Can I study abroad in Japan even if I'm not young?

Yes, many schools will accept you, but some may have an age limit, usually around or up to 30 years old.

Is it possible to enroll in a Japanese language school if I have never studied Japanese before?

Yes, absolutely! However, to get a Japanese student visa and for long term study, you must pass the N5 level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test at the time of application or have proof that you have studied Japanese about 150 hours.
Some Japanese language schools may have other requirements based on the type of program or course you’re applying to.

I want to study Japanese in Japan now. Can I start right away?

If you enter Japan with a short-term tourist visa, it is possible to study at a Japanese language school in certain courses.
However, with a student visa, you cannot start studying immediately unless it matches up with when your course starts, as the enrollment period is fixed. Admissions usually occur in January, April, July, and October, and some schools may not accept students depending on certain factors.
Preparations for applying for a student visa usually begin six months prior to each enrollment period.

Can I start studying at a Japanese language school immediately after receiving a student visa?

No, you cannot. Japanese language schools have fixed enrollment periods, and you must start studying on one of the designated start dates, which are typically in January, April, July, and October.

Can I enroll in a Japanese language school at any time, or are there specific enrollment periods?

If you enter Japan with a short-term tourist visa, it is possible to study at a Japanese language school in certain courses. However, with a student visa, you cannot start studying immediately, as the enrollment period is fixed. Admissions usually occur in January, April, July, and October, and some schools may not accept students depending on certain factors. Preparations for applying for a student visa usually begin six months prior to each enrollment period.

Are there any specific application requirements for studying abroad in Japan?

Yes, there are specific requirements if you want to obtain a student visa and study abroad. Firstly, you need to have completed compulsory education in your home country. Secondly, you should have sufficient funds to cover your study abroad expenses. Additionally, having basic knowledge of Japanese at the N5 level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test is also a condition if you are looking to get a Japanese student visa.
Short term study and private courses have different requirements.
The conditions for admission may vary depending on the school, including age restrictions in some cases. However, there are no set requirements for admission with a short-term tourist visa for the short special courses.

How much is the tuition fee for Japanese language schools in Japan?

The average annual tuition fee for Japanese language schools in the Tokyo area is around 800,000 yen, but this can vary depending on the school and region.

Do I have to pay the tuition fees in one lump sum, or are there other payment options?

Japanese language school tuition fees are generally paid in a lump sum, although some schools may offer payment in installments plans.

I want to study at the school for only one year. Is it possible to enroll for a one-year program?

If you plan to study with a student visa, you can do so at schools that offer one-year courses.

I want to study at the school for only half a year. Is there a short-term study option available?

It is also possible to study with a student visa at schools with half-year courses.

I would like to pay for my own expenses. Can I still apply to Japanese language schools?

Yes, you can study abroad with a student visa, and the person responsible for the expenses should be either yourself or a parent. In certain cases, the school may request that your parents act as financial sponsors.

I am currently unemployed, but I'm interested in studying abroad. Can I apply for a student visa?

Absolutely, you can study abroad with the support of a financial sponsor. Bear in mind that having around 3 million yen available is preferable.

How much savings should my financial supporter have to sponsor my studies in Japan?

Generally, it's considered best to be able to show savings of at least 3 million yen to increase the chances of getting your student visa easily. That amount can vary depending on circumstances, we’re happy to advise on specifics.

I don't have enough savings to cover all the expenses. How can I study Japanese in Japan?

Generally, it's considered best to be able to show savings of at least 3 million yen to increase the chances of getting your student visa easily. That amount can vary depending on circumstances, we’re happy to advise on specifics.

Can my retired parents be my financial support for studying in Japan?

Yes, it's possible for your retired parents to financially support your study abroad. However, you must provide evidence that they can afford both your expenses and their own lifestyle as well.

What documents do I need to prepare for the application to Japanese language school?

The minimum required documents for submission include an application for admission filled out correctly, a resume, a statement of reason for studying abroad, a statement of financial support, a passport or other proof of identity, and an ID photo. Additionally, some schools may ask for additional documents such as a diploma or bank balance certificate, depending on their internal requirements.

There are some documents that I can’t get. What should I do?

If you are facing difficulties in obtaining any of the required documents, please get in touch with us, and we'll help you figure out the reasons behind it. Depending on the document in question, there might be alternatives or situations where certain documents may not be necessary. Moreover, we can also liaise with the school you are applying to, seeking a resolution based on your specific individual circumstances.

I have applied to study in Japan before. Can I apply again for a different program?

Yes! Depending on your specific needs and situation, we will introduce you to schools that can accept your application.

I have already studied at a Japanese language school for one year in the past. Can I enroll in another Japanese language school now?

Yes, you can. At a Japanese language school, you can study for up to two years in total, so we will introduce schools that can accept you depending on your situation and current needs.

I currently live outside my home country and would like to apply without returning to my home country. Is this possible?

You can apply directly from Japan. However, if there are documents that must be ordered from your home country, it may take time, so please contact us as soon as possible.

I'm unsure how to write an application for admission or a statement of purpose for studying abroad. Can you provide guidance on this?

If you apply for a Japanese language school through our company, our staff who have experience working at a Japanese language school will help make sure you get this party right. Please contact us.

Can I study abroad in Japan while leaving my family behind in America?

Yes, that's up to you and your family.

Can I bring my wife and little daughter with me if I study in Japan?

Not on a student visa. Please note that student visas are not issued to spouses and children. (Family members cannot accompany you on a student visa obtained through a Japanese language school.)

Does the school have staff who can speak English to assist me in application and visa issues even with my limited understanding of Japanese?

Some Japanese language schools have staff who can speak English and provide English-speaking support, but they are often busy and have limited time to give to all potential students, we can help you with that.

Will you return the documents I submitted after the application process?

No, the documents you submit will not be returned once submitted to the immigration office.

Is the personal information I submit going to be strictly protected?

Yes, your personal information will be strictly protected by us and the school.

Can married couples enroll and study together at the same school?

Yes, of course! Let us help you find the right Japanese language school for both of you.

If I decide to quit school before completing the program, can I stay in Japan with a valid student visa?

No. If you have a student visa, you can't stay in Japan without attending school. The enrollment period at Japanese language schools is fixed, and you must follow the designated start dates, typically in January, April, July, and October.

What is the process to extend my student visa in Japan when it expires?

Your Japanese language school will help you apply for an extension of the student visa. You can't do it on your own so the school will let you know when the time comes. Follow your school's instructions carefully.

Am I allowed to change my visa type while studying at a Japanese language school?

No. You cannot change your visa type on your own while studying at a Japanese language school. Please consult with the school about any changes.

Can I still apply for admission if I am unable to get all the necessary documents within the given time frame?

It MAY be possible to apply to a Japanese language school even if you do not have all the necessary documents in time. Contact us as soon as possible to find a solution or explore alternative options.

Japan Q&A Index

Study Abroad in Japan & Japan Student Visa