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.

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.

Required Documents

Document Checklist

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  • Application FormPreparing on our side

    Self-signed × 1 copy (Excel format)

  • CV / Resumeif applicable

    Self-signed × 4 copies — JP or EN translation required

  • Graduation Certificate (original)

    JP or EN translation required

  • Academic Transcript (original)

    Include university entrance exam score sheet if applicable. JP or EN translation required

  • Enrollment / Employment Certificateif applicable

    Required if currently enrolled or employed

  • Family Register (all family members)

    Includes applicant. JP or EN translation required

  • Japanese Language Test Certificate

    150+ study hours OR JLPT N5+. Must include: study period, attendance rate, course name, completion goal, materials used

  • ID Photos

    4 cm × 3 cm, × 6 copies — taken within 3 months, no hat, plain background, front-facing

  • Passport Copyif applicable

    Only if you currently hold a passport

  • Expense Declaration + Family List + Contract

    Filled by sponsor. Contract × 3 copies (Excel format). JP or EN translation required

  • Proof of Relationship with Sponsor

    e.g. family register — JP or EN translation required

  • Bank Balance Certificate

    In sponsor's name

  • Bank Statement / Transaction History

    × 3 years — showing how funds were accumulated

  • Employment Certificate

    With employment period. Company registration (business owners). Business license (business owners)

  • Income Certificate

    Most recent 3 years

  • Tax Payment Certificate

    Most recent 3 years

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.