HomeStudying Abroad in Japan

Studying Abroad in Japan: In-depth Guide for Foreign Students

This guide provides essential information for foreign students about studying abroad in Japan. It covers student visas, finding schools, accommodation options, living costs, and how to make the most of your time in Japan.

Go! Go! Nihon students who are studying in Japan.

We want to share what you need to know to succeed in your studies in Japan. With years of experience, we have learned valuable lessons to help you avoid common mistakes.

In this article, you will learn about the following:

  1. To successfully study abroad in Japan, you will need to plan and research in advance, often up to a year before your intended start date.
  2. You can choose from a wide range of study abroad programs in Japan to suit your interests, from university studies to language programs and vocational training.
  3. You will need specific documentation to obtain a Japan student visa, including proof of sufficient funds and evidence of prior Japanese language study.
  4. You will need to adjust to life in Japan by navigating cultural differences, managing finances, and utilizing public transportation.
  5. There are various housing options, including dormitories, sharehouses, and homestays, so you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle and budget.

With the right information and support, you can make the most of your time in Japan.

Benefits of studying abroad in japan

What are the Benefits of Studying Abroad in Japan for International Students

"Studying abroad in Japan is so much more than learning a new language."

For international students, studying abroad in Japan can be a life-changing experience. The benefits are numerous and include personal growth, language acquisition, and enhanced career prospects.

How studying abroad in Japan can lead to personal growth?​

  1. You will develop self-confidence, independence, self-reliance, and open-mindedness. You will also meet people from all over the world, encounter new opportunities, and broaden your horizons.
  2. Immersing yourself in a country where the language is spoken is the best way to learn it.
  3. You will explore Japan’s unique education system and gain a competitive edge in the job market whether you pursue a career in Japan or abroad.
  4. You will immerse yourself in the Japanese language, learn about traditional customs, and gain a deeper understanding of Japanese history and society.
  5. When you study at a university, you will learn from highly-trained faculty at some of the world’s top educational institutions in Japan, providing high-quality education and learning opportunities.

DID YOU KNOW?

Immersing yourself in a new culture is a life-changing experience that provides many personal and cultural benefits.

Study abroad programs

What are the Different Study Abroad Programs in Japan Available to Foreign Students?

You can choose from various study abroad programs to suit your academic interests and time constraints.

Careful consideration is needed to find the best program that aligns with your goals, preferences, and other important factors.

  1. Japanese Language Schools: These programs focus on improving Japanese language proficiency and cultural immersion. These programs can last up to two years and are ideal for those planning to work or pursue further studies in Japan. These schools operate on a term-based system with start dates in January, April, July, and October.
  2. Study Trip Programs: These are short-term experiences, lasting two to four weeks, that combine Japanese language lessons with cultural activities such as tea ceremonies and museum visits.
  3. Vocational Schools (Senmon Gakko):
    These institutions provide specialized training in practical fields like IT, culinary arts, tourism, and fashion design. Job support is provided to prospective graduates to help them find work in Japan in their field.
  4. University Programs: You can study in Japan even without advanced Japanese language skills, as some Japanese universities offer full degree programs taught in English and Japanese. These universities include:
  5. University Exchange Programs: (We do not offer application support). These programs allow you to study at a Japanese university while remaining enrolled in your home institution. These programs typically last one semester to a year and often include credit transfer.
  6. Government and Scholarship Programs: (We do not offer application support). The Japanese government and organizations offer financial support to international students through programs such as:
    •  MEXT Scholarship – Covers tuition, stipends, and travel experiences.
    • JASSO Scholarship – Provides financial aid for international students.

DISCLAIMER:

We do not offer application support for University Exchange Programs and Scholarship Programs.

Required documents

What are the Necessary Requirements to Apply for a Student Visa in Japan?

Your Japan Student Visa grants you the following privileges:

  1. Study at a Japanese educational institution of your choice.
  2. Reside in Japan for the duration of your studies.
  3. Work part-time to supplement your living expenses under specific conditions.

Standard documents:

To apply for your student visa, you’ll need to gather and submit the following essential documents:

  1. A copy of your valid passport, including all previous Japan entry stamps.
  2. Proof of JLPT N5 proficiency or 150 hours of prior Japanese study (depending on the school’s requirements).
  3. A high-quality photo of yourself in front of a white background passport style, not older than 3 months.
  4. A copy of your last school degree. If you are still in school, include your graduation letter or proof of enrollment.
  5. A recent bank statement from you or your financial sponsor, demonstrating at least 1,200,000 JPY (some schools may require a higher amount).
  6. If your sponsor is self-employed, a copy of their business registration certificate.
  7. The most recent tax declaration document from you or your financial sponsor as proof of annual income.

Extra documents (depending on school and applicant):

  1. Birth certificate as proof of your relationship to your sponsor.
  2. If you previously held a Japanese visa:
    • A copy of the front and back of your residence card.
    • Your visa in your passport.
    • Your school certificate.
  3. School-specific application forms and/or health certificates.
  4. A copy of your JLPT certificate, if applicable.

