Japan has become an increasingly attractive destination for international students who want a high-quality education, strong research opportunities, advanced technology and exposure to one of the world’s most innovative economies.

For students planning to begin their studies in 2027, Japan offers options ranging from undergraduate degrees and master’s programs to doctoral research, professional graduate programs, Japanese-language study and specialized training.

One of the biggest attractions is the Japanese Government MEXT Scholarship, officially known as the Monbukagakusho Scholarship. Depending on the category, MEXT can provide a monthly allowance, tuition and admission-fee waivers and travel support. The 2027 undergraduate guidelines, for example, specify a monthly allowance of ¥117,000, while the 2027 research-student guidelines specify ¥143,000 for research/preparatory students, ¥144,000 for master’s/professional-degree students and ¥145,000 for doctoral students.

Japan is not necessarily the cheapest country in Asia, but its national universities have relatively moderate tuition compared with many major study destinations. The official Study in Japan website estimates first-year costs, including admission and tuition, at approximately ¥820,000 for national undergraduate universities and around ¥1.3 million for private universities excluding medicine, dentistry and pharmacy.

This guide explains how to study in Japan in 2027, including the best universities, MEXT scholarships, admission requirements, student visas, tuition fees, living expenses and practical application steps.

Why Study in Japan in 2027?

Japan combines world-class education with a distinctive cultural and professional environment.

For international students, the benefits can include:

Globally respected universities
Strong science and technology programmes
Advanced research facilities
Engineering and manufacturing opportunities
Growing English-taught programmes
Government-funded scholarships
Relatively predictable public-university tuition
Opportunities to learn Japanese
Exposure to Japanese companies and technology
A highly developed public transportation system
A safe and organised living environment

The Japanese government also maintains an official Study in Japan platform containing information about universities, scholarships, academic fees, immigration, accommodation and employment after graduation.

Best Universities to Study in Japan in 2027

Japan has many excellent institutions, so the best university depends heavily on your course, language ability, academic level and career objectives.

Here are some of the leading universities international students should consider.

1. The University of Tokyo

The University of Tokyo, commonly called UTokyo, is one of Japan’s most prestigious universities.

It is particularly strong in:

Engineering
Computer science
Data science
Artificial intelligence
Economics
International relations
Natural sciences
Medicine
Public policy
Humanities
Social sciences

UTokyo offers undergraduate and graduate admissions, and many graduate-level opportunities are available to international students.

Its Graduate School of Science, for example, has specific 2027 admission and MEXT scholarship routes for international applicants.

For one 2027 graduate admission route, the University of Tokyo lists an entrance fee of ¥282,000 and annual tuition of ¥535,800 for master’s and doctoral programmes, although fees can change.

2. Kyoto University

Kyoto University is another excellent choice for international students.

The university is particularly well known for:

Science
Engineering
Medicine
Agriculture
Economics
Law
Informatics
Environmental studies
Humanities
Research

Kyoto University offers English-taught programmes alongside programmes that require Japanese.

International applicants should check individual faculties and graduate schools because requirements differ.

For undergraduate applicants, Kyoto University notes that applicants generally need 12 years of schooling or an equivalent qualification recognised by MEXT.

Its current international admissions guide also lists national-university tuition of ¥535,800 per year and an admission fee of ¥282,000.

3. Osaka University

The University of Osaka is another major Japanese research university.

It offers programmes across:

Engineering
Information science
Medicine
Economics
Business
Humanities
Social sciences
Science

International students should check individual faculties for language and examination requirements.

Importantly for students planning ahead, Osaka University has already published information for its 2027 entrance examinations, with the admission guidelines for AY2027 published in July 2026.

4. Tohoku University

Tohoku University is one of Japan’s leading research institutions and is particularly attractive to students interested in:

Engineering
Materials science
Physics
Chemistry
Computer science
Medicine
Environmental studies
Advanced research

It is also one of Japan’s designated national universities and has a strong international orientation.

5. Tokyo Institute of Technology

Tokyo Institute of Technology has traditionally been one of Japan’s strongest institutions for:

Engineering
Technology
Computer science
Mathematics
Physics
Materials science
Architecture

It is particularly attractive to students interested in STEM careers.

