Studying at a private university in Japan comes with significant costs, especially for tuition and living expenses (Budget for 2 Years of Study in Tokyo(. Since I have first-hand experience studying in Japan while sharing an apartment with my girlfriend, I’ve calculated my actual budget for two years, considering real expenses. Lets make a Budget for 2 Years of Study in Tokyo.
If you’re planning to study in Japan, this guide will help you estimate your total budget in yen (JPY) and find ways to reduce costs where possible.
TL;DR: It costs you 50-60k USD (all included)
1. Tuition Fees for 2 Years (Private University)
Private universities in Japan charge higher tuition fees than national universities. The costs vary by program, but here’s an estimate:
- Annual tuition: 1,000,000–1,500,000 JPY
- Admission fee (one-time): 200,000–300,000 JPY
Total for 2 Years (Including Admission Fee)
➡ 2,200,000–3,300,000 JPY
2. Housing Costs (Shared Apartment in Tokyo)
I share an apartment with my girlfriend, so my rent is half of the total cost. However, moving in required an upfront payment of two months’ rent to the landlord, plus about 450,000 JPY (~$3,000 USD) for furniture and essentials.
- Monthly rent: 74,000 JPY (Total) → My share: 37,000 JPY
- Upfront costs (2 months rent + furniture): 524,000 JPY (You will not get the 2 months back and you have to pay at the end a cleaning fee. The Japanese Real estate market is a scam)
- Total rent for 2 years (24 months):
- 37,000 JPY × 24 = 888,000 JPY
- Final total for housing (rent + upfront costs):
- 1,412,000 JPY
3. Monthly Living Expenses
My monthly expenses cover food, utilities, transport, and personal costs. These are realistic estimates based on my lifestyle.
| Expense | Monthly Cost (JPY) | 2-Year Total (JPY) |
|---|---|---|
| Food & Groceries | 40,000 | 960,000 |
| Utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet) | 10,000 | 240,000 |
| Health Insurance (NHI) | 2,000 | 48,000 |
| Transportation | 8,000 | 192,000 |
| Phone Plan | 3,000 | 72,000 |
| Entertainment & Shopping | 10,000 | 240,000 |
| Miscellaneous | 5,000 | 120,000 |
| Total per Month | 110,000 | 2,640,000 |
4. One-Time & Initial Costs
These are one-time expenses needed when moving to Japan:
- Visa Application & Processing: 10,000 JPY
- Flight to Japan (Round-trip): 200,000 JPY
- University Materials (Books, Laptop, etc.): 50,000 JPY
Total One-Time Costs:
➡ 260,000 JPY
5. Total Budget for 2 Years of Study in Tokyo (Private University)
| Category | Total Cost (JPY) |
|---|---|
| Tuition (Private University) | 2,200,000–3,300,000 |
| Rent (Shared Apartment + Initial Costs) | 1,412,000 |
| Living Expenses | 2,640,000 |
| One-Time Costs | 260,000 |
| Total (Private University) | 6,512,000–7,712,000 JPY |
6. Can You Reduce Costs for the Budget for 2 Years of Study in Tokyo?
✅ Scholarships: Apply for MEXT, JASSO, or university-specific grants to reduce tuition costs.
✅ Part-time jobs: Allowed 28 hours/week with a student visa. Jobs like English tutoring (2,000 JPY/hour) can cover food expenses.
✅ Budget-friendly housing: University dorms (20,000–50,000 JPY/month) are cheaper than private apartments.
Final Thoughts – Budget for 2 Years of Study in Tokyo
Studying in Japan, especially in a private university, is an incredible opportunity, but it comes with a substantial financial commitment. From tuition fees and rent to daily living expenses, careful planning is essential to make your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. While the total estimated budget for two years ranges between 6.5 to 7.7 million JPY (50,000–60,000 USD), the actual cost will depend on your lifestyle, choice of accommodation, and ability to find financial support.
However, this investment goes beyond just money—studying in Japan allows you to immerse yourself in a unique cultural experience, gain international exposure, and build valuable networks. Whether you’re pursuing a degree in engineering, business, or humanities, Japan’s education system offers world-class programs that can open doors to exciting career opportunities both in Japan and globally.
That being said, reducing costs is possible through various strategies. Applying for scholarships, such as MEXT, JASSO, or university-specific grants, can significantly cut tuition expenses. Part-time jobs are another excellent way to supplement your income—whether it’s English tutoring, working in cafés, or even remote freelance work. If you’re diligent, working just 10–15 hours per week can easily cover your food and transportation costs.
Housing is another major factor. While private apartments offer more freedom, they come with additional costs like deposits, key money, and furniture expenses. University dorms or shared housing options can be significantly cheaper, especially if you prioritize saving money over having a larger living space.
Additionally, budgeting smartly for daily expenses can make a big difference. Cooking at home, using student discounts, and taking advantage of affordable transport options like monthly commuter passes can help you stretch your money further. Many students also find it beneficial to explore government or university-sponsored financial aid programs, which can ease the financial burden of living in Japan.
Lastly, while cost management is crucial, don’t forget to enjoy your time in Japan. Exploring the country, making new friends, and experiencing the culture firsthand are just as valuable as your academic education. By balancing smart financial planning with a fulfilling student life, you can make the most of your two years in Tokyo without feeling overwhelmed by expenses.
If you’re considering studying in Japan, start planning early, research funding options, and budget wisely—this will make your experience much more enjoyable and financially sustainable. Japan offers an incredible learning environment, and with the right financial approach, you can make your dream of studying in Tokyo a reality! 🚀
Also interesting could be the guide how to get accepted at Japanese Top Universities
Or also what you have to after you arrive in Japan, you could read here.
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