Private Universities in Japan

Check out the list of Private Universities in Japan with Global and Country Ranking....

Standyou Team
Standyou Team

Feb 21, 2024 12:28:33

List of Top Private Universities in Japan for Indian Students

Prominent Private Universities in Japan

  1. Keio University

    • QS World Ranking: Often ranks in the top 200 globally.

    • Fees: Approximately 1,000,000 JPY to 1,500,000 JPY per year for undergraduate programs.

    • Intake: April and September.

    • Offered Programs: A wide range of programs in English across faculties including Economics, Business and Commerce, and Politics.

  2. Waseda University

    • QS World Ranking: Frequently found in the top 200 globally.

    • Fees: About 1,300,000 JPY to 1,500,000 JPY per year for undergraduate programs.

    • Intake: April and September.

    • Offered Programs: Offers English-taught programs in International Liberal Studies, Social Sciences, Science and Engineering, and more.

  3. Sophia University

    • QS World Ranking: Often ranks within the top 800-1000 globally.

    • Fees: Roughly 1,200,000 JPY to 1,400,000 JPY per year for undergraduate programs.

    • Intake: April and September.

    • Offered Programs: Known for its programs in Liberal Arts, Global Studies, and Science and Technology in English.

  4. Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU)

    • QS World Ranking: Not consistently ranked but highly regarded for its international environment.

    • Fees: Around 1,400,000 JPY per year for undergraduate programs.

    • Intake: April and September.

    • Offered Programs: Specializes in Asia Pacific Studies and International Management taught in English.

  5. International Christian University (ICU)

    • QS World Ranking: Not consistently ranked in QS but recognized for its liberal arts education.

    • Fees: Approximately 1,500,000 JPY per year for undergraduate programs.

    • Intake: April and September.

    • Offered Programs: Offers a Liberal Arts education with various majors available in English.

  6. Doshisha University

    • QS World Ranking: Often ranks within the top 400-500 globally.

    • Fees: About 1,200,000 JPY to 1,400,000 JPY per year for undergraduate programs.

    • Intake: April and September.

    • Offered Programs: Known for its programs in Global Communications, Business, and Liberal Arts.

  7. Meiji University

    • QS World Ranking: Frequently found in the top 800-1000 globally.

    • Fees: Roughly 1,000,000 JPY to 1,500,000 JPY per year for undergraduate programs.

    • Intake: April and September.

    • Offered Programs: Offers a variety of programs including Political Science and Economics, and Global Japanese Studies.

Important Notes:

  • QS World Rankings: The rankings are subject to annual changes. Always check the current year's rankings for the most accurate information.

  • Fees: Listed fees are approximate and for undergraduate programs; graduate programs may have different fees. Additional costs may include entrance fees, facility fees, and living expenses.

  • Intake Periods: While April and September are common intake periods, some programs may have additional or different start times.

  • Programs Offered: Universities offer a broad range of programs; those listed here are examples of English-taught programs that might be of interest to international students.

Public Universities in Japan

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Public Universities in Tokyo

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Japanese Language Courses and Universities in Tokyo

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Bachelor Courses in Tokyo

Master Courses in Japan

Master Courses in Tokyo

PhD in Japan

PhD in Tokyo

Bachelor in Fashion Design in Japan

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Bachelor in Automobile Engineering in Japan


Private Universities in Japan for International Students

1. Waseda University

  • Location: Tokyo

  • QS World Ranking: Frequently ranks within the top 200 globally.

  • Programs Offered: Wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in English across fields, including Engineering, Social Sciences, and International Relations.

  • Fees: Approximately 1,000,000 JPY to 1,500,000 JPY per year for undergraduate programs.

  • Intake: April and September

2. Keio University

  • Location: Tokyo

  • QS World Ranking: Often ranks within the top 200 globally.

  • Programs Offered: Offers a variety of programs in English, including Economics, Business, and Health Sciences.

  • Fees: About 1,000,000 JPY to 1,500,000 JPY per year for undergraduate courses.

  • Intake: April and September

3. Sophia University

  • Location: Tokyo

  • QS World Ranking: Typically ranks in the top 300-400 globally.

  • Programs Offered: Known for its Faculty of Liberal Arts, Science and Technology, and Global Studies programs offered in English.

  • Fees: Roughly 1,200,000 JPY per year for undergraduate programs.

  • Intake: April and September for most programs

4. Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU)

  • Location: Beppu, Oita Prefecture

  • QS World Ranking: Not typically ranked globally but highly regarded in Japan for its international environment.

