month (utilities and a small hall management fee are additional), with basic furnishings and Wi-Fi. The International House provides rooms from around ¥15,000/month. Availability is limited, so a screening process applies if applications exceed capacity. International Student House International House (Life at AU)

Partner Institutions & Exchange Options (Outbound-Focused)

Akita University maintains a global network that supports semester- or year-long study abroad, short programs, and joint research. As of May 1, 2024, the university listed 77 inter-university partners across 36 countries/regions (plus 41 inter-faculty partners); by March 2025, these figures had grown to 80 and 46 respectively. Partner lists and program formats are updated on the official site. University Outline 2024 Overseas Partner Universities

Local Climate & Lifestyle

Akita has four seasons with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. Based on Japan Meteorological Agency station data for Akita City (WMO 47582), recent years show typical January average highs near 1–4 °C and lows around −4 to −1 °C, while August average highs reach roughly 28–30 °C with lows near 21–23 °C. Expect reliable snowfall from December to March and comfortable evenings from late spring through early autumn. JMA Monthly Climate Tables (Akita, JP)

Cost of living is moderate for Japan: on-campus rooms for international students can start below ¥10,000/month (plus utilities/fees), and daily expenses are generally lower than in Tokyo or Osaka. The city is known for safety, quiet neighborhoods, and outdoor access—weekend trips to the Oga Peninsula and lake districts are common among students. Housing details

International Student Statistics

As of May 1, 2024, Akita University reported 278 international students: 157 undergraduates and 121 graduates. By faculty (undergraduate), the distribution recorded in the official guide was: International Resource Sciences 25; Education & Human Studies 30; Medicine 1; Engineering Science 101 (total 157). At the graduate level, International Resource Sciences listed 82 international students (degree and non-degree). Year-to-year changes reflect admissions cycles and exchange mobility. Guide for International Students (2025)

Country/region composition varies, but Asia provides the largest share, with students also arriving from Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Oceania—consistent with the university’s partnership footprint. The detailed country-by-country table is published in the University Outline’s international section and updated annually. University Outline 2024 (International Student Data)

Career & Graduate Prospects

Akita University emphasizes employability through lab-to-industry links, fieldwork, and teacher-training practica. The Student Support Center runs employment guidance sessions, resume checks, and interview practice specifically for international students seeking jobs in Japan. Historically, Akita University has been well-regarded in national employability evaluations, reflecting steady placement into manufacturers, energy and materials companies, hospitals and public agencies, and local firms in Tohoku. Employment Support (Guide 2025) University Outline 2024

Admissions, Tuition & Scholarships (At a Glance)

For degree-seeking international students, annual tuition is ¥535,800 with a one-time admission fee of ¥282,000, aligned with Japan’s national university standards. Exchange students from partner institutions may receive fee waivers per the relevant agreement. University and external scholarships are competitive but available; check the admissions pages and faculty offices for current calls. Tuition & Fees Guide for International Students (2025)

Tegata Campus (Main / Headquarters, Akita City)

Address: 1-1 Tegata Gakuen-machi, Akita City 010-8502, Japan

Hondo Campus (School of Medicine & University Hospital, Akita City)

Address: 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita City 010-8543, Japan

Mission, History & Founding Story

Akita University was formally established in 1949 when three local institutions—Akita Normal School (teacher training, est. 1878), Akita Youth Normal School (1944), and Akita Mining College (1910)—were merged into a single national university. That origin still shapes its profile today: teacher education and humanities remain a pillar, while resource sciences, engineering, and medicine carry forward the legacy of applied science tied to Akita’s mining and materials tradition. About Akita University University Outline 2024

As a comprehensive national institution, Akita University states a mission to contribute to regional revitalization while connecting to global challenges—especially sustainable use of resources, community health, and next-generation engineering. The campus footprint mirrors this mission: the Tegata main campus concentrates undergraduate education and core research laboratories; the Hondo campus houses the School of Medicine and the university hospital for clinical training and community care; and the Hodono campus serves affiliated schools. Campus Location Faculties & Graduate Schools

Recent years have emphasized internationalization and cross-disciplinary collaboration. The university’s Global Center for Higher Education manages exchange agreements and outbound mobility, while research hubs support materials science, energy, and regional policy. As of mid-2024, Akita University maintained dozens of inter-university and inter-faculty partnerships, enabling credit transfer and joint research; those relationships continue to expand. Overseas Partner Universities University Outline 2024

Key Strengths & Unique Features

Flagship: International Resource Sciences

Akita University’s Faculty of International Resource Sciences is nationally distinctive, integrating geology, mining, resource economics, and environmental policy. The program combines lab work with field training and industry collaboration, reflecting Akita’s global mining heritage and ongoing needs for responsible resource development. Applicants focused on energy transition, critical minerals, and circular economy find a clear academic home here. Faculty of International Resource Sciences University Outline 2024

