五月 · Study in Japan — Preparation Guide

Study Abroad Preparation

Everything you need to prepare for studying Japanese in Japan. Select your course type to see the required documents, interactive checklist, and typical intake schedule.

Your progress
  1. Application start
  2. Payment 1
  3. Documents
  4. Payment 2
  5. Review
Admission Requirements
  • Graduated from high school or completed 12+ years of formal education (or equivalent qualification).
  • Planning to enroll in a Japanese university, graduate school, or vocational school.
  • Clear Japanese language learning objectives.

Schedule & Deadlines

Intake Schedule
IntakeStudy DurationApplication PeriodCertificate Issued
April2 years or 1 year (24 or 12 months)Sep 1 – Nov 5Late February
July1 year 9 months (21 months)Jan 1 – Feb 20Late May
October1 year 6 months (18 months)Mar 15 – May 20Late August
January1 year 3 months (15 months)Jul 1 – Aug 31Late November
Application Timeline
1
6 months beforeStep 1

Complete and submit the application documents to your chosen school.

2
5 months beforeStep 2

The school reviews your documents and submits them to the Tokyo Immigration Bureau.

3
~4 months beforeStep 3

Immigration Bureau conducts a preliminary review of your residence status.

4
35 days beforeStep 4

The school notifies you of the immigration result.

5
25 days beforeStep 5

Pay the tuition fees as instructed by your school.

6
25 days beforeStep 6

The school sends you the Certificate of Eligibility (在留資格認定証明書).

7
20 days beforeStep 7

Apply for a study visa at the Japanese Embassy / Consulate in your country.

After visaStep 8

Travel to Japan! A placement test will be held before class begins to determine your level.

Typical payment methods

Most Japanese language schools accept tuition payment via international wire transfer (T/T) or services like Flywire. Always send under the enrolled student's own name, and confirm the exact payment details with your school before transferring.

Next Steps
01

Prepare your documents early

Many documents require official translation and notarisation — start at least 6 months before your target intake.

02

We contact the school directly

Each school may have slightly different requirements. Always confirm the exact list with the institution's admissions office.

03

Apply for your visa

Once you receive the Certificate of Eligibility, visit your local Japanese Embassy or Consulate to apply for a Student Visa.

Questions?

Want to discuss your application?

Have something specific to ask, or a situation that doesn't fit the form? Reach out and we'll get back to you personally.

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