10 Popular Questions about Studying in Japan

The time of being a student is a brilliant time and an experience of studying abroad will bring you additional impressions and knowledge. So, if you are seeking interesting challenges – pick a summer Japan internship!

1. How much does it cost to study and live in Japan?

The average cost of a 6-month program in a Japanese school is 360000 yen. The hostel will cost you 40000-50000 yen per month, and transport costs are 6000-8000 yen per month. Also, it is desirable to have 50000 yen per month for food.
Thus, the total amount that will fully cover all the costs of study and living in Japan will be approximately 936000-1008000 yen for six months.

2. Can I earn money while studying in Japan?

While in Japan on a 6-month Visa, you can work officially up to 4 hours a day. But if you have a 3-month Visa, working is not allowed.

3. How much can a student earn working after classes?

The minimum wage in Japan is 800 yen per hour. Restaurants and hotels usually pay the minimum wage for day jobs.

4. Are there any age limits for studying in Japanese language schools?

There are no age restrictions for those who wish to take a short-term training program.

5. I have already studied Japanese. Can I start studying from a mid-level?

Yes, you can. You will pass a written and oral test at the school on the first day of arrival. According to the results, you will be enrolled in the class corresponding to your level.

6. I want to go study in Japan for six months. What kind of visa should I have?

You need to register an annual Visa “Syugaku.”

7. Is it possible to prolong 3-month Visa in Japan?

You cannot. It is necessary to leave Japan and to prolong a 3-month visa again.

8. What cities are better? Larger or smaller ones?

The reasons why students choose Tokyo and Osaka is obvious – a well-developed transportation network, convenient shopping, a great variety of how to spend spare time, lots of cultural events, a wide range of possibilities to find a part-time job and opportunity to find more friends.

Smaller towns also have positive sides – cheaper housing and food, fewer students in classrooms, better possibility to make friends with locals, which contributes to understanding the traditions and culture of Japan. Don’t forget great natural surroundings, as well as clean air and water.

9. How do I enter a Japan university?

In order to enroll in university, you must have completed 12 years of education.
For admission to university you are required to pass entrance exams, “Nihon Ryugaku Secen,” and for admission to technical colleges, you must pass the 2nd level of “Nihongo Norёku Secen.”

10. Do I need to know Japanese to enroll in a Japanese university?

Almost all classes in universities are conducted in Japanese. It is believed that in order to learn the material like an average Japanese student, you should know Japanese at level 1-2 of the “Nihongo Norёku Secen” exam. This level is achieved after 600-900 hours of studying.
Some Japanese universities and graduate programs are taught in English.