Study in Japan Without Learning Japanese 800+ English-Taught Programs

Access world-class Japanese education through fully English-taught undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs at top-ranked universities.

The Rise of English-Taught Education in Japan

Japan has dramatically expanded its English-taught program offerings as part of its initiative to internationalize higher education and attract global talent.

Key Statistics:
  • 800+ English-taught programs across Japanese universities
  • Programs increased by 300% in the last decade
  • Over 100 universities now offer English-taught degrees
  • International students from 170+ countries

Government Support: The Japanese government's "Top Global University Project" has invested significantly in expanding English-taught programs, particularly at leading institutions.

Source: Acumen Education, Study in Japan Official Website

Japan Education Study in Japan

Advantages of English-Taught Programs

No Japanese Language Barrier to Entry

Start your degree immediately without spending a year learning Japanese. This allows you to:

  • Begin your academic journey faster
  • Focus on your subject area from day one
  • Learn Japanese gradually while studying

Important Note: Most universities offer free Japanese language courses alongside English programs, helping you integrate and improve job prospects.

Global Classroom Environment

English programs attract international students from around the world, creating:

  • Diverse peer networks (students from 50+ countries in a single cohort)
  • Cross-cultural collaboration
  • Global perspectives on Japanese and Asian issues
  • Lifelong international connections
Same World-Class Education

English-taught programs maintain the same rigorous academic standards as Japanese programs:

  • Same prestigious universities and faculty
  • Access to cutting-edge research facilities
  • Identical degree credentials and recognition
  • Same scholarship opportunities (including MEXT)
Better Career Flexibility

English proficiency + Japanese degree creates strong global opportunities:

  • International corporations in Japan
  • Global companies across Asia-Pacific
  • Multinational organizations
  • Academic and research positions worldwide
Gradual Japanese Learning

Even if your degree is in English, you can still learn Japanese during your studies:

  • Universities provide Japanese language courses
  • Immersive environment accelerates learning
  • Most students achieve conversational fluency
  • Improved employability in Japan

Top Universities Offering English Programs

1. University of Tokyo (東京大学)
2. Kyoto University (京都大学)
3. Tokyo Institute of Technology (東京工業大学)
4. Osaka University (大阪大学)
5. Tohoku University (東北大学)
6. Waseda University (早稲田大学)
7. Keio University (慶應義塾大学)
8. Sophia University (上智大学)
9. Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU)
01

University of Tokyo (東京大学)

QS Ranking 2026: #36 Global

English-Taught Programs
PEAK (Programs in English at Komaba) – Undergraduate:
  • International Program on Japan in East Asia: 4 years – Politics, economics, society, and culture of Japan and East Asia; focus on critical thinking, research skills, and interaction with Japanese students.
  • International Program on Environmental Sciences: 4 years – Climate change and sustainability, ecology and biodiversity, environmental policy and management.
  • Duration: 4 years
  • Annual Tuition: ¥535,800 (₹3.1 lakh)
  • Scholarship: PEAK scholarships available (full tuition + stipend)
Graduate Programs
  • Public Policy (Master's/PhD)
  • Economics (Master's/PhD)
  • Engineering (selected programs)
  • Agricultural and Life Sciences
  • Application: Direct to university
  • Deadline: November–December for April intake

Source: University of Tokyo Official Website

02

Kyoto University (京都大学)

QS Ranking 2026: #57 Global

English-Taught Programs
Undergraduate
  • Kyoto iUP (International Undergraduate Program): 4.5 years – First 6 months intensive Japanese language training, Years 1-2 liberal arts in English/Japanese, Years 3-4 major specialization mainly in Japanese.
  • Civil and Earth Resources Engineering: 4 years – Fully taught in English.
Graduate Programs (Fully English)
  • Graduate School of Economics: East Asian Economic Studies (Master's/PhD)
  • Graduate School of Management: MBA and International Business
  • Graduate School of Global Environmental Studies: Sustainability Science
  • Graduate School of Engineering: Urban Management, Infrastructure Systems
  • Graduate School of Science: Biological Science programs
  • Duration: 2 years (Master's), 3-5 years (PhD)
  • Annual Tuition: ¥535,800 (₹3.1 lakh)
  • Language Requirement: IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 92+
Unique Features
  • Joint degree programs with European universities
  • Exchange opportunities with 400+ partner institutions
  • Research-intensive curriculum

