Study in Japan- Top Universities, Average Fee, and Scholarships

Japan is a country with a unique combination of rich cultural traditions and technological innovation. It is one of the most fascinating regions in the world with the latest technology and ancient crafts; bustling streets, cities, peaceful countryside, modern buildings and ancient temples. This makes the experience of living and studying in Japan quite exciting and exceptional.

Japan with its history, tradition and culture provides students with an amazing opportunity to simultaneously learn from the philosophers, poets and historians of bygone years while developing a familiarity with, and understanding of cutting-edge technologies. Japan has been the front runner for scientific and technological modernization for the past several decades and hence, boasts about some of the finest STEM programs in the world. Students who wish to enhance their knowledge and pursue a career in robotics, nanotechnology, artificial intelligence and other fields of computer engineering should opt for Japan to pursue their further education. 

Here are a few reasons why you should consider pursuing your studies in Japan:

1. Excellent universities

Japan has over 700 universities, with 5 universities in the top 100 as per the QS World University Rankings 2021. Japan has so far produced 27 Nobel laureates- the highest number of Nobel prize winners out of any Asian country! The country’s course curriculum illustrates a holistic model of education with the focus on interactive, authentic and research-based learning.

Some of the top Japanese universities are as follows:

• Tokyo university

• Osaka university

• Kyoto university

• Tohoku university

• Nagoya university

• Kyushu university

• Tokyo Institute of technology

• University of Tsukuba

• Hokkaido university

2. Huge demand for labour

Japan has a median age of 48.4 signifying its huge ageing population. Hence, there is huge labour demand in japan. This demand generates ample employment opportunities for youth in the near future.

3. Low tuition fees and generous scholarships

Tuition fees at Japanese universities are significantly less as compared to other countries. The average annual tuition fees for international students in Japan is approximately EUR 6500- 9605 per semester (approx. INR 5,00,000- 8,00,000) whereas the expected cost of living for students is roughly EUR 613- 766 per month (approx. INR 52,000- 66,000).

The Japanese Government, the universities, corporations and other organizations like Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) provide students with scholarships to support the students educational and living expenses. A wide range of other scholarships is also available- for specific nationalities, women, minorities, or for students with high-level Japanese proficiency.

Furthermore, at some universities like Tsukuba, the regular entrance fees and first-semester tuition fees have been waived for undergraduate English program students. Partial and full tuition fees waivers are also possible for high achieving students coming from low economic backgrounds.

4. Leadership in science and technology

A leading nation in the fields of robotics, hospitality, and healthcare- Japan’s focus on intensive mathematics education aids for the development in the field of science and technology.

Japan’s deep liking for engineering results in advances in automotive engines, video games, and many other fields. The country was ranked 16th in the Global Innovation Index in 2020, and 15th in 2019.

5. High quality of life

Japan is one of the most peaceful and safest countries in the world. The violent crime occurings are rare, with Japan ranking last in the number of victims of crime per capita. The country regularly shows up on the list of the safest places to visit in the world. Japan also has one of the world's most advanced healthcare systems, reflected in its high life expectancy. In the 2021 edition of the Global Liveability, Japan ranked second with an average livability score of 94.2. While it scored 100 in Stability and Healthcare, it had 91.7 in education.

 

Considering the excellent universities, safety, accessibility, and high quality of life offered, Japan is one of the top countries for a student to study in. With a structured education system and unique cultural experience including its beautiful temples, savoury cuisines, and of course- the beautiful cherry blossoms, living in Japan is an experience like none other!

Written by: Anmol Arora & Yukta Joshi