MBBS in Japan

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MBBS ( Medicine )

Course Level: Bachelor's
Course Duration: 6 Years
View courses Apply Now

MBBS ( Medicine )

Course Level: Bachelor's
Course Duration: 6 Years
View courses Apply Now

MBBS ( Medicine )

Course Level: Bachelor's
Course Duration: 6 Years
View courses Apply Now

MBBS ( Medicine )

Course Level: Bachelor's
Course Duration: 6 Years
View courses Apply Now

Kawasaki Medical School

Kawasaki , Japan

MBBS ( Medicine )

Course Level: Bachelor's
Course Duration: 6 Years
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MBBS ( Medicine )

Course Level: Bachelor's
Course Duration: 6 Years
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MBBS ( Medicine )

Course Level: Bachelor's
Course Duration: 6 Years
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Mie University

Tsu , Japan

MBBS ( Surgical Medicine )

Course Level: Bachelor's
Course Duration: 6 Years
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Showa University

Tokyo , Japan

MBBS ( Medicine )

Course Level: Bachelor's
Course Duration: 6 Years
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MBBS ( Medicine )

Course Level: Bachelor's
Course Duration: 6 Years
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Kurume University

Kurume , Japan

MBBS ( Medicine )

Course Level: Bachelor's
Course Duration: 6 Years
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MBBS ( Medicine )

Course Level: Bachelor's
Course Duration: 6 Years
View courses Apply Now

MBBS ( Medicine )

Course Level: Bachelor's
Course Duration: 6 Years
View courses Apply Now

Yamagata University

Yamagata , Japan

MBBS ( Medicine )

Course Level: Bachelor's
Course Duration: 6 Years
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MBBS ( Medicine and Surgery )

Course Level: Bachelor's
Course Duration: 6 Years
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MBBS ( Medicine )

Course Level: Bachelor's
Course Duration: 6 Years
View courses Apply Now

Teikyo University

Tokyo , Japan

MBBS ( Medicine and Surgery )

Course Level: Bachelor's
Course Duration: 6 Years
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Kyorin University

Mitaka , Japan

MBBS ( Medicine )

Course Level: Bachelor's
Course Duration: 6 Years
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Kumamoto University

Kumamoto , Japan

MBBS ( Medicine )

Course Level: Bachelor's
Course Duration: 6 Years
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Kagawa University

Takamatsu , Japan

MBBS ( Medicine )

Course Level: Bachelor's
Course Duration: 6 Years
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Juntendo University

Togane , Japan

MBBS ( Medicine and Surgery )

Course Level: Bachelor's
Course Duration: 6 Years
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MBBS in Japan Program Highlights
 

Feature

Details

Program Name

MBBS / Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (Equivalent to MD in Japan)

Duration

6 years (including 1 year of clinical internship)

Medium of Instruction

Primarily Japanese; some universities offer bilingual or English-medium programs

Eligibility Criteria

12 years of education with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology; NEET qualification (for Indian students); Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT N1/N2) often required

Entrance Exams

EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students), university-specific tests, and interviews

Tuition Fees

Approx. USD 5,000–15,000 per year (varies by university)

Top Universities

University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, Osaka University, Tohoku University, Kyushu University

Internship & Clinical Training

Conducted in affiliated hospitals under supervision; emphasis on practical skills

Degree Recognition

Globally recognized; graduates can apply for licensing exams in other countries (subject to local regulations)

Living Expenses

Around USD 800–1,200 per month including accommodation and food

Scholarships

MEXT, JASSO, and university-specific scholarships available for international students


Why Study MBBS in Japan
 


Top 10 Medical Colleges in the Japan for Indian Students
 

Rank (Japan)

University Name

QS World University Ranking (Medicine 2024)

Approx. Annual Tuition Fees (USD)

Key Highlights

1

University of Tokyo

#24

$5,000 – $7,000

Japan’s top medical school with advanced research and global recognition.

2

Kyoto University

#35

$5,000 – $7,000

Renowned for biomedical research and innovative clinical training.

3

Osaka University

#51

$6,000 – $8,000

Strong focus on clinical medicine and medical technology.

