How to Apply in 7 Steps to Top Japanese Universities Like Waseda, Osaka University, and Kyoto University [Master Degree]

Japan is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, such as Waseda University, Osaka University, and Kyoto University. These institutions attract thousands of international students each year due to their high-quality education, strong research programs, and global reputation. But How to Apply to Top Japanese Universities?

If you’re considering applying to one of these universities, this guide will walk you through the key steps, from choosing the right program to submitting your application.

Step 1: Choose the Right Program – How to Apply to Top Japanese Universities

English vs. Japanese-Taught Programs

• Many top Japanese universities offer English-taught degree programs, especially at the graduate level. Waseda University, for example, has the English-based Undergraduate Program (EBP) in areas like Political Science, Economics, and Science & Engineering.
• Kyoto University and Osaka University, both Top Japanese Universities, also offer several International Programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
• If you are proficient in Japanese, you can apply for Japanese-taught programs, which offer more course options but usually require JLPT N1 or N2 proficiency.

Research vs. Taught Programs

• Many Japanese universities offer research-based programs, particularly at the master’s and PhD levels.
• If you are applying for a research-based degree, you must often contact a professor before applying and discuss your research proposal with them.

Administration Office vs Test Application – How to Apply to Top Japanese Universities

• Administration Office applications exclude you from the regular tests
• Test Application is when you write the official test

If you’re applying to Japanese universities, it’s better to apply to programs that only require application through the administration office rather than those requiring an on-site entrance exam.

University entrance exams in Japan are held on different days, meaning you might need to stay for an extended period if applying to multiple universities.

As a European, I calculated my total costs for just the test, and it was around $5,000 USD. The flight alone was $1,500, and due to severe jet lag, you need to arrive early—staying at least 9 days to recover before the exam. This includes expensive hotel costs, and after all that, there’s still a chance of failing.

If you’re serious about studying in Japan, choosing programs that do not require travel for exams is the smarter and more cost-effective option.

My first email to the Administration office (How to Apply to Top Japanese Universities):

Dear Sir and Madame,

I am writing to inquire about the application deadline for the Master's
degree program at your university for the September 2023 intake. I was
wondering if it is already too late to apply for this intake, or if
there is still time to submit an application.

Additionally, I was wondering if it is possible to submit an application
online or if all students are required to send their application
materials via post.

I appreciate your time and consideration in answering my questions.

Sincerely,
Max

Step 2: Check the Admission Requirements

Each university has different eligibility criteria depending on the program. However, the common requirements include:

Undergraduate Programs

• High School Diploma (or equivalent)
• Standardized Test Scores: Some programs require SAT, ACT, IB, or other national university entrance exams.
• English Proficiency: If the program is in English, you need TOEFL iBT (typically 80–100) or IELTS (6.0–7.0).
• Japanese Proficiency: If the program is in Japanese, you may need JLPT N1 or N2. => Better in English

Graduate Programs (Master’s & PhD)

• Bachelor’s Degree (for Master’s) / Master’s Degree (for PhD)
• Research Proposal (for research-based programs)
• Recommendation Letters
• English or Japanese Proficiency Tests
• Some universities may require GRE or GMAT scores, especially for business and science programs.

Step 3: Prepare Application Documents

While specific requirements vary, most universities require:

1. Application Form – Usually submitted online via the university’s admission portal. This step is kind of easy since you get this by your university.
2. Personal Statement / Statement of Purpose – Explains your motivation, academic background, and career goals.
3. Transcripts and Certificates – Official records from your previous education.
4. Letters of Recommendation – Usually from professors or employers. Here it is very important that the Professor has to sign it by hands (No digital signature!!!!) and also he has to make a official stamp / signature over the opening of the letter. ( I failed at Doshisha university just because of this reason. You can send them again but from Europe it takes 10 days and the application deadline is anyway over)
5. Proof of Language Proficiency – TOEFL, IELTS, or JLPT score reports.
6. Passport Copy – Required for international applicants.
7. Research Proposal (if applying for a research-based program) – I add an example. I did not except this university, but I would get accepted and invited with this research plan)

Letter of Recommendation

Dear Admissions Committee,

It is my great pleasure to recommend [your name] for any professional or academic pursuits he may be considering. As the former Director of International Affairs at our university, I had the privilege of working closely with [your name] during his time as a student in the [your bachelor degree] program from 2018 to 2021.

Beyond his academic achievements, [your name] commitment to personal growth and cultural exchange was also evident during his time at our university. He studied abroad at [your university] in Seoul, South Korea, where he earned the Certificate of Global Competence. This experience broadened his perspective and exposed him to new ways of thinking, learning, and interacting with people from diverse backgrounds. Furthermore, [your name] actively participated in various international events and initiatives at our university, demonstrating his willingness to engage with different cultures and communities.

