How to Study Abroad in Japan: 4 Simple Steps
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Japan is an extraordinary country – one of the oldest in the world – and it will surprise and delight you at every turn. If you choose a Japan study abroad program, then get set for an experience of a lifetime.
How to Study Abroad in Japan: A Step-by-Step Guide
Once you decide to study abroad in Japan, CIEE makes getting there easy. We’ve outlined the process below, so be sure to bookmark this page and refer back to it when you’re ready to commence your study abroad journey to Japan. Here's how you can study abroad in Japan!
Step #1: Choose Where You Want to Go
The first thing you’ll need to do as you prepare to study abroad is choose which incredible location in Japan you want to explore. We currently offer Kyoto, Tokyo, and Osaka as Japan study abroad options.
Though these cities are quite different from one another, they each offer incredible experiences that are sure to satisfy all your senses. Plus, you can always take the bullet train (aka Shinkansen) to travel back and forth if you’d like to visit all!
Option #1: Kyoto
Kyoto is a beautiful city known for its temples, gardens, museums, illustrious teahouses, hiking trails, international business influence, and more. Study abroad in this ancient city and you will be immersed in Japan’s deep-rooted traditions. There is nothing quite like Kyoto.
With CIEE, you’ll get to go on exciting cultural excursions to places like the White Heron Castle, partake in a classic tea ceremony, and tons more.
You’ll also get to do some of your own exploring, of course. Check out some of the city’s top sites like:
- Fushimi Inari Shrine: A religious ancient site dating back to the eighth century
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: One of the most beautiful walking areas in Kyoto, with most trails covered in an enchanting canopy of bamboo
- Nishiki Market: Offering hundreds of shops and restaurants, you’ll get to dive into a wide variety of delicious and authentic Japanese cuisine
- Gion Disrict: A vibrant neighborhood where you can see lovely geishas and their maiko apprentices
And much more!
Those passionate about culture, art, and history will feel right at home in Kyoto.
Option #2: Tokyo
The modern-day capital of Japan, Tokyo is a lively, densely populated city with incredible nightlife, and shopping, and is iconic for its modern architecture, technology, efficient public transportation, and cleanliness. Studying abroad in Tokyo means diving into an advanced city with unique traditions and culture.
You’ll have the opportunity to go on incredible cultural excursions with CIEE such as day trips to Hiroshima and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, as well as opportunities to visit the Tokyo Dome, a popular venue for sports events, concerts, and other affairs, and much, much more.
A few other must-sees during your Japan study abroad program in Tokyo:
- Tokyo Tower: The second-tallest structure in Japan that serves as a communications and observation building
- Ginza: Home to the world’s biggest seafood market
- Akihabara: A colorful and fascinating neighborhood in Japan; you’ll be amazed at this shopping hub known for its high-tech retailers, exhibits, and more
- Shibuya Crossing: One of Tokyo’s most recognizable streets, where thousands of pedestrians cross every few minutes during busy days
If you’re someone who loves learning about the blend between modern-day culture and history, Tokyo is an ideal study abroad location. Plus, CIEE students get the opportunity to study at Sophia University, Japan’s oldest Jesuit university located in the heart of the city.
Option #3
Osaka is a lively and welcoming city known for its friendly locals, vibrant street life, and everyday Japanese language immersion. As a major city in the Kansai region, Osaka offers students a more conversational, community‑oriented experience while still providing all the excitement of a large urban center.
With CIEE, students studying abroad in Osaka have the opportunity to explore the city’s dynamic neighborhoods, sample its world‑famous food culture, and build confidence using Japanese in real‑world settings. Osaka’s central location also makes it easy to travel throughout the Kansai region, with nearby destinations like Kyoto and Kobe just a short train ride away.
A few highlights you may experience during your Japan study abroad program in Osaka:
- Osaka Castle: One of Japan’s most recognizable historic landmarks
- Dotonbori: A bustling district famous for street food and neon signs
- Kuromon Ichiba Market: A traditional market offering local flavors and daily life interactions
- Umeda: A modern commercial area with shopping, dining, and city views
Students looking for strong language practice, cultural engagement, and a balanced pace of life will feel right at home in Osaka.