Medicine & University Hospital: Strong Clinical Training

On the Hondo campus, the School of Medicine and Akita University Hospital anchor clinical education. The university highlights a top-tier performance in Japan’s National Medical Practitioners Qualifying Examinations and a training environment that connects hospital practice with community health across Akita Prefecture. For students aiming at medicine, rehabilitation, nursing, or public health, the combination of a teaching hospital and regional networks is a clear advantage. Faculty of Medicine University Outline 2024

Engineering Science: Materials, Energy & Advanced Manufacturing

The Faculty of Engineering Science spans applied chemistry, materials, electrical/electronic systems, computer science, and mechanical engineering. Research centers support advanced materials and energy systems, while new university-level initiatives aim to accelerate data and AI adoption in labs and local industry. Students looking for hands-on projects, regional internships, and research collaboration will find a practical environment here. Faculty of Engineering Science University Outline 2024

Education & Human Studies: Teacher Preparation + Regional Studies

Akita University retains a strong teacher-training tradition through the School of Teacher Education, alongside the School of Regional Studies & Humanities that links culture, policy, and community engagement. International students interested in education in Japan or regional development can build a course plan that includes field experiences with local schools and municipalities. Faculty of Education & Human Studies

Student Life for Internationals

Clubs & Circles

Akita University hosts a wide range of student-run clubs, from cultural groups and festival committees to the Akita University Student Space Project and disaster-reconstruction volunteer teams. These circles are open to new members every year and welcome overseas students who want to join campus life beyond the classroom. Club/Circle Activities

Dedicated Support Offices (visa, housing, counselling)

The Global Center for Higher Education coordinates international programs and provides day-to-day guidance. The Student Support Center offers counselling and health consultations in confidence, with referrals to specialized staff when needed. International students can also find employment guidance tailored to job-hunting in Japan. Global Center (International Exchange) Health & Consultations Guide for International Students (2025)

Language-Exchange & Community Programs

Akita University regularly hosts “Multilingual Café” sessions and other international events where students mix languages in a friendly setting. These are low-pressure ways to meet Japanese peers and other international students while practicing conversation. International Events (Multilingual Café)

Housing for International Students

Two on-campus options are common for inbound students. The International Student House offers single rooms from ¥5,900/month (utilities and a small hall management fee are additional), with basic furnishings and Wi-Fi. The International House provides rooms from around ¥15,000/month. Availability is limited, so a screening process applies if applications exceed capacity. International Student House International House (Life at AU)

Partner Institutions & Exchange Options (Outbound-Focused)

Akita University maintains a global network that supports semester- or year-long study abroad, short programs, and joint research. As of May 1, 2024, the university listed 77 inter-university partners across 36 countries/regions (plus 41 inter-faculty partners); by March 2025, these figures had grown to 80 and 46 respectively. Partner lists and program formats are updated on the official site. University Outline 2024 Overseas Partner Universities

Local Climate & Lifestyle

Akita has four seasons with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. Based on Japan Meteorological Agency station data for Akita City (WMO 47582), recent years show typical January average highs near 1–4 °C and lows around −4 to −1 °C, while August average highs reach roughly 28–30 °C with lows near 21–23 °C. Expect reliable snowfall from December to March and comfortable evenings from late spring through early autumn. JMA Monthly Climate Tables (Akita, JP)

Cost of living is moderate for Japan: on-campus rooms for international students can start below ¥10,000/month (plus utilities/fees), and daily expenses are generally lower than in Tokyo or Osaka. The city is known for safety, quiet neighborhoods, and outdoor access—weekend trips to the Oga Peninsula and lake districts are common among students. Housing details

International Student Statistics

As of May 1, 2024, Akita University reported 278 international students: 157 undergraduates and 121 graduates. By faculty (undergraduate), the distribution recorded in the official guide was: International Resource Sciences 25; Education & Human Studies 30; Medicine 1; Engineering Science 101 (total 157). At the graduate level, International Resource Sciences listed 82 international students (degree and non-degree). Year-to-year changes reflect admissions cycles and exchange mobility. Guide for International Students (2025)

Country/region composition varies, but Asia provides the largest share, with students also arriving from Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Oceania—consistent with the university’s partnership footprint. The detailed country-by-country table is published in the University Outline’s international section and updated annually. University Outline 2024 (International Student Data)

Career & Graduate Prospects

Akita University emphasizes employability through lab-to-industry links, fieldwork, and teacher-training practica. The Student Support Center runs employment guidance sessions, resume checks, and interview practice specifically for international students seeking jobs in Japan. Historically, Akita University has been well-regarded in national employability evaluations, reflecting steady placement into manufacturers, energy and materials companies, hospitals and public agencies, and local firms in Tohoku. Employment Support (Guide 2025) University Outline 2024