To ensure you’ve gathered all the necessary documentation, download and print our complimentary visa document checklist.

Japanese language requirements

Do You Need Japanese Language Skills to Study Abroad in Japan?

Foreign student writing in a Japanese textbook.
Foreign student writing in a Japanese textbook.

Yes, you are required to have some prior Japanese language study experience to obtain a student visa for Japan.

To be eligible for a student visa to study at a language school, you should show a JLPT N5 or equivalent certificate, or demonstrate at least 150 hours of Japanese language study.

While some schools may accept self-study, providing formal evidence of your Japanese language studies significantly strengthens your application.

Enhance your application by:

  1. Taking a JLPT test.
  2. Studying at an accredited school or university.
  3. Completing a beginner’s course.

DID YOU KNOW?

Knowing Japanese will greatly improve your daily life and integration into Japanese culture and society.

What if you're a complete beginner in Japanese?

A 12-week online beginner course for foreign students is the perfect starting point to learn Japanese.
A 12-week online beginner course for foreign students is the perfect starting point to learn Japanese.

If you’re starting your Japanese language journey, consider these options:

  • Take Japanese language courses in your local area.
  • Enroll in an online Japanese language course, such as Go! Go! Nihon’s Akamonkai 12-Week Beginner Course which is equivalent to 150 hours.

This comprehensive 150-hour online course allows you to learn at your own pace and covers all the essential elements of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N5, including:

  • Hiragana
  • Katakana
  • Kanji
  • Grammar
  • Vocabulary exercises

Upon successful completion of the Akamonkai 12-week Beginner Course, you will receive an official certificate issued by Akamonkai, a reputable language school in Tokyo, that can be used to support your student visa application.

DID YOU KNOW?

Although you can connect with teachers, Go! Go! Nihon staff, and other students in the community, the lessons in this course are pre-recorded, not live. Designed for self-paced learning on our online platform, the course helps you learn Japanese efficiently.

Watch: Start Your Japanese Journey with the Akamonkai Beginner Course

Planning and timeline

Planning Your Japan Study Abroad and Timeline

A student looking for an online Japanese course.
A student planning his/her study abroad in Japan.

You will need to plan carefully when applying to study abroad in Japan and adhere to a strict timeline.

The process is divided into three main stages. You can find more details in our Step-by-Step Guide to Study Abroad in Japan.

Three major steps in planning your study abroad in Japan

  1. Planning and Research (Up to one year before):
    You can explore options by researching destinations and programs, considering location, school, duration, and visa requirements.
  2. Preparing Your Application and Pre-Departure:
    Research specific programs of interest, begin building Japanese language skills, complete your applications and documents, and make travel and living arrangements.
  3. Arrival and Integration:
    Settle in by completing paperwork (residence registration, health insurance, and pension) and begin your studies and new life.

Each of these stages includes many smaller tasks. You can review our how-to guide about studying abroad in Japan for more detailed information and a full timeline.

Ready to live and study in Japan?

Our student advisors are here to help you. Contact us today for free support!
Part-time jobs

Working Part-Time and Building Your Career in Japan

As a foreign student with a student visa, you can work part-time in Japan.

Working part-time offers several benefits:

  • Financial support for your studies
  • Valuable work experience
  • Opportunities to practice and improve your Japanese language skills

Before starting a part-time job, you will need to apply for a work permit. With a work permit, you can work up to 28 hours per week while attending school. However, remember that your primary focus should be your studies, as you are in Japan on a student visa.

It is crucial to comply with visa regulations, such as adhering to the permitted work hours. By diligently following the rules, you can safeguard your stay in Japan and ensure a smooth and successful study abroad experience.

Watch: Learn from a student's firsthand experience of working and studying in Japan.

Can you launch your career in Japan after graduation?

Yes, pursuing a fulfilling full-time career in Japan after graduation is possible with the right qualifications. With careful planning, you can successfully transition from a student visa to a work visa after graduation, opening doors to a rewarding career in Japan.

Career options include various industries, such as IT, teaching, business, and marketing, with specific work visas for each field.

Watch: Be inspired by a Go! Go! Nihon alumna who successfully launched her career in Japan.

Cost of living

What are the Costs Associated with Studying Abroad in Japan?

Let us explore the essential costs to consider when planning your study abroad adventure in Japan.

A clear understanding of the financial aspects is crucial for a smooth and successful study abroad experience in Japan.

1. Financial requirements

To secure your student visa, Japanese immigration requires proof of sufficient funds. Aim for at least 1.2 million yen for every six months of study.

However, it is ideal to budget more to ensure comfort and cover unexpected expenses. Demonstrating financial preparedness is crucial for a successful visa application.

