Study in Japan for Ukrainians

The Japanese higher education system is one of the best in the world, especially in engineering, IT, science, medicine, and design. It is open to foreigners, including Ukrainians, and offers hundreds of English- and Japanese-language programs.

Structure and features

Education is available at all levels:

• Bachelor's degree (gakushi) — 4 years (except for medicine, pharmacy, and veterinary medicine, which take 6 years)
  
• Master's degree (shūshi) — 2 years
  
• Doctorate (hakase) — 3 years
  
• Language schools or preparatory courses — 6–24 months

The academic year usually begins in April, but international programs often start in September or October. Education can be entirely in Japanese or English, depending on the program. Japan actively supports internationalization, so foreign students are often offered simplified admission requirements, access to scholarships, and dormitories.

The best universities in Japan for foreign students

Every year, Japan attracts thousands of students from all over the world, and it's no surprise: prestigious universities here combine high academic standards, a strong scientific base, and openness to foreigners. Many programs are available in English, and the conditions are comfortable even for those coming to Japan for the first time.

Here are some of the leading universities that are particularly popular among international students:

• University of Tokyo — the flagship of Japanese higher education. Strong areas: natural sciences, engineering, medicine. It has international programs in English and cooperates with many universities around the world.
• Kyoto University — one of the most prestigious and oldest universities in the country. It is known for its in-depth research in chemistry, biology, philosophy, and sociology.
• Waseda University is Japan's most international university. It offers dozens of English-language programs in international relations, law, business, and the humanities. It has a strong network of alumni and partners around the world.
• Keio University is a leading private university with a strong business school, IT focus, and strategic communications programs.
  
• Osaka University is actively developing medicine, IT, and bioengineering. It is known for its technology parks, campuses with modern infrastructure, and openness to innovation.
• Tohoku University — one of the first universities to open its doors to foreign students. Focused on research in engineering, physics, and materials science. English-language programs are constantly expanding.
  
• Tokyo University of Foreign Studies — the perfect place for those interested in languages, culture, translation, and international communication.

By the way, many foreigners start their journey in Japan at a language school, either at a university or a private one. This allows them to improve their Japanese, adapt to the local teaching style, and enter their dream university with more confidence.

Admission requirements for Ukrainians

Requirements depend on the language of instruction and the level of the program:

For a bachelor's degree (in Japanese):

• High school diploma;
  
• Japanese language proficiency of at least JLPT N2;
  
• EJU exam (in Japanese, mathematics, science, or social studies).

For a bachelor's degree (in English):

• High school diploma or diploma;
  
• TOEFL iBT (70) or IELTS (6.0) scores;
  
• Letter of recommendation, motivation letter, sometimes an online interview or the university's own test.

For master's/PhD programs:

Bachelor's or master's degree;

Research proposal;

Teacher recommendations;

Language proficiency (English or Japanese);

In some cases — a letter from a potential academic supervisor.

Study, accommodation, and daily living costs

Studying in Japan requires careful financial planning. At public universities, the annual tuition fee is approximately 535,800 yen (≈ 3,200 euros), while at private universities it ranges from 800,000 to 2,000,000 yen (≈ 5,000–12,500 euros). There is an additional admission fee of approximately 200,000 yen (≈ 1,200 euros), which is non-refundable.

As for accommodation, students can choose between dormitories or renting a private apartment. Dormitories cost an average of 20,000–50,000 yen per month (≈ 120–310 euros), and renting an apartment costs 50,000–90,000 yen (≈ 300–550 euros). Food usually costs around 25,000 yen per month, with an additional 100–200 euros for transportation, mobile phone, and everyday expenses.

In general, the student budget in Japan is approximately €700–1,000 per month, depending on the city, lifestyle, and type of accommodation.

Scholarships for Ukrainians

Ukrainian students can apply for:

• MEXT Scholarship — full state funding (tuition, flight, scholarship ≈ 117,000 yen/month);
  
• JASSO — ≈ 48,000 yen/month during the first year;
• University grants — discounts on tuition fees, priority for students with high grades;
  
• Private foundations (e.g., Honjo, Rotary, Mitsubishi) — partial funding for master's and PhD students.

To receive scholarships, it is important to have a high grade point average, a well-written motivation letter, and language skills.

Student housing: where foreigners live

Most foreign students spend their first year living in university dormitories or private residences. The advantages of dormitories are low prices, convenient locations, and the opportunity to adapt and communicate with other students.

After the first year, many move to a separate rented apartment (1K or studio), especially if they want more space and independence. Some choose a share house — accommodation with a separate room and a shared kitchen and bathroom, which is cheaper than a full apartment.

Permission to work part-time: what you need to know

Foreign students in Japan can officially work, but only if they have a special work permit (資格外活動許可 — Shikakugai katsudō kyoka). This permit can be obtained immediately upon arrival at the airport (if you check the appropriate box on the entry form) or at any immigration office after settling in.