4

Tohoku University

#70

$5,500 – $7,500

Offers English-taught programs and strong research infrastructure.

5

Kyushu University

#95

$5,000 – $6,500

Emphasis on global medical education and international collaboration.

6

Hokkaido University

#110

$5,000 – $6,000

Known for modern teaching hospitals and diverse student community.

7

Nagoya University

#120

$5,500 – $7,000

Focuses on medical innovation and global health studies.

8

Keio University

#130

$10,000 – $12,000

Japan’s oldest private medical school with English-friendly environment.

9

Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU)

#140

$6,000 – $8,000

Specialized in medicine and dentistry with strong research output.

10

Kobe University

#150

$5,000 – $6,500

Excellent clinical exposure and international medical programs.


Cost of studying MBBS in the Japan
 

Expense Category

Estimated Annual Cost (USD)

Details

Tuition Fees

$5,000 – $15,000

Public universities are more affordable; private institutions charge higher fees.

Admission & Registration

$1,000 – $2,000

One-time payment during enrollment.

Accommodation

$3,000 – $6,000

University dorms or shared apartments; costs vary by city.

Food & Living Expenses

$3,000 – $5,000

Includes meals, transport, and daily needs.

Health Insurance

$300 – $600

Mandatory for all students; covers basic medical care.

Books & Study Materials

$500 – $800

Medical textbooks and lab supplies.

Total Estimated Annual Cost

$12,000 – $25,000

Depending on university type, location, and lifestyle.


MBBS in Japan for Indian Students
 


Important Dates and Deadlines for MBBS in Japan
 

Event / Process

Timeline

Details

Application Availability

October – December (Previous Year)

Universities release admission forms for the upcoming academic session.

Application Deadline

January – February

Submission of online/offline applications with required documents.

EJU (Entrance Exam for International Students)

June or November

Mandatory for most universities; tests language and academic skills.

University Entrance Exams / Interviews

March – April

Some universities conduct additional written tests or interviews.

Admission Offer / Acceptance

May – June

Successful candidates receive offer letters.

Visa Application Process

June – July

Apply for a student visa through the Japanese Embassy or Consulate.

Academic Year Begins

April (Spring Intake)

Main intake for most medical universities. Some may have October (Fall Intake) as an alternative.


Eligibility Criteria and Entrance Exam for MBBS in the Japan for Indian Students
 

Category

Requirements / Details

Academic Qualification

Completion of 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology from a recognized board. Minimum 50% aggregate marks required (for general category).

Age Limit

Minimum 17 years at the time of admission.

Language Proficiency

Most programs require Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT N1 or N2). Some universities offer English-medium courses.

Entrance Exams

EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students) – tests Japanese language, science, and math skills. Some universities may have their own exams or interviews.

NEET Requirement (for Indian Students)

Mandatory for Indian students to qualify NEET to study MBBS abroad (as per NMC guidelines).

Other Requirements

Valid passport, medical fitness certificate, and proof of financial stability for visa purposes.


Documents Required for MBBS Admission in the Japan
 

Document Name

Description / Purpose

Academic Certificates

Copies of Class 10 and 12 mark sheets and passing certificates showing PCB subjects.

NEET Scorecard

Mandatory for Indian students as proof of eligibility under NMC regulations.

Passport

Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity) for visa and identification purposes.

Application Form

Duly filled university-specific MBBS application form.

EJU / JLPT Score Report

Proof of Japanese language and entrance exam performance.

Statement of Purpose (SOP)

A personal statement explaining interest in studying medicine in Japan.

Letters of Recommendation (LORs)

Two academic or professional references from teachers or principals.

Medical Fitness Certificate

Proof of physical and mental health for academic suitability.

Financial Proof

Bank statement or sponsor letter showing ability to cover tuition and living costs.

Passport-Sized Photographs

Recent colored photos as per university specifications.


MBBS Admission Process in the Japan for Indian Students
 


Admission Intakes for MBBS in the Japan
 

Intake Session

Application Period

Course Commencement

Description

Spring Intake

October – February

April

Main intake for most Japanese universities; preferred by international students. Majority of MBBS and scholarship programs start during this period.