2. Location matters

Your choice of location significantly influences your expenses. Big cities like Tokyo and Osaka generally have a higher cost of living compared to smaller cities and towns. Therefore, carefully consider your location preferences and how they align with your budget.

We published an article that features various study abroad destinations in Japan and gives reasons why each place might be a good fit for you.

3. Tuition costs

The cost of tuition varies depending on the program and institution. For six months of Japanese language school studies, expect to pay approximately 450,000 yen.

4. Accommodation expenses

Accommodation costs can vary significantly depending on your chosen housing option. Research different options, such as apartments, sharehouses, and school dormitories, and compare their costs early in the planning process.

Accommodation is a significant component of your overall budget, so thorough research and planning are essential.

5. Long-term planning

To ensure financial stability throughout your study abroad journey, consider your total study duration and overall goals. This approach will enable you to accurately estimate your total financial needs.

6. Don't rely on part-time work

Although you can work part-time with a student visa in Japan, it is essential to demonstrate sufficient savings for your initial financial planning and visa application. This showcases your financial responsibility and commitment to your studies.

Determining a definitive figure for the total cost of studying in Japan can be challenging. This is because your lifestyle choices, location, and study abroad program length significantly influence your overall expenses.

However, a reasonable starting point for your financial planning is an annual budget of at least 2 million yen or US$13,000.

Keep in mind that this is a minimum estimate for basic living expenses and tuition. Aiming for a higher budget provides a financial buffer for unexpected costs and allows you to fully enjoy your experience in Japan without financial worries.

Cost of Living Calculator for Foreign Students in Japan

To gain a clearer picture of your financial needs and make informed decisions, utilize our Cost of Living Calculator.

DID YOU KNOW?

Although major cities generally have higher living costs, your individual spending habits and choices significantly influence your overall expenses.

Housing options

Housing Options for Foreign Students Planning a Japan Study Abroad

A young lady foreign student in Japan who chose a homestay for her accommodation

As you plan your study abroad experience in Japan, you will find a variety of housing options, each with advantages and disadvantages.

  1. School Dormitories:
    • Conveniently located on or near campus.
    • Cost-effective option.
    • Opportunities to interact with other students.
    • Note: Not all schools offer dormitories.
  2. Sharehouses:
    • Offer more independent living experience compared to dormitories.
    • Offer opportunities for social interaction with housemates.
  3. Homestays:
    • Allow you to immerse yourself in Japanese culture by living with a local family.
    • Allow you to experience daily life in Japan firsthand.
  4. Private Apartments:
    • Offer maximum independence and privacy.
    • Can be more costly than other housing options.

Homestay in Japan: Living with a Japanese Host Family

Health insurance and pension

Japan National Health Insurance and National Pension Scheme for Foreign Students

Understanding the Japanese National Health Insurance and the National Pension Scheme is important for your well-being and financial planning during your stay.

Important things to know about the National Health Insurance (NHI) for your financial planning in Japan

  1. The National Health Insurance (NHI), or Kokumin Kenkou Hoken, is the most common option for international students.
  2. Resident card holders in Japan, including students and working holiday visa holders, must enroll in the Japanese National Health Insurance (NHI), or Kokumin Kenkou Hoken, which provides access to affordable healthcare. NHI covers 70% of medical costs for illness, injury, or dental issues.
  3. Enrollment in NHI is required for studies longer than three months, providing access to affordable healthcare. Enrollment occurs at the local city/ward/village office, preferably during Residence Card registration, requiring Japanese Identification.
  4. Monthly NHI payment costs are based on the previous year’s income, with lower premiums for students with little to no income, calculated based on resident’s tax determined in June.
  5. An insurance card will be mailed after registration, which must be presented for insurance benefits.
  6. Some schools offer add-on insurance to cover the remaining 30% of medical expenses not covered by NHI for accidents in Japan.
  7. For studies less than three months, NHI is not available; private travel insurance is recommended, such as through WorldTrips via Go! Go! Nihon.
  8. Long-term students are required to enroll in NHI within 2 weeks of arrival in Japan.

DID YOU KNOW?

Having health insurance during your stay in Japan is important to protect yourself from potential high medical costs and ensure you have access to medical care.

Important things to know about Japan’s National Pension Scheme for your planning

  1. Resident card holders in Japan, including students and working holiday visa holders, must register for the National Pension (Kokumin Nenkin).
  2. Pension payments may not be required immediately, typically not in the first year as they are based on the previous year’s income.
  3. From the second year, payments are based on income earned in Japan.
  4. Students with little to no income can apply for an exemption (shiharai menjo) from pension payments, often used by Japanese language students for up to two years.
  5. To enroll and apply for exemption, visit the local ward or city office with: My Number Card, Residence Card, Passport, and Student Card. Upon enrollment, a yellow card with the pension number will be received by mail.
  6. Foreign students can apply for exemption annually if income meets eligibility criteria.
  7. Apply for the exemption upon arrival and renew it annually before the end of the pension year.
  8. The pension year for language school students runs from July to June of the following year.
  9. Enrolling in the National Pension as a student, even with an exemption, allows contribution to the system, which can be beneficial for long-term stays.
Using public transportation

Using Public Transportation in Japan as a Foreign Student?

