Preparing to study in Japan is exciting, but the amount of information online can feel endless. To save you hours of searching, this post curates the most reliable English‑language websites every future international student should bookmark before applying. From scholarships to daily life guides, each resource below has been hand‑picked for clarity, authority, and regular updates.
1. Scholarships & Funding Opportunities
Government Awards
The Japanese Ministry of Education’s 문부과학성 장학금 covers full tuition, a monthly stipend, and round‑trip airfare for undergraduates, master’s, and PhD students. Applications run through Japanese embassies or host universities, so read the timeline carefully.
University & Private Grants
Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) lists dozens of tuition waivers and one‑off grants. Individual schools—such as The University of Tokyo—also publish merit‑based awards in English; bookmark your target university’s “International Admissions” page early so you never miss a deadline.
Website | What You’ll Find |
---|---|
MEXT | Full‑ride government scholarship |
JASSO | Over 80 public & private grants |
UTokyo Aid | Sample university‑specific waivers |
2. Application & Test Preparation
Key Entrance Exams: EJU & JLPT
Most Japanese universities evaluate international applicants with the Examination for Japanese University Admission (EJU). Taken twice a year, it measures academic Japanese, science, and mathematics skills in one sitting. Scores are sent directly to participating schools, so register early for the session that aligns with your intake.
To prove language ability, many programs also require the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT). N1 or N2 is standard for undergraduate degrees taught in Japanese, while English-medium tracks may waive this requirement.
Exam | Main Purpose |
---|---|
EJU | Academic knowledge & Japanese ability for university admission |
JLPT | General Japanese-language proficiency (Levels N5-N1) |
TOEFL | English proficiency for non-native speakers |
IELTS | Alternative English proficiency assessment |
English-Based Programs
Searching for courses delivered entirely in English? Filter by language, field, and degree level on JPSS. Make sure to check whether core labs or seminars still require a minimum JLPT score.
English Proficiency Tests
For applicants whose first language is not English, universities typically ask for TOEFL 또는 IELTS scores. Both official sites provide sampler questions to help you gauge your current band level.
3. Campus Life & Everyday Living
Cost of Living
For a student-focused cost breakdown, start with the annual JASSO Living Expense Survey (2023), which lists average rent, food, and transport by region. You can also cross-check current market prices on Numbeo 또는 LivingCost.org to fine-tune your monthly budget.
Housing & Health
If university dorms are full, check Sakura House (short-term) or Real Estate Japan (long-term) for English listings. For medical coverage, Japan’s National Health Insurance allows students to pay reduced premiums once you register at city hall.
4. Communities & Peer Support
Official Channels
Most universities host English Facebook or Discord groups where seniors answer questions in real time. For a nationwide view, the Global JASSO Community forum lets you filter threads by major, region, or scholarship type.
Student‑Run Blogs & Vlogs
Most universities host English Facebook or Discord groups where seniors answer questions in real time. For a nationwide view, the Japan Alumni Global Network shares webinars, career events, and region-specific alumni chapters.
Keep these links close and you’ll spend less time Googling and more time sending strong applications. Good luck—your future campus life in Japan is only a few clicks away!