Japan is an archipelago country in Asia and is renowned as one of the most technologically advanced nations. It is the third-largest economy in the world, proving its resiliency despite being prone to natural adversities.
Japan has an extensive influence across many countries, from culinary talent to iconic art styles to digital transformations. The blend of ancient traditions with pioneering technology fosters a humble yet innovative outlook, an approach that education should have. In this article, we will be looking at the best universities in Japan for international students.
Top Universities in Japan for International Students
| INSTITUTION NAME | TOP-RATED PROGRAMS |
|---|
| University of Tokyo | Multi-disciplinary Engineering, Economics, Chemistry, and Biotechnology |
| Kyoto University | Chemistry, Biology & Biochemistry, and Pharmacology |
| Tohoku University | Physics, Pharmacology Toxicology, and Chemistry |
| Institute of Science Tokyo | Engineering, Bioscience & Biotechnology. Information Science, and Innovation Management |
| Nagoya University | Chemistry, Engineering, and Biological Science |
| University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan | Occupational Health, Medicine, Nursing, and Industrial Ecological Sciences |
| Osaka University | Natural Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Dentistry, and Physics & Astronomy |
| Kyushu University | Medicine, Engineering, and Agriculture |
| Tokyo Medical and Dental University | Medicine, Dentistry, and Healthcare Sciences |
| University of Tsukuba | Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Medicine, and Physical Education |
1. University of Tokyo
The University of Tokyo known as UTokyo or TOdai, is Japan’s first national university, established in 1877. The University of Tokyo is the best in Japan for international students with campuses in Hongō, Komaba, Kashiwa, and Nakano. UTokyo has ten faculties, including science, medicine, engineering, agriculture, economics, education, law, and arts and science. Among its 15 graduate schools in the same study areas and more, economics and law as the most eminent. Several of these programs are held in English, especially graduate-level courses.
The university carries out world-class research in cooperation with various industries locally and abroad. Furthermore, UTokyo has produced notable alumni, from prime ministers to astronauts to Pritzker Prize and Nobel Prize laureates. Its longstanding academic prestige makes it the top university for international students in Japan.
2. Kyoto University
Kyoto University is Japan’s second-oldest university, founded in 1897 following the “freedom of academic culture” principle. It has ten faculties offering a broad range of subjects like integrated human studies, education, and medicine, to name a few. Among its eighteen graduate schools are advanced study areas such as energy science and global environmental studies. Kyodai is also known for its cutting-edge research, especially in chemistry, biology & biochemistry, and pharmacology.
Kyoto University aces major university rankings consistently including in the top 10 in Asia and top 50 in the world. Its modern and state-of-the-art facilities in a tranquil, historic city provide a unique experience for international students.
3. Tohoku University
Tohoku University is a higher education institution in the Miyagi prefecture. This top university in Japan offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs in almost every field of knowledge. Moreover, it is known for its accomplishments in research. Tohukodai’s highest-ranking research program is Material Science which placed 1st in Japan and 3rd in the world. The institution also excels in physics, pharmacology toxicology, and chemistry.
The university’s research-intensive culture and hands-on approach to education are major draws. Kushagra from India, a Master of System Information Science student, describes the program as “more focused on research than on academic coursework,” where students are “expected to read research papers and do a lot of independent study.” Both students stress the critical importance of a supportive lab environment. Shripriya advises, “It is vital to have a healthy lab environment since you will be spending a major part of your time there,” a sentiment echoed by Kushagra, who notes that the “quality of the research experience really depends on the lab you join.” This demonstrates that while the university provides a high-quality education, the student’s personal experience is deeply tied to their initiative in selecting a lab and engaging with the research culture.
4. Institute of Science Tokyo
Institute of Science Tokyo (Formerly Tokyo Tech), one of the best universities in Japan for international students, is dedicated to science and technology. It has three undergraduate schools in engineering, science, and bioscience & biotechnology. information science, decision science, and innovation management are added to the study areas in its graduate programs. Tokodai implements practical research and a hands-on approach in its research units, such as the prominent DLab (Laboratory of Design & Social Innovation) and ELSI (Earth-Life Science Institute). Institute of Science Tokyo offers full degree programs in English. It hosts an International Graduate Program, especially for international students with high academic potential.
The academic experience at the Institute of Science Tokyo is described as “both challenging and deeply rewarding.” The pace and expectations are “intense,” but they foster rapid growth in areas from technical laboratory skills to scientific communication and critical thinking. This is supported by a dedicated community, as Bhaskar from India notes, “Being surrounded by dedicated researchers and mentors has helped me maintain a strong sense of purpose.”