Japan has an impressive public transportation system that spans across all of its major cities and islands. This network includes a nationwide system of rail lines, including the renowned Shinkansen bullet trains.

To navigate your city, you have several convenient options:

  1. Trains: For frequent travel between two stations, consider purchasing a commuter pass (teikiken) for significant savings compared to individual tickets.
  2. Buses: Extensive bus networks connect urban areas with the countryside. While most rural buses may lack English support, do not hesitate to ask the driver directly if the bus goes to your destination. Remember to press the stop button as you approach your stop.
  3. Taxis: When other public transportation options are unavailable, taxis offer convenient door-to-door service, although at a higher cost.
  4. Bicycles: Enjoy the flexibility and convenience of cycling, but be sure to familiarize yourself with Japanese cycling laws, which include:
    • No listening to music while cycling.
    • Using a headlamp on pedestrian sidewalks.
    • Parking only at designated bicycle lots in cities.

DID YOU KNOW?

When using public transportation, be mindful of other passengers and observe proper etiquette.

Ready to live and study in Japan?

Our student advisors are here to help you. Contact us today for free support!
Staying connected

How to Stay Connected with Family and Friends While Studying in Japan?

Mobile phone plan while studying abroad in Japan.

Staying connected with family and friends while studying abroad is essential. Fortunately, Japan offers various ways to maintain these important relationships.

For long-term stays on a student visa, consider these options:

For long-term stays on a student visa, consider these options:

  • Phone Plan or Contract: Obtain a regular phone plan or contract with a Japanese provider. You will typically need your Residence Card, passport, and a Japanese bank account. Be aware that you may need to pay the full cost of the phone upfront.
  • SIM Card or e-SIM: Purchase a SIM card for your existing phone. Some companies offer convenient airport pickup or delivery to your Japanese address. Visit our partner Mobal to learn more.

For short-term stays on a tourist visa, consider these options:

For short-term stays on a tourist visa, consider these options:

  • Prepaid Cell Phone: Purchase a prepaid cell phone from providers like SoftBank. You will only need your passport for this option.
  • Phone Rental: Rent a phone for the duration of your stay.
  • Pocket WiFi: Rent a pocket WiFi device for convenient internet access on multiple devices. This is a good option if you primarily need data.
  • International Roaming: While possible, avoid using international roaming on your current phone plan, it can be very expensive.

Go! Go! Nihon partners with Mobal and Ninja Wifi, offering benefits and discounts to our students. Contact your student advisor for more information and to subscribe.

Phone plan options

  • Long-term students: Consider regular subscription plans (may require upfront phone payment) or SIM cards with plans ranging from 1,000 to 4,500 yen per month. Data-only and calling plans with a Japanese number are available.
  • Short-term students:Opt for prepaid cell phones (4,000 to 7,000 yen) or rent phones (200-500 yen per day for regular phones, 1,000-2,000 yen per day for smartphones). Data-only and calling plans with a Japanese number are available.
  • Pocket WiFi: Rent a pocket WiFi device for 3,000 to 6,000 yen per month and connect up to 10 devices

DID YOU KNOW?

A phone is an indispensable tool for navigating daily life in Japan, staying connected with loved ones, and exploring your new surroundings.

How we can help you

How Go! Go! Nihon Helped 15,000+ Foreign Students Live and Study in Japan?

"Stephanie is the person I emailed back and forth with which is incredibly helpful with everything I was extorting everything out and getting on my paper working and helping it even helping me fill my paperwork out."

Go! Go! Nihon provides comprehensive support to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad in Japan. We are your trusted study abroad company throughout the entire process, from application to arrival and beyond.

Do not miss your chance to live and study in Japan! Start your journey now to gain unique skills, experience Japanese culture, and boost your future opportunities. Talk to our student advisors today!

  • We have partnered with over 30 of Japan’s top language schools, universities, and vocational schools, ensuring a variety of options to perfectly match your academic aspirations.
  • Our diverse program offerings cater to various interests and time commitments, including short-term study trips and comprehensive two-year language courses.
  • Our dedicated team takes care of all the logistical details, including:
    • Finding suitable accommodations
    • Selecting the right school for your needs
    • Assisting with your school and student visa applications
    • Arranging airport pickup
    • Helping you secure a SIM card
    • Preparing you for a smooth transition to life in Japan
  • We offer professionally designed online Japanese courses, developed in collaboration with leading language schools.
  • Our multilingual support team is here to assist you in seven languages: English, French, Italian, Spanish, Swedish, German, and Portuguese.
  • Our support is completely free.

