Studying Japanese in Japan: schools, intakes and planning

Types of programme

Private Japanese language schools are the most common route. Their long-term courses combine around four hours of class per weekday with homework and regular tests, and many prepare students for the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) or the Examination for Japanese University Admission (EJU). University programmes for international students tend to follow the academic calendar and may expect some prior study.

Short-term courses of one to twelve weeks suit travellers and people testing their interest before a longer commitment. These are usually taken on visitor entry where that is permitted, so check the rules for your nationality.

How intakes and applications work

Long-term schools typically admit students in a small number of fixed months, often April and October, with some also starting in January or July. Application deadlines can be four to six months before the start, because the school applies for a Certificate of Eligibility on the student's behalf before the visa application. Short courses start much more frequently.

Choosing a school

Ask about class size, the share of students from your region, how levels are assessed, and what support exists for university or job applications. Visit-day videos and timetables on the official site are more useful than rankings. If you plan to work part-time, ask how the school supports students in balancing work with attendance requirements.

• Course length, intake months and application deadline.
• Weekly hours, class size and level structure.
• JLPT or EJU preparation and past progression routes.
• Housing options, fees and what the first payment covers.

Setting a realistic goal

Learners starting from zero often need well over a year of full-time study to reach the level expected for university entry. Rather than aiming for a level by a fixed date, compare how each school structures progress and how often students move up a level.