Beyond the lab, the university is committed to supporting its international community. Students can connect with a broader community through the International Student Council, which helps “provide support, and organize cross-cultural events.” This commitment to a supportive community, combined with a challenging and rewarding research environment, makes the Institute of Science Tokyo a prime destination for aspiring scientists.
5. Nagoya University
Nagoya University began as a temporary medical school in 1871 and became a national university in 1947. Presently, NU follows the principles of freedom, openness, and enterprising in its nine faculties and 13 graduate schools. It has a deep-rooted tradition in chemistry and physics and has world-class research accomplishments in these fields. NU produced notable alumni who became ambassadors, CEOs, and Nobel Prize winners.
Nagoya offers over 1,000 lecture courses in English, has 2,200 overseas students, and engages in an interactive global exchange every year. The university’s tradition of open-mindedness encourages education on a worldwide scale.
Nagoya University is a strong choice for students who have a clear vision for their careers. Jillian Abigail Sutrisno from Indonesia, a Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology student, was drawn to the university due to Japan’s “very strong industrial base, with a significant demand for chemical engineers.” She expresses her goal to “work towards a cleaner environment, through Chemical Engineering by the creation of new materials,” highlighting how the university’s program aligns with her passion for environmental sustainability. This demonstrates that Nagoya University attracts students who are not only academically motivated but also purpose-driven.
The university’s environment is conducive to both personal and professional development. Muhammad Abdullah from Pakistan, a PhD graduate in Civil Engineering, notes that his job as a Structural Design Engineer “pushed me to study more about Structural Engineering, and that push brought me to Japan.” His experience highlights how the university’s research programs are a natural next step for professionals seeking to advance their careers and delve deeper into their fields. The university’s strong ties to industry and focus on research make it an ideal place for international students who are ready to make a significant impact in their careers.
6. University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan
The University of Occupational and Environmental Health Japan, one of the best Japanese universities for international students, is a private university dedicated to occupational health. It was established in 1978 under the Industrial Safety and Health Act which obliges Japanese companies to care for their workers’ health by appointing occupational physicians. Thus, this institution spearheads the training of these medical professionals. Aside from Occupational health training, it offers programs in medicine, nursing, and industrial ecological sciences.
UOEH facilitates the Asia International Educational Program for Graduate Students, wherein selected international students are exempt from paying tuition fees. It also has an Animal Research Center and Radioscopic Research Center, which are renowned in the world.
7. Osaka University
Osaka University is a research university that traces its roots to schools from Japan’s ancient periods, including a samurai school. Even with a historic academic tradition, it is the first in Japan and 35th globally in Thomson Reuter’s World’s Most Innovative Universities. Handai’s research units focus on practical sciences, including regeneration medicine and robotics. Sony founder Akio Morita is an alumnus of OU.
Presently, OU has 11 faculties and 16 graduate schools. It is best known for the subject areas of natural sciences, chemical engineering, dentistry, and physics & astronomy. A time-honored university with an innovative approach, Handai is an excellent place for international learning.
The university’s research-focused approach and high-quality facilities are a major draw for international students. Dr. Usama Perwez from Pakistan, who completed his PhD in Energy Systems, describes Osaka University as “an extensive research-based university that provided all the essentials required to conduct the research.” His experience in the Urban Energy System Lab, which he considers “one of the best in Japan in the energy field,” highlights the university’s cutting-edge facilities and expertise. Similarly, Kartika from Indonesia, a Master’s student in Biotechnology, feels “truly grateful to be surrounded by so many experts here” and emphasizes that there are “no limitations to doing any kind of experiments, since the services, equipment, and overall lab environment are exceptionally well-provided.”
Beyond its academic rigor, Osaka University fosters a highly supportive and collaborative environment. Dr. Perwez notes that in his lab, the “Associate Professor was well conversant in English, so it was very easy to communicate.” Kartika echoes this sentiment, mentioning that her professors and colleagues are “always willing to teach me.” This supportive atmosphere, combined with the university’s strong reputation, provides an ideal setting for international students to excel in their chosen fields and contribute to global innovation.
8. Kyushu University
Kyushu University is a Japanese national university providing high-class teaching, research, and medical activities. This top university in Japan started as a medical college in 1903 and has expanded to this day with 11 undergraduate schools, 17 graduate schools, three affiliated research centers, and one university hospital. It is renowned for hydrogen energy research and is a top-notch medical school. The institution’s action plan involves education, research, social contribution, and international cooperation.