Admissions, Tuition & Scholarships (At a Glance)

For degree-seeking international students, annual tuition is ¥535,800 with a one-time admission fee of ¥282,000, aligned with Japan’s national university standards. Exchange students from partner institutions may receive fee waivers per the relevant agreement. University and external scholarships are competitive but available; check the admissions pages and faculty offices for current calls. Tuition & Fees Guide for International Students (2025)

Thinking about a research-led national university in northern Japan that balances hands-on science with a supportive student community? Akita University sits in a safe, mid-sized city with easy access to mountains, the Sea of Japan, and one of Japan’s most storied festivals. With distinctive strengths in resource sciences, engineering, and medicine—and a growing global network—the university offers practical pathways for study and careers in Japan and beyond. Below you’ll find quick facts, a plain-English history, what makes Akita University stand out, and the details most international applicants ask for, from student clubs and housing to climate and career support.

Quick Facts

Type	National (public) university. About Akita University
Total Students	≈ 5,195 (Undergraduate 4,347; Graduate 848) as of May 1, 2024. International students 278 (UG 157; Grad 121). Guide for International Students (2025)
Campuses	Tegata (main), Hondo (School of Medicine & University Hospital), Hodono (Affiliated Schools). Campus Location
Faculties / Schools	International Resource Sciences; Education & Human Studies (School of Teacher Education; School of Regional Studies & Humanities); Medicine (School of Medicine; School of Health Sciences); Engineering Science (Science & Engineering). Faculties & Graduate Schools
Frais de scolarité	Undergraduate & Graduate tuition ¥535,800/year; Admission fee ¥282,000 (standard national rates). Tuition & Fees
Gender Ratio (UG)	N/A (aggregate not published on a single English page); see faculty-by-faculty counts in the official outline. University Outline 2024
Intl-Student %	≈ 5.3% (278 / 5,195). Guide (2025)
Students per Staff	≈ 8.2 : 1 (5,195 students / 633 education staff; total staff 1,841). University Outline 2024

Notes: “National” refers to Japan’s National University Corporation system. Tuition and admission fees follow standard national rates; some waivers and scholarships are available case-by-case. Student totals reflect the university’s 2024 data cut-off in the official Guide.

Campus Maps

Tegata Campus (Main / Headquarters, Akita City)

Address: 1-1 Tegata Gakuen-machi, Akita City 010-8502, Japan

Hondo Campus (School of Medicine & University Hospital, Akita City)

Address: 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita City 010-8543, Japan

Mission, History & Founding Story

Akita University was formally established in 1949 when three local institutions—Akita Normal School (teacher training, est. 1878), Akita Youth Normal School (1944), and Akita Mining College (1910)—were merged into a single national university. That origin still shapes its profile today: teacher education and humanities remain a pillar, while resource sciences, engineering, and medicine carry forward the legacy of applied science tied to Akita’s mining and materials tradition. About Akita University University Outline 2024

As a comprehensive national institution, Akita University states a mission to contribute to regional revitalization while connecting to global challenges—especially sustainable use of resources, community health, and next-generation engineering. The campus footprint mirrors this mission: the Tegata main campus concentrates undergraduate education and core research laboratories; the Hondo campus houses the School of Medicine and the university hospital for clinical training and community care; and the Hodono campus serves affiliated schools. Campus Location Faculties & Graduate Schools

Recent years have emphasized internationalization and cross-disciplinary collaboration. The university’s Global Center for Higher Education manages exchange agreements and outbound mobility, while research hubs support materials science, energy, and regional policy. As of mid-2024, Akita University maintained dozens of inter-university and inter-faculty partnerships, enabling credit transfer and joint research; those relationships continue to expand. Overseas Partner Universities University Outline 2024

Key Strengths & Unique Features

Flagship: International Resource Sciences

Akita University’s Faculty of International Resource Sciences is nationally distinctive, integrating geology, mining, resource economics, and environmental policy. The program combines lab work with field training and industry collaboration, reflecting Akita’s global mining heritage and ongoing needs for responsible resource development. Applicants focused on energy transition, critical minerals, and circular economy find a clear academic home here. Faculty of International Resource Sciences University Outline 2024

Medicine & University Hospital: Strong Clinical Training

On the Hondo campus, the School of Medicine and Akita University Hospital anchor clinical education. The university highlights a top-tier performance in Japan’s National Medical Practitioners Qualifying Examinations and a training environment that connects hospital practice with community health across Akita Prefecture. For students aiming at medicine, rehabilitation, nursing, or public health, the combination of a teaching hospital and regional networks is a clear advantage. Faculty of Medicine University Outline 2024

