If you are looking to study in Japan, you are surely making a great choice. This location has a lot to offer for international students, including world-class universities and exciting student experiences. With more than 706 universities and colleges in Japan, you’ll surely have a wide range of choices.
Out of 706 universities in Japan, University of Tokyo and Kyoto University are the top-performing schools in Japan. This list covers both public and private institutions in Japan.
To help you narrow down your school options, we’ve compiled the best universities in Japan. We based our rankings on academic reputations from reputable sources and the number of international students. By doing this, you’ll have an efficient way of comparing your target universities and choose your host university in Japan.
How do I get admission to the best universities in Japan?
Applying to the universities in Japan involves submitting requirements and following specific admissions procedures set by your chosen university. The requirements often include a student visa, application packages, and language scores. Check out our guide for international students who want to study in Japan to learn more about applying for admission in this country’s universities!
How much are the tuition fees at the best universities in Japan?
Tuition fees at Japan’s universities can vary depending on which university, degree, and program you will be enrolling in. Generally, tuition fees for the bachelor’s level range from 250,000 Yen to 3,800,000 Yen , while tuition fees for the master’s level range from 215,000 Yen to 3,500,000 Yen. If you are interested, check out the affordable universities in Japan!
As we cover the best universities in Japan for international students, feel free to check out the university’s information on Admission, Tuition, Courses, and Language Requirements by looking at the individual university pages.
Top Universities in Japan for International Students
1. University of Tokyo
- Total Number of Students : 28171
- Total Number of International Students : 4283
- Percentage of International Students : 15.2 %
- QS Rankings : # 23 in the World
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 35 in the World
- US News Rankings : # 77 in the World
- University of Tokyo Page
University of Tokyo tops the list for best universities in Japan.
One of Japan’s prestigious universities, The University of Tokyo, continues to live with its vision of being a globally recognized platform for learning and research. As they aspire to build a community of leaders in society, they provide excellent academic programs to all levels. More than that, to expand their global engagement, they offer English-taught programs in some departments. International students at The University of Tokyo receive a well-rounded curriculum and services. They are able to attend various activities and events organized by the university that fosters engagement within the campus.
Consistently being counted among the top schools in Japan is a great sign for quality education. University of Tokyo is definitely a great university to consider if you’re planning to study in Japan.
2. Kyoto University
- Total Number of Students : 22596
- Total Number of International Students : 2715
- Percentage of International Students : 12.0 %
- QS Rankings : # 36 in the World
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 61 in the World
- US News Rankings : # 127 in the World
- Kyoto University Page
Second on this list for best universities in Japan is Kyoto University. Because of its strong academic reputation, Kyoto University regularly has a sizable student population, 12.0 % of which are international students.
Kyoto University, a public university in Kyoto, Japan, was founded in 1897, making it one of the oldest academic institutions in the country. The university’s founding principles “freedom from academic culture” serves as its guide in providing high-quality education to more than 22,000 students. As such, the university is one of the top universities in Japan, as assessed by reputable global ranking institutions.
3. Aichi University
- Total Number of Students : 9628
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 151 in the World
- Aichi University Page
Another great school in Japan is Aichi University. It is also one of the most widely-recognized names in education around the world and gets high numbers of student applications annually.
Aichi University is a private liberal arts college with three campus locations: Toyohashi, Nagoya, and Kurumamichi. It was founded in 1946, after the end of World War II, with a mission to contribute to world peace and develop independent thinkers with a global perspective. The university is well-known for its technologically advanced facilities and its library that holds the largest collection of books among all the university libraries in Japan.
4. Tohoku University
- Total Number of Students : 17665
- Total Number of International Students : 1780
- Percentage of International Students : 10.1 %
- QS Rankings : # 79 in the World
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 201 in the World
- US News Rankings : # 275 in the World
- Tohoku University Page
It's always a good plan to have several options when choosing your host university abroad. And among your top choices at Japan is Tohoku University.
Frequently landing among the top schools in reputable rankings, Tohoku University is renowned as one of the best public universities in Japan. It has massive popularity among students and receives a large number of applications each year. Tohoku University welcomes over 17,000 students to its modern campus, which houses top-notch libraries, research centers, laboratories, and a university hospital.
5. Osaka University
- Total Number of Students : 23044
- Total Number of International Students : 2611
- Percentage of International Students : 11.3 %
- QS Rankings : # 68 in the World
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 301 in the World
- US News Rankings : # 263 in the World
- Osaka University Page
Next on our list of top universities in Japan for international students is Osaka University. This university provides good programs in various fields such as Philosophy, Thought and Culture, Human Geography, and Aesthetics and Science of Literary Arts.