Source: Kyoto University Official Website

03

Tokyo Institute of Technology (東京工業大学)

QS Ranking 2026: #85 Global

  • Specialization: Science, Engineering, Technology
English-Taught Programs
Undergraduate
  • International Undergraduate Program (IUP)
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
  • Information and Communications Engineering
  • Materials Science
Graduate Programs
  • Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Chemical)
  • Science (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Life Science)
  • Computing (AI, Cybersecurity, Data Science)
  • Technology and Innovation Management
  • Duration: 4 years (UG), 2 years (Master's), 3 years (PhD)
  • Annual Tuition: ¥535,800 (₹3.1 lakh)
Unique Feature
  • Strong industry partnerships with Sony, Toyota, Panasonic

Source: Tokyo Institute of Technology Official Website

04

Osaka University (大阪大学)

QS Ranking 2026: #86 Global

English-Taught Programs
Undergraduate
  • School of Human Sciences: Human Sciences International Undergraduate Degree Program
  • School of Engineering: Applied Natural Sciences
Graduate Programs
  • Osaka University Maple Program: Short-term exchange (6-12 months)
  • International Public Policy: Master's/PhD
  • Engineering Sciences: Multiple specializations
  • Human Sciences: Psychology, Sociology, Education
  • Economics: International Economics
  • Medicine and Health Sciences: Public Health, Medical Sciences
  • Duration: 2 years (Master's), 3–5 years (PhD)
  • Annual Tuition: ¥535,800 (₹3.1 lakh)
  • Scholarship: Maple Program includes scholarship support
05

Tohoku University (東北大学)

QS Ranking 2026: #109 Global

English-Taught Programs
FGL (Future Global Leadership) Program – Undergraduate
  • Advanced Molecular Chemistry: Bachelor of Science (4 years)
  • International Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering: Bachelor of Engineering (4 years)
  • Applied Marine Biology: Bachelor of Agriculture (4 years)
Features
  • Cutting-edge research from year 1
  • Small class sizes (15–20 students per cohort)
  • Scholarship support available
  • Integration with Japanese students
Graduate Programs
  • Engineering (Mechanical, Aerospace, Civil)
  • Life Sciences
  • Environmental Studies
  • International Relations
  • Duration: 4 years (UG), 2 years (Master's)
  • Annual Tuition: ¥535,800 (₹3.1 lakh)
  • Notable: High research output, strong industry connections

Source: Tohoku University Official Website

06

Waseda University (早稲田大学)

Type: Private university with the largest international student population in Japan

English-Taught Programs
Undergraduate
  • School of International Liberal Studies (SILS): 4 years – Interdisciplinary liberal arts including social sciences, humanities, and cultural studies with study abroad opportunities.
  • School of Political Science and Economics: International Political Economy
  • School of Social Sciences: Social Sciences in English
  • School of Culture, Media and Society: Global Culture and Media Studies
Graduate Programs
  • Graduate School of Asia-Pacific Studies (GSAPS): Master's/PhD
  • Graduate School of International Culture and Communication Studies
  • MBA Program: 2-year English-taught MBA
  • Graduate School of Political Science
  • Duration: 4 years (UG), 2 years (Master's)
  • Annual Tuition: ¥1,200,000–¥1,500,000 (₹7–8.7 lakh)
  • Scholarship: Multiple scholarships available (30–100% tuition reduction)
Unique Features
  • Located in central Tokyo
  • Extensive alumni network (400,000+ globally)
  • Strong corporate connections
07

Keio University (慶應義塾大学)

Established: Japan's oldest private university (founded 1858)

