Japan Guide: Education

Find information about universities, admission processes, tuition fees and how the education system works. You will also find information about other learning opportunities in further education.

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  Introduction

  The Japanese school system

  Education is a valued part of Japanese culture. Teachers are well-paid in Japan and are viewed with great respect. The Japanese government is intensely supportive of education spending, and Japanese parents do their best to ensure that their children have access to the best education opportunities.

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  Schools

  Japanese public schools

  Most Japanese children are enrolled in kindergarten at the age of 3.

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  Private schools

  International schools in Japan

  While only 5% of Japan´s schools are private, international schools are available in most large cities. These are ideal for foreign children with little Japanese language knowledge who will not be living in Japan for a long period of time.

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  Entering Japanese university

  Applications, requirements and tuition

  It is no surprise that a country where many senior high school students attend two schools a day has one of the most competitive university admissions processes in the world. There are hundreds of Japanese universities: some public, some private, and others national.

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  Japanese university degrees

  Bachelor´s, Master´s, and Doctorates

  In Japan, most university students study until they have obtained their Bachelor´s degrees. At this point, they transition into the work world. Fewer students go on to pursue Master´s and doctoral degrees.

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  Alternatives to university

  Vocational and technical schools

  While university is by far the most prestigious form of education in Japan, many Japanese students choose to attend technical schools, junior colleges, and vocational schools instead. These schools provide them with job skills without the intense pressure of the university admissions process.

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