Engineering Science: Materials, Energy & Advanced Manufacturing

The Faculty of Engineering Science spans applied chemistry, materials, electrical/electronic systems, computer science, and mechanical engineering. Research centers support advanced materials and energy systems, while new university-level initiatives aim to accelerate data and AI adoption in labs and local industry. Students looking for hands-on projects, regional internships, and research collaboration will find a practical environment here. Faculty of Engineering Science University Outline 2024

Education & Human Studies: Teacher Preparation + Regional Studies

Akita University retains a strong teacher-training tradition through the School of Teacher Education, alongside the School of Regional Studies & Humanities that links culture, policy, and community engagement. International students interested in education in Japan or regional development can build a course plan that includes field experiences with local schools and municipalities. Faculty of Education & Human Studies

Student Life for Internationals

Clubs & Circles

Akita University hosts a wide range of student-run clubs, from cultural groups and festival committees to the Akita University Student Space Project and disaster-reconstruction volunteer teams. These circles are open to new members every year and welcome overseas students who want to join campus life beyond the classroom. Club/Circle Activities

Dedicated Support Offices (visa, housing, counselling)

The Global Center for Higher Education coordinates international programs and provides day-to-day guidance. The Student Support Center offers counselling and health consultations in confidence, with referrals to specialized staff when needed. International students can also find employment guidance tailored to job-hunting in Japan. Global Center (International Exchange) Health & Consultations Guide for International Students (2025)

Language-Exchange & Community Programs

Akita University regularly hosts “Multilingual Café” sessions and other international events where students mix languages in a friendly setting. These are low-pressure ways to meet Japanese peers and other international students while practicing conversation. International Events (Multilingual Café)

Housing for International Students

Two on-campus options are common for inbound students. The International Student House offers single rooms from ¥5,900/month (utilities and a small hall management fee are additional), with basic furnishings and Wi-Fi. The International House provides rooms from around ¥15,000/month. Availability is limited, so a screening process applies if applications exceed capacity. International Student House International House (Life at AU)

Partner Institutions & Exchange Options (Outbound-Focused)

Akita University maintains a global network that supports semester- or year-long study abroad, short programs, and joint research. As of May 1, 2024, the university listed 77 inter-university partners across 36 countries/regions (plus 41 inter-faculty partners); by March 2025, these figures had grown to 80 and 46 respectively. Partner lists and program formats are updated on the official site. University Outline 2024 Overseas Partner Universities

Local Climate & Lifestyle

Akita has four seasons with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. Based on Japan Meteorological Agency station data for Akita City (WMO 47582), recent years show typical January average highs near 1–4 °C and lows around −4 to −1 °C, while August average highs reach roughly 28–30 °C with lows near 21–23 °C. Expect reliable snowfall from December to March and comfortable evenings from late spring through early autumn. JMA Monthly Climate Tables (Akita, JP)

Cost of living is moderate for Japan: on-campus rooms for international students can start below ¥10,000/month (plus utilities/fees), and daily expenses are generally lower than in Tokyo or Osaka. The city is known for safety, quiet neighborhoods, and outdoor access—weekend trips to the Oga Peninsula and lake districts are common among students. Housing details

International Student Statistics

As of May 1, 2024, Akita University reported 278 international students: 157 undergraduates and 121 graduates. By faculty (undergraduate), the distribution recorded in the official guide was: International Resource Sciences 25; Education & Human Studies 30; Medicine 1; Engineering Science 101 (total 157). At the graduate level, International Resource Sciences listed 82 international students (degree and non-degree). Year-to-year changes reflect admissions cycles and exchange mobility. Guide for International Students (2025)

Country/region composition varies, but Asia provides the largest share, with students also arriving from Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Oceania—consistent with the university’s partnership footprint. The detailed country-by-country table is published in the University Outline’s international section and updated annually. University Outline 2024 (International Student Data)

Career & Graduate Prospects

Akita University emphasizes employability through lab-to-industry links, fieldwork, and teacher-training practica. The Student Support Center runs employment guidance sessions, resume checks, and interview practice specifically for international students seeking jobs in Japan. Historically, Akita University has been well-regarded in national employability evaluations, reflecting steady placement into manufacturers, energy and materials companies, hospitals and public agencies, and local firms in Tohoku. Employment Support (Guide 2025) University Outline 2024

Admissions, Tuition & Scholarships (At a Glance)

For degree-seeking international students, annual tuition is ¥535,800 with a one-time admission fee of ¥282,000, aligned with Japan’s national university standards. Exchange students from partner institutions may receive fee waivers per the relevant agreement. University and external scholarships are competitive but available; check the admissions pages and faculty offices for current calls. Tuition & Fees Guide for International Students (2025)