Japan offers over 700 degree programmes taught entirely in English, and you do not need to speak Japanese to apply. The prestigious MEXT Scholarship covers full tuition, a monthly stipend of over $1,000, round-trip airfare, and even a year of free Japanese language training.
Key Information
- Two main intakes: April (main) and October
- Application periods vary by university — typically 6–9 months before intake
- MEXT Scholarship: Fully funded by the Japanese government
- No Japanese required for English-taught programmes
- Work permitted: Up to 28 hours/week on student visa
Top Universities to Apply To
Kyoto University
Japan's second-oldest and second-highest-ranked university. Wide range of English-taught degrees. Strong in engineering, sciences, and medicine. Nobel Prize winners among alumni.
Apply at Kyoto ➔Waseda University
One of Japan's most prestigious private universities. English-based programmes in political science, economics, social sciences, and engineering. No Japanese language requirement.
Apply at Waseda ➔OIST (Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology)
Graduate-only, 100% English. About 80% international students. Every accepted PhD student receives ¥2.4 million per year plus full tuition coverage. Located in tropical Okinawa.
Apply at OIST ➔International University of Japan (IUJ)
All-English graduate programmes in International Relations and International Management. Small, intensive, and globally connected. Located in Niigata.
Apply at IUJ ➔University of Tokyo (G30 Programs)
Japan's highest-ranked university and Asia's top institution. English-taught programmes through the Global 30 initiative in science, engineering, and interdisciplinary studies.
Apply at UTokyo ➔Why Japan?
- MEXT Scholarship — one of the world's most generous fully-funded scholarships
- Low tuition fees at national universities (approx. ¥535,800/year)
- Extremely safe country with excellent public transport
- World leader in technology, robotics, and engineering
- Rich culture and unique student experience