  • Programs Offered: Undergraduate and graduate programs in Asia Pacific Studies and International Management, taught entirely in English.

  • Fees: Around 1,400,000 JPY per year for undergraduate courses.

  • Intake: April and September

5. International Christian University (ICU)

  • Location: Tokyo

  • QS World Ranking: Not typically featured in global rankings but is well-respected in Japan and known for its liberal arts education.

  • Programs Offered: Offers a liberal arts education with courses available in English.

  • Fees: Approximately 1,500,000 JPY per year for undergraduate programs.

  • Intake: April, with some programs offering September intake.

6. Meiji University

  • Location: Tokyo

  • QS World Ranking: Often ranks within the top 800 globally.

  • Programs Offered: A range of programs in English in fields such as Governance, Global Japanese Studies, and Business.

  • Fees: About 1,000,000 JPY to 1,200,000 JPY per year for undergraduate programs.

  • Intake: April and September for certain programs

7. Doshisha University

  • Location: Kyoto

  • QS World Ranking: Frequently found within the top 400-500 globally.

  • Programs Offered: Offers courses in English in Liberal Arts, Business, and Science and Engineering.

  • Fees: Roughly 1,300,000 JPY per year for undergraduate courses.

  • Intake: April and September

General Information for International Students:

  • Language Proficiency: Non-native English speakers may need to provide TOEFL or IELTS scores, even for programs taught in English. Japanese language proficiency, as measured by the JLPT, is beneficial for daily life and certain programs.

  • Application Process: Generally involves submitting academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and sometimes a CV or standardized test scores. Specific requirements vary by program and university.

  • Scholarships: Many universities offer scholarships for international students, which can significantly reduce tuition fees. These may require separate applications.

Engineering Courses and Universities in Japan

Engineering Courses and Universities in Tokyo

Economics Courses and Universities in Japan

Benefits of Studying in Japan

Music and Dance Courses and Colleges in Japan

Business Management and Finance Courses in Japan

Business Management and Finance Courses in Tokyo

Medical Courses and Universities in Japan

Medical Courses and Universities in Tokyo

Fashion Designing Courses and Universities in Japan

Cheap and Affordable Universities in Japan

Cost of Studying in Japan for Indian Students

English taught Universities and Courses in Japan

Bachelor in Aeronautical Engineering in Japan

Bachelor in Civil Engineering in Japan

BSc Nursing Course in Japan


Cheap Private Universities in Japan

1. Asia Pacific University (APU)

  • Location: Beppu, Oita Prefecture

  • Overview: APU is known for its multicultural environment and programs in International Management and Asia Pacific Studies. The university offers a range of scholarships that can cover a significant portion of tuition fees.

  • Tuition Fees: Around 1,400,000 JPY per year for undergraduate programs, with scholarships available that can reduce this amount.

2. Ritsumeikan University

  • Location: Kyoto

  • Overview: Offers a variety of programs, including international relations, policy science, and information technology. It provides several scholarships for international students, including tuition reduction scholarships.

  • Tuition Fees: Approximately 1,400,000 JPY to 1,600,000 JPY per year for undergraduate programs, with potential for scholarships.

3. Sophia University

  • Location: Tokyo

  • Overview: Known for its liberal arts programs, Sophia University offers courses in English in areas such as international business and economics, and social studies. The university has scholarships that offer tuition reduction for international students.

  • Tuition Fees: Roughly 1,200,000 JPY per year for undergraduate programs, with scholarship opportunities for tuition reduction.

4. Tokyo Christian University

  • Location: Tokyo

  • Overview: While smaller and more specialized, Tokyo Christian University offers a supportive environment for students interested in theology, liberal arts, and intercultural communication. It's one of the more affordable private options.

  • Tuition Fees: Estimated annual tuition fees are lower than the average for private universities, but exact figures should be confirmed directly with the institution.

5. Tokyo International University (TIU)

  • Location: Kawagoe, Saitama

  • Overview: TIU offers English-taught programs in business economics and international relations. The university is committed to internationalization and offers several scholarship options for international students.

  • Tuition Fees: About 1,100,000 JPY per year for undergraduate programs, with scholarships available for tuition reduction.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

The key to making private university education more affordable in Japan often lies in the various scholarships and financial aid options available to international students. These can include:

  • Tuition Reduction Scholarships: Many universities offer scholarships that reduce tuition fees by 30%, 50%, or even 100% in some cases.

