University, junior college or vocational college?

Choose your route, compare the course, then check the current application guide.

University, junior college or vocational college?

University · 大学

Usually a four-year bachelor’s degree; some professional courses take six years. The directory also includes graduate-only universities. Compare the actual faculty, laboratory and campus.

Junior college · 短期大学

Usually two or three years, leading to an associate degree. Check qualifications, placement support and the receiving university’s transfer conditions if you plan further study.

College of technology · 高専

KOSEN offers a technical route with laboratory work and practical engineering. The usual programme begins after junior high school and lasts five years; international entry is generally into year three. Verify the individual entry route.

Specialised training school · 専修学校

Postsecondary professional courses can lead to a diploma or advanced diploma. The register also contains secondary and general courses: listing alone does not establish a higher-education award or international admission eligibility. Ask the school about the specific course.

Find a school

MEXT register: 1 May 2026, provisional; retrieved 26 October 2026. All 825 university, 292 junior-college and 58 KOSEN records without a closure marker are included, plus 2,957 specialised training-school records. Universities include graduate-only schools. Training-school course levels vary. Names and addresses follow the register; current programmes and admissions must be checked with each institution.

Official school names are Japanese. English search aliases are available for selected universities; use a prefecture filter or the official programme finder for other English names.

Official programme finder

Questions

When does university start in Japan?

The academic year usually starts in April. Some universities also admit in September or October; exchange calendars and application deadlines are programme-specific.

Do I need JLPT N2 or N1 to study in Japan?

The requirement depends on the programme. Japanese-taught degrees may use JLPT and/or EJU with other tests; English-taught degrees and exchange programmes set separate language rules. Check the current faculty guidance.

Is SPI a university admission test?

SPI is used in recruitment. Prepare for the university’s specified entrance assessments when applying, and use SPI practice for relevant internship or job selection later.

How do I choose a university in Japan?

Shortlist courses you can enter, compare their language, total cost and graduate destinations, then check campus support. For exchange, confirm partner eligibility and credit transfer first.

University, junior college or vocational college?