Study in Japan for Indian Students: Universities, Scholarships, Fees

Last Updated on August 29, 2024

What makes any student choose a destination for their higher studies? Isn’t it friendly people, delicious food, a safe environment and mesmerising culture? Japan has it all and even has more to offer! It is a beautiful country with an excellent education system, world-class universities, research opportunities, advanced technology, and post-study work opportunities. 

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Study in Japan: Top Universities in Japan

Why Choose Japan?

The universities in Japan offer some of the best courses in STEM subjects. It is at the top of the list of the most preferred countries in the world for higher education among international students. They guarantee degrees that are internationally respected and valued. This could be because the cost of studying in Japan is lower than that of the United States, the United Kingdom, and other developed English-speaking countries. Japan faces labour shortages due to its decreasing birth rate, increasing the chances of job opportunities. Japan has sought 800,000 foreign labourers with specialised skill sets from fiscal 2024 for over five years. Apart from that, it plans to boost its internship programs to encourage students to remain in the country after their studies. It Is beneficial for those planning to settle there. 

Additionally, the students with Japan’s National Health Insurance (NHI) can access the healthcare system at an affordable cost. It covers 70% of the medical prescriptions, including hospital and clinical visits and most other specialists. The rest of the 30% will be included in the student premiums, which start at around 2000 yen monthly in your first year. These premiums could be further adjusted with part-time jobs according to the previous year’s income. It’s a good idea to specialise in industries like aviation, automobile, machinery, agriculture, and food to fill the skill gaps and maintain the nation’s stand in the competitive market.

Top Universities in Japan 

University of Tokyo

It was the first national university in Japan to come into existence in 1877.  It is a leading research university offering courses in all academic disciplines at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The university has a large number of international students, approximately 4,968. Interestingly, this university has 17 prime ministers from Japan among its alumni, along with the founders of Toyota and Nissan. 18 Nobel prize laureates and five astronauts are also on this list. It is no wonder it is constantly ranked among the top universities in the world, with 28th place in the QS World University Rankings 2024. Premier courses include graduate economics, environmental sciences, and global science programs. 

Kyoto University 

Kyoto University is a public university ranked 46th in the QS World University rankings. It offers world-class education to its international students through its ten bachelor’s and 18 master’s options. The university’s acceptance rate stands at just 11%, and it also requires English proficiency and other requirements, which indicates that securing admission is a competitive affair.

Dr. Akira Yoshino, the mastermind behind the lithium-ion battery, is a graduate of this prestigious university.

Osaka University 

This University is a national research university in Osaka, Japan. Its notable research achievements include immunology, chemistry, and material science. It is the Alma mater of the founder of Sony, Akio Morita. This university is a popular choice for students who crave adventure. It is located in the heart of Japan, providing easy access to Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Nara for perfect weekend breaks. Another notable point is that its rent is lower than that in Tokyo.

Waseda University 

Waseda University is a private, for-profit university in Shinjuku, Tokyo. It offers the best education in economics, political science, law, and international research and education. It also offers an English Language Course as part of its academic curriculum. It provides an active and safe space for its faculty and students. They have ample facilities, including sports, healthcare, student accommodation in their dormitories, and even a student house to connect with other international students. 

Tokyo Institute of Technology 

Tokyo Institute of Technology is renowned for its academic excellence and diverse campus community. This university stands out with an impressive global ranking and is home to the Environmental energy innovation building. It is covered with solar panels, reducing the environmental impact. The canteen records dietary fibre, allergens and micronutrients in your meal with a check online through the meal history. It has the first international bachelor of engineering degree program where the course is conducted in English and helps international students with no or minimal Japanese language skills.

Study in Japan: Cost 

Below is a table reflecting the average annual cost of tuition fees, starting from the cheapest to the most expensive course in a particular university.

Please note that this fee is subject to change. In addition, there are separate charges for the admission procedure, entrance examinations, visa applications, and language proficiency tests. The total cost per year to study in Japan would be lower than INR 7.6L, including the tuition fee, medical insurance, accommodation, food, transportation and other utilities, even after being a G7 developed nation. 

Eligibility to Study in Japan  

Some significant requirements to study in Japan are mentioned below for reference:

• A valid passport.
• Provide proof of enough finance to support your living in Japan once enrolled. 
• Certificate of high school grades, an accredited high school diploma, and an equivalent degree for master’s programs.
• Pass the university entrance exam, including basic academic and language-related questions.
• Pass an IELTS/TOEFL/GRE or GMAT exam per your desired institutional requirements.
• The required scores are in the SAT or ACT exams.
• A Japanese proficiency test may be required.
• Motivation letter and personal statements.
• Letter of Recommendation if applicable.

