Conversations about money usually begin and end with tuition. But tuition is less than half of what you will spend. Below is the whole structure of the budget.
All figures are approximate ranges. Prices depend on the school, the city and the year; check current numbers before you apply.
Tuition
Roughly ¥700,000–900,000 per year. This normally covers the entrance fee, tuition itself, study materials and the school's insurance.
One important point: tuition is paid directly to the school. It does not go through intermediaries — and if someone suggests otherwise, that is a reason to ask a lot of questions.
Housing
The most variable line item:
- school dormitory or share house — roughly ¥30,000–60,000 per month;
- your own apartment — more expensive, plus upfront costs: a deposit (敷金), "key money" for the landlord (礼金) and an agency fee. At the start that can mean three to five months' rent at once.
For a first year a dormitory is almost always cheaper and simpler: you do not need a Japanese guarantor.
Food
¥25,000–40,000 per month if you cook for yourself and shop at supermarkets. Discounts on prepared food near closing time are standard student practice.
Transport
Depends on how far your school is. A commuter pass (定期券) with a student discount is noticeably cheaper than single fares. When choosing housing, count the commute as well as the rent — a more expensive room closer to school sometimes works out cheaper.
Insurance and connectivity
- National Health Insurance (国民健康保険) is mandatory and costs students relatively little — around ¥2,000 per month. It covers 70% of medical costs.
- Phone and internet — from ¥3,000 per month for mobile service with budget carriers.
Proof of funds
When you apply you will need to prove that tuition and living costs are covered — usually with your sponsor's bank statement and proof of income. The required amount depends on the school; check the specific requirements in advance.
And most importantly
Plan your budget as though there will be no part-time work. It is permitted and it helps, but the 28-hour weekly limit and real hourly rates mean it will never cover tuition in full. Part-time work is for day-to-day expenses, not for paying your studies.
