Choosing the best country to study abroad has always been a hassle process for the students, one of the top destinations that we can observe from the past couple of years is Japan. Japan is the land of the rising sun known for its vibrant cultural heritage, adaptation with the latest technologies and not forgetting the top-notch universities that separate japan apart from other countries. According to the data of 2023 approx 279,300 international students are there to study in japan from Nepal. Let’s break down why to study in Japan from Nepal for Nepalese students dreaming of studying abroad in this blog.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Why Study in Japan?
- World-Class Education System
- Innovative Technology and Research
- Cultural Richness and Diversity
- Career Opportunities
- Scholarships to Study in Japan for Nepalese Students
- Honjo International Scholarship Foundation
- Japan Joint World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
- JASSO Scholarship Program
- MEXT Scholarship Nepal
- Requirements to Study in Japan from Nepal
- Academic Qualifications
- Language Proficiency
- Entrance Examinations
- Financial Proof
- Japan Student Visa Requirements Process
- Popular Courses and Best Universities in Japan
- Best Courses to Study
- Top Universities in Japan
- Intakes in Japanese Universities
- Total Cost to Study in Japan
- Tuition Fees
- Living Expenses
- Living in Japan as a Nepali Student
- Accommodation Options
- Work Opportunities
- Challenges and Considerations
- Language Barrier
- High Initial Costs
- Cultural Differences
- Conclusion: Your Journey Awaits
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why Study in Japan?
A World-Class Education System
Japan is known for its well-reputed universities providing top education, given its curriculum, teaching approaches, quality resources and facilities. The country possesses several top-ranking universities, such as The University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, and Osaka University, which are recognized globally for their academic excellence, and collaboration with global institutions.
Innovative Technology and Research
Japan stands on top when it comes to technology and innovation. The glory of Japan’s spectacular advancements in fields like robotics, artificial intelligence and information technology are sung all around the world. Japan’s focus on technology, and accessibility to research and resources makes it an attractive place for students with a strong visionary of technological revolutions.
Cultural Richness and Diversity
Japan is a home to ancient traditions and cultural heritages, blended with the prosperity of modern lifestyle. This gives you the comfort of technology-driven infrastructure and amazement of unique culture and civilization. From ancient temples and festivals to futuristic cities and technology, life in Japan for students is a dream experience.
Career Opportunities
Japan’s strong economy offers numerous, prestigious opportunities after your graduation.
Field like automobile, information technology, electronics, finance, healthcare and more with proficiency in Japanese having a combined Japanese Degree from it’s universities will eventually help you in your career development and skills enhancement.
Scholarships to Study in Japan for Nepalese Students
Japan offers different kinds of scholarships that help international students.. In this section, we’ll discuss the major scholarships you can apply for your study in Japan from Nepal:
Honjo International Scholarship Foundation
Students pursuing master’s or doctoral degree in any kind of field are eligible for this scholarship which will be provided to maximum 10 students only and the amount can range somewhere around ¥200,000 to ¥300,000 every month with the time for 1-5 years, remember it can vary on the student’s research duration for the graduation program.
Japan’s Joint World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
Students that come from developing countries having interest to study a master’s degree are eligible for this scholarship but they need to have relevant professional experience in development in their respective countries. Costs such as tuition fees, monthly living cost as stipend, round trip airfare, travel allowance and health insurance are covered by this scholarship.
Japan Student Services Organization JASSO Scholarship Program
This Scholarship covers the financial support of the international students which last up to one year, this scholarship can be the best option for the students that are pursuing vocational training who require extra financial assistance.
MEXT Scholarship Nepal
This scholarship program is one of the most prestigious programs in Japan especially for the international students who are pursuing various degrees such as postgraduate, undergraduate, specialisation training, and for the teachers. To make it more clear, let’s dive into the overview of the MEXT Scholarship Nepal, and the overall application process.
Categories of MEXT Scholarships for Nepali
| Category | Intended for | Eligibility | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Postgraduate / Research Students | Graduate students and researchers | Minimum 16 years of formal education | Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs |
| Undergraduate Students | High school graduates | Completed 12 years of formal education (high school diploma or equivalent) | Covers tuition and living expenses |
| Specialized Training College Students | Students pursuing vocational training | Completed 12 years of education | Covers tuition and living costs |
| Teachers | In-service teachers aspiring to pursue research or professional development | Currently working teachers in schools | Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs |
Application Process for MEXT Scholarships from Nepal
The application procedures for MEXT Scholarships are conducted through the Japanese Embassy or universities in Japan. This section will help you with the step-by-step breakdown of the application process for MEXT Scholarships from Nepal:
-
Check Eligibility
Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the specific category of the MEXT Scholarship you are interested in.
