Why Study in Japan?

While studying abroad in the US and the UK, to name just two, remains the most demanded destinations, a new trend is emerging: study abroad in Japan. Facing demographic issues and aware of the globalization, the Japanese governement has pledged to double the number of foreign students by the year 2020, from less than 150,000 students to 300,000. And let it be known: Japan has become a very attractive place for international students.

First, the Japanese Educational System is high standard, with very apealing tuition fees to go along. Quality of services is always a priority in Japan; that obviously includes Education, as an illeteracy rate of 0% and high ranking universities show. It is worth noting, though, that Japanese universities offering programs in English are the exceptions more than the rule. The « Global 30 » project has 13 of the most prestigious Japanese univerisities provide programs in English. But for most students, pursuing higher education studies in Japan starts with studying Japanese in a language school first.

Second, the quality of life in Japan is excellent. No developped country is safer than Japan. The transportation is extremely reliable, the health system is great, the food is healthy and the cost of life is not as high as it is known to be. Of course, living in the center of Tokyo would be costly – just as it would be in other capitals. But in Japan more than anywhere else, there are many ways to save money (starting with the famous 100 Yen-shop where everything costs less than a dollar).

Third, opportunities are there for the taking. While studying in Japan, students are allowed to work part-time, up to 28 hours per week (40 hours during long school breaks) – which is more than most other developped countries. 75% of them choose to work and thus cover their daily expenses and even part of their tuition fees. Once foreign students graduate, royal paths open to them. Those who choose to go back to their countries get attractive job opportunities in overseas Japanese branches or in local companies doing business with Japan. But most international students prefer to stay in Japan, either to study further or to look for jobs. As multilingual candidates, they receive a plethora of job offers. The Japanese job market is very dynamic and Japanese companies always look for skilled, Japanese-speaking « gaijin » (foreigners). And wages are often high.

If you are considering studying abroad, Japan is certainly a destination worth considering. Combining high quality teaching with high quality life, what's not to like?

To read more about learning the Japanese language, visit MotivistJapan.com