Admission to Japan

Japan is a one-of-a-kind choice: cutting-edge technology, leading engineering and IT programmes, and the chance to work while you study.

Visa types

Student visa (for programmes of 6 months or longer). First the institution issues a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), then you apply for the visa at the embassy.

Language requirements

For Japanese-taught programmes — JLPT N2 (Bachelor's) or N1 (Master's). For English-taught programmes — IELTS 6.0–6.5 or TOEFL 80+.

Academic requirements and documents

A Bachelor's requires 12 years of education (preparatory courses may be needed); a Master's requires a Bachelor's degree. Many universities require the EJU test (language, mathematics and elective subjects). Documents needed: passport, diplomas with translation, language certificate and a statement of purpose.

Admission

Sit the EJU (if required), apply to the university, attend an interview, and receive an offer and COE. Deadlines: for the autumn semester — by February–April; for the spring (main) semester — by September–November of the previous year.

Getting the visa

Obtain the COE (1–3 months), then apply for the visa at the embassy (5–14 days). Once you arrive, get a resident card.

Work for students

Up to 28 hours a week during term, and full-time over the holidays (a permit is required).

Admission timeline (12–18 months ahead)

18 months ahead — choose your university and start learning Japanese. 12 months ahead — register for the EJU. 10 months ahead — sit the EJU or JLPT. 8 months ahead — gather your documents. 6–7 months ahead — submit your application and attend the interview. 4–5 months ahead — receive the offer and process the COE. 2–3 months ahead — obtain the COE and apply for the visa. 1 month ahead — collect the visa and fly out.

Common mistakes

Weak Japanese (N2–N1 is required). Missing EJU deadlines. Lacking 12 years of education. Overlooking the COE (without it, no visa will be granted).

How Edunation helps

We find you a university and programme free of charge, help you prepare for the EJU and JLPT, check whether preparatory courses are needed, assist with documents, process the COE and visa, and organise your transfer and accommodation.

With Edunation, admission to Japan is realistic and within reach. Start with a free consultation.