The Ultimate Guide On How to Study in Japan

2024/10/13

Reading this article will help you understand why people study in Japan and how to study there.

We will also answer some frequently asked questions about the 150-hour Japanese language course.

Why Do People Come to Study in Japan?

In our Nihongo (Japanese) Online School, we have more than 2,500 students from various countries to learn Japanese and they have 2 main reasons for studying in Japan.

1. Enhancing career opportunities

Some hope to seek jobs or advance their career in Japan. They also hope to understand the culture in Japan.

2. To pursue their interest in Japan

Most students either love anime, Japanese culture, or sightseeing, but they get frustrated when they are not able to communicate with the locals.

By learning Japanese, they hope to understand Japanese culture and tradition more deeply.

Adding on to the 2 reasons, Japan is considered a comfortable country to live in.

People decide on Japan for its:

• Affordable lifestyle – The tuition fee and the living fees are reasonable compared to what you gain
• Safety – You can walk outside at midnight or travel to Japan alone
• World-class education system – “THE” World’s ranking: 6 universities in Top 500)
• Hygienic environment – You will be less likely to get sick and be hospitalized alone
• Food – The ingredients are fresh and the food is nice

Types of Japanese Language Course

When deciding on learning Japanese in Japan, it’s important to choose the programs that are suitable to your goals. 

Each has a different proficiency, frequency, and duration.

1. Language schools

It will be the most popular choice to study Japanese. They offer classes from beginners to advanced course that covers all speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

Advantages:

• You can comprehensively study Japanese
• Offer different duration courses
• Certified Japanese teacher

Disadvantages:

• Not able to skip the courses
• Less flexibility on when to learn

2. Nihongo Online School

Nihongo Online School offers advantages to both language schools and tutors. We provide a private lesson with the curriculum just like in language schools.

Advantages:

• Flexibility in schedule 
• Study the same way as in language schools
• You can learn from everywhere
• Certified Japanese teacher
• Study while travelling

Disadvantages:

• You need to have a Wi-Fi

We also offer 150-hour study certification (50 hours of online lessons + 100 hours of homework) to obtain a student visa!

3. Tutors

You will be able to train Japanese at your pace with the Japanese teacher. You can study when you like and what you like.

Advantages:

• Flexibility in schedule
• Flexibility in the study content
• Can study niche topics

Disadvantages:

• May take time to look for the right Japanese teacher

University Language Programs

If you want to enroll in a Japanese university, this is the choice. They will assist you by providing an academic curriculum.

Advantages:

• It’s designed to enroll in a Japanese university
• Provides preparation for JLPT and the examination for Japanese university admission for international students

Disadvantages:

It’s completely tailored for people who want to study in a Japanese university

Requirement to Study in Japan

Other than the requirements from your school and institution, you will need to:

• prepare the student visa requirements
• understand basic Japanese (Certificate of eligibility – complete 150 hours of Japanese lessons or equivalent)
• have enough finances to support yourself as well.

If you are applying for a Japanese university, you need to complete 12 years of schooling. 

For the age limit, you will need to be with your parents if you are under 18 years old. There will also be a screening interview. 

There’s no upper age limit for studying abroad, but you may get carefully evaluated if you are in middle age or older.

For more details, please check with us on the contact form.

Students Visa Requirements

For the student’s visa application, it needs the following documents according to The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

Student visa requirements:

1. Passport
2. One visa application form
3. One photograph
4. Certificate of Eligibility

If you are a Chinese national, you need the following documents as well:

• Copy of the Chinese Family Register
• Temporary Residence Permit or Residence Certificate
• Questionnaire form (Please check approved agencies or the website of Japanese embassy and consulates in China)
• Graduation certificate
• The employment certificate of the financial supporter

How to Arrange the Accommodation?

After your application for a Japanese school/ institution and the visa are completed, you can try to look for dormitories, apartments, or shared houses.

Dormitories and shared houses are more reasonable in price, but apartments have more privacy. Some apartments do not allow foreigners, so it would be better if you stayed in a shared house first.

Different accommodation:

• Dormitories – Contact your school/ institution
• Apartments – Recommended to stay in a shared house for the first few months, look at the apartments online, or visit property agents on foot
• Shared house – Search online and book for viewing first, book a hotel for a few days, and visit to check the shared house you’re interested

FAQ

Here are some of the questions you may encounter when you study in Japan.

What are the benefits of studying Japanese in Japan compared to my home country?

Learning everyday Japanese is different from learning in your home country. Especially, Japanese do not speak English, so it’s a great environment to immerse yourself in Japanese.

Do I need to know Japanese before coming to Japan to study?

Yes, some countries require one to study 150 hours or pass JLPT before enrolling. 

Is there an age limit for studying in Japan?

There’s no specific age limit, but if you are younger than 18 years old or in middle age or older, it will be carefully screened.

Can I work part-time with a student visa?

Yes, you can work within 28 hours a week. Please check the Immigration Services Agency to confirm the details.

What is the quickest way to study Japanese?

To speak in Japanese with Japanese intensely. We recommend taking our online Japanese course. We have Japanese teachers and we can also teach the same curriculum in a Japanese language school at the intensity you want.

How much should I have to study in Japan?

It depends on which school and part of Japan you’re staying. However, the living cost is usually around JPY 156,000 (USD1,080) on average.

How long can I stay in Japan with a student visa?

According to the Minister of Justice, each applicant is allowed to stay for a specific period of not longer than 4 years and 3 months.

Let’s Study in Japan With Nihongo Online School!

There are hurdles to prepare for your new journey. However, we hope this ultimate guide to study in Japan will help you understand the process.

We are one of the few Japanese online schools that offer 150-hour completion certificates for your student visa. 

If you have any questions, please ask us through the contact form. Waiting for your message!