Quick Information
| Tuition Fee | JPY 642,960 per year for international undergraduate students (2025-26); JPY 535,800 for master's students |
|---|---|
| Last Verified Date | November 10, 2026 |
| Application Link | Apply via the official page |
| Official Source | https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/adm/inbound/en/support-ieso-faq.html |
Why The University of Tokyo stands out
The University of Tokyo is Japan’s leading national research university, based in the capital. Its faculties and graduate schools cover almost every field, from science and engineering to medicine, law and the humanities, and its laboratories attract researchers from around the world. Many graduate programmes are taught in English, and a new English-taught undergraduate college, the College of Design, opens in September 2027. The university also runs a large scholarship and tuition-waiver system, including support for students from lower-income households.
What you can study
Undergraduate study is mostly taught in Japanese, so international undergraduates usually need strong Japanese, although the new College of Design is taught in English. At graduate level the choice is much wider: the university offers English-taught master’s and doctoral programmes across engineering, the sciences, medicine, economics and the humanities, and many laboratories welcome international research students. Students can also spend a semester or a year on exchange through a partner university.
International admissions
International students can apply for undergraduate and graduate degree programmes, and for research-student and exchange places. Graduate admission is handled by each graduate school, so requirements and deadlines differ by programme, and most applicants need to contact a prospective supervisor first. See the university’s official international admissions page for the current routes and guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students apply to the University of Tokyo?
Yes. International students can apply for undergraduate degrees, master’s and doctoral programmes, and research-student places. Undergraduate teaching is mostly in Japanese, while many graduate programmes are taught in English, so check the language of your chosen programme on the official site.
How much is tuition for international students?
For students entering from April 2025, undergraduate tuition is JPY 642,960 a year. Master’s tuition is JPY 535,800 a year and doctoral tuition is JPY 520,800 a year, plus a one-time admission fee of JPY 282,000. Students on a Japanese Government (MEXT) scholarship do not pay tuition.
Do I need Japanese to study there?
For most undergraduate degrees, yes – teaching is in Japanese. Many graduate programmes are taught in English, and the new College of Design undergraduate programme, opening in September 2027, is taught in English. Check the language requirements of your programme on the official site.
What visa do I need?
International students need a student visa to study in Japan. The university provides guidance on the Certificate of Eligibility and visa process – check the official international students’ pages for the current steps and timelines.