Schools and universities in Japan

The Japanese word for school is Gakkō 学校. We can help you to study at many Japanese language schools (Nihongo gakkō), vocational schools (Senmon Gakko), and Universities (Daigaku) in Japan. Here you will find recommended schools, Japan's 100 highest ranking universities and articles about studying in Japan. Fill out the info request form to get help to choose and apply to schools all over Japan!

Schools in Japan

Language schools
If you want to stay in Japan for a longer period of time we recommend that you start by learning the language at a Japanese Language School. This will make your life in Japan much easier, and it is a prerequisite for many higher education programs. You can take a language course that lasts from 2-80 weeks. The schools give 4 semesters of 10 weeks per year with start dates in January, April, July and October. To get a student visa you need to study for at least 20 weeks (2 semesters). Your language school can help you prepare for JLPT (the Japanese Language Proficiency Test, and EJU (The Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students). They can also help you apply for Senmon Gakko and universities in Japan.

On this page you find recommended language schools all over Japan. Fill out the information request form to get help.

Senmon Gakko - vocational schools
Practical subjects like design, anime, manga, music, nursing etc. are usually taught by Senmon Gakkos in Japan. They are vocational colleges that only teach in Japanese so you will need JLPT N2-level or higher to study there. The programs are 2-3 years long. After you graduate you can look for employment in Japan. We have a partner who can help you with many Senmon Gakkos in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka. Fill out our info request form to get in touch with them.

Universities in Japan
Japanese Universities offers four year Bachelor Degrees, Master Degrees and Doctorates. Many Japanese Universities offer a few Liberal Arts programs in English (for example Yamanashi Gakuin University). However, other subjects are usually taught in Japanese which means that you must be fluent in the language and achieve JLPT N1-level and/or pass the EJU-exam. One exception from this is Kyoto University of Advanced Science who teach Mechatronics, Robotics, Mechanics, Electronics and IT in English on all levels.

Popular cities for international students
The most popular study abroad destinations in Japan are Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

Scholarships and discounts from schools in Japan:

Kyoto University of Advanced Science Scholarships - Kyoto University of Advanced Science (KUAS) (deadline 2025-03-07)
International students Scholarship and AO-Preschoo - Akademeia 21st Century (deadline 2025-03-31)
Scholarships at Yamanashi Gakuin University (deadline 2025-04-17)

Featured schools in Japan


 

List of universities in Japan - ordered by city

 

Aichi

 

Aizuwakamatsu

 

Akita

 

Asahidai

 

Chiba

 

Chofu

 

Fukui

 

Fukuoka

  • Fukuoka University
    Known for its strong programs in medicine, pharmacy, and engineering, Fukuoka University emphasizes research and practical application.
  • Kyushu University
    Based in Fukuoka, Kyushu University is acclaimed for its engineering, applied sciences, and renewable energy research, promoting sustainability.

    • Read more about studying in Fukuoka

     

    Fukushima

     

    Gifu

     

    Gunma

     

    Hamamatsu

     

    Hirosaki

     

    Hiroshima

     

    Hyogo

     

    Ibarakai

     

    Iwate

     

    Kagawa

     

    Kagoshima

     

    Kanagawa

     

    Kanazawa

     

    Kitakyushu

     

    Kobe

  • Kobe University
    Notable for its marine and port research, Kobe University excels in maritime law, economics, and logistics, contributing to global trade advancements.

    • Read more about studying in Kobe

     

    Kochi

     

    Kumamoto

     

    Kyoto

  • Doshisha University
    Based in Kyoto, Doshisha is celebrated for its liberal arts curriculum, strong humanities programs, and promotion of cultural understanding.
  • Kyoto Institute of Technology
    Focused on advanced technology and design, KIT promotes research, innovation, and collaboration with industry partners.
  • Kyoto Sangyo University
    Offering a diverse range of programs, Kyoto Sangyo University emphasizes liberal arts, humanities, and sciences, fostering well-rounded graduates.
  • Kyoto University
    ★As one of Japan's top universities, Kyoto University is renowned for its research, producing numerous Nobel laureates and fostering innovation.
  • Ritsumeikan University
    With campuses in Kyoto, Osaka, and Shiga, Ritsumeikan offers a diverse range of programs, including game design and digital media studies.

    • Read more about studying in Kyoto

     

    Matsumoto

     

    Matsuyama

     

    Miyazaki

     

    Nagaoka

     

    Nagasaki

     

    Nagoya

  • Aichi University
    Known for strong international relations, business, and law programs, it fosters global perspectives in Nagoya, a thriving business center.
  • Chubu University
    Recognized for engineering, life sciences, and humanities, Chubu University promotes research in energy, environment, and human welfare.
  • Nagoya City University
    Known for its medical, pharmaceutical, and social science programs, Nagoya City University fosters innovation and community development.
  • Nagoya Institute of Technology
    Emphasizing engineering and applied sciences, NIT promotes innovative research and collaboration with industry for global advancement.
  • Nagoya University
    A leading research institution, Nagoya University is distinguished for its contributions to science, engineering, and technology innovation.