Fall Intake

May – August

October

Available in select universities offering English-medium or international medical programs; provides flexibility for late applicants.


MBBS Course Duration and Structure in Japan
 

Course Component

Duration

Description

Pre-Clinical Phase

2 Years

Focuses on basic sciences such as Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, and foundational medical concepts.

Para-Clinical Phase

2 Years

Covers subjects like Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology, and community medicine along with early clinical exposure.

Clinical Phase (Internship)

2 Years

Includes hands-on training in hospitals, patient care, surgery, and internal medicine under supervision.

Total Duration

6 Years

Comprehensive medical education combining theory, research, and practical clinical experience.


MBBS in Japan vs MBBS in India – Which is Better?
 

Criteria

MBBS in Japan

MBBS in India

Course Duration

6 years (including 1-year internship)

5.5 years (including 1-year internship)

Medium of Instruction

Japanese or English (limited programs in English)

English

Entrance Exam

EJU / University exams + JLPT (for Japanese language)

NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test)

Tuition Fees

$5,000 – $15,000 per year

1–10 lakh per year (varies by college)

Global Recognition

Recognized by WHO and MCI/NMC; strong research orientation

Recognized globally but limited international exposure

Clinical Exposure

Advanced hospitals with modern medical technology

Good clinical exposure; depends on institute

Language Barrier

Requires learning Japanese for patient interaction

No major language barrier

Scholarships

MEXT, JASSO, and university grants available

Limited government and private scholarships

Overall Advantage

Best for global exposure and research-based learning

Best for practicing within India and local familiarity


How to Study MBBS in Japan Without NEET?
 

Indian students generally need NEET qualification to pursue MBBS abroad as per NMC (National Medical Commission) guidelines, if they plan to practice medicine in India after graduation. However, if a student’s goal is to study and work in Japan or another country, NEET is not mandatory for admission. In such cases, candidates must qualify for the EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students) and meet Japanese language proficiency (JLPT N1/N2) requirements. Some universities offering English-medium MBBS programs may admit international students directly based on academic performance and interviews.


MBBS Syllabus and Curriculum in Japan
 

Year

Subjects / Focus Area

Description

Year 1

Basic Sciences

Introduction to medical studies – Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Japanese language (for foreign students).

Year 2

Pre-Medical Foundation

Subjects include Anatomy, Physiology, and Biochemistry; emphasis on lab work and medical ethics.

Year 3

Para-Clinical Studies

Covers Pathology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, and community medicine; early hospital visits begin.

Year 4

Clinical Orientation

Subjects include Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, and Obstetrics; students observe and assist in patient care.

Year 5

Clinical Practice

Full-time clinical rotations across various departments under faculty supervision.

Year 6

Internship & Research

One-year hospital internship combined with research projects, case studies, and final exams.


Scholarships for MBBS in Japan for Indian Students
 

Indian students pursuing MBBS in Japan can apply for several prestigious scholarships offered by the Japanese government and universities. The MEXT (Monbukagakusho) Scholarship is the most popular, covering full tuition fees, accommodation, and a monthly stipend. The JASSO (Japan Student Services Organization) Scholarshipprovides financial assistance for short-term or full-degree programs. Many universities such as the University of Tokyoand Kyoto University offer institutional scholarships based on academic merit and entrance exam performance. Additionally, private foundations like the Rotary Yoneyama Memorial Foundation provide grants to international medical students demonstrating excellent academic records and leadership potential.


Career Opportunities after MBBS in Japan
 

After completing an MBBS (MD) in Japan, graduates can pursue diverse and rewarding medical career paths both within Japan and internationally. Those wishing to practice medicine in Japan must clear the Japanese Medical Licensing Examination (Kokushi) and demonstrate fluency in the Japanese language (JLPT N1). Once licensed, doctors can work in hospitals, clinics, research institutions, or engage in specialized postgraduate training in fields like surgery, internal medicine, or pediatrics.

