Moving to Japan and curious about scholarships?: New scholarship for students with international background

When families make the move to Japan, they often wonder about the education system here and what support systems are available for expats, right? Well, here's some exciting news! This February, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) introduced a new scholarship program specifically for expatriate children!

The MEXT has decided to expand the scope of scholarships granted to university students through the Japan Student Services Organization scholarship program to include certain foreign nationals starting from April. Students who have graduated from elementary to high school in Japan, and hold a residence status of "Dependent Visa" with the intention of settling in Japan will be eligible for scholarships through the Japan Student Services Organization. This includes scholarships in the form of grants and loans, as well as reductions in tuition fees under the new system to support higher education.

Why is this exciting? Well, this initiative aims to make it easier for students who have moved to Japan with their families and have experienced the Japanese education system to pursue higher education in Japan and build their careers here. 

So, what does this mean for families like yours? It means that the financial burden of sending your children to Japanese universities after they complete their compulsory education here will be lightened. They'll have the opportunity to receive top-quality higher education and broaden their horizons in one of the world's most culturally rich countries!

Speaking of universities, Japan boasts many renowned institutions, some even producing Nobel Prize-winning scholars! And for those aspiring to become doctors or lawyers, Japanese universities offer excellent opportunities. For instance, students aiming to become doctors can enroll in a six-year medical program directly after high school. Similarly, students with international backgrounds can pursue legal studies in Japan, opening doors to careers as international lawyers.

Now, let's dive into how the university and graduate school systems work in Japan.

About the University and Graduate School System in Japan

Undergraduate Education System:

• University Admission Requirements: Typically, graduation from high school is required, and students must pass university entrance exams (general entrance exams or recommendation exams).

• Degrees: Upon graduation from university, students are awarded a bachelor's degree (undergraduate degree). Depending on the field of study, professional degrees such as those from medical or engineering faculties can also be obtained.

• Semester System: In many universities, classes are divided into two or three semesters per year. Students take different subjects each semester and earn credits. The school year usually starts in April, but recently, there are also schools where enrollment is possible from September.

• Curriculum: Varies by university, but students can take courses in general education subjects and specialized subjects. Graduation requirements vary depending on the major or course.

• Length of Study: Generally, undergraduate programs last for four years, while medical, dental, veterinary, and pharmaceutical faculties last for six years.

Graduate Education System:

• Graduate School Admission Requirements: Graduates from universities, as well as graduates from foreign universities, can advance to master's or doctoral programs. They must pass entrance exams.

• Degrees: Upon completion of graduate school, master's or doctoral degrees are awarded. Master's programs typically last for two years, while doctoral programs require an additional 3 to 5 years for research.

• Research Activities: Graduate schools focus on specialized research activities and writing academic papers. Under the guidance of academic advisors, students work on research topics.

• Curriculum: Varies by graduate school, but in master's programs, students participate in specialized lectures and research projects, while in doctoral programs, research is the main focus.

• Length of Study: Typically, master's programs last for two years, and doctoral programs last for five years, but this may vary depending on the research topic.

About Professional education in Japan

Law Schools in Japan:

• Positioning of Law Schools: Law schools are specialized educational institutions for training legal professionals. Those aspiring to become legal professionals must graduate from law school.

• Admission Requirements: Typical admission requirements include graduation from a Japanese university and passing the law school entrance exam. Many students enrolled in law schools majored in law at university or aspire to become legal professionals.

• Curriculum: The curriculum of law schools is designed to acquire specialized knowledge of law and skills required for legal professions. Typical subjects include civil law, criminal law, administrative law, procedural law, and lawyer ethics. Practical training is also commonly conducted.

• Graduation Requirements: To graduate from law school, students must earn a certain number of credits and complete a graduation thesis or practical training.

• National Examination: After graduating from law school, passing the national examination (judicial examination) is required. Passing the judicial examination enables one to engage in legal activities.

• Registration as Legal Professionals: Those who pass the judicial examination undergo judicial training and register as legal professionals. This allows them to work as lawyers, prosecutors, judges, etc.

Medical education in Japan:

• University Admission: Those aiming to become doctors first enroll in university as an undergrad student in medical department. The medical department provides 6 years of specialized education to acquire basic medical knowledge and clinical skills.

• National Medical Examination: After graduating, passing the national medical examination (physician license examination) is required. This examination evaluates basic medical knowledge and clinical competence. Passing this examination allows one to obtain a physician's license.

• Clinical Training: After passing the national medical examination, clinical training is conducted. During this period, practical experience is gained in actual clinical settings to enhance medical practice skills. The duration of clinical training is typically from one to several years.

In a nutshell, when starting your new life in Japan with your family, it's comforting to know that there are plenty of options available for your children's education. With the Japanese government expanding support for people with international backgrounds, the country is becoming even more welcoming and accessible!  It's an exciting time and opportunity for your children to embrace their home country's strengths while immersing themselves in Japan's vibrant culture and educational opportunities.

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