Celebrating its 91st year in the educational service sector, Osaka University takes pride as one of Japan’s leading research universities. Throughout the decades, they’ve established its reputation for producing high-quality undergraduate and graduate programs for all nationalities. As they move forward and expand their campuses in the country, they aim to build a global community of learners and researchers in various academic fields.
6. Tokyo Institute of Technology
- Total Number of Students : 10500
- Total Number of International Students : 1700
- Percentage of International Students : 16.2 %
- QS Rankings : # 56 in the World
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 301 in the World
- US News Rankings : # 342 in the World
- Tokyo Institute of Technology Page
Besides academic and research excellence, extracurricular activities, leadership participation, and career opportunities are also worth it to consider when choosing your host university. All these reasons make Tokyo Institute of Technology one of the best universities in Japan.
Tokyo Institute of Technology, more commonly known as Tokyo Tech, is a leading university that entirely concentrates on providing first-class education in science and technology. It attracts brilliant and talented students who aspire to obtain a degree at this elite university. At present, Tokyo Tech is also open to admitting international students. Aside from its Japanese-taught programs, it also offers English-taught programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
7. Nagoya University
- Total Number of Students : 15772
- Total Number of International Students : 1900
- Percentage of International Students : 12.0 %
- QS Rankings : # 112 in the World
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 351 in the World
- US News Rankings : # 324 in the World
- Nagoya University Page
Nagoya University is one of the most prominent public universities in Japan. Founded in 1871, it first opened as a medical school and public hospital. Today, the university offers a wide range of degree programs and consistently ranks among the top schools in the country. Several of its alumni have become Nobel Prize winners, politicians, and corporate executives.
8. Kyushu University
- Total Number of Students : 18585
- Total Number of International Students : 2270
- Percentage of International Students : 12.2 %
- QS Rankings : # 137 in the World
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 501 in the World
- US News Rankings : # 336 in the World
- Kyushu University Page
Kyushu University has a long and rich history that can be traced back to 1911. It has undergone several name changes and redevelopments throughout the years. And today, the university is considered one of Fukuoka’s biggest and best public institutions. Committed to promoting internationalization, the school offers innovative educational programs, participates in foreign exchange programs, and welcomes foreign nationals into its campus.
9. Hokkaido University
- Total Number of Students : 18171
- Total Number of International Students : 2104
- Percentage of International Students : 11.6 %
- QS Rankings : # 141 in the World
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 501 in the World
- US News Rankings : # 441 in the World
- Hokkaido University Page
Another top-tier university in Japan, Hokkaido University, aims to deliver quality education to everyone. Since its establishment in 1876, they have developed undergraduate and graduate programs in various academic disciplines. They have been highly regarded for their goals of contributing to research and producing outstanding graduates in the field. For the next years, they aim to build more global connections through their academic programs and activities.
10. University of Tsukuba
- Total Number of Students : 16542
- QS Rankings : # 285 in the World
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 501 in the World
- US News Rankings : # 412 in the World
- University of Tsukuba Page
The University of Tsukuba is one of the world-class public institutions in Japan. The university aims to develop cutting-edge programs suited to the needs of the succeeding generations. Additionally, internationalization also plays a big part in the institution’s success. It collaborates with other renowned foreign universities, actively participates in international programs, and warmly welcomes many students from across the globe who desires to obtain an internationally acknowledged Japanese degree.
11. Keio University
- Total Number of Students : 33400
- Total Number of International Students : 1900
- Percentage of International Students : 5.7 %
- QS Rankings : # 197 in the World
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 601 in the World
- US News Rankings : # 536 in the World
- Keio University Page
Keio University, founded in 1858, is a private university in Minato City, Japan. Most of its 11 campuses are located in Tokyo and in Kanagawa Prefecture, with more than 20 faculties offering degree programs in undergraduate and graduate levels. At present, the university is home to more than 33,400 students, with over 1,900 from international backgrounds.
12. Hitotsubashi University
- Total Number of Students : 6300
- Total Number of International Students : 820
- Percentage of International Students : 13.0 %
- QS Rankings : # 531 in the World
- Hitotsubashi University Page
Founded in 1875, Hitotsubashi University is one of the oldest schools in Japan. Over the years, the university has expanded its program offerings and included academic and research programs in social sciences, economics, and public policy. The primary objective of Hitotsubashi University is to educate future leaders of society by training them to become independent, creative, and intellectual thinkers with integrity.
13. Kobe University
- Total Number of Students : 15986
- Total Number of International Students : 1179
- Percentage of International Students : 7.4 %
- QS Rankings : # 386 in the World
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 601 in the World
- US News Rankings : # 548 in the World
- Kobe University Page
Kobe University is an influential and internationally recognized institution situated in Hyogo prefecture. The university envisions itself as the global hub for higher education and research in the coming years. By achieving this desired outcome, it continuously thrives on developing innovative and interdisciplinary programs that will help contribute to the socio-economic growth of society and aid in resolving current global issues in the community.