4.9-star reviews: Go! Go! Nihon is your trusted study abroad provider in Japan

Excellent
camilla C.
I ragazzi sono fantastici, tempestivi nelle risposte ed estremamente gentili.
Consiglio fortemente di utilizzare Gogonihon per realizzare il proprio sogno di studiare e vivere in Giappone.
Uno staff davvero meraviglioso.
Riccardo P.
La mia esperienza con Go Go Nihon è stata super positiva, il loro team mi ha guidato passo dopo passo lungo tutte le procedure necessarie allo studio della lingua in Giappone, semplificando di molto la burocrazia. Non posso che raccomandare Go Go Nihon a chiunque sogni di studiare all'estero per la loro professionalità e facilità d'uso del loro servizio.
Jsobone
Matt has been incredibly helpful in detailing information & helping me find the best location for my studies. I appreciate all of the help he has provided and will not hesitate to reach out to him for further questions.
Quentin B
Je recommande vivement.
Je ne regrette pas mon experience sur GO GO NIhon,
Une aide pour monter son dossier et un temps accordé pour repondre au question vraiment super.
Un grand merci à Pauline et Moko.
Response from the owner:Bonjour Quentin, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous aidons dans vos projets au Japon.
alright _.
Agréablement surprise! J’ai été accompagné et bien renseigné durant toute ma demande. Facile pour communiquer et rapide en considérant que nous vivons sur différentes plages horaires. Je recommande si vous souhaitez partir au Japon une première fois ou encore une fois !
Response from the owner:Bonjour, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous aidons dans vos projets au Japon.
Irene S.
Gogonihon permette a molti giovani come me, interessati a studiare la lingua giapponese in Giappone, di realizzare un sogno, affiancandoci costantemente nelle pratiche burocratiche e legali necessarie. La consulente che ha seguito la mia iscrizione è Mara e davvero non avrei potuto chiedere di meglio. Mi ha aiutato per qualsiasi problema o domanda avessi e le devo molto.
simone C.
Non posso che esprimere la mia più sincera gratitudine a Go! Go! Nihon: il loro supporto durante il mio trasferimento in Giappone è stato semplicemente straordinario. Mi hanno accompagnato in ogni fase del processo, spiegando tutto con chiarezza e guidandomi passo passo, anche nelle procedure più complesse legate al mio status di ex-residente.

Ciò che mi ha davvero colpito è stata la combinazione perfetta di competenza, efficienza e umanità: ogni mia domanda ha ricevuto risposta con prontezza, ogni dettaglio è stato gestito con attenzione e precisione, e la loro pazienza è stata infinita. Grazie a loro, un percorso che sembrava complesso e stressante è diventato semplice, sicuro e persino piacevole.

Se state pensando di trasferirvi in Giappone, non esitate: Go! Go! Nihon non offre solo assistenza, ma una vera partnership che rende l’intera esperienza fluida, sicura e incredibilmente gratificante.
Baptiste P.
Service impeccable 👍
Response from the owner:Bonjour Baptiste, merci pour votre commentaire !
gabriele G.
Veronica mi è stata accanto durante tutto l'iter. Super consigliato
lena L.
im only in japan right now thanks to gogo nihon. they're incredibly helpful, resourceful and always reply fast, making the very difficult process of applying to a language school managable. i actually cant believe that their services are for free, since they go all the way to help you, its truly incredible. not only that, they offer many solutions for new students to feel welcome and facilite their process of accomodating to japan by organizing field trips and parties. i want to especially thank reinaldi who was my personal advisor and helped me every step of the way. thank you so much gogo nihon!!!!!!
Response from the owner:Hi, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you throughout the whole process and we hope you're enjoying your time in Japan!
Maria V.
Servizio usato due volte per studiare in Giappone, impeccabile e super affidabile!
In particolare, una nota di merito a Mara che mi ha accompagnato passo per passo, togliendomi qualsiasi dubbio (o preoccupazione), anche il più piccolo.

