Study in Japan: Expenses, Scholarships, and Procedures

A fascinating new player in the offshore market is Japan, with world-class universities, increasing English language delivery, and a scholarship system in place to keep the price tag manageable for Indians. With the cost of studying abroad soaring in traditional destinations such as the US, the UK, or Australia, Japan is poised as the alternative of the future.

The Study in Japan (South Asia) project, initiated by the University of Tokyo and Acumen, has resulted in a considerable expansion of outreach activities in India. Today, over 25,000 students in over 100 Indian cities have had interactions with Japanese universities via education fairs, as well as online engagement through Navi Japan, an interface initiated by Study in Japan, connecting students directly to universities, as well as to current students and authentic information on available studies and scholarships.

Despite this spate of interest, the numbers of Indian students in Japan remain relatively low—at approximately 2,000 students at the undergraduate, master’s, and research levels—indicating considerable potential for expansion.

Multiple Study Pathways for Indian Students

1. Exchange and semester programmes

Many Indian students begin their Japan journey through semester-long or year-long exchange programmes enabled by institutional partnerships. These allow students to earn credits in Japan that count toward their Indian degree.

For instance, OP Jindal Global University’s partnership with the University of Tokyo facilitates structured exchanges and short-term academic programmes. Similar collaborations exist with IIT Mandi, IIT Guwahati, IIT Hyderabad, JNU and SRM University.

2. Short-term programmes and summer schools

Japanese universities offer two-to-six-week summer and winter schools, often focused on technology, sustainability, business, public policy and Japanese culture. These programmes appeal to students seeking international exposure without committing to a full degree abroad.

3. Research internships

For students in science, engineering and the humanities, research internships at Japanese labs and centres serve as a strong entry point—especially for those considering PhD programmes or research-driven careers.

4. Joint and dual degree programmes

Joint and dual degree options—where students study in both countries and earn recognised degrees—are still limited but expanding steadily as India–Japan academic cooperation deepens.

Scholarships That Make Studying in Japan Affordable

One of Japan’s biggest advantages is its well-structured scholarship ecosystem, which significantly reduces the financial burden on international students.

MEXT (Monbukagakusho) Scholarship

The Government of Japan’s flagship scholarship covers:

• Full tuition fees
• Monthly living allowance
• Return airfare
• Preparatory Japanese language training (if required)

Available for undergraduate, postgraduate and research students, MEXT is highly competitive—but Indian selections have been steadily increasing.

JASSO Scholarships

The Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) provides monthly stipends, particularly for exchange students. While these may not cover full tuition, they help offset living expenses.

University and private scholarships

Many Japanese universities offer merit-based fee waivers, tuition reductions and internal scholarships. Additionally, private foundations provide funding options that students can apply for after enrolment.

Cost of Studying and Living in Japan (Approximate)

Tuition fees

At public universities, annual tuition averages ¥535,800, roughly ₹3–3.2 lakh per year. Private universities may charge higher fees.

Living costs

Students typically spend ¥80,000–¥120,000 per month (approximately ₹45,000–₹70,000), covering rent, food, transport and utilities. While cities like Tokyo are more expensive, regional cities are significantly more affordable.

Part-time work

International students are allowed to work part-time, which many use to supplement their living expenses.

Campus Life and Cultural Adjustment

Japan is widely regarded as one of the safest and most efficient countries in the world. Clean cities, reliable public transport and low crime rates contribute to a high quality of student life.

That said, cultural adjustment is real. Communication styles are more indirect, punctuality is strictly observed, and social norms may feel unfamiliar initially. Most Indian students, however, report that once settled, Japan offers a deeply enriching campus experience—marked by academic rigour, vibrant student clubs, festivals and travel opportunities.

Is Learning Japanese Necessary?

While many degree programmes are taught in English, learning Japanese is strongly recommended. Language skills help students navigate daily life, integrate socially, access internships and part-time jobs, and improve post-study employment prospects.

Students can learn Japanese through:

• University language courses (in India or Japan)
• Online platforms and apps
• Short-term intensive language programmes
• On-campus language labs now being introduced at some Indian universities

For Japanese-taught programmes, students may need to clear JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) levels. Higher JLPT scores significantly enhance academic and career opportunities.

Why Japan Matters for India’s Higher Education Future

With over 150 active India–Japan university partnerships, collaboration is expanding across research, innovation and student mobility. Japan’s emphasis on technology, research and interdisciplinary learning aligns closely with India’s higher education and skilling goals.

For Indian students, Japan offers a rare combination: globally ranked universities, strong industry linkages, cultural depth and relative affordability—without the escalating costs and visa uncertainties increasingly associated with Western destinations.