Tokyo Tech has merged with Tokyo Medical and Dental University to form the Institute of Science Tokyo, so applicants planning for 2027 should check the current institutional structure and programme pages carefully.

6. Nagoya University

Nagoya University is another major national research university.

It is known for:

Engineering
Science
Automotive-related research
Physics
Chemistry
Medicine
Economics
International development

Students interested in manufacturing, automotive technology and advanced engineering may find Nagoya particularly attractive because of the region’s industrial ecosystem.

7. Hokkaido University

Hokkaido University offers programmes in areas including:

Agriculture
Engineering
Environmental science
Medicine
Science
Veterinary medicine
Humanities

Its location in Hokkaido can also mean different living costs compared with Tokyo.

8. Kyushu University

Kyushu University is a major national university in Fukuoka.

Popular areas include:

Engineering
Information science
Medicine
Agriculture
Economics
International studies
Environmental science

Fukuoka can be an attractive alternative for students who want a major Japanese city without living in Tokyo.

9. University of Tsukuba

The University of Tsukuba is well known for research and international education.

It offers opportunities across:

Computer science
Engineering
Life sciences
Sports science
Social sciences
Humanities
Medicine

10. Keio University

Keio is one of Japan’s best-known private universities.

It is particularly attractive for:

Business
Economics
Law
Technology
Media
International studies
Social sciences

Because it is a private university, prospective students should budget carefully for tuition and living expenses.

What Is the MEXT Scholarship?

MEXT stands for the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan.

The MEXT Scholarship is one of the most important scholarship opportunities for international students wishing to study in Japan.

The Japanese government describes MEXT as supporting foreign students studying at Japanese higher-education institutions through selection by Japanese diplomatic missions, universities or other recommending authorities.

Depending on the scholarship category, MEXT can cover major education and travel costs.

For 2027, the official undergraduate guidelines state that MEXT provides:

¥117,000 monthly allowance
Waiver of entrance examination fees
Waiver of matriculation fees
Waiver of tuition
Airfare to Japan under the prescribed conditions
Return airfare under the prescribed conditions

For research students, the 2027 guidelines provide:

¥143,000 monthly for preparatory/non-regular students
¥144,000 monthly for master’s/professional-degree students
¥145,000 monthly for doctoral students
Waiver of entrance examination, matriculation and tuition fees
Airfare under the applicable conditions

This is why MEXT is often described as a fully funded scholarship.

MEXT Scholarship Categories for International Students

There are several MEXT scholarship categories.

Undergraduate Students

This is for international students who want to pursue undergraduate study in Japan.

The 2027 undergraduate guidelines generally require applicants to have completed 12 years of schooling or meet an equivalent academic qualification.

The standard scholarship period is generally five years when preparatory education is included, although direct placement can reduce this to four years depending on the programme.

Research Students

This category is particularly important for applicants targeting:

Master’s degrees
Doctoral degrees
Professional graduate programmes
Research programmes

The 2027 research guidelines define research students broadly to include master’s, doctoral and professional graduate students as well as non-regular research students.

For master’s and doctoral applicants, academic eligibility generally depends on the qualification required for admission to the intended Japanese graduate school.

For a master’s course, the 2027 guidelines include completion of 16 years of education outside Japan or equivalent eligibility.

Japanese Studies Students

This programme is designed for students already studying Japanese language or culture at a university outside Japan.

It is not the same as applying for a normal bachelor’s or master’s programme.

Teacher Training Students

This category is intended for teachers who meet MEXT’s requirements and want to undertake specialised teacher-training study in Japan.

Young Leaders’ Program

The Young Leaders’ Program is another MEXT initiative designed to develop future leaders.

The 2027-2028 programme includes courses hosted by institutions such as the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies.

How to Apply for MEXT Scholarship 2027

There are two major routes you should understand.

Route 1: Embassy Recommendation

You apply through the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in your country.

