Study in Japan: Think Big, Study in Japan

Why Study in Japan? A Practical Guide for 2025

Japan continues to be a top destination for international students, including many from Nepal. With a blend of tradition and modernity, world-class education, advanced technology, and a rich cultural experience, Japan offers far more than just academic knowledge. However, deciding to study in Japan is not for everyone. It is a decision that requires careful consideration of several key factors: interest, eligibility, affordability, and long-term goals.

Is Studying in Japan Right for You?

While Japan offers tremendous opportunities, it’s essential to reflect on your motivations and preparedness before making a decision. A few important questions to consider:

• Are you genuinely interested in Japanese culture, language, and lifestyle?

• Can you financially sustain your education and living expenses in Japan?

• Are you eligible based on academic qualifications and visa requirements?

One cannot separate studying in Japan from the Japanese language. Regardless of your location or institution in Japan, having a solid foundation in Japanese is crucial for academic, social, and career success.

The Japanese Education System

Japan is home to approximately 780 universities, many of which are globally recognized. In the QS World University Rankings 2025, institutions like the University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, and Tohoku University rank among the best in Asia.

After learning the language, students commonly choose between two academic paths:

• Vocational Schools (Senmon Gakko): Skill-focused programs aimed at direct employment.

• Universities: Offering bachelor's, master’s, and doctoral programs with a focus on research and academic development.

  Japanese Language: The Foundation of Your Journey

  If Japan is your goal, begin with learning the language. Most students spend 15 to 24 months in Japanese Language Schools (JLS) to gain the proficiency needed for higher studies or job placements. Alight Group helps you start learning Japanese from the beginning of your application process.

  Having strong Japanese language skills not only improves academic performance but also opens doors to internships, part-time jobs, and full-time career opportunities after graduation.

  Post-Study Work Opportunities in Japan

  Japan allows international students to work part-time during studies (28 hours/week) and full-time during holidays. Graduates can also apply for work visas, especially if they secure jobs in in-demand sectors. The Japanese government is actively encouraging international talent to remain in the country post-graduation.

  Visa and Immigration Basics

• Short-Term Study: Language school students for under 3 months can enter with a tourist visa.

• Long-Term Study: Students enrolled in courses longer than 3 months must apply for a student visa through the Japanese embassy.

• Work Permission: Students must obtain approval titled “Permission to Engage in Activity Other than that Permitted by the Status of Residence Previously Granted” to work part-time legally.

Study in Japan & Our Services

Alight Group’s Comprehensive Japan Services

Before Visa Services:

• Free consultation by appointment

• Parent-Student-Counselor (PSC) sessions

• One-week Japanese language trial classes

• Full-cycle Japanese language instruction

• NAT or JLPT preparation support

• Admission and documentation guidance

• Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) assistance

• Visa application and interview preparation

After Visa Services:

• Cultural and culinary orientation

• Overview of Japanese student life

• Pre-departure briefing

• Resume/CV in Japanese

• Immigration and communication support

Long-Term Consultancy Services:

• Career and further study counseling

• Immigration updates

Standalone Services:

• Nepali/English ↔ Japanese translation

• Interpreting services

• Visa consultation for other categories

Useful Links for Research and Preparation:

• Study in Japan Official

• Embassy of Japan in Nepal

• Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO)

• Japan Study Support (JPSS)

Final Thought

Living and studying in Japan can be life-changing—but only if you’re prepared to commit to its language, culture, and lifestyle. If you’re ready to take this journey, Alight Group is here to walk every step with you.

Contact Us: 
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 WhatsApp: 977 9767983518
🌐 Website: www.alightgroup.org

Japan Student Visa Process

1. Secure Admission & Certificate of Eligibility (CoE)

Admission Offer: Begin by securing admission to a recognized Japanese institution (university, college, or language school).

CoE Application: The institution will apply for your Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) on your behalf to the Japanese Immigration Services Agency. This process typically takes 1 to 3 months.

Validity: Once issued, the CoE is valid for 3 months. You must enter Japan within this period. 

2. Obtain No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Ministry of Education (MOE), Nepal

Purpose: Before transferring tuition fees to the Japanese institution, obtain an NOC from the MOE. This certificate is mandatory for international financial transactions related to education.

Procedure: Submit required documents, including your admission letter and CoE, to the MOE to receive the NOC.

3. Pay Tuition Fees

Payment: After obtaining the NOC, transfer the required tuition and other fees to the Japanese institution as per their invoice.

Confirmation: Ensure you receive a payment confirmation, which may be needed for visa application.

4. Visa Application via VFS Global

Application Center: All student visa applications from Nepal are processed through VFS Global. The Japanese Embassy in Kathmandu does not accept direct applications, except for diplomatic and official visas. Embassy of Japan in Nepal

Appointment: Schedule an appointment through the VFS Global website. Due to high demand, especially between March-April and September-November, it's advisable to book well in advance.

Required Documents:

Original CoE

Valid passport

Completed visa application form

Recent passport-sized photographs

Admission letter from the Japanese institution

Payment confirmation of tuition fees

Any additional documents as specified by VFS Global or the Japanese Embassy.

