Why Study in Japan?

Japan, a country which blends modern innovation with ancient tradition, is becoming a top destination for the international student. Japan gives UK students a rewarding academic experience and a doorway to Asia's vibrant job market with its top-notch universities, distinctive cultural experiences, and expanding number of English-taught programs. The following explains why thousands of international students, many of whom are from the UK, choose Japan:

• Excellent Education: 10 of Japan's 700+ universities are listed in the QS World University Rankings 2024.
• International Recognition: Japanese university degrees are highly regarded worldwide, particularly in disciplines like business, engineering, and robotics.
• Reasonably priced tuition: Compared to US or UK institutions, average yearly tuition fees range from ¥535,800 to ¥817,800 (£2,900–£4,400).
• Low Living Costs: Japan is affordable, with monthly living expenses in regional cities as low as ¥80,000 (£430).
• Expanding English Programs: Complete undergraduate and graduate degrees are among the more than 800 programs currently offered in English.
• Innovation Hub: Perfect for students pursuing STEM fields, Japan is a leader in artificial intelligence, robotics, and sustainable technologies.
• Cultural Richness: Japan provides a distinctive cultural experience that fosters personal development, from anime to cherry blossoms.
• Career Prospects: Graduates are permitted stay and work in Japan under the post-study work visa, particularly in fields with high demand like engineering and information technology.

Top Reasons to Study in Japan

Academic Excellence: Universities such as Kyoto University and the University of Tokyo are consistently ranked in the top 100 worldwide.
Clean and Safe Environment: With low crime rates and first-rate public infrastructure, Japan is among the safest nations in the world.
Technological Leadership: Japan leads the world in innovation and exposes students to state-of-the-art research and development.
Immersion in Culture: Study Japanese, take part in customary celebrations, and visit temples and shrines that date back hundreds of years.
Scholarship Opportunities: Studying is now more affordable thanks to generous scholarships offered by Japanese universities and the government.
Gateway to Asia: Japan's advantageous location makes it simple to access other Asian markets for employment and internship opportunities.

Eligibility for Japan Student Visa

The following criteria must be met by UK students in order to apply for a student visa:

• Must be accepted into a Japanese educational institution.
• Must have sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses.
• Must plan on studying full-time.
• Must not have a history of visa violations or criminal activity.

Japan Student Visa Requirements

Students in the UK must submit the following:

• A valid passport
• Completed visa application form
• A recent passport-sized photo
• The Japanese institution's Certificate of Eligibility (CoE)
• University admissions letter
• Proof of funds (bank statements, letters of scholarship)
• Certificates and Academic transcripts

Japan Visa Processing Time

Visa processing normally takes 5 to 10 working days after the visa application is submitted to the Japanese Embassy or Consulate. However, students should begin preparations at least 3 months in advance to allow time for documentation and Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) issuance.

Top Universities in Japan

Japan is home to several esteemed institutions. The following are the best choices for overseas students:

University	QS Ranking 2024	Location	Known For
University of Tokyo	#28	Tokyo	Engineering, Law, Economics
Kyoto University	#46	Kyoto	Science, Medicine, Humanities
Osaka University	#80	Osaka	Biotechnology, Physics
Tohoku University	#82	Sendai	Materials Science, Robotics
Tokyo Institute of Tech	#91	Tokyo	Engineering, IT
Nagoya University	#112	Nagoya	Chemistry, Aerospace

Top Courses to Study in Japan

Japan offers a wide range of programs in English and Japanese. Popular fields include:

• Engineering (civil, mechanical, and electrical)
• Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science
• International Relations and Business Administration
• Sustainability & Environmental Science
• Japanese Language and Cultural Studies
• Life Sciences & Biotechnology
• Urban Planning and Architecture

Cost of Studying in Japan

The cost of tuition varies by program and institution:

• Public Universities: ¥535,800 (about £2,900) per year
• Private Universities: ¥800,000 to ¥1,200,000 (£4,300 to £6,500) per year
• Application fees: ¥30,000 to ¥50,000 (about £160 to £270).
• Admission costs: ¥200,000 to ¥300,000 (about £1,100 to £1,600).

Living Costs in Japan

Living expenses depend on the city and lifestyle:

Expense Category	Monthly Cost (¥)	Monthly Cost (£)
Accommodation	¥30,000–¥60,000	£160–£320
Food	¥20,000–¥30,000	£110–£160
Transport	¥5,000–¥10,000	£27–£55
Utilities & Internet	¥10,000–¥15,000	£55–£82
Miscellaneous	¥10,000–¥20,000	£55–£110
Total	¥80,000–¥135,000	£430–£730

Scholarships in Japan for International Students

Japan provides several scholarships for UK and other international students: 

• MEXT Scholarship: Covers airfare, living expenses, and tuition. This scholarship is offered by the Japanese government.
• JASSO Scholarship: Full-time and part-time students receive a monthly stipend of ¥48,000.
• University-Specific Scholarships: Partial or complete tuition waivers are available at many universities.
• Private Foundations: Scholarships from groups such as Ashinaga and Rotary Yoneyama.

Steps to apply for Japan Student Visa

Step 1: Choose a Japanese university or college that offers the program you want to pursue. Submit your application and the necessary academic documents. An official letter of admission will be issued by the institution upon acceptance.
Step 2: The Japanese institution will submit an application for a Certificate of Eligibility on your behalf to the Immigration Bureau following your admission. This document confirms your eligibility to travel to Japan for academic purposes. Usually, the CoE procedure takes four to eight weeks.
Step 3: Gather all the necessary documents for your visa application once you receive the CoE. These consist of:

• A valid passport
• Filled-out visa application form
• A recent passport-sized photograph
• Original Eligibility Certificate
• Admission letter from the Japanese school
• Proof of financial support, such as bank statements or letters of scholarship
• Academic transcripts and certificates

Step 4: Submit your visa application at the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in the UK. Ensure all documents are complete and accurate. You might be asked to provide more details or attend an interview.
Step 5: After submission, visa processing normally takes 5 to 10 working days. However, students are advised to start their preparations at least three months in advance to accommodate the CoE issuance and documentation process
Step 6: Your passport will be returned with the student visa attached after it has been approved. To ensure accuracy, carefully review the visa details.

Step 7: Show your visa and CoE at immigration when you arrive in Japan. You will be issued a residence card at the airport.  Register your local address at the municipal office within 14 days of your arrival and enroll in Japan's National Health Insurance program.

Post-Study Work Visa in Japan

After graduation, students in the UK can apply for:

• Specific Tasks Visa: Permits up to a year of job searching.
• Work Visa: Students who are employed may apply for a work visa under the International Services, Humanities, or Engineering categories.
• Highly Skilled Professional Visa: Provides eligible graduates with long-term employment opportunities and fast-track residency.

Why Choose Y-Axis?

• Professional Advice for UK Applicants: Tailored assistance for UK students submitting applications to universities in Europe.
• End-to-End Application Support: Everything under one roof, from choosing a university to applying for a visa.
• Scholarship Help: We assist you in locating and submitting applications for the top scholarships for which you qualify.
• Preparation and Review of Documents: Proper documentation is necessary to prevent application delays or rejections.
• Trusted by Thousands: More than 1 million customers have used Y-Axis to successfully complete their international education.