Kyudai has branch offices in San Jose in the US and Cairo, Egypt. Moreover, it collaborates with over 100 universities globally and is selected for the Top Global University Project, Japan’s initiative program for international academic competitiveness.
The university’s academic programs offer a high degree of autonomy and are deeply rooted in cutting-edge research. Nauman from Pakistan, a Master’s student in Automotive Science focusing on battery research, highlights his positive experience, stating, “Academically, the program is strong, especially if you’re involved in research.” He appreciated the university’s “supportive professors, and a lot of autonomy in terms of research direction.” His experience demonstrates that Kyushu University is an ideal place for students who are passionate about their field and want the freedom to drive their own research projects.
Kyushu University’s commitment to international collaboration and its English-based programs make it highly accessible to students from around the world. Nauman’s program, like many others in engineering and sciences at the university, is “conducted in English.” He notes, “So coursework, thesis writing, and lab meetings were all in English. I didn’t face major issues, not knowing Japanese when it came to academics or research.” This highlights how the university has created an environment where international students can fully immerse themselves in their studies without a language barrier, while also encouraging them to learn Japanese for a richer cultural experience.
9. Tokyo Medical and Dental University
Tokyo Medical and Dental University is a leading institution in Japan IN medicine, dentistry, and related fields such as biomedical and healthcare sciences. In 1965, the university added the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, wherein students learn the ethical standards of healthcare professions. Presently, TMDU is the only national university with this faculty. It has a Biomaterials and Bioengineering Research Institute, a Medical Research Centre, and two teaching hospitals (medicine and dentistry).
This specialized university has a modest student population but has over 6% international students, most from Asian countries. TMDU’s Faculty of Medicine participates in exchange programs with Imperial College London, while its dentistry departments collaborate with schools in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.
10. University of Tsukuba
The University of Tsukuba started as a Normal School in 1872, the first teacher’s college in Japan. Following this history, this top university in Japan became a forerunner in university reform. It has diverse study programs and is especially noted for its STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Medicine) fields and physical education. Presently, it is located in the science park Tsukuba Science City and has a campus in Tokyo offering graduate programs for working adults.
The university focuses on interdisciplinary studies and internationalization with several universities like Taiwan, California, the North African Region, etc. The University of Tsukuba’s well-rounded programs and progressive approach make a remarkable international academic experience.
FAQs: Studying in Japan
Is Japan a Good Place for International Students to Study?
As one of the most literate countries globally, Japan consistently ranks in the top 10 countries for higher education in Asia and the world. Japan encourages internationalization in its universities with support programs like the Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship. The country’s economy also has a great demand for foreign workers, and international students are encouraged to stay in the country after university. Living in Japan offers a unique experience with its breathtaking landscape, incredible cuisine, and intriguing inventions. It also boasts advanced medical technology and efficient public transportation. While living costs may be slightly higher, tuition fees are more affordable than in the US or UK, ranging from $3,000 to $20,000. It’s an inexpensive way to study world-class programs and research opportunities, especially in science and technology.
Can International Students Work in Japan While Studying?
Generally, a Japanese student visa does not permit students to work. However, international students can apply for an exemption from the Minister of Justice. You can process this authorization at the nearest Immigration Bureau. Once the application is approved, holders of student visas can work part-time in Japan as long as it does not conflict with their studies. You can work up to 28 hours per week and work a maximum of 8 hours a day during spring, summer, or winter breaks. Jobs related to adult entertainment services (e.g., gambling establishments) are not allowed, even if the work assignment is not in customer service. Please see a guide from the Japan Student Services Organization for more information on job categories and hourly rates. You can apply for a separate authorization from the same bureau if you want to work more hours. For unpaid internships and similar activities, you don’t need to process any permits.
Can International Students Stay in Japan after Graduation?
Bilingual and multilingual employees are in demand in various Japanese industries, so foreign national graduates are encouraged to stay in Japan. After graduation, you can stay and search for a job for six months which can be renewed one time for a maximum of a year. Your visa status changes from “Student” to undertaking “Designated Activities.” You can process this in the nearest Immigration Bureau, wherein you will complete a request form and prepare essential documents. Once you are hired, the duration of work depends on your specific skill and industry. You can find more information on the Japan Student Services Organization website.
We hope that this article on the best universities in Japan for international students was helpful! To learn more about Japanese universities and scholarship opportunities, Study in Japan has all the information you need. Additionally, you can sample the Available Programs to explore your study options.