2. Gather required documents for MEXT Scholarship
- Application form (available at the Japanese Embassy or the official MEXT website)
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Research plan (for postgraduate students)
- Letter of recommendation
- Health certificate
- Passport copy
-
Submit the Application
Applications must be submitted to the Japanese Embassy in Nepal or the appropriate institution in Japan, depending on the program category you are applying on.
First Screening
The Japanese Embassy will initially screen your application form, academic transcripts, recommendation letters and research proposal to check your eligibility criteria and submission of all the required documents. Based on the documents, the candidates will be shortlisted and only those candidates will be taken to second screening.
Second Screening
The second screening for MEXT Scholarship usually involves interviews, which is generally focused on the thorough evaluation of the candidate’s academic background, research plans, motivation for studying in Japan, and their performance in language proficiency tests.
Notification of Results
Candidates will be notified of their application results through the Embassy or the respective institution.
Note: The MEXT application process does not require any application fees.
Requirements to Study in Japan from Nepal
The following criteria must be fulfilled for a Nepali student to study in Japan:
Academic Qualifications
- For Undergraduate Programs: Completion of 12 years of education with a recognized board or a high school diploma event.
- For Graduate Programs: Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, generally of a GPA of 2.4 or higher.
Language Proficiency
- Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), typically at N2 or higher, though some programs accept N3.
- English Proficiency: For programs taught in English, students must demonstrate proficiency through IELTS or TOEFL scores. An IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL iBT score of 79 is generally required.
Entrance Examinations
Usually, universities require you to complete the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU). The test examines your Japanese language skills and academic performance in subjects like mathematics and science.
Financial Proof
For a Japanese student visa from Nepal, you need to prove you have sufficient financial means to support your tuition and living costs in Nepal. You might be asked the following financial documents:
- Bank Balance: A balance of around ¥2,000,000 to cover tuition and living expenses for at least one year.
- Income Certificates: Annual income statements for the past three years.
- Tax Clearance Certificates: For the past three years.
Japan Student Visa Requirements Process from Nepal
You have to consider the following steps for applying a Japan student visa as a Nepali student:
Secure Admission
To apply for a Japanese student visa, first you have to obtain a letter of acceptance from a recognized Japanese educational institution you are interested to study in.
Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
Once admitted, the institution applies for your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) on your behalf. The COE is a crucial document issued by Japan’s Immigration Bureau and is needed to apply for a student visa.
Visa Application and documents submission
Submit the following documents to the Embassy of Japan in Nepal:
- Valid passport.
- Completed visa application form.
- Passport-size photographs.
- COE issued by the Immigration Bureau of Japan.
- Financial documents (bank statements, income certificates).
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- Letter of admission from the Japanese institution.
Popular Courses and Best Universities in Japan
Japan provides diverse higher education options, you can choose the one that fits the best with your interests.
Which Course is Best to Study in Japan?
Education in Japan is best known for its innovative engineering and technological aspects. Following are the best courses in Japan:
- Engineering and Technology: Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering.
- Information Technology: Computer Science, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence.
- Business and Management: International Business, Economics.
- Japanese Language and Culture: For those interested in linguistics and cultural studies.
Top Universities in Japan for International Students
According to QS University Rankings, following are the top universities in Japan:
| University Name | Asian Rank | Global Rank | Location | Specialties |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The University of Tokyo | 1 | 13 | Tokyo | Research and Innovation |
| Kyoto University | 3 | 33 | Kyoto | Science and Technology |
| Osaka University | 7 | 66 | Osaka | Wide range of courses and international programs |
| Hokkaido University | 12 | 86 | Sapporo | Agricultural and environmental studies |
| Tokyo of Institute of Technology | 8 | 77 | Tokyo | Science and engineering |
Intakes in Universities in Japan
Japanese universities mainly have three intakes:
- Spring Intake: April to March (Application Deadline: October to November)
- Summer Intake: July to September (Application Deadline: February to April)
- Fall Intake: September to March (Application Deadline: April to July)
Each university may have slightly different deadlines, so it’s important to check individual university websites for specific dates.
Total Cost to Study in Japan from Nepal
Tuition Fees
The total cost to study in Japan from Nepal is comparatively more affordable than in other developed countries like the US or the UK. The tuition fees in Japan varies depending on the type of university (public, private) and the selected program. The following tables gives the overview of approximate tuition costs in universities of Japan:
| University Type | Average Annual Tuition fee for Undergraduate programs | Average Annual Tuition Fee for Graduate Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Public universities |
¥535,800 to ¥858,600 (NPR 6,872,100 to NPR 11,103,000) |
¥356,400 to ¥635,400 (NPR 4,535,700 to NPR 8,059,800) |
| Private universities |
¥700,000 to ¥1,200,000 (NPR 8,835,000 to NPR 15,234,000) |
¥500,000 to ¥800,000 (NPR 6,371,000 to NPR 10,185,000) |
The fees may be higher for courses in medicine and business administration.