Scholarships Available

Studying in Japan for Indian students (international) can be aided by various scholarships in Japan that might cover a specific part of their tuition fees to study there. Candidates can get information on Japan’s scholarship eligibility requirements and the application process from the Japan Student Services Organisation, also known as JASSO, under the Ministry of Education, Sports, Culture, Science and Technology. Some of the many scholarships the candidates can apply to include:

• Asian Development Bank- Japan Scholarship Programme

This ADB-JSP offers about 135 graduate scholarships yearly for studies in economics, management, business, science and technology and other development-related fields. It provides total tuition fees and a monthly subsistence allowance, including housing, books, instructional materials, medical insurance, and travel expenses. Research scholars can avail themselves of a special grant to prepare their thesis. In other exceptional circumstances, computer literacy, preparatory language and other similar courses may be covered under this scholarship. They should be an ADB borrowing member country and ODA scholarship eligible country in which India is also a part and shouldn’t hold any dual citizenship of any developed nation.

• Japanese Government Scholarships-MEXT Scholarship Japan

This scholarship applies to candidates already in Japan as international students under whichever conditions. It exempts their tuition fees and round-trip airfare. At the master’s level, it is only for those in research and teacher training students to receive a monthly stipend of INR 76-78K. It could be for bachelor students with a stipend of INR 62 K. It can be up to INR 1.6 L for the young leader’s program category.

• The Monbukagakusho Honors Scholarship for privately-financed international students

This scholarship program can be availed by privately financed foreign applicants who experience financial difficulties, provided they portray excellent academic achievement and character. Japanese language institutes provide up to INR 16K, whereas the rest of the university programs give INR 25K to students monthly for a year or six months. 

• Japanese Government Scholarships for Research Students 

Students who want to pursue research at master’s or PhD level courses from any of the universities in Japan can apply for this. It includes the T. Banaji Indian students scholarship with INR 60K till course completion, the J.T Asia Scholarship for masters and doctoral students providing INR 90k for two years, and the Sato Yo International Scholarship at the undergraduate level too with around 90K to 1L INR per month. Individuals must have their previous degrees in the relevant stream with at least 65% for this exemption of tuition fees and round trip airfare. 

Student Visa

The best part is that, like the majority of students, you might be wondering how to secure a job and settle in the country where you studied. For this, the Japanese student procedure is optimised so that one may be eligible for a job seeker visa post-graduation. It aids in finding jobs in Japan and utilising the skills and competencies you refined in your studies. The job market is up-and-coming for those skilled in STEM fields. 

Career Opportunities

Japan, one of the world’s largest economies, has a demand for over 830,000 specialised workers over the next five years. Apart from this, they are highly paying, which could help you meet all your needs after securing a job. In Japan, private lawyers, banking managers, human resources directors, etc., are the top earners, with annual salaries of up to INR 15.9 crore. A basic knowledge of the Japanese language can be of great advantage there. The combination of bilingual candidates is often sought to open doors to exciting career scopes and handsome packages in Japan. Renowned technology, engineering, electronics, and automotive recruiters include Mitsubishi, Toyota, Sony, Honda, Panasonic, Hitachi etc.

Conclusion

Studying in Japan can be an unparalleled option for living, working, and exploring a unique culture and serene environment. Japan’s high-quality and affordable education makes it no surprise that its tech giants, like Sony, Toshiba, Casio, and Hitachi, dominate the world. With various courses and opportunities, Japan strives to combat its labour shortages, making it a perfect destination for aspiring students to study and settle.

FAQs

When should I apply to Japanese universities as an international student?

Most universities in Japan have two intakes per year, one that starts in April and the other in September. Each university has its admission schedule, but the application deadline is generally six months before the start of the semester.

What courses are in demand in Japan?

Japanese universities offer a wide range of courses. Nevertheless, popular courses include sciences, business, tourism, hospitality, finance and engineering.

Can we work while studying in Japan?

Students who have a work permit can work part-time in Japan. They can work 20-28 hours per week during their courses and 40 hours during their semester breaks.

What is required to study in Japan?

The Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU) evaluates the Japanese language proficiency and basic academic skills of international students who wish to study in Japan. 

How can study in Japan for Indian students be free?

Indian students can apply for scholarships that cover their tuition fees, like the MEXT scholarships, and adjust their finances to afford free education.

Avinash singh

Avinash Singh is a study abroad consultant with over 10 years of experience helping students achieve their academic goals. He is an expert in the US, Australian, German, and Canadian education systems and has helped hundreds of students secure admission to top universities around the world. In his spare time, Avinash enjoys traveling, hiking, and spending time with his family. He is also an avid reader and loves to learn new things.