To International Students Wishing to Enroll in Japanese Vocational Schools and Universities

英語版

Number of Vocational Schools and International Students
There are approximately 2,800 vocational schools in Japan, many of which are concentrated in large metropolitan areas such as Tokyo. Additionally, many international students are enrolled in vocational schools across Japan (about 40,000 students).

Pathways for International Students to Choose Vocational Schools in Japan
The main pathways for admission to vocational schools in Japan are (1) direct admission from the student’s place of residence and (2) admission after graduating from a Japanese language school.

Characteristics of Vocational School Education
Vocational school education focuses on job-related training. Various fields of vocational training are available, including nursing, beauty, culinary arts, computer engineering (covering programmers, game creators, website designers, etc.). The duration of study ranges from 1 to 4 years.

Gathering and Verifying Vocational School Information
Some schools accept international students, while others do not. To verify whether a school accepts international students, it is best to contact the vocational school directly. You can (1) check the school’s official website or (2) inquire by phone.

How to Find Vocational Schools
Approximately 2,200 schools can be found nationwide on the “Japanese Vocational Schools” (Knowledge Station) platform. All information is displayed in Japanese, which may present difficulties for international students.

Using Foreign Language Translation Features
Information can be reviewed in your own language using the “foreign language translation feature” in internet browsers (PC, smartphone).

Information recommended for international students can be found on the following website.
日本留学情報サイト　Study in Japan

Topics include the Appeal of Studying in Japan, Study Plans for Japan, Life in Japan, and Employment in Japan.

About the Information on This Page
Some international students use “Japanese Vocational Schools” (Knowledge Station) (according to site analysis). Therefore, while the content is simple, we provide guidance on vocational schools for international students. (November 2024)