Sempre cordiali e velocissimi nelle risposte.
Se volete studiare in Giappone per un breve periodo o per un lungo periodo, affidatevi a loro!
Complimenti ragazzi!!!
Sara G.
Partirò ad ottobre per Tokyo, senza l’aiuto di go go nihon non avrei saputo da che parte cominciare. Mi hanno assistito per ogni passaggio da effettuare prima della partenza.
Red S.
Per fortuna esiste GoGoNihon! Fare tutto da soli sarebbe stato impossibile, invece grazie al loro aiuto in tutti i passaggi (scuola, casa, visto, ecc) è stato semplicissimo!
Matilde
Veramente cordiali e disponibili! Sono stato fantastici ad aiutarmi, non solo con le innumerevoli pratiche, ma anche a calmare l'ansia avendo la pazienza di calmare OGNI mio dubbio. Grazie mille davvero!
Giovanni I.
Grazie a Go Go Nihon la mia iscrizione a una scuola di lingua in Giappone è stata semplicissima! Si occupano di qualsiasi passaggio burocratico, seguendoti passo passo nell'invio dei documenti necessari e nello svolgimento delle varie formalità. Istruzioni dettagliate, tanti consigli utili e un servizio di assistenza personale sempre rapido e preciso (un ringraziamento particolare a Veronica!), il tutto senza alcun costo di servizio!
Jacopo G.
Professionali e sempre disponibili per rispondere a ogni domanda, affidarmi a loro è stata la scelta giusta per iniziare il mio percorso verso il Giappone con tranquillità.
Il loro aiuto in ogni fase della preparazione è stato prezioso: dalla scelta della scuola alle procedure per l'immigrazione e la ricerca di un alloggio in Giappone.
Consiglio vivamente i loro servizi a chiunque voglia fare quest'esperienza all'estero!
Ermanno G.
Servizio impeccabile.
Gaia N.
Agenzia super efficiente e rapida nelle risposte. Ti guidano praticamente in tutto e sanno indicarti e consigliarti le soluzioni migliori per il tuo viaggio studio in Giappone sempre con gentilezza e dedizione. Assolutamente consigliati. Un grosso ringraziamento a Gianluca che ha seguito tutto il mio percorso con attenzione e pazienza.
Nicolò M.
Ho sempre pensato che andare a vivere in Giappone fosse impossibile, un sogno irrealizzabile, fino a quando un giorno scorrendo su Instagram mi ritrovo un “Benvenuto in Giappone” nella pagina di GoGoNihon Italia. Mi sono iniziato ad informare su tutte le varie cose e col tempo ho capito che poteva non essere solo un sogno ma poteva diventare realtà. È iniziato tutto 2 anni fa e ora eccomi qui, a 2 settimane dalla partenza per Tokyo, con il mio sogno a portata di mano, con GoGoNihon, il mio consulente Gianluca mi ha aiutato in tutti i vari passaggi che da solo erano troppo complicati, ma spiegati passo dopo passo mi hanno permesso di fare le cose come si deve e ora é tutto pronto per la partenza. Sono veramente felice di essermi affidato a loro e ormai sono arrivato al mio sogno, super consigliato per chiunque voglia fare un esperienza simile in Giappone! Grazie GoGoNihon e grazie Gianluca!
霊ジョセフ
Esperienza totalmente positiva. Ringrazio Gianluca e il resto dello staff per avermi seguito e supportato durante questi mesi.
Viola M.
Mi sono trovata benissimo sono stati cordiali molto gentili, sempre disponibili ad aiutarti. Sono felice di aver fatto questa esperienza con loro
Isabella V.
esperienza molto positiva, assistenti tutti disponibili, comunicativi e sempre a disposizione
My V.
Go Go Nihon has helped make my dream of living and studying abroad in Japan possible!! Layna was absolutely amazing -- she helped me pick a school, answered all of my questions, responded quickly, was very thorough each step of the way, and was super kind throughout the entire process. The Go Go dashboard is also super easy to use and made the entire application process seamless. It was about a 6-7 month timeline from start to finish, so make sure to plan ahead! HIGHLY RECOMMEND GO GO NIHON!!
Response from the owner:Hi, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you throughout the whole process.
Andrea M.
Go! Go! Nihon è stato fantastico nell’aiutarmi ad andare in Giappone. Sono stato seguito da Mara e posso ritenermi più che soddisfatto del lavoro che ha fatto aiutandomi a trovare una Scuola di Giapponese che fa al caso mio e fornendomi tutti gli strumenti necessari per la ricerca dell’alloggio. Consiglio fortemente a chiunque voglia vivere questa esperienza in Giappone di rivolgervi a loro perché a costo zero vi daranno tutte le informazioni necessarie per poter iscriversi ad un corso in totale relax!
Greg L.
Je tiens à remercier toute l’équipe de Go! Go! Nihon pour leur soutien extraordinaire tout au long de mon dossier. Dès le début, leur dashboard est très clair et facilite énormément toutes les démarches (scolaires, administratives…).

Ils sont très réactifs, même avec le décalage horaire, ce qui m’a permis de corriger ou modifier les documents rapidement quand cela était nécessaire.

Un merci particulier à Pauline et Hanae qui ont pris en charge mon dossier avec professionnalisme et efficacité, même dans des délais courts.
Response from the owner:Bonjour Greg, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous aidons dans vos projets au Japon.
Esther L.
L’équipe de Go Go Nihon a été d’une aide infinie pour sélectionner, postuler et s’inscrire dans une des écoles de langues japonaises. J’ai été suivie par Nora et Hanae qui ont été très réactives et efficaces pour la constitution du dossier, je suis ravie du résultat n’hésitez pas foncez !
Response from the owner:Bonjour Esther, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous aidons dans vos projets au Japon.
Laurent L.
Un superbe accomapgnement de A à Z. Pauline et Hanae ont été super et vraiment professionnel, le travail et la réaction de Pauline a juste été au top. Hanae a fourni un travail dans l'ombre excellent et m'ont permis d'avoir une réponse positive d'une école. Je recommande fortement, encore merci Pauline et Hanae pour tout ce professionnalisme et continuez comme cela.
Response from the owner:Bonjour Laurent, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous aidons dans votre projet d'étude au Japon.
Gabriela C.
Gente, o que dizer dessa consultoria de intercâmbio? Só tenho elogios desde o primeiro contato! Conheci por indicação de um colega e, como sempre sonhei em fazer intercâmbio no Japão, procurei a ajuda deles — e foi a melhor decisão que eu poderia ter tomado.

