Admission Requirement of Higher Education Institutions in Japan

Admissions to higher education institutions in Japan are competitive. There are many institutions- public, private or national higher education institutions in Japan.

General Admission Requirements for Higher Education Institutions in Japan

Admission to a higher education institution in Japan requires the Upper Secondary School Certificate of Graduation (Kotogakko Sotsugyo Shosho) and, in most cases, is based on competitive examinations.

Students who have completed 12 years of School Education
For admittance to a University, College of Technology, Junior College, or Specialised/Professional Training Colleges in Japan, one must possess an upper-secondary school certificate or overseas equivalent that has been approved by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. 12 years of school education must be completed by Students.

Students without 12 Years of School Education
Students who do not have done 12 years of schooling are allowed for admissions to higher education institutions in Japan, but subject to the precondition- Students must have passed the entrance examination- the national examination of the relevant country (like Baccalaureate in France, Abitur in Germany, etc.), that confirms that the students have the achievements equal or higher than those who have completed 12 years of school education.

Specific Admission Requirements

Admission requirements vary depending upon the type of institution of higher learning, course and its duration. Click through to see the admission requirements of different higher education institutions in Japan-




Admission Procedure- Local and International Students

Abide by these steps for admissions to Higher Education Institutions in Japan-
Step 1: Request information bulletin and application form from the Higher Education Institution you wish to attend.
Step 2: Apply for Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU).  (For International Students)
Step 3: Fill in the application form and send it along with the necessary documents to the respective Higher Education Institution
Step 4: Appear for the exam and other entrance examinations. (For International Students)
Step 5: After the Higher Education Institution receives the application package (application form plus documents), screening is done based on the set criteria. 
Step 6: Results are declared after thorough processing of all the application. Results are made available on the respective Higher Education Institution website. Check the website! Also, successful candidates will receive an email indicating the same.
Step 7: Receive the Application Acceptance email. Fill in the necessary additional documents and send them back to the respective Higher Education Institution before the deadline. Pay the required fees.
Step 8: After successful completion of the Step 5, you’ll get the ‘Admission Letter’ and an application form for opening a local bank account  
Step 9: Fill in the form and return it back to the Higher Education Institution. Then you will get a ‘Certificate of Eligibility’ issued by the Ministry of Justice for a residence status.
Step 10: Visit your nearest Japanese embassy or consulate and apply for visa. 
Step 11: Search for Accommodation and apply for insurance coverage as well.
Step 12: Book your tickets. Plan your arrival!  

Key Documentation

 Following documentation is required-
  • Student Application form: The application form is higher education specific.
  • Language Proficiency Certificates: Japanese language proficiency certificate- EJU or JLPT, and English language proficiency certificate- TOEFL/IELTS, or TOEIC
  • Photocopy of valid passport and passport-size photographs
  • Letter of Recommendation: At least two letters of recommendation from the university’s or department head, or academic advisor
  • Academic Credentials: Certified copies of academic records and certificates from the last institution attended
  • Financial Support Proof: Financial documents indicating that you’re capable enough to manage your study and living expenses for the full duration of the course/programme.

Standardised Test in Japan

The Japanese education system puts major importance on the standardized test as qualifiers for all levels of education. 
Japanese Language Proficiency-
  • Examination for Japanese University Admission (EJU): It is a standardized test that tests the Japanese language proficiency of non-native speakers, and required for admission to an undergraduate or graduate level course in Japan.
  •  Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT): It is a standardized test that confirms the Japanese language proficiency of non-Japanese students. 
English Language Proficiency-
Candidates must demonstrate their English language proficiency for admittance to higher education institution in Japan. Submit the scores of either of the below mentioned English Proficiency tests-
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