The process generally involves:

Checking the announcement
Preparing the application
Submitting documents
First screening
Written examination where applicable
Interview
Contacting Japanese universities
Obtaining provisional acceptance where required
MEXT’s second screening
University placement
Final result
Travel to Japan

For the 2027 research scholarship, the official guidelines show that applications open around April 2026, with screening conducted by diplomatic missions from around May through July. Applicants who pass the first screening request provisional acceptance from Japanese universities, followed by MEXT’s second screening and university placement.

Because embassy deadlines differ by country, applicants must check their local Japanese diplomatic mission.

Route 2: University Recommendation

Instead of applying directly through the embassy, you apply through a Japanese university participating in the MEXT recommendation process.

The university conducts preliminary screening and recommends selected candidates to MEXT.

The University of Tokyo explains that under the university-recommendation route, the university or graduate school conducts the preliminary selection before recommending candidates to MEXT.

Kyoto University similarly publishes separate schedules for university-recommended MEXT applicants. Its current schedule shows application and screening stages beginning before MEXT’s final screening.

This route is particularly important for graduate applicants.

MEXT Scholarship Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility depends on the scholarship category.

However, applicants commonly need to satisfy requirements relating to:

Nationality
Age
Academic background
Health
Intended field of study
Language ability
Arrival period
Previous MEXT scholarship history
Student status
Other scholarship arrangements

The 2027 undergraduate guidelines state that applicants must generally be nationals of countries maintaining diplomatic relations with Japan and must satisfy the relevant age and educational requirements.

For the 2027 research scholarship, applicants must generally have been born on or after April 2, 1992, subject to limited exceptions, and must meet the academic requirements for their intended graduate course.

Always use the guideline for your exact scholarship category rather than relying on general information from blogs.

Documents Required for MEXT Scholarship

Research applicants may need documents including:

Application form
Placement preference form
Field of study and research plan
University transcripts
Degree certificate
Recommendation letter
Medical certificate
Thesis abstracts where applicable
Language proficiency certificate where applicable
Employer recommendation letter where applicable

The 2027 research guidelines provide the official document list and specify requirements for transcripts, degree certificates, recommendations and language certificates.

Undergraduate applicants have a different document package.

How to Write a Strong MEXT Research Plan

For graduate applicants, the research plan can be one of the most important parts of the application.

Your research proposal should clearly explain:

1. What problem are you investigating?

Avoid vague statements.

2. Why does the problem matter?

Explain its academic or practical importance.

3. What gap exists?

Show what existing research has not adequately addressed.

4. What methodology will you use?

Explain how you intend to conduct the research.

5. Why Japan?

Connect your research to Japanese expertise, laboratories, datasets, technology or academic resources.

6. Why this university?

Do not simply write that it is “one of the best universities.”

Mention relevant professors, laboratories, research groups or facilities where appropriate.

Do You Need IELTS or TOEFL to Study in Japan?

There is no single answer.

Language requirements depend on:

University
Faculty
Degree
Programme
Language of instruction
Scholarship route

Some English-taught programmes require proof of English proficiency, while Japanese-taught programmes may require Japanese proficiency.

MEXT also allows applicants to submit language-proficiency documents where they have evidence of Japanese or English competence under the applicable scholarship guidelines.

Therefore, do not assume that “Japan does not require IELTS.”

Instead, search for programmes where the specific admission guidelines accept your existing qualification or provide another accepted method of demonstrating proficiency.

Studying in Japan Without Japanese

Yes, it is possible.

Japan has an increasing number of degree programmes taught entirely or substantially in English, especially at graduate level.

The official Study in Japan website notes that although many university classes are generally conducted in Japanese, the number of bachelor’s programmes taught entirely in English has increased.

Graduate schools also increasingly offer English-taught programmes.

However, learning Japanese is still highly recommended.

It can help with:

Daily life
Part-time employment
Social integration
Internships
Networking
Job hunting
Understanding Japanese culture

Japan Student Visa Requirements for 2027

International students generally need a Student status of residence and the appropriate visa process before travelling to Japan.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs identifies “Student” as a general long-term visa category for people such as college and pre-college students.

A major part of the process is the Certificate of Eligibility (COE).

The COE is issued by a regional immigration authority and confirms that the foreign national meets the relevant conditions for landing in Japan.