  • JASSO Scholarships: The Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) offers scholarships for international students studying in Japan.

  • Government Scholarships: The Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT) offers scholarships that cover tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes include a return air ticket.

Law Universities and Courses in Japan for International Students

Art Colleges and Courses in Japan

Art Universities and Courses in Tokyo

English taught Universities and Courses in Tokyo

IT & Computer Science Courses in Japan

IT & Computer Science Courses in Tokyo

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Interior Design Colleges and Courses in Japan

Masters in AI & Data Science Course in Japan

Bachelor in AI & Data Science Course in Japan

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Japan Study Visa for Indian Students

Bachelor Programs in English in Japan

Master Programs in English in Japan


Eligibility to get admission to Private Universities in Japan

Academic Qualifications

  1. For Undergraduate Programs:

    • Completion of 12 years of school education or the equivalent in your home country.

    • Some universities may accept applications from students who have completed 11 years of education, depending on the country, but additional preparatory education in Japan might be required.

  2. For Graduate Programs:

    • A bachelor's degree or equivalent for master's programs.

    • A master's degree or equivalent for doctoral programs.

    • The degrees should be in a relevant field of study, depending on the specific requirements of the program.

Language Proficiency

  1. Japanese-Taught Programs:

    • Proficiency in Japanese is usually required, often demonstrated through the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), with most programs requiring a minimum of N2 or N1 level.

  2. English-Taught Programs:

    • For programs offered in English, proof of English proficiency is required, typically through TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent tests. The required scores can vary by program.

Entrance Examinations

  • Many private universities in Japan conduct their own entrance examinations, which may include tests of academic ability, language proficiency, and interviews.

  • For some English-taught programs, standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT may be required or considered in lieu of the university's own exams.

Application Documents

Commonly required documents for application include:

  • Academic transcripts from high school (for undergraduate programs) or university (for graduate programs).

  • Graduation certificates or diplomas.

  • Letters of recommendation, typically from teachers, professors, or employers.

  • Statement of purpose or research proposal, especially for graduate programs.

  • Proof of language proficiency (e.g., JLPT, TOEFL, IELTS scores).

  • Passport-size photographs.

  • A valid passport and potentially other identification documents.

Additional Requirements

  • Some programs may have specific prerequisites, such as certain coursework completed or relevant work experience, especially for graduate studies.

  • Art and design programs, and sometimes other specialized fields, may require a portfolio of work.

Aerospace Engineering Courses and Universities in Japan

Agricultural Universities and Courses in Japan

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Psychology Universities and Courses in Japan

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Finance and Accounting Courses in Japan

Graphic Design Courses and Colleges in Japan

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Commerce Universities and Courses in Japan

Chemistry Courses in Japan for Bachelors and Masters Students


Fee Structure of Private Universities in Japan

Tuition Fees

  • Undergraduate Programs: Annual tuition fees at private universities typically range from about 800,000 JPY to 1,500,000 JPY (approximately 5,700 USD to 10,700 USD at current exchange rates). Some specialized programs, particularly those in medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy, can have significantly higher fees.

  • Graduate Programs: Tuition fees for master's and doctoral programs usually fall within the same range as undergraduate programs but can vary based on the field of study. Business and MBA programs, for instance, often have higher tuition fees.

Additional Fees

  • Admission Fee: A one-time fee required upon enrollment. This can range from 200,000 JPY to 300,000 JPY (approximately 1,400 USD to 2,100 USD).

  • Facility and Maintenance Fees: Some universities charge annual fees for the use and maintenance of campus facilities, which can range from 50,000 JPY to 300,000 JPY (approximately 350 USD to 2,100 USD).

  • Material Fees: Courses that require specialized materials or equipment may have additional fees.

Living Expenses

  • Accommodation: Costs can vary greatly depending on the city and type of housing. Students should budget anywhere from 50,000 JPY to 100,000 JPY (approximately 350 USD to 700 USD) per month for rent.

  • Food and Daily Expenses: Approximately 30,000 JPY to 70,000 JPY (about 210 USD to 500 USD) per month.

  • Transportation: Depending on the distance between accommodation and university, students might spend about 5,000 JPY to 10,000 JPY (35 USD to 70 USD) per month on transportation.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

  • Many private universities in Japan offer scholarships and financial aid options to international students, which can significantly reduce the financial burden. These may cover a portion of the tuition fees or, in some cases, provide a monthly stipend.

  • Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarships: Available to international students and can cover tuition fees, living expenses, and provide an allowance.

  • JASSO Scholarships: Offered by the Japan Student Services Organization for qualified international students, providing a monthly stipend.

Diploma Courses and Universities in Japan

Biomedical Courses in Japan for Bachelors and Masters Students

Media and Mass Communication Courses in Japan

Acting Universities and Courses in Japan

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Education System in Japan

Post Study Job Opportunities in Japan for Indian Students

Part-time Job Options in Japan for Indian Students

Affordable Accommodation Facilities in Japan for Indian Students

Life of Indian Students in Japan

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Marketing Courses and Universities in Japan

Cosmetology Courses and Universities in Japan


Admission Process of Private Universities of Japan

1. Research and Select Universities and Programs

  • Start Early: Begin your research at least a year before you plan to start your studies.

  • Selection Criteria: Consider the university’s reputation, the curriculum of the program, language of instruction, location, and available support services for international students.

  • Language of Instruction: Decide whether you want to study in a program taught in Japanese or English. Your choice will affect your language proficiency requirements.

2. Check Eligibility and Requirements

  • Academic Requirements: Most programs require you to have completed 12 years of schooling for undergraduate programs or a relevant bachelor's degree for graduate programs.

  • Language Proficiency:

    • For Japanese-taught programs: Usually, JLPT N1 or N2 certification is required.

    • For English-taught programs: TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent English proficiency test scores are needed.

  • Additional Requirements: Some programs may require specific entrance exams, interviews, portfolios, or letters of recommendation.

3. Prepare and Submit Application Documents

  • Application Form: Fill out the application form provided by the university, which may be available online.

  • Academic Transcripts and Diplomas: Provide official transcripts from your high school or university. Translations may be required if the original documents are not in English or Japanese.

  • Proof of Language Proficiency: Submit your JLPT, TOEFL, IELTS, or other relevant test scores.

  • Letters of Recommendation: Usually required for graduate programs and sometimes for undergraduate admissions.

  • Statement of Purpose or Research Proposal: Especially important for graduate applicants.

  • Application Fee: Be prepared to pay a non-refundable application fee.

4. Take Entrance Examinations (If Required)

  • Some universities conduct their own entrance exams, which can include subject-specific tests, language proficiency tests, and interviews.

5. Apply for Scholarships (Optional but Recommended)

  • Research and apply for scholarships early. Both the Japanese government and private universities offer various scholarships for international students.

6. Receive Admission Decision

  • Universities will notify you of their admission decision by email or post. This process can take several months after the application deadline.

7. Apply for a Student Visa

  • Once accepted, you’ll need to apply for a student visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country. This will require your passport, a Certificate of Eligibility (issued by the Japanese immigration authorities with the help of your university), and proof of financial resources, among other documents.

8. Prepare for Arrival

  • Look into housing options, set up a bank account if necessary, and familiarize yourself with Japanese health insurance and other practical matters.

Tips for a Successful Application

  • Meet Deadlines: Keep track of all relevant deadlines for applications, scholarships, and visa processing.

  • Follow Instructions Carefully: Make sure you understand and follow the application instructions provided by the university.

  • Reach Out for Help: Don’t hesitate to contact the university’s admissions office or international student support services if you have any questions.

Cyber Security Courses and Universities in Japan

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Civil Engineering Courses and Universities in Japan

Study in Japan for Free

Masters in Public Health in Japan

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Masters in Automobile Engineering in Japan

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Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Japan


Scholarship in Private Universities of Japan

Types of Scholarships

  1. University Scholarships:

    • Many private universities in Japan offer their own scholarships to attract talented international students. These can be merit-based, need-based, or a combination of both.

    • Examples include tuition waivers, partial to full scholarships covering tuition fees, and monthly stipends for living expenses.

  2. Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarships:

    • The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT) offers scholarships that are available to international students studying at private universities in Japan.

    • These scholarships cover tuition fees, provide a monthly allowance, and sometimes include airfare to and from Japan.

  3. JASSO Scholarships:

    • The Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) offers scholarships for short-term study in Japan, which can be applied to language courses or other short programs at private universities.

  4. Private and Corporate Scholarships:

    • private foundations, corporations, and nonprofit organizations offer scholarships to international students. These can be specific to certain fields of study, nationalities, or research topics.