Graduates also have excellent opportunities in medical research and biotechnology, as Japan is a global leader in healthcare innovation, robotics, and pharmaceuticals. International students may join medical research centers, universities, or multinational health organizations, contributing to global medical advancements.

For those returning to India, passing the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) or NEXT is required to practice medicine. Alternatively, MBBS graduates can pursue USMLE (USA) or PLAB (UK) to continue their careers abroad.

Overall, Japan’s advanced healthcare infrastructure, high research standards, and global recognition of medical degrees make it a strong launchpad for a successful international medical career.


Postgraduate Options after Completing MBBS in Japan
 

After completing an MBBS (MD) in Japan, students can pursue a wide range of postgraduate (PG) specializations or research-oriented programs to advance their medical careers. Japanese universities offer Master’s and Doctoral degreesin fields such as Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Oncology, Neuroscience, Public Health, Biomedical Engineering, and Medical Research.

To enroll in a PG program, graduates must pass the Japanese Medical Licensing Examination (Kokushi) if they wish to practice clinically in Japan. Proficiency in the Japanese language (JLPT N1 level) is essential for patient interaction and hospital training. Many universities also conduct entrance exams and interviews to assess academic readiness.

International students interested in research can opt for graduate programs (Master’s/PhD) taught in English at leading institutions such as the University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, and Osaka University. Scholarships like MEXT and JASSO support outstanding students.

Alternatively, Indian graduates may choose to appear for USMLE (USA)PLAB (UK), or FMGE/NExT (India) for postgraduate medical training in other countries.

In summary, Japan provides world-class opportunities for specialization and research, blending clinical excellence, innovation, and global recognition in medical education.


Salary of Doctor after doing MBBS from Japan
 

Doctors in Japan earn competitive salaries, reflecting the country’s advanced healthcare system and high living standards. A fresh medical graduate typically earns around JPY 5–7 million per year (approximately USD 35,000–50,000). With specialization and experience, salaries can rise to JPY 10–20 million annually (USD 70,000–140,000), especially for surgeons and specialists. Doctors working in urban hospitals or private clinics generally earn more than those in rural areas. In addition to base pay, physicians often receive bonuses, housing allowances, and research grants, making medical practice in Japan both financially rewarding and professionally fulfilling.


Visa Requirements for doing MBBS in Japan for Indian Students
 


Does MBBS from Japan degree valid in India as per NMC Regulations
 

Yes, an MBBS (MD) degree from Japan is valid in India, provided the medical university is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS). According to the National Medical Commission (NMC) guidelines, Indian students who earn a medical degree abroad must qualify the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) or the upcoming National Exit Test (NExT) to obtain a license to practice in India.

Japanese medical education is globally reputed for its high standards and advanced clinical training. However, since the medium of instruction is primarily Japanese, students must ensure their program meets NMC’s minimum curriculum and internship duration requirements. After passing the FMGE/NExT and completing mandatory internship training in India, graduates from Japan are fully eligible to register as licensed medical practitioners under the NMC Act.


How Standyou Can help you getting admission for MBBS in Japan
 


FAQs for MBBS in Japan
 

FAQ

Answer

1. What is the duration of MBBS in Japan?

The MBBS (MD) program in Japan lasts 6 years, including one year of clinical internship.

2. Is MBBS in Japan taught in English?

Most programs are in Japanese, but some universities offer bilingual or English-medium courses for international students.

3. Do Indian students need NEET for MBBS in Japan?

Yes, NEET is mandatory if the student intends to practice medicine in India after graduation.

4. What entrance exam is required for admission?

International students must clear the EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission) and often the JLPT (N1/N2) for language proficiency.

5. Are scholarships available for MBBS students?

Yes, popular options include MEXT, JASSO, and university-specific scholarships.

6. Is MBBS from Japan recognized in India?

Yes, provided the university is listed in WDOMS, and graduates clear FMGE/NExTas per NMC regulations.

7. What is the average cost of studying MBBS in Japan?

Approximately USD 12,000–25,000 per year, including tuition and living expenses.

8. Can I work in Japan after MBBS?

Yes, after passing the Japanese Medical Licensing Examination (Kokushi) and meeting language requirements.