Desde o início, foram extremamente atenciosos. Cada dúvida, cada receio que eu tinha, eles estavam lá para esclarecer e orientar. O processo como um todo foi excelente: me ajudaram a escolher a escola que mais se encaixava nas minhas necessidades, traduziram e enviaram os documentos para o Japão, deram todo o suporte para a solicitação do visto, orientaram sobre como levar medicações, indicaram imobiliárias e tantas outras coisas que nem imaginava.

Tudo é feito com muito cuidado e carinho. Eles até preparam materiais explicativos, em português, para guiar o preenchimento de formulários obrigatórios de entrada no Japão (só o contato com as imobiliárias foi em inglês).

Quero deixar um agradecimento especial à Nina, que me acompanhou em cada etapa com dedicação e paciência. Agora, em outubro, embarco para o Japão com tudo pronto e me sentindo super tranquila.

Recomendo de coração essa consultoria a todos que sonham em viver essa experiência!
Response from the owner:Muito obrigado por compartilhar sua experiência conosco! Ficamos muito felizes em saber que conseguimos oferecer o suporte necessário em cada etapa do processo e que você se sentiu acolhida e bem orientada. Nosso objetivo é justamente tornar o caminho para o intercâmbio mais leve e seguro, para que cada estudante possa embarcar confiante nessa nova fase. Desejamos que sua experiência e estudos no Japão seja incrível e repleta de aprendizados! Conte sempre conosco no que precisar, mesmo após a sua chegada.
Norah Bloyer L.
Merci à Go! Go! Nihon et plus particulièrement Pauline et à sa collègue de m’avoir accompagné tout au long du processus des préparatifs pour le Japon. Tout s’est très bien passé avec leur aide à mes côtés. Ils ont été là pour répondre à mes questions. Le service a été rapide et clair. Je n’ai plus qu’à attendre mon départ maintenant . Merci beaucoup !
Response from the owner:Bonjour Norah, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous aidons dans votre projet au Japon.
Marius S.
Un service clair, bien ordonné, et précis dans les demandes, je ne pourrais pas assez recommander cette plateforme pour vos démarche d'immigration.
Un merci particulier à Nora et Moko qui m'ont accompagnés dans mon processus d'immigration
Response from the owner:Bonjour Marius, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous aidons dans vos projets au Japon.
Aurore L.
Une grande aide pour pouvoir s'inscrire à une école de langue Japonaise! Très patients et très
à l'écoute, les personnes cherchent vraiment à nous aider dans notre projet! Je vous remercie encore 🙂
Response from the owner:Bonjour Aurore, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous aidons dans vos projets au Japon.
Zolenge B.
This site is perfect for anyone else who wants to study in Japan, but doesn’t know where to start the application process. I was helped out by Layna, who walked me through every step and answered all my questions!
Response from the owner:Hi, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you throughout the whole process.
mathieu V.
I’m really happy to have chosen Go! Go! Nihon to find a school in Japan and to help me! Without the help of Pauline and Moko, I would not have been able to go study in Japan. The process was well explained, and all my questions were answered in a clear and friendly way. I highly recommend everybody to use Go! Go! Nihon (and their online courses).

Pour mes amis francophones, sachez que vous serez aidés pour les traductions depuis le français, donc n’hésitez pas !
Response from the owner:Hi Mathieu, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you throughout the whole process.
Alex A.
Very helpful service, staff was kind and provided clear and timely feedback for getting through the application process. My own circumstances unfortunately meant I had to cancel my application, but the staff was understanding and said I would be welcome to apply with them again if my situation changes for the better.
Response from the owner:Hi Alex, thank you for your review! We're sorry you had to cancel, but we were happy to help you.
Chris B.
All the staff are very helpful, they have helped me immensely.
Response from the owner:Hi Chris, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you!
Guest N.
I had an incredible experience with Go Go Nihon while enrolling in a Japanese language school. The entire process was so friendly and straightforward. My enrollment counselor, Layna, was especially helpful and responsive. She patiently walked me through all the steps and made what could have been a confusing process completely painless.

Layna also connected me with student housing partners, which was a huge help in finding an apartment close to my school. Thanks to her guidance, I was able to get everything arranged seamlessly.