English-Taught Programs
Undergraduate
  • GIGA Program (Global Information and Governance Academic Program): 4 years – Focus on information technology, governance, social sciences, and public policy.
Graduate Programs
  • Graduate School of Media and Governance: Master's/PhD
  • Graduate School of System Design and Management
  • Keio Business School: MBA in English
  • Graduate School of Economics
  • Duration: 4 years (UG), 2 years (Master's)
  • Annual Tuition: ¥1,300,000–¥1,800,000 (₹7.5–10.4 lakh)
  • Notable: Strong finance and business programs
08

Sophia University (上智大学)

Overview: Highly globalized university located in central Tokyo

English-Taught Programs
Undergraduate
  • Faculty of Liberal Arts: 4 years – Fully English-taught program offering majors in Comparative Culture, Journalism, and International Relations.
Graduate Programs
  • Graduate Program in Global Studies: Master's/PhD
  • Graduate Program in Global Environmental Studies
  • MBA and International Management
  • Duration: 4 years (UG), 2 years (Master's)
  • Annual Tuition: ¥1,200,000–¥1,500,000 (₹7–8.7 lakh)
Features
  • Students from 77 countries
  • 400 international exchange partner universities
09

Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU)

Overview: Unique bilingual campus located in Oita Prefecture

English-Taught Programs
Undergraduate
  • College of Asia Pacific Studies: 4 years
  • College of International Management: 4 years
Features
  • 50% international students and 50% Japanese students
  • All courses taught in both English and Japanese
  • Multicultural campus with students from 100+ countries
Graduate Programs
  • Graduate School of Asia Pacific Studies: Master's/PhD
  • Graduate School of Management: MBA
  • Duration: 4 years (UG), 2 years (Master's)
  • Annual Tuition: ¥1,400,000 (₹8.1 lakh)
  • Scholarship: 80% of international students receive scholarships

Engineering & Technology
(English-Taught)

Available at :
  • Tokyo Institute of Technology
  • University of Tokyo
  • Tohoku University
  • Kyoto University
  • Osaka University
Popular specialization :
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
  • Computer Science and Information Technology
  • Materials Science
  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Civil Engineering

Duration 4 years (Bachelor's), 2 years (Master's), 3 years (PhD)

Career Prospects: ¥300,000–¥500,000/month

Business & Economics
(English-Taught)

MBA programs available at:
  • Waseda Business School
  • Keio Business School
  • Hitotsubashi ICS
  • University of Tokyo
  • Kyoto University
Undergraduate:
  • Ritsumeikan APU
  • Waseda
  • Sophia

Duration 1–2 years (MBA), 4 years (Undergraduate)

Average Tuition: ¥1,500,000–¥2,500,000/year

ROI: 30–50% salary increase post-MBA

International Relations & Liberal Arts

Available at
  • University of Tokyo
  • Waseda
  • Sophia University
  • International Christian University
  • Keio
Focus areas:
  • Japanese politics and society
  • International development
  • Cultural studies
  • Global governance
  • Peace and conflict studies

Duration 4 years (Undergraduate), 2 years (Master's)

Career Paths: Diplomacy, international organizations, NGOs, consulting

Environmental Sciences & Sustainability

Available at:
  • University of Tokyo
  • Kyoto University
  • Osaka University
  • Sophia University
Focus areas:
  • Climate change mitigation
  • Renewable energy
  • Conservation biology
  • Environmental policy
  • Sustainable development

Duration 4 years (Undergraduate), 2 years (Master's), 3–5 years (PhD)

Growing field: High demand due to sustainability focus

Life Sciences & Biotechnology

Available at:
  • University of Tokyo
  • Kyoto University
  • Osaka University
  • Tohoku University
  • Tokyo Medical and Dental University
Specializations:
  • Molecular biology
  • Genetics
  • Pharmaceutical sciences
  • Marine biology
  • Neuroscience

Duration 4 years (Undergraduate), 2 years (Master's), 3–5 years (PhD)