    • Read more about studying in Nagoya

     

    Nara

     

    Niigata

     

    Okayama

     

    Okinawa

    Read more about studying in Okinawa

     

    Osaka

  • Kansai University
    Focused on humanities and social sciences, Kansai University nurtures globally-minded graduates through a comprehensive educational approach.
  • Kindai University
    With diverse fields like engineering, life sciences, and humanities, Kindai University promotes practical education and industry collaboration.
  • Kwansei Gakuin University
    Renowned for its liberal arts education, Kwansei Gakuin emphasizes humanities, social sciences, and international understanding.
  • Osaka City University
    Focused on humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, OCU nurtures innovative researchers and globally-minded professionals.
  • Osaka Prefecture University
    Emphasizing engineering, life sciences, and humanities, Osaka Prefecture University promotes research for regional and global sustainability.
  • Osaka University
    A top research university, Osaka is known for its cutting-edge work in life sciences, engineering, and material sciences, driving innovation.

    • Read more about studying in Osaka

     

    Otsuka

     

    Saga

     

    Saitama

     

    Sapporo

     

    Sendai

     

    Shiga

     

    Shimane

     

    Shirokane

     

    Shizuoka

     

    Tokyo

  • Aoyama Gakuin University
    Known for strong business, law, and global studies programs, fostering global-minded graduates with a Christian educational foundation.
  • Chuo University
    With a focus on law, business, and social sciences, Chuo University nurtures global-minded professionals through practical education.
  • Hitotsubashi University
    A leading institution in social sciences, it produces skilled professionals in fields like business, economics, law, and public policy.
  • Hosei University
    Promoting a liberal arts education, Hosei University offers strong programs in law, business, social sciences, and environmental studies.
  • Jikei University School of Medicine
    Known for its comprehensive medical education, research, and emphasis on clinical practice for community healthcare.
  • Juntendo University
    Fostering medical and sports professionals, Juntendo University is recognized for its healthcare education, research, and athletic achievements.
  • Keio University
    A prestigious private university in Tokyo, Keio is renowned for its business, economics, and law programs, as well as strong research capabilities.
  • Meiji University
    With strong programs in law, business & humanities, Meiji University nurtures well-rounded, globally-minded professionals through practical education.
  • Nihon University
    A comprehensive university with diverse fields, Nihon University is known for its law, business, engineering, and healthcare education programs.
  • Nippon Medical School
    Renowned for its medical education and research, Nippon Medical School emphasizes clinical practice and community healthcare.
  • Rikkyo University
    A Christian institution known for liberal arts, humanities, and social sciences, Rikkyo University fosters globally-minded graduates.
  • Sophia University
    A leading private university in Tokyo, Sophia is recognized for its international focus, liberal arts, and strong language programs.
  • Teikyo University
    With strong programs in medicine, pharmacy, and healthcare, Teikyo University promotes practical education and community healthcare.
  • Toho University
    Known for its medical and pharmaceutical programs, Toho University emphasizes healthcare education, research, and community service.
  • Tokai University
    Offering diverse programs in engineering, humanities, and healthcare, Tokai University promotes research, innovation, and global understanding.
  • Tokyo Institute of Technology
    As a top engineering and technology school, Tokyo Tech is renowned for producing skilled graduates and fostering research breakthroughs.
  • Tokyo Medical and Dental University
    A leading institution in medical and dental education, TMDU fosters research and innovation in healthcare fields.
  • Tokyo Medical University
    Renowned for its medical education and research, Tokyo Medical University emphasizes clinical practice and community healthcare.
  • Tokyo Metropolitan University
    Known for strong programs in natural and social sciences, TMU fosters interdisciplinary research and global-minded professionals.
  • Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technolog
    Known for its agricultural and engineering programs, this university fosters sustainable development and innovation.
  • Tokyo University of Science
    Focused on science and engineering, TUS promotes innovative research, practical education, and collaboration with industry partners.
  • Tokyo Women's Medical University
    A leading institution in women's healthcare education and research, TWMU emphasizes clinical practice and community service.
  • Toyo University
    Known for its strong humanities, social sciences, and law programs, Toyo University nurtures globally-minded graduates through comprehensive educatio
  • United Nations University
    A global think tank in Tokyo, UNU focuses on research, policy, and capacity development in areas like peace, development, and sustainability.
  • University of Tokyo
    ★As Japan's top university, UTokyo is renowned for its research capabilities, producing numerous Nobel laureates and fostering global innovation.
  • Waseda University
    A prestigious private institution in Tokyo, Waseda is recognized for its strong programs in business, law, and social sciences, and global connections

    • Read more about studying in Tokyo

     

    Tokyushima

     

    Tottori

     

    Toyama

     

    Tsu

     

    Tsukuba

     

    Utsonomiya

     

    Yakushiji

     

    Yamagata

     

    Yamaguchi

     

    Yamanashi

  • University of Yamanashi
    Known for its engineering, natural science, and healthcare programs, the University of Yamanashi fosters research and regional innovation.

    • Read more about studying in Yamanashi

     

    Yokohama

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