I highly recommend Go Go Nihon for anyone considering a study abroad program in Japan.
Response from the owner:Hi, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you throughout the whole process.
Noah B.
Really great overall! The process has been long but it has been easy thanks to GoGoNihon!
Response from the owner:Hi, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you throughout the whole process.
Helen N.
Saskia helped me out through the entire process, from helping choose a school to any questions or concerns I had. I was kept informed of the process over the 10 months we had correspondence.
Response from the owner:Hello Helen, thank you for your review. We're happy we could help you!
William
Nora et Ayumi m'ont parfaitement accompagné pendant plusieurs mois pour me conseiller en fonction de mon profil et sécuriser l'école de mon choix, merci beaucoup ! Je vous recommande d'utiliser les services de Go! Go! Nihon, vous gagnerez beaucoup de temps pour votre expatriation concernant les démarches administratives, et vous obtiendrez aussi beaucoup d'informations utiles qui amélioreront la qualité de votre départ et installation dans le pays.
Response from the owner:Bonjour, merci pour votre commentaire ! C'est avec plaisir que nous vous aidons dans vos projets au Japon.
Karyna B.
My husband and I applied for Oct 2025 semester to study Japanese long term through Go! Go! Nihon. This was a clear and straightforward process thanks to Saskia! She helped us select a school, provided full support every step of the way, gave us all the details we needed, and ensured meeting all deadlines for the application. Thank you, Go! Go! Nihon and Saskia for the seamless experience, much appreciated!
Response from the owner:Hi Karyna, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you and your husband throughout the whole process. We can't wait for you to get here in October!
Dmytro
When we decided to attend a language school in Japan, some light research lead us to GoGoNihon as one of the most recommended conduits for the application process. I can now see why, although this was our first time using a service like this, and it was very straightforward and simple. Special thanks to our coordinator Saskia for answering all of our questions and helping us through the entire process! From recommending various language schools that could meet our needs to helping us through the actual application steps, she made the whole thing very easy! Now we are excited to start our classes in October!
Response from the owner:Hi, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you throughout the whole process. We can't wait for you to start classes in October!
malice
My agents name was Silvia and she was amazing. Fast responses, answered all of my questions, easy to understand and gave me step-by-step instructions on all of the tasks and paperwork I needed to complete to get to Japan. I recommend her to everyone I know hoping to study in Japan.
Response from the owner:Hi, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you throughout the whole process.
Киана П.
I highly recommend using GoGo Nihon if you’re interested in applying to a Japanese language school abroad. I had the pleasure of being guided by Silvia through this process step-by-step. She has provided all the information I need and helped answer any questions I had. I’m very much looking forward to attend the language school I have chosen and am grateful for the amazing support given. Thank you, Silvia!
Response from the owner:Hi, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you throughout the whole process.
Bradon B.
Amazingly simple program that helps you get the opportunity to study a language abroad with ease! The staff is very helpful and communicative, it feels like they really want to help you! I highly recommend checking GoGo out if you're interested learning a language abroad!
Response from the owner:Hi Bradon, thank you for your review! We're happy we could help you throughout the whole process.
Summary

Comprehensive Guide For Studying Abroad in Japan

Studying abroad in Japan offers an exceptional experience. However, careful planning is essential. This in-depth guide equips you with the knowledge and resources necessary to turn your dream of studying in Japan into a reality.

To ensure a smooth and successful experience, begin planning your study abroad journey approximately one year in advance. This includes researching various programs, preparing your application materials, and familiarizing yourself with Japanese culture and customs.

There are diverse study abroad in Japan programs to suit your interests and goals, whether you aspire to attend a university, immerse yourself in Japanese language studies, or gain practical skills through vocational training.

Each program has specific requirements, and obtaining a student visa is essential for your study abroad journey.

We encourage you to make the most of this opportunity to gain valuable cultural insights, improve your Japanese language skills, and enhance your career prospects in Japan. Contact Go! Go! Nihon today and let our expert team guide you every step of the way!

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What are the basic steps to studying abroad in Japan?
    Plan and research your options, apply and prepare before you leave, and then settle in and start your new life in Japan.
  2. What are the benefits of studying abroad in Japan?
    You will grow personally, expand your network, experience a new culture, improve your language skills, and boost your career prospects.
  3. What kind of study abroad programs are available in Japan?
    There are university exchange programs, international university programs taught in English, Japanese language schools, short study trips, and vocational schools.
  4. What documents do I need for a Japanese student visa?
    You’ll need your passport, photos, academic records, proof of finances, and proof of Japanese language study (JLPT N5 level or 150 hours).
  5. How much does it cost to study abroad in Japan?
    It depends on your lifestyle and location, but a good starting point is at least 2 million yen per year (around US$13,000), and it’s wise to budget more for unexpected costs.
Table of Contents

Live and study abroad in Japan

Our student advisors are here to help you. Contact us today for free support.

Important Information for a Successful Study Abroad in Japan