1. Japanese Language Schools

Japanese language schools are established by incorporated educational institutions, business companies and other sponsors. Japan offers over 600 such language schools, at which approximately 49,000 students are studying Japanese.

Characteristics

• Aside from basic Japanese language courses, Japanese language schools provide university preparation courses, business Japanese courses, and others.
• If your country's secondary education curriculum lasts less than 12 years, you will need to take a "university preparatory course"*1 in order to become eligible to apply for university.
• Admission periods are in April and in October. (Some schools have programs that start in January or July, as well.)

Note: In order to qualify for the "Student" status of residence, you must attend a Japanese language institution designated by the Minister of Justice.

*1. University preparatory course: In order to be admitted to a Japanese university, an applicant must have completed at least 12 years of formal education.

However, in some countries or regions, education through high school lasts less than 12 years. In this case, students must complete MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology)'s designated "university preparatory course for admission to university" in order to be eligible to apply for Japanese universities.

In the preparatory course, students study not only the Japanese language but also the basic subjects required for university entrance.

• List of University Preparatory Courses

2. Specialized Training Colleges Japanese Language Programs

These are established in vocational schools approved by each prefectural governor.

Characteristics

• Admission periods are in April and in October.
• Aside from basic Japanese language courses, they provide courses for higher education.
• Students may be eligible for student discounts and other benefits as specialized training colleges students.

Note: In order to qualify for the "Student" status of residence, you must attend a school designated by the Minister of Justice in a public notice.

3. Private University and Junior College Programs for International Students

These programs are generally established by a university or junior college for the purpose of providing special technical education at a simplified level, and is mainly intended to prepare international students to study in Japan.

There are various types of programs for foreign students, such as nursing, international, and Japanese language courses, and what students can study differs depending on the school.

Characteristics

• Many schools offer preparatory education for those who wish to enter universities, graduate schools, or junior colleges, with the aim of teaching Japanese language, Japanese affairs, Japanese culture, and other basic subjects.
• Some schools may be able to recommend students for admission to universities and junior colleges that offer a program.
• Some schools offer technical education such as caregiving programs, so you need to find a school that fits your learning objectives.
• Admission periods are in spring (around April) and autumn (September or October).