Research focus: Strong emphasis on laboratory work and publications

Language Requirements for English Programs

English Proficiency Tests Accepted
IELTS (Most Common)
  • Undergraduate: 6.0–6.5 overall
  • Master's/PhD: 6.5–7.0 overall
  • No band below 5.5
TOEFL iBT
  • Undergraduate: 80–90
  • Master's/PhD: 90–100
Other Accepted Tests
  • Cambridge English (CAE/CPE)
  • TOEIC (some universities)
  • Duolingo English Test (increasingly accepted)
  • PTE Academic
Exemptions

You may be exempt from English tests if:

  • English was the medium of instruction for previous degree
  • You're from an English-speaking country
  • You studied at certain internationally recognized institutions

Tip: Check specific requirements for each university and program, as they vary.

Do I Need to Learn Japanese?

Not for Admission, But Highly Beneficial

For Your Degree

  • English programs are conducted 100% in English
  • Exams, assignments, thesis all in English
  • No Japanese required for graduation

For Daily Life:

While major cities have English signage and services:

  • Banking: Japanese helps with paperwork
  • Healthcare: Medical forms often in Japanese
  • Shopping: Outside tourist areas, minimal English
  • Social Integration: Making Japanese friends requires some language ability

For Employment in Japan:

Entry-Level Positions:

  • IT/Tech: JLPT N3-N4 (basic–intermediate) often sufficient
  • English Teaching: No Japanese required
  • International Companies: English may be primary language

Mid-Career Positions:

  • JLPT N2: (business level) typically required
  • Management roles: N1 (advanced) preferred
  • Client-facing roles: Native-level fluency expected

Salary Premium: Students who achieve JLPT N2 by graduation earn 10-30% higher starting salaries compared to those without Japanese proficiency.

Language Learning Support:

Most universities offer:

  • Free Japanese language courses (beginner to advanced)
  • 6–12 hours per week of instruction
  • Conversation practice groups
  • Language exchange programs with Japanese students

Realistic Timeline:

  • Year 1: Basic conversation (JLPT N5–N4)
  • Year 2: Everyday fluency (JLPT N3)
  • Year 3–4: Business Japanese (JLPT N2–N1)

Work Opportunities Without Japanese

Can You Work Without Japanese Proficiency? Yes, but opportunities are more limited:

Industries Where English is Primary:
IT and Software Development

IT and Software Development

  • International tech companies (Rakuten, Indeed, Mercari)
  • Foreign companies in Japan (Google, Amazon, Microsoft)
  • English-speaking development teams
  • Starting salary: ¥300,000–¥500,000/month
English Teaching

English Teaching

  • ALT (Assistant Language Teacher) positions
  • Private language schools (Eikaiwa)
  • International schools
  • Starting salary: ¥250,000–¥350,000/month
Finance and Consulting

Finance and Consulting

  • Investment banks (Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley)
  • Consulting firms (McKinsey, BCG, Bain)
  • Primarily English-speaking teams
  • Starting salary: ¥400,000–¥600,000/month
Research and Academia

Research and Academia

  • University research positions
  • International research institutes
  • English-language publications
  • Salary varies by position and experience
Tourism and Hospitality

Tourism and Hospitality

  • International hotels
  • Tourist services
  • Travel companies
  • Starting salary: ¥220,000–¥300,000/month

Part-Time Work for Students

  • English conversation cafes: ¥1,500-¥2,500/hour
  • Translation/proofreading: ¥2,000-¥4,000/hour
  • International restaurants: ¥1,200-¥1,500/hour
  • Tutoring: ¥2,000-¥3,000/hour

Career Growth

  • Access to 80% more job positions
  • Higher salary potential
  • Management track positions
  • Permanent residency advantages

JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) Clarification

What is JLPT?