    • Examples include the Rotary Yoneyama Memorial Scholarship, the Asia Pacific University (APU) Tuition Reduction Scholarship, and scholarships offered by companies like Toshiba, Toyota, and Panasonic.

Finding Scholarships

  • University Websites: Start your search by checking the official websites of the private universities you are interested in. They typically have a section dedicated to scholarships for international students.

  • MEXT and JASSO: Visit the official websites of MEXT and JASSO for information on government scholarships and application procedures.

  • Embassies and Consulates: The Japanese embassy or consulate in your country can be a valuable resource for scholarship information and other funding opportunities.

  • Educational and Cultural Exchange Organizations: Organizations promoting international education and cultural exchange may offer scholarships or have information on available funding options.

Application Tips

  • Start Early: Begin researching and preparing your scholarship applications well in advance of the deadlines, as the application process can be competitive and time-consuming.

  • Meet All Requirements: Carefully read the eligibility criteria and application instructions for each scholarship. Make sure you meet all the requirements before applying.

  • Prepare Your Documents: Commonly required documents include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose or research proposal, and proof of language proficiency.

  • Highlight Your Achievements: In your application, emphasize your academic achievements, leadership experience, community involvement, and any other strengths that make you a standout candidate.

  • Apply for Multiple Scholarships: Don’t limit yourself to one scholarship. Apply for as many as you are eligible for to increase your chances of receiving funding.

Masters in Psychology in Japan

Masters in Finance in Japan

Masters in Civil Engineering in Japan

Masters in Aeronautical Engineering in Japan

Masters in Electrical Engineering in Japan

Masters in Fashion Design in Japan

Masters in Biotechnology in Japan

Masters in Marketing in Japan

Masters in Physiotherapy in Japan

Masters in International Business in Japan

Masters in Architecture in Japan

Masters in Economics in Japan

Masters in Interior Design in Japan


Intake of Private Universities in Japan

Spring Intake

  • When: The spring intake usually starts in April, which aligns with the beginning of the academic year in Japan.

  • Application Period: For the spring intake, applications are generally accepted from the previous autumn, around September to December. However, the exact timeline can vary, and some programs may have earlier deadlines, especially for international students who require additional time for visa processing.

Autumn Intake

  • When: The autumn intake typically starts in September or October, depending on the university.

  • Application Period: Applications for the autumn intake are usually accepted from late winter to early spring, around February to April. As with the spring intake, deadlines can vary, and international applicants should check specific dates well in advance.

Other Intakes

  • While spring and autumn are the primary intake periods, some programs, especially short courses, language programs, or professional development courses, may offer more flexible start dates or multiple intakes throughout the year.

Application Process for International Students

  • Early Preparation: Start researching programs and their requirements at least a year in advance of your intended start date. This allows ample time for gathering documents, taking language proficiency tests, and preparing for any entrance exams.

  • Understand Visa Timelines: Factor in the time needed to obtain a student visa when planning your application. The visa application process should begin as soon as you receive an offer of admission and can take several weeks to complete.

  • Check Specific Program Deadlines: Always refer to the official university websites for the most accurate and up-to-date admission deadlines and requirements, as these can vary significantly between programs and institutions.

Masters in Accounting in Japan

Masters in Human Resource Management in Japan

Bachelor in Computer Science in Japan

Bachelor in Automotive Engineering in Japan

Bachelor in Artificial Intelligence in Japan

Bachelor Degree in Psychology in Japan

Bachelor Degree in Cyber Security in Japan

Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering in Japan

Bachelor of Robotics Engineering in Japan

Bachelor in Biotechnology in Japan

Bachelor in Data Science in Japan

Bachelor in Hospitality Management in Japan

Bachelor in Interior Design in Japan


QS World Ranking of Private Universities in Japan

1. Keio University

  • QS World Ranking: Keio consistently ranks among the top 200 universities globally. It is renowned for its contributions to research, particularly in the fields of medicine, economics, and business.

2. Waseda University

  • QS World Ranking: Waseda also ranks within the top 200 universities worldwide. It is well-known for its liberal arts education, political science, and engineering programs.

3. Sophia University

  • QS World Ranking: Sophia usually finds a spot in the top 400-500 globally. It's recognized for its foreign language programs, international relations, and law.

4. Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU)

  • QS World Ranking: While APU may not always appear in the global top rankings, it's highly regarded within Japan for its international community and business programs.

5. Doshisha University

  • QS World Ranking: Doshisha is often ranked in the top 400-500 globally and is known for its law, business, and cultural studies programs.