What Is a Certificate of Eligibility?

The COE is not the same thing as the visa.

It is an immigration document used to support the visa application.

In many cases, the Japanese educational institution assists with or acts as a proxy in the COE process.

Once the COE is available, the student can proceed with the visa application according to the requirements of the Japanese diplomatic mission.

Importantly, the Japanese government states that possession of a COE does not automatically guarantee visa issuance.

Common Documents for a Japan Student Visa

Depending on your circumstances and local Japanese embassy requirements, you may need:

Valid passport
Visa application form
Passport photographs
Certificate of Eligibility
Admission letter
Financial evidence where required
Academic documents
Other supporting documents requested by the embassy

Requirements can differ by country, so applicants should always check the Japanese Embassy or Consulate responsible for their place of residence.

Japan Student Visa Process

A typical process is:

Step 1: Get admitted

Receive admission from your university or educational institution.

Step 2: COE application

The school may assist with the COE process.

Step 3: Receive COE

Once issued, you receive the document or instructions for using it.

Step 4: Apply for the visa

Submit the required documents to the Japanese diplomatic mission.

Step 5: Receive your visa

Once approved, prepare for travel.

Step 6: Enter Japan

At the Japanese airport, immigration procedures are completed and the appropriate residence documentation is issued according to your circumstances.

Tuition Fees in Japan for International Students

One major advantage of Japan is that national university tuition is relatively standardised.

The official Study in Japan website currently lists average first-year costs including admission and tuition at approximately:

Institution	Approx. First-Year Cost
National graduate schools	¥820,000
Public graduate schools	¥900,000
Private graduate schools	¥1,100,000
National undergraduate universities	¥820,000
Public undergraduate universities	¥910,000
Private undergraduate universities	¥1,300,000
Private medical/dental/pharmaceutical programmes	¥3,800,000

These are approximate figures and can vary by institution and programme.

National University Tuition

The typical annual tuition at a national university is approximately ¥535,800.

For example, Kyoto University lists annual tuition of ¥535,800 for undergraduate and graduate students, with an admission fee of ¥282,000.

This does not mean every programme will have exactly the same total cost because entrance examination fees and other expenses can apply.

Private University Tuition

Private universities generally cost more.

The official Study in Japan data places the average first-year cost for private undergraduate universities, excluding medical, dental and pharmaceutical programmes, at approximately ¥1.3 million.

Professional programmes such as medicine can cost considerably more.

Does MEXT Cover Tuition?

Yes.

For the 2027 MEXT undergraduate scholarship, entrance examination, matriculation and tuition fees are waived.

For the 2027 research scholarship, MEXT similarly waives entrance examination, matriculation and tuition fees for eligible scholarship recipients.

This is one of the biggest financial advantages of receiving MEXT.

Cost of Living in Japan for International Students

Tuition is only one part of the financial calculation.

You also need to budget for:

Accommodation
Food
Utilities
Transportation
Health insurance
Study materials
Mobile phone
Internet
Personal expenses
Entertainment
Initial settling-in costs

The latest official Study in Japan information estimates average monthly living expenses for international students at about ¥105,000, excluding tuition and study/research costs.

Average Monthly Student Budget

A national-average breakdown is approximately:

Expense	Monthly Estimate
Rent	¥41,000
Food	¥32,000
Utilities	¥8,000
Hobbies/entertainment	¥8,000
Transportation	¥4,000
Insurance/medical	¥3,000
Other daily expenses	¥9,000
Total	¥105,000

These figures come from JASSO’s lifestyle survey data presented by the official Study in Japan website.

How Much Does Accommodation Cost?

Accommodation depends heavily on location.

The official figures show average monthly rent of approximately:

Japan national average: ¥41,000
Tokyo: ¥57,000
Kanto: ¥51,000
Kinki: ¥40,000
Chubu: ¥30,000
Hokkaido: ¥34,000
Kyushu: ¥29,000
Tohoku: ¥26,000

Tokyo therefore requires a larger housing budget.