Based on my experiences working with [your name], I am confident that he possesses the qualities necessary to excel in any international academic or professional setting. His exceptional academic record, technical skills, and passion for personal growth make him a valuable candidate for any opportunity that he may pursue.

If you require any further information or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

Research Plan

With the increasing presence of the Internet of Things (IoT) in our everyday lives, IoT will impact the way we live and work in the future. As these networked devices spread, we can collect and analyze a vast amount of data in real time. With more data, we can make more informed decisions, optimize processes, and thereby improve efficiency.

In my opinion, one of the best use cases of IoT devices is in smart cities. During my Bachelor's degree at [University Name], I wrote a paper about IoT Platforms for Smart Cities and how to decide on the right platform to use. As part of this work, I participated in the Make Zurich Hackathon. Make Zurich is a hackathon that connects programmers and civil projects in the city and designs IoT solutions for them. I developed software for the city of Zurich, utilizing an Arduino equipped with a heat sensor to measure the usage of public barbecue places. The data from the sensors was stored in Amazon's IoT solution and analyzed via a dashboard written in Angular.

Optimizing processes with the help of data will ultimately lead to decreased energy consumption in urban areas. This will help make cities more sustainable, efficient, and livable. Moreover, this topic becomes more relevant in larger cities, where relatively more energy can be saved. Tokyo represents such a complex urban environment where I can apply my experience from Zurich.

In my research at [University Name], I am eager to address concerns regarding the impact of IoT on privacy and security. This includes exploring ways to mitigate the risks of data breaches and cyber-attacks. Another core research interest is how IoT can contribute to sustainability and efficiency. Additionally, I want to deepen my knowledge in IoT programming and improve my skills in integrating devices into IoT platforms.

Step 4: Submit the Application & Pay the Fees

• Applications are typically submitted online, and some programs may require you to send physical documents.
• Application fees range from 5,000 to 30,000 JPY (~30–200 USD), depending on the university.

Application Deadlines

• Spring Intake (April Start): Applications are usually due between August and November of the previous year.
• Fall Intake (September/October Start): Deadlines are typically between January and May.
• Some universities have multiple rounds of admission, so check their official websites for details.

Step 5: Entrance Exam & Interviews

• Some programs require an entrance exam, either written or oral.
• Interviews may be conducted online or in person, where they assess your academic background, motivation, and research interests.
• If you’re applying to a Japanese-taught program, you might have to take the EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students).

Step 6: Receive Admission Results & Apply for a Visa

• Admission results are usually announced 2–3 months after submission.
• Once accepted, you’ll receive a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) from the university, which is needed for your student visa application (Your photo will be the photo of your id card, better take a good one)
• You must apply for a Student Visa (Visa Type: College Student) at your nearest Japanese embassy or consulate.

Step 7: Prepare for Your Move to Japan

• Start with an hotel and Airbnb first and check your housing. Japanese Houses can be very small.
• Arrange Housing: Some universities offer dormitories, but you may need to rent an apartment.
• Health Insurance: International students must enroll in Japan’s National Health Insurance (NHI).
• Part-Time Jobs: Student visa holders can work up to 28 hours per week with a work permit.

Final Tips for “How to Apply to Top Japanese Universities”

✅ Start Early – The application process can take 6–12 months, so plan ahead.
✅ Double-Check Requirements – Each university has slightly different rules.
✅ Improve Your Japanese Skills – Even if you’re in an English program, basic Japanese will help your daily life.
✅ Apply for Scholarships – Look into MEXT, JASSO, or university-specific scholarships. (MEXT is only possible before you apply at an University)

Applying to top Japanese universities like Waseda, Osaka, and Kyoto University requires careful planning, but with the right preparation, you can successfully secure a spot at one of Japan’s prestigious institutions!

Useful Links

• Waseda University Admissions
• Osaka University International Admissions
• Kyoto University Admissions

If you need help, contact me on Instagram.

How much you will spend you can find here:

If you get accepted check this guide here it helps you to start in Japan! Also try to get adjusted to the non verbal communication in Japan.

FAQ

Keep Reading: More Articles You'll Love

Living in Japan vs Korea – The Ultimate Expat Guide Living in Tokyo vs Zurich – The Ultimate Expat Guide How to Apply at Sky and Get Accepted at Yonsei University or Big 3 in South Korea (SKY) as a foreigner Living in Switzerland vs Korea – The Ultimate Expat Guide What It’s Really Like Doing a Waseda CS Master’s as a Foreigner Japan Digitalization and Automation Compared to South Korea and Switzerland: Lessons for Modernizing Public Services