14. Bunka Fashion Graduate University
- Total Number of Students : 176
- Total Number of International Students : 168
- Percentage of International Students : 95.5 %
- Edurank : # 10757 in the World
- UniRank : # 9536 in the World
- Bunka Fashion Graduate University Page
Bunka Fashion Graduate University was founded in 2005 and is located in Tokyo, Japan. It offers Professional Degree programs in Fashion Business Administration, Fashion Technology, and Fashion Design. These programs contain seminars and training for future fashion professionals. Japanese proficiency is still required at the level of N2. Despite this, most students in the university are from abroad.
15. Waseda University
- Total Number of Students : 47959
- QS Rankings : # 205 in the World
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 801 in the World
- US News Rankings : # 520 in the World
- Waseda University Page
Waseda University is one of the most highly-regarded universities in Japan.It is considered the best private institution in the country andconsistently ranks among the top 200 in reputable world university rankings. Waseda receives the highest number of applications in Japan every year. Several alumni have become Japanese prime ministers, CEOs, and influential artists.
16. Hiroshima University
- Total Number of Students : 15040
- Total Number of International Students : 1643
- Percentage of International Students : 10.9 %
- QS Rankings : # 343 in the World
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 801 in the World
- US News Rankings : # 635 in the World
- Hiroshima University Page
Situated in western Japan, Hiroshima University was founded due to the amalgamation of several institutions. Since then, the university has continued to flourish by improving its educational system, developing new programs, and collaborating with other universities, to name a few. And today, it has positioned itself as one of the most prominent universities in Japan and has also been considered one of the best globally.
17. University of Aizu
- Total Number of Students : 1197
- Total Number of International Students : 84
- Percentage of International Students : 7.0 %
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 601 in the World
- University of Aizu Page
The University of Aizu is one of the most recognized universities in Japan and is continuously gaining popularity because it offers great computer science programs. It is ranked among the top 500 universities by Times Higher Education, which distinguishes its programs from other similar institutions. Even though, compared to other universities, it can be considered a new institution founded in 1993, the achievements that it has earned make it a great university option for all interested students.
18. Tokyo Medical and Dental University
- Total Number of Students : 1380
- QS Rankings : # 392 in the World
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 501 in the World
- US News Rankings : # 833 in the World
- Tokyo Medical and Dental University Page
Tokyo Medical and Dental University is one of the most prominent universities in Japan when it comes to medicine and dentistry. The university has valuable partnerships with hospitals and corporations, allowing students to gain sufficient exposure in the actual field. It highly supports research and innovation as it continues to do wonders in the global healthcare industry.
19. Kyoto Sangyo University
- Total Number of Students : 13729
- Total Number of International Students : 198
- Percentage of International Students : 1.4 %
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 1201 in the World
- Kyoto Sangyo University Page
Kyoto Sangyo University was founded in 1965 and is located in Kyoto, Japan. It offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral programs. Over 10 faculties for undergraduate-level education and 8 divisions for graduate-level education are present. Additionally, well-equipped facilities are home to different extracurricular clubs and societies for students. These extracurricular clubs and facilities include academics, interests, and sports.
20. Kansai Medical University
- Total Number of Students : 709
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 601 in the World
- Kansai Medical University Page
Kansai Medical University is one of the leading institutions in Japan in terms of medical education. The university has various partner institutions and university hospitals that allow students to widen their perspectives in the medical field. Due to the high demand for healthcare workers, the university is focused on giving students sufficient experience beyond textbooks.
21. Tokyo Metropolitan University
- Total Number of Students : 8538
- QS Rankings : # 701 in the World
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 601 in the World
- US News Rankings : # 663 in the World
- Tokyo Metropolitan University Page
Tokyo Metropolitan University takes pride in its active participation in numerous inter-faculty exchanges and research and development activities between industries and academia. The university deeply aims to heighten the level of research education on campus as it strives to widen its international scope in the coming years. Tokyo Metropolitan University has high hopes for its goal of providing an education that solves significant issues in metropolitan areas.
22. Chiba University
- Total Number of Students : 13711
- Total Number of International Students : 1401
- Percentage of International Students : 10.2 %
- QS Rankings : # 490 in the World
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 1001 in the World
- US News Rankings : # 813 in the World
- Chiba University Page
Chiba University is a public institution determined to train students who will meet the needs of society while sharing their knowledge and innovating in their fields. It offers a wide variety of degree programs at its over 20 schools and faculties. This includes multiple master’s degree programs that are fully taught in English and have been adapted to international students. Chiba University also has a very active student body with almost 200 student organizations, multiple committees, and activities, like the language exchange tutoring initiative.