Dormitory vs Private Apartment

Student Dormitory

Advantages:

Lower initial costs
Easier social integration
Potentially cheaper rent
Convenient location
University support

Disadvantages:

Limited availability
Rules and restrictions
Shared facilities in some residences

Private Apartment

Advantages:

More privacy
Greater independence
More choice of location

Disadvantages:

Security deposit
Key money
Agency fees
Furniture costs
Utility setup
Guarantor requirements in some cases

The official Study in Japan accommodation guidance warns that private rentals can involve deposits, gratuity money, agent commissions and other initial expenses.

Is Tokyo Expensive for International Students?

Tokyo is generally more expensive than many other Japanese regions.

Housing is the biggest difference.

The official Study in Japan data puts Tokyo’s average monthly rent at approximately ¥57,000 compared with ¥41,000 nationally.

Students on a tight budget may therefore consider cities such as:

Fukuoka
Kyoto
Osaka
Sendai
Nagoya
Sapporo
Tsukuba

But living costs vary even within the same city.

Can International Students Work Part-Time in Japan?

International students can potentially work part-time, but they need the appropriate permission.

A student residence status by itself does not mean you can automatically undertake unrestricted employment.

Students should obtain the required permission and follow the applicable working-hour and employment rules.

Part-time employment should also never replace a realistic financial plan.

MEXT’s 2027 guidelines, for example, recommend that scholarship recipients bring approximately US$2,000 because the first scholarship payment can take one to one-and-a-half months after arrival.

Best Courses to Study in Japan in 2027

Japan is particularly strong in fields connected to its economy and research infrastructure.

Consider:

Engineering

Japan is famous for:

Mechanical engineering
Electrical engineering
Robotics
Automotive engineering
Civil engineering
Industrial engineering

Computer Science

Popular areas include:

Artificial intelligence
Machine learning
Cybersecurity
Software engineering
Data science
Robotics
Computer vision

Business and Economics

Japan offers strong opportunities for students interested in:

International business
Economics
Finance
Management
Entrepreneurship
Supply chains

Environmental Science

Japan’s experience with urban development, disaster preparedness, energy and environmental management makes this an interesting field.

International Relations

Students interested in Asia-Pacific relations, diplomacy, security and development can explore Japanese universities offering relevant programmes.

Japanese Language and Culture

Students can also pursue Japanese language, literature, history and cultural studies.

Application Timeline for Studying in Japan in 2027

Planning early is critical.

A useful timeline is:

12–18 Months Before Enrollment

Research universities
Identify courses
Check language requirements
Research scholarships
Begin Japanese language preparation

9–12 Months Before Enrollment

Prepare academic documents
Take IELTS/TOEFL if required
Contact prospective supervisors
Prepare research proposal
Monitor MEXT announcements

6–9 Months Before Enrollment

Submit university applications
Complete scholarship applications
Attend interviews where applicable
Apply through the Japanese Embassy if using embassy recommendation

3–6 Months Before Arrival

Finalize admission
Complete COE procedures
Apply for visa
Arrange accommodation
Book travel

Before Departure

Prepare finances
Arrange insurance
Learn basic Japanese
Prepare academic documents
Confirm university registration procedures

How to Choose the Right Japanese University

Don’t choose a university based only on rankings.

Consider these factors:

1. Course Content

Does the curriculum match your career goals?

2. Language

Is the course taught in English or Japanese?

3. Scholarship Availability

Does the university participate in MEXT university recommendation?

4. Tuition

Can you afford the programme if you don’t receive a scholarship?

5. Location

Tokyo and other metropolitan areas can be more expensive.

6. Research Strength

Graduate applicants should investigate professors and laboratories.

7. Career Opportunities

Look at internship and employment opportunities.

8. International Student Support

Check accommodation, counselling, language support and international offices.

Common Mistakes International Students Make

Applying Too Late

Some Japanese universities have deadlines many months before enrolment.

Assuming Every Programme Is Taught in English

Always check the actual language of instruction.

Ignoring Japanese

Even if your course is in English, Japanese can significantly improve your daily and professional experience.

Applying for MEXT Without Reading the Current Guidelines

MEXT requirements can vary by category and year.

