Why go to study in Japan at all?
The reasons can be very different: someone dreams of learning Japanese, someone wants to delve into research, obtain a degree, or just enjoy the culture of this amazing country. But be prepared: the purpose of your learning determines everything from the choice of institution to the course duration.
Educational courses: what, why and why
So, imagine that you have decided to enroll, but it turns out that for this you need:
- Know Japanese,
- Understand local cultural backgrounds,
- Be able to pass local exams.
Where to learn all this? At the preparatory courses! These courses are organized at universities and are called by the cute word "becca". You usually need to study there for a year - during this time you get the base to continue entering a university or college.
Another option is specialized schools, where they teach not only the language, but also subjects that may be useful for admission. Programs can be long (up to two years) and short (from a couple of weeks). A great choice if you need to improve your language and get used to the Japanese rhythm of life at the same time!
"Oh no, I only have ten grades. What should I do?"
If you have 10 or 11 grades of education, then you will not be able to immediately enter a Japanese university: you will first have to take preparatory courses or complete your studies so that the general education is 12 years. In addition, applicants must:
- Take at least six months of Japanese courses,
- Pass the Japanese level exam (JLPT level 1 or 2) OR
- Successfully write a special test for international students.
Where and how to take exams?
This is where the most interesting begins. Exams can be taken both at home and in Japan. There are three options:
- You learn Japanese at home and come only for the exam (the visa is short, but everything is fast).
- You take the exam abroad, if the university allows it. For example, some accept the results of the "Nihon Ryugaku Shiken" (special exam).
- Study in Japan – language, culture, preparation, everything is in place. This option is chosen by most students.
What is "Nihon Ryugaku Shiken"? In short, this is the main exam for foreign students, without it almost nowhere is impossible to enter. It is taken twice a year - in June and November. Preparation depends on where you are going to take it: in Japan or abroad.
Submission of documents: don't forget anything!
To be admitted to the entrance exams, you need to fill out an application ("ganse") and collect a package of other documents. It is better to check which ones at the university itself, but usually these are:
- Application form;
- Diplomas, certificates, translations;
- Of course, exam fees.
How are the entrance exams held?
These may include:
- Verification of documents (this, of course, is mandatory),
- Interview
- Exams in subjects,
- Essay
- Demonstration of skills.
Most often, universities combine several types of tests.
Where to go for help?
If you feel that you are ready, but your head is spinning from all these requirements, then you can contact the Japanese Ministry of Education or the JASSO International Student Support Service.
Studying in Japan is difficult, but very interesting! The main thing is not to be afraid of bureaucracy, clarify everything in advance and prepare carefully, and then you can enjoy life in the Land of the Rising Sun, mastering new knowledge and opportunities.
