9 best language schools in Tokyo 2025

• International rankings: the universities in Tokyo occupy high places in the lists of the best universities in the world. For example, THE (Times Higher Education) included two universities in the top 100: Kyoto University ranks 36th, and the University of Tokyo - 65. The QS ranking puts as many as five Japanese universities in its list of the best hundred universities: the University of Tokyo (22), Kyoto University (33), Tokyo Institute of Technology (58), Osaka University (71) and Tohoku University (82).
• Tokyo culture is one of the main reasons why foreign students choose language schools and universities. There are more than 20 UNESCO World Heritage Sites here: Himeji Castle, Mount Fujiyama, which is considered a symbol of Japan, Itsukushima Shrine and many others. Japanese cuisine, hot springs, cherry blossoms and festive festivals — students from all over the world come here to plunge into the culture of the Land of the Rising Sun.
• English-language programs. In order to study in Tokyo, it is not necessary to learn Japanese at all. More than 800 bachelor's, Master's and doctoral degree programs are taught entirely in English. Moreover, during their studies, students can additionally study Japanese and, with a little effort, have a sufficient level of language for free communication by the end of their studies.
• Center of Science and Technology: Japanese scientists have made a huge contribution to the development of the automotive industry, optics, robotics and electronics. It is also home to more than 50 of the world's largest companies (Global 500), many of which are recognized leaders in their field. This opens up unique opportunities for students to study, internships and subsequent employment.

The average cost of one language course in Tokyo is 1,000 US dollars. The variations in price are stipulated by the school ranking, educational course, intensity of studying, extracurricular program. Usually, tuition fee in the best language schools in Tokyo includes the following components:

• Studying (20 Japanese lessons per week);
• Family accommodation (1-2 people per room);
• Half board meals;
• Educational materials;
• Testing on arrival, certificate of completion of the course;
• Cultural and entertainment program: sports, discos, quizzes;
• Transfer from and to Osaka Airport.

It is advisable to plan admission six months or a year before the start of classes. In Tokyo, visa processing is a rather long process. Firstly, the foreign students need to decide on the city and the school. Then choose the course and its duration. The type of visa and further admission directly depends on this.

To study for less than 3 months, the students need to get a short-term visa. You pay for your studies, receive an invitation by mail, bring it to the embassy along with other documents. If the chosen course lasts longer than 6 months, then a student visa is required. Also the foreign students will need to provide a certificate of residence status — Certificate of Eligibility (SOE). The application for it and copies of your documents are submitted by the school to the immigration service.

After admission and issuance of the SOE certificate, you need to pay for your studies and pass an entrance test for language knowledge, after which you will be assigned a language level group. After that, you can start preparing documents for obtaining a visa.

It is worth taking care of accommodation in advance. You can choose one of the school options, or book your own accommodation for several months in advance. The foreign students are advised to find out about the refund conditions. Guaranteed expenses will be compensated in case of refusal to issue a SOE certificate or visa. In other cases, the conditions may vary, depending on the school.