Choosing a University Without Checking the Course

A famous university does not automatically mean it is the best choice for your particular field.

Underestimating Living Costs

Tuition is not your only expense.

Ignoring Visa Requirements

Admission and visa approval are separate processes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I study in Japan for free in 2027?

Yes, potentially through a full scholarship such as MEXT.

MEXT’s 2027 undergraduate and research scholarship guidelines provide tuition-related waivers and monthly allowances for successful recipients.

However, “free” does not mean you will have zero expenses. You may still need money for personal expenses, deposits, travel to airports, insurance-related costs, initial accommodation expenses and other items not covered by the scholarship.

Is MEXT Scholarship fully funded?

MEXT can be considered a fully funded scholarship for many recipients because it provides a monthly allowance, tuition and admission-fee waivers and travel support under the applicable conditions.

The exact benefits depend on the scholarship category.

Can African students apply for MEXT?

Yes, provided they are citizens of countries eligible under the applicable MEXT guidelines and satisfy the academic, age and other requirements.

Applicants should contact the Japanese Embassy or Consulate responsible for their country.

Can Nigerians apply for MEXT Scholarship?

Nigerian applicants should monitor the Japanese Embassy in Nigeria for the relevant MEXT recruitment announcement and deadline.

Do not send MEXT documents directly to MEXT in Japan when the application route requires embassy submission.

Always follow the instructions issued by the Japanese diplomatic mission in Nigeria.

Is IELTS compulsory for Japan?

Not universally.

Requirements vary by university and programme.

Some English-taught courses require IELTS, TOEFL or another recognised English qualification, while others may accept different evidence of proficiency.

Always check the exact programme requirements.

How much money do I need to study in Japan?

For a self-funded student, the budget depends on tuition, location and lifestyle.

The official Study in Japan website currently estimates average living expenses at approximately ¥105,000 per month excluding tuition.

National university tuition is comparatively moderate, while private universities can be considerably more expensive.

Is Japan expensive for international students?

Japan can be expensive, particularly in Tokyo, but students can reduce costs through university accommodation, public transport, cooking, scholarships and studying outside the most expensive metropolitan areas.

Can I study in Japan in English?

Yes.

There are English-taught programmes, particularly at graduate level, and the number of English-medium bachelor’s programmes has increased.

What is the student visa for Japan?

International students generally use the Student status of residence and obtain the appropriate visa before travelling.

A Certificate of Eligibility is an important part of the process in many cases.

How early should I apply for Japan universities?

Ideally, begin researching 12–18 months before your intended start date.

Some 2027 programmes already have application periods scheduled during 2026. For example, the University of Tokyo has published 2027 graduate admission periods, while Kyoto University and Osaka University have also published 2027 admission information.

Official Resources to Explore

Study in Japan — Official Government Website

MEXT — Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology

JASSO Scholarships

Final Thoughts

Studying in Japan in 2027 presents an excellent opportunity for international students seeking a respected degree, advanced research facilities, immersion in Japanese culture, and access to one of the world’s most technologically advanced economies.

One of the most significant financial opportunities is the MEXT Scholarship, especially for students who may struggle to afford international tuition and living expenses. The 2027 MEXT guidelines confirm substantial monthly allowances, tuition and admission fee waivers, and travel support for successful recipients in relevant categories.

However, MEXT is highly competitive, so students should not base their entire plans on securing this scholarship. It is advisable to apply strategically, research multiple universities, and explore additional funding opportunities through JASSO, universities, local governments, and private foundations.

For self-funded students, Japan’s national universities can be relatively affordable compared to many Western study destinations. Nevertheless, living costs should be factored into the budget. The current official estimate of approximately ¥105,000 per month for average living expenses provides a helpful starting point, although living in Tokyo and other major cities can be more expensive.

Most importantly, start your preparations early. University deadlines, MEXT applications, language tests, arrangements for research supervisors, Certificate of Eligibility (COE) processing, and student-visa procedures can require considerable time.

If Japan is your chosen study destination for 2027, begin your preparations now, select programs that genuinely align with your academic goals, and use official university, MEXT, JASSO, and Japanese government websites as your primary sources of information.