It is a good investment for high quality education.
Living Expenses
Living expenses in Japan depend on where you stay (urban vs. rural areas) and your lifestyle. Major expenses include:
- Accommodation: ¥43,300 to ¥60,000 per month (NPR 555,300 to NPR 769,000). Options include university dormitories, shared apartments, or private rentals.
- Food: ¥15,500 to ¥46,500 per month (NPR 199,300 to NPR 596,000). Eating at affordable convenience stores or university cafeterias can help lower costs.
- Utilities and Miscellaneous: ¥6,000 to ¥6,500 monthly (NPR 77,000 to NPR 83,000) for electricity, water, and internet.
- Transportation: ¥2,200 to ¥15,000 per month (NPR 28,200 to NPR 192,000), depending on your commute. In cities like Tokyo, the cost of public transport may be higher.
- Total Estimated Monthly Expenses: ¥67,000 to ¥128,000 (NPR 861,000 to NPR 1,646,000), depending on lifestyle and location.
Is Japan Cheap for Study?
The initial cost breakdown to study in Japan can seem high from a Nepalese context, however, with numerous scholarship opportunities and part-time job options can help with the financial concerns. Many students manage to cover their living expenses through their part time jobs.
Living in Japan as a Nepali Student
A student living abroad must be aware about their accommodation options and work opportunities. This section will guide you through these things you’ll need to live in Japan as a student from Nepal:
Accommodation
Students usually choose any one of the options among university dormitories, shared apartments, or homestays.
- University Dormitories are affordable and convenient, and give students a space to connect with fellow learners while also providing essential facilities.
- Shared apartments are best for the students preferring independence and flexibility. They offer a chance to live on your own terms while sharing costs with roommates, but these require you to manage budgeting and cooking on your own.
- Homestays fit best for the students wanting cultural immersion. You’ll live with a Japanese family and adapt into their lifestyle.
Work Opportunities
International students in Japan are allowed to work up to 28 hours per week. Hourly wages range from ¥800 to ¥1,500 (Approx. NPR 747 to NPR1400), depending on the job and location.
Popular Part-Time Jobs
- Restaurants and cafes.
- Retail stores.
- English tutoring.
- Delivery services.
Minimum Salary in Japan for Nepalese
For full-time positions after graduation, salaries vary widely by industry and experience, but you will generally be able to start from ¥200,000 per month.
Challenges and Considerations
What is the Disadvantage of Studying in Japan?
- Language Barrier: Limited Japanese proficiency can be a hurdle in daily life and studies, since Japanese society isn’t very familiar with the English language.
- High Initial Costs: For the visa processing, university application and flight bookings, you’ll have to manage hefty costs. But the costs can be eventually recovered as you start working in Japan alongside your studies.
- Cultural Differences: Adapting to new social norms and etiquette can be challenging as well as confusing, especially in Japanese society with strict traditional values.
Conclusion: Your Journey Awaits
In conclusion, this guide has equipped you with essential insights into the rewarding experience of studying in Japan from Nepal. Now that you know what to expect, take some time to reflect on your goals and the journey ahead. Japan is a wonderful destination for students who are driven by the idea of innovation and technology within a safe and rich cultural landscape. To address your queries on a personalised level, reach out to a reputed consultancy for guidance and other application assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - Study in Japan from Nepal
How Much Gap is Accepted for Study in Japan?
Generally, a study gap of up to 5 years is acceptable, provided you can explain the gap with valid reasons such as work experience or other educational pursuits.
Is It Easy to Get Admission in Japan?
Admission processes are competitive, especially for top universities. Meeting academic and language proficiency requirements enhances your chances.
Which Degree is Popular in Japan?
Degrees in Engineering, Business, Information Technology, and Japanese Language and Culture are popular among international students.
Can I Study in Japan Without Knowing Japanese?
Yes, some universities offer programs entirely in English. However, learning Japanese is beneficial for daily life and employment opportunities.
Is Japanese Harder or English?
Japanese is considered more challenging for English speakers due to different grammar structures and writing systems (Kanji, Hiragana, Katakana).
Is Korean or Japanese Easier?
Both languages have their complexities. However, some learners find Korean grammar slightly more straightforward, while Japanese has more complex writing systems.
Is Japanese Studies Hard?
Japanese language and studies can be challenging due to the complex writing system and linguistic nuances. However, with dedicated study and practice, students can achieve proficiency.
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