The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) measures Japanese language ability in five levels:

01

N5: Basic (beginner)

  • 800 words, 100 kanji
  • Simple conversations
  • Time to achieve: 3-6 months of study
02

N4: Elementary

  • 1,500 words, 300 kanji
  • Everyday conversations
  • Time to achieve: 6-12 months
03

N3: Intermediate

  • 3,000 words, 650 kanji
  • Daily life conversations
  • Time to achieve: 12-18 months
04

N2: Business Level

  • 6,000 words, 1,000 kanji
  • Work environments, news, newspapers
  • Time to achieve: 18-24 months
  • Most commonly required for employment
05

N1: Advanced

  • 10,000 words, 2,000 kanji
  • Academic and professional contexts
  • Time to achieve: 24-36 months
  • Required for law, medicine, advanced positions
JLPT Test Schedule
  • Held: Twice annually (July and December)
  • Test Centers: Available in 88 countries
  • Fee: Approximately ¥6,000–7,000 in Japan
  • Results: 2–3 months after test date
Do English-Program Students Need JLPT?
  • For Admission: No
  • For Graduation: No
  • For Scholarships: No (most scholarships)
  • For Employment: Depends on company and role
Strategic Approach
  • Year 1–2: Focus on degree, take basic Japanese courses
  • Year 2–3: Aim for JLPT N3–N4
  • Year 3–4: Target JLPT N2 before graduation
  • Result: Maximum employability in Japan

Application Process for English Programs

Step-by-Step Application
Step 1
Research and Shortlist (6–12 months before)
  • Identify programs matching your interests
  • Check admission requirements
  • Note application deadlines
Step 2
Prepare Documents
  • Academic transcripts: From all previous institutions
  • English test scores: IELTS/TOEFL
  • Recommendation letters: 2–3 professors
  • Statement of Purpose: 500–1,000 words
  • CV/Resume: Academic background
  • Research Proposal: (if required)
  • Passport copy
  • Application fee: ¥10,000–30,000
Step 3
Submit Application
  • Undergraduate: Usually through university portal
  • Graduate: May require pre-contact with supervisor
  • Deadlines:
  • a. April intake: September–December (previous year)
  • b. October intake: February–May
Step 4
Entrance Examination (if required)
  • Some programs require written exams or interviews
  • May be conducted online for international applicants
  • Subjects vary by program
Step 5
Receive Admission Decision
  • Results typically 1–3 months after application
  • Conditional offers may require final grades or tests
Step 6
Accept Offer and Apply for COE
  • University applies for Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
  • Processing time: 1–2 months
Step 7
Apply for Student Visa
  • Submit COE and documents to embassy
  • Visa processing: 5–10 working days
Timeline Summary
  • Total process: 6–9 months from research to departure
  • Start early: Scholarship deadlines often 6–9 months before intake

Ready to Study in Japan in English?

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Meet Our Expert Admission
Counsellors

Our team combines deep knowledge of Japan's education system with hands-on experience guiding students through admissions, scholarships, and visa processes.

Sagar Siddhanti
Sagar Siddhanti
Director- Business Development East Asia

Sagar Siddhanti leads Japan initiatives at Acumen and has worked on building Navi Japan.

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Nidhi Sharma
Nidhi Sharma
Director – Student Success (Japan & South Korea) at Acumen (Sannam S4 Group)

Guided 300+ students through Japan admissions with honest, data...

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Ratish Srivastava
Ratish Srivastava
Associate Director – Student Success at Acumen

Ensures accurate, timely visa processing with a 95%+ success rate and zero room for common errors.

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Meet our Admission Experts

Frequently Asked Questions

Not if you learn Japanese during your studies. Most English-program graduates who achieve JLPT N2 level have excellent job prospects. IT and international business sectors actively recruit English-program graduates.

Absolutely not. They're taught by the same faculty at the same universities, often attracting top international professors. Academic standards are identical to Japanese-taught programs.

Some universities allow this if you achieve required Japanese proficiency (usually JLPT N1), but it's uncommon. Most students complete their current degree in English and pursue further studies in Japanese if desired.

No. Your degree certificate is the same as Japanese-program graduates. The language of instruction is not indicated on official documents.

Challenging but very achievable. Universities structure language courses for busy students. Immersive environment accelerates learning. Most dedicated students reach conversational fluency (N3) within 2 years.

It depends on the university. Some allow cross-registration once you achieve sufficient Japanese proficiency. Check with your specific program.