Step #2: Pick Your Dream Program
Once you’ve decided between Kyoto, Tokyo, and Osaka, it’s time to choose your ideal study abroad program. And all three cities offer great program options.
We recommend you align your study abroad program with your interests and passions and be sure to choose one that’ll keep you on your chosen academic track. It’s best to discuss your options with an academic advisor and on-campus study abroad advisor, too.
Some program we offer in Kyoto are:
- Ancient + Modern Japan: An incredible opportunity to dive into Japanese language and culture in one of the most historical cities in the world
- January in Kyoto: Spend part of your winter exploring ancient Kyoto
- Open Campus Block: Design a study abroad course that’s best for you and immerse yourself in Japanese culture
Some programs we offer in Tokyo are:
- Arts + Sciences: Engross yourself in Japanese arts and science studies like anthropology, history, international business and economics, and tons more
- Summer Japanese Studies: Spend your summer in exciting Tokyo and learn all about Japan’s pop culture, society, communications, and then some
- Summer Global Internship: With some of the largest companies and brands in the world, this program is the perfect opportunity to learn more about working in a field you’re passionate about
Some programs we offer in Osaka are:
- Open Campus Block: Spend one or two six-week blocks exploring all Osaka has to offer
- Quarter In Osaka: Designed for quarter school students, immerse yourself in Osaka while staying on top of your academic credits
- Semester Intern + Study Abroad: Develop practical skills, global perspective, and memorable experiences rooted in daily life in Osaka
Step #3: Explore Scholarship Options
Now that you’ve chosen your dream location and Japan study abroad program, you’re ready to start exploring our scholarship and grant options. We offer millions in financial assistance each year to make studying abroad a reality for as many students as we can. Look at what type of aid you might qualify for and reach out if you have any questions. We’re happy to help.
Japan Study Abroad Scholarships
We break down our scholarship offerings into three categories:
Need-Based: Our need-based scholarships are based on students’ Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) and their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at their enrolled institution. Our need-based scholarships include:
Merit-Based: Our merit-based scholarships are based on academic standing and achievement and include:
- Frederick Douglass Global Fellowship
- Frederick Douglass Scholars Grant
- McDermott Health Sciences, Nursing and Public Health
- Ping Scholarship for Academic Excellence
- Ritzmann Tropical and Marine Ecology Scholarship
- STEM Scholarship
- Stohl International Undergraduate Research Scholarship
- Wollitzer Merit Scholarship in Area or Comparative Studies
Other Scholarship Options: Our other scholarship options are based on program choice or alumni status and include:
Step #4: Start and Complete Your Application
The easiest step is applying! Our application is simple and requires just a few items like name and address, your university, program of choice, term and year, and emergency contacts. There might be a few program-specific questions on your application too.
Make sure to thoroughly review our how to apply page to ensure you don’t miss anything during the process. We’re available too if you have any additional questions.
How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad in Japan?
The cost of your Japan study abroad trip will depend on your program choice, considering the length of the program, the number of courses, and more.
Average Cost
Costs for our Japan study abroad programs range from about $4,000 to $28,000. These figures may be surprising, but keep in mind our one-time fee covers most expenses including:
- Tuition
- Housing
- Pre-departure advising
- Orientation
- On-site staff and 24/7 emergency on-site support
- Culture and co-curricular activities
- Travel Protection
Beyond these core expenses, you’ll want to create a budget and bring extra cash for other incurred costs, like additional travel, food, drink, attraction fees, and more.
And remember, we offer many scholarship and grant options to help you get on your way. Simply complete the Scholarships and Grants section of your CIEE Study Abroad application to automatically be considered for any scholarships and/or grants you may be eligible for.
Study Abroad in Japan with CIEE
Studying abroad in Japan promises an exciting adventure full of history, culture, modern-day innovations, and then some. You’ll never run out of things to explore in this captivating country. And by choosing CIEE, you’ll have plenty of scholarship and grant opportunities to help make this dream a reality. Explore Japan study abroad and start your application today!
今日 から 始めましょう! Get started today! Domo arigato gozaimasu!
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