This permit is linked to the validity period of your student visa and, as a rule, does not need to be renewed. It allows you to work without changing your visa type, but within the limits set by law.

Restrictions on working hours

The law allows students to:

• Work up to 28 hours per week during the semester;
  
• Up to 40 hours per week during official holidays (e.g., summer or winter).

These limits are mandatory for everyone. Exceeding them even by a few hours can result in administrative liability, including visa cancellation. It is also not permitted to work in adult industries, even if not directly related to entertainment (e.g., as a cleaner or kitchen assistant).

Where students usually work

Ukrainian students most often choose simple and stable jobs that do not require perfect knowledge of the language. Popular options:

• Convenience stores — 24-hour shops, paying around 1,000–1,200 yen per hour;
• Cafes and restaurants — you can work as a waiter, in the kitchen or at the cash register;
  
• Tutoring — teaching English or Ukrainian to schoolchildren or adults, often remotely;
  
• Campus jobs — library, administrative assistance, research projects;
• Manual labor — in warehouses, delivery services, cleaning.

On average, students earn between 60,000 and 100,000 yen per month (≈ 370–620 euros), which is usually enough to cover housing, food, and transportation costs.

How to find a job as a student

You can search for vacancies both online and offline. The most convenient options are:

• Platforms for foreigners: GaijinPot Jobs, Hello Work, Baitoru;
  
• Bulletin boards on the university campus;
  
• Telegram and Facebook groups for foreign students;
  
• Recommendations from friends or acquaintances.

There are more opportunities in Tokyo, Osaka, and other large cities, but competition is also higher. It is more difficult to find work in smaller cities, but living costs are often lower.

How to combine work and study

Most Japanese universities are loyal to students who work part-time, but require that their studies remain a priority. If a student begins to miss classes or their academic performance deteriorates, the university may restrict or prohibit part-time work.

This is especially true for students who receive government or university scholarships — in such cases, violating the work regime may result in the loss of funding.

Do you need to pay taxes?

In most cases, no. If a student's annual income does not exceed 1,030,000 yen, they are not subject to taxation. However, if this amount is exceeded, you must file a tax return and pay the appropriate fees.

Even if no tax is levied, it is advisable to keep all documents relating to employment, contracts, and payment receipts. If necessary, you can contact the university's counseling center, where they will help you complete your tax documents or provide advice.

Studying in Japan is not only about getting a diploma, but also a real chance to build a career in this country. The Japanese immigration system is quite flexible towards graduates of local educational institutions, and employers are interested in foreign specialists who have already adapted to the language and culture. It is important to know in advance what opportunities are available after graduation so that you have enough time to get everything in order.

Opportunity to stay and look for work

After receiving their diploma, students can stay in Japan for another 6 or 12 months to look for official employment. To do this, you need to change your visa status to “Designated Activities” (特定活動ビザ) — this is a special temporary residence permit for graduates.

To apply, you will need:

• a letter of recommendation from the university;
  
• an employment plan or a letter of motivation;

proof of financial means to support yourself (approximately €1,000 in your bank account);

a valid Residence Card.

This status allows you to legally stay in the country, look for work, and even work part-time. However, you can only apply for it once and only after completing your studies — don't miss this opportunity.

Obtaining a work visa after employment

If a graduate finds a company that is willing to officially employ them, they can switch to a work visa. The most common type is “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services”, which covers IT, marketing, translation, finance, education, and tourism.

Requirements for transition:

• a diploma from a Japanese university or college;
  
• a contract with a company (with a stable salary of at least 200,000 yen/month);
  
• a match between your education and the position (for example, you cannot work as an engineer without a technical education);
• submission of documents to the immigration service to change status.

It takes 2 to 6 weeks to obtain a work visa. After receiving it, a person fully enters the status of a resident with the right to work, extend a visa, apply for a loan, or invite relatives.

Is it possible to continue studying?

If, after completing a bachelor's or master's degree, a student wants to continue their studies, for example, to enter a postgraduate program, they do not need to leave the country. It is enough to submit documents to a new educational institution and, after enrollment, continue the “College Student” status.

Similarly, after completing a language school, you can enroll in a university or college by reapplying for a student visa for a new term. It is important not to miss the expiration date of your previous visa, otherwise you will have to leave Japan and return with a new visa.

Other options for staying in Japan

After graduation, there are alternative ways to legally stay in the country. The most common are:

• Starting your own business — Starting in 2023, Japan will offer a Startup Visa. It is valid for one year and allows you to start a business with the support of the municipality.
• Marriage to a Japanese citizen or permanent resident — apply for a “Spouse of Japanese National” visa.
  
• Researcher, artist, or cultural activities visa — if you have grants or invitations from institutions.
  
• Internship or practical training programs — for technical specialties, agriculture, or the hotel and restaurant business.