Processing Time: Visa processing typically takes 6 working days. However, incomplete applications or additional document verification can extend this period. 

5. Permission to Work While Studying

Work Permit: If you intend to work part-time during your studies, apply for the "Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted by the Status of Residence Previously Granted" upon arrival in Japan.

Application: This can be done at the airport upon entry or at the local immigration bureau.

Work Hours: With this permission, students can work up to 28 hours per week during academic terms and up to 8 hours per day during official holidays.

Note: Always ensure that all documents are accurate and complete to avoid delays. It's also recommended to stay updated with any changes in visa policies by regularly checking the official websites of the Japanese Embassy in Nepal and VFS Global.

If you need assistance with any part of this process or have further questions, feel free to reach out!

Study in Japan & Our Services

Before Visa Services:

• Free of Cost information and counseling on appointment
• Parents-Students-Counselor (PSC) Meeting and Briefing
• Free of Cost Japanese Language Classes for a week for your interest test
• Basic Japanese from beginning of application process to the end
• NAT or JLPT Preparation
• Admission Assistance & Guidance
• Preparation of Application for Certificate of Eligibility
• Documentation Guidance
• Documents Translation
• Visa Interview Preparation
• Visa Application Preparation

After Visa Services:

• Food and Drinks Introduction
• Culture and Trends Introduction
• Introduction to Student Life in Japan
• Immigration Updates
• Communication Skill
• Pre Departure Orientation
• CV on Japanese

Long Term Consultancy Services:

• Consultations on Further Study and Immigration Updates
• Career Counseling

Standalone Services:

• Translation of Nepali/English to Japanese
• Translation of Japanese into English/Nepali
• Interpreting Services
• Consultancy services for other type of visas

Contact Us:

• Email: [email protected]

• WhatsApp: 9779767983518

• Website: www.alightgroup.org

Understanding the Japanese Education System: A Guide for International Students. 

Japan is not only renowned for its technological innovations, rich cultural heritage, and economic success—but also for its disciplined, high-quality, and well-structured education system. Over the past decades, Japan has emerged as a top study destination for international students, offering a diverse range of programs from language studies to doctoral research.

If you’re planning to study in Japan, understanding how its education system works is essential to making informed decisions about your academic path. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Japan’s education system with special emphasis on international student opportunities.

Structure of the Japanese Education System

The Japanese education system is divided into the following levels:

Elementary School (6 years)

Junior High School (3 years)

Senior High School (3 years)

Higher Education:

Universities (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral)

Junior Colleges

Colleges of Technology

Vocational Schools (Senmon Gakkō)

Japanese Language Schools (JLS)

For international students, the focus is primarily on Japanese Language Schools, Vocational Schools, and Universities.

🏫 Japanese Language Schools (JLS)

Most international students begin their academic journey in Japan with a Japanese Language School—especially if they plan to pursue further education or employment.

Duration: 15 to 24 months

Purpose: Prepare for language proficiency tests such as JLPT or NAT, and meet language entry requirements for universities or vocational schools.

Entry: Requires at least 12 years of formal education and a basic level of Japanese or English.

Learning the Japanese language is a gateway to academic success and everyday life in Japan.

🧑‍🏫 Vocational Schools (Senmon Gakkō)

Vocational schools are ideal for students who want career-focused, hands-on training in industries such as IT, healthcare, business, design, hospitality, and more.

Duration: Typically 2 years

Language: Classes are usually conducted in Japanese

Outcome: Graduates receive a Diploma or Advanced Diploma, which may lead to employment or further university study.

These institutions are highly popular among international students due to their practical orientation and high employability rates.

🎓 Universities in Japan

Japan has over 780 universities, including both public and private institutions. Some of the most prestigious include:

University of Tokyo

Kyoto University

Osaka University

Tohoku University

Waseda University

Degree Levels:

Bachelor’s (Gakushi) – 4 years

Master’s (Shushi) – 2 years

Doctorate (Hakase) – 3+ years

Many universities now offer programs in English, especially at the graduate level, making Japan more accessible to non-Japanese speakers.

🧾 Admission Process for International Students

The admission process varies by institution, but generally includes:

Application Form

Academic Transcripts

Proof of Japanese or English Language Proficiency

Personal Statement or Study Plan

Entrance Exams or Interviews (in some cases)

Certificate of Eligibility (for visa)

💸 Tuition Fees and Scholarships

Tuition Costs:

Language Schools: ¥600,000 – ¥900,000 per year

Vocational Schools: ¥700,000 – ¥1,200,000 per year

Universities:

National: ¥535,800/year (standard)

Private: ¥800,000 – ¥2,000,000/year depending on program

Living and studying in Japan can be life-changing—but only if you’re prepared to commit to its language, culture, and lifestyle. If you’re ready to take this journey, Alight Group is here to walk every step with you.

Contact Us: 
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 WhatsApp: 977 9767983518
🌐 Website: www.alightgroup.org