23. University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan
- Total Number of Students : 1164
- Total Number of International Students : 20
- Percentage of International Students : 1.7 %
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 401 in the World
- US News Rankings : # 1035 in the World
- University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan Page
The University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan is a medical institution in Kitakyushu. The main aim of this institution is to educate the next generation of doctors and nurses so that the medical field in Japan will be in good hands. The programs that are offered are mostly post-graduate programs, such as nursing and medicine. The top achievement for this institution is that it is among the top 401 universities in the world based on the Times Higher Education.
24. Okayama University
- Total Number of Students : 13012
- Total Number of International Students : 760
- Percentage of International Students : 5.8 %
- QS Rankings : # 581 in the World
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 1001 in the World
- US News Rankings : # 668 in the World
- Okayama University Page
Okayama University is an exceptional university known for providing internationally recognized educational programs. Such programs include agriculture, science, education, and engineering. In addition, its tuition rates are relatively low, and it offers several scholarships for qualified students. The institute is also known for having a vibrant community and welcomes students from across the globe regardless of background.
25. Niigata University
- Total Number of Students : 12112
- Total Number of International Students : 659
- Percentage of International Students : 5.4 %
- QS Rankings : # 561 in the World
- Times Higher Education Rankings : # 801 in the World
- US News Rankings : # 988 in the World
- Niigata University Page
Niigata University came to life after the merger of different Niigata higher education institutions with the objective of offering a multidisciplinary education that combines research, local development, and innovation. It is divided into 10 faculties and 5 graduate schools that welcome international students in its dozens of Japanese and English-taught programs. Students are also invited to collaborate on projects developed by the network of institutes specializing in areas like ecological sustainability and brain research.
We know that choosing your dream school in Japan not an easy task. After all, you need to consider other factors like the cost of your education, school background, and population, as it can be overwhelming on your part.
So, to help you out further in weighing your school options for studying in Japan, make sure to visit our list of the best public and private universities in Japan! These articles will surely help you in deciding your next study destination!
FAQs
Are Japanese universities good for international students? ›
Japan has a high-quality of education
All Japanese universities are regulated by the Ministry of Education Science and Technology (MEXT) and therefore degrees from Japanese universities are recognized internationally. By choosing to study at a university in Japan, you can be assured of an excellent education.
The ranking is led by Tohoku University for the third consecutive year, while the University of Tokyo rises one place to second and Osaka University rises two places to third.
What is the hardest Japanese university to get into? ›Kyoto University, also know as Kyodai, is Japan's most prestigious university in the Kansai region and is famous for being extremely difficult to get into.
How much GPA do you need to study in Japan? ›minimum GPA of 3.75 out of 5.0.
Which university accepts most international students? ›| School | Location | International |
|---|---|---|
| University of Rochester | Rochester, NY | 25% |
| New York University | New York, NY | 24% |
| Boston University | Boston, MA | 22% |
| Carnegie Mellon University | Pittsburgh, PA | 22% |
U.S. students may apply directly to Japanese undergraduate universities and colleges. These two- or four-year programs are immersive, with students directly incorporated into the Japanese higher education system. In addition, students will receive a certificate or degree from the university.
Is it hard to get accepted into a Japanese university? ›Japan is home to hundreds of university, both private and public. It also has one of the strictest education systems in the world. For that reason, getting into a Japanese university can be very competitive. In fact, students who want to study in Japan will have to take numerous tests in order to get admission.
What is the disadvantage of studying in Japan? ›Language barrier:
If you're not a native speaker, it can really be a hindrance in the day to day living. Even people who have spent years studying Japanese, have a hard time talking to the locals. So, in spite of your fluency, Japanese people might disregard you because you look different.
In the US, "in-state" students generally pay at least $10,000 a year on tuition, and "out of state" and international students pay several times more. Tuition fees at Japanese public universities are 535,800 yen, or $6,500.
How much does it cost to study in Japan for international students? ›| National | Private (excludes medical, dental, and pharmaceutical programs) | |
|---|---|---|
| Graduate School | Approx. 820,000 yen | Approx. 1,000,000 yen |
| University (Undergraduate) | Approx. 820,000 yen | Approx. 1,100,000 yen |
| Junior College | Approx. 960,000 yen |
Are universities in Japan free for international students? ›
Fees for international students are fairly low and there are a number of scholarships that students can apply to for financial assistance. For example, fees at the high ranking University of Tokyo start at 485,900 yen (£3,520) for undergraduates. There is also a 248,500 yen (£1,800) admission fee.
Can American students go to college in Japan? ›U.S. students may apply directly to Japanese undergraduate universities and colleges. These two- or four-year programs are immersive, with students directly incorporated into the Japanese higher education system. In addition, students will receive a certificate or degree from the university.