Japanese Language Schools
(日本語学校 - Nihongo Gakko)

1. Purpose and Goals

The main goal of attending a Japanese language school is, naturally, to learn Japanese – encompassing reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Most schools aim to prepare students for higher education by helping them pass the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), often targeting the N2 or N1 level required by many vocational schools and universities. Some also offer preparation for the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU). Additionally, you'll acquire the practical Japanese necessary for navigating daily life, such as shopping, using public transport, and handling everyday situations.

2. Entry Requirements & JLPT Level

Generally, prospective students need to have completed 12 years of schooling in their home country, equivalent to high school graduation. Importantly, a specific JLPT level is usually NOT required to enter a beginner course. Schools typically assess your level upon arrival or during the application process to place you appropriately. The primary purpose of attending is to achieve the necessary proficiency (like N2 or N1) for your subsequent goals, whether that's further education or employment. While not mandatory for beginner courses, some prior self-study can be beneficial.

3. Tuition Fees (学費 - Gakuhi)

Tuition fees vary considerably based on the school and its location, with major cities like Tokyo generally being more expensive. As a rough estimate, budget approximately ¥700,000 to ¥900,000 or more for the first year. This typically covers the application fee (選考料), a one-time admission fee (入学金), tuition (授業料), and other costs like textbooks (教材費) and facility fees (施設費). Often, the fees for the first six months or the full first year must be paid upfront after receiving the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) and before arriving in Japan.

4. Financial Proof for COE (経費支弁能力証明 - Keihi Shiben Nōryoku Shōmei)

This is a critical component of the application process. You or your financial sponsor must demonstrate to the Japanese Immigration Services Agency that sufficient funds are available to cover both tuition fees and living expenses throughout your study period. This assures immigration authorities that you can support yourself without resorting to illegal work. The required amount varies, but a common guideline is proof of a bank balance equivalent to around ¥1.5 million to ¥2.5 million or more, covering approximately one year's costs. Necessary documentation usually includes official bank statements (often showing stable funds over a period) and potentially proof of the sponsor's income. Your chosen school will provide specific details. Inadequate financial proof is a frequent reason for COE rejection, so prepare this meticulously.

5. Graduation Requirements / Course Completion

Completion of a language school program primarily hinges on attendance (出席率 - Shusseki-ritsu) rather than credits. Most schools mandate a minimum attendance rate of 80-85%. Falling below this threshold can seriously jeopardize your student visa renewal and hinder progression to further education. Japanese immigration authorities monitor attendance strictly. Naturally, active participation in class and reasonable academic progress are also expected.

6. Enrollment Periods (入学時期 - Nyūgaku Jiki)

Most language schools offer enrollment opportunities four times annually: April, July, October, and January. The April (start of the Japanese academic year) and October intakes are typically the largest, often featuring courses designed for longer study durations (1.5 to 2 years). July and January intakes might offer shorter programs or cater to specific proficiency levels. Remember to apply well in advance – typically 5 to 6 months before your desired enrollment date – to accommodate the school's selection process and the COE application timeline.

7. Part-time Work (アルバイト - Arubaito)

Student visa holders are generally permitted to work part-time to supplement living expenses, but only after obtaining "Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted" (資格外活動許可 - Shikakugai Katsudō Kyoka). This permission can usually be applied for upon arrival at the airport or later at an immigration office. The work limit is up to 28 hours per week during school terms and potentially up to 40 hours per week during extended official school holidays. Work in certain entertainment establishments (like bars with hostesses or gambling parlors) is strictly prohibited. Finding suitable part-time work (e.g., in restaurants, shops, convenience stores) can be challenging initially, particularly with limited Japanese skills. Wages typically range from ¥1,000 to ¥1,300 per hour, varying by region.

8. Accommodation (住居 - Jūkyo) & Costs

Many language schools offer or arrange accommodation, often in shared dormitory rooms (寮 - Ryō). Dorms are usually cheaper (approx. ¥30,000 - ¥60,000/month per person) and easier to secure before arrival but offer less privacy. Renting a private apartment (アパート) provides more independence but involves significantly higher initial costs (potentially 4-6 months' rent upfront for deposit, key money, agency fees, etc.) and higher monthly rent (¥50,000 - ¥90,000+/month excluding utilities, especially in large cities). Finding private apartments can also be difficult for foreigners, often requiring a Japanese guarantor.

9. General Life in Japan & Other Considerations

Beyond tuition and rent, budget for living expenses (生活費 - Seikatsuhi) including food, transport, phone/internet, personal items, and mandatory National Health Insurance (国民健康保険 - Kokumin Kenkō Hoken), which covers 70% of most medical costs. A rough monthly estimate is ¥80,000 - ¥130,000, depending on lifestyle and location. Be prepared for cultural adjustments. Schools usually offer student support services. Common challenges include navigating the pre-arrival COE/visa process and post-arrival tasks like opening bank accounts, getting a phone, and finding part-time work.