Study in Japan: A Guide for African Students

Students who study in Japan gain access to strong science, engineering and technology programs, generous government scholarships and tuition that is lower than in many English-speaking countries. Language and paperwork take planning, so start early.

This guide explains admission routes, scholarships, the student visa and work rules.

Quick answer: Apply to a Japanese institution or through a scholarship program. After admission, the school applies in Japan for your Certificate of Eligibility. You then use that certificate to apply for a student visa at the Japanese embassy in your country.

How the Japanese System Works

Universities award bachelor’s degrees in four years
Master’s degrees take two years
Doctorates take three years or more
Many graduate applicants first enrol as research students under a supervisor
Japanese language schools prepare students for degree entry

The academic year starts in April, and many English-taught programs also admit students in September or October.

Admission Requirements

Twelve years of schooling for undergraduate entry, or a bachelor’s degree for graduate entry
Transcripts and certificates
A research plan for graduate applicants
Recommendation letters
Language results

Language requirements depend on the program:

Japanese-taught programs commonly ask for the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test or the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students
English-taught programs ask for TOEFL or IELTS

For graduate study, contacting a potential supervisor before you apply is normal and often expected. Prepare your profile with the academic CV guide.

Scholarships for African Students

Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship

MEXT scholarships support undergraduate, research and other categories of students. You can apply through the Japanese embassy in your country or through a Japanese university. Embassy selection usually involves document screening, written tests and an interview.

ABE Initiative

The African Business Education Initiative for Youth, run by the Japan International Cooperation Agency, offers master’s study and internships at Japanese companies for young people from African countries. Eligibility and intake differ by country.

Other funding

JASSO scholarships for privately financed students
University tuition reductions
Scholarships from local governments and private foundations

Official guidance warns that most scholarships do not cover every cost, so plan a realistic budget.

Student Visa Steps

Receive admission from your school.
The school applies to the regional immigration office for your Certificate of Eligibility.
Receive the certificate and apply for the student visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate.
Enter Japan and receive your residence card at the airport or by post.
Register your address at the local municipal office and join National Health Insurance.

The school will ask for evidence of how you will pay tuition and living costs when it prepares the certificate application.

Working During and After Study

Students may not work unless they hold permission to engage in activities outside their status of residence. With that permission, you can generally work up to 28 hours a week during term, with longer hours allowed during official long vacations. Some types of work are prohibited.

Graduates who find a job can change to a work status of residence. Those still searching can apply for a status that allows continued job hunting.

Common Mistakes

Missing the embassy’s MEXT deadline, which is often months before other scholarships
Applying to graduate programs without contacting a supervisor
Underestimating the Japanese needed for daily life and part-time work
Working before receiving permission
Submitting a vague research plan

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I study in English?

Yes. A growing number of degree programs are taught fully in English, especially at graduate level.

Is the JLPT compulsory?

Only when the program requires it. English-taught programs usually do not.

How do I find the MEXT call for my country?

Check the website of the Japanese embassy in your country. Each embassy publishes its own dates and instructions.

Your Next Step

Decide between a Japanese-taught and an English-taught route, then check the MEXT and ABE Initiative calls for your country. Prepare for selection with the scholarship interview questions guide.

Sources

Reviewed: 2 October 2026. Scholarship calls and immigration procedures change. Confirm current requirements with the Japanese embassy in your country.

Featured image: Yasuda Auditorium, University of Tokyo by Kakidai, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons (resized).