How to Study in Japan for Free (Money-Saving Tips)

Japan is a dream destination for anyone who wishes to experience their rich culture and amazing sights. From cherry blossoms to the lights and sounds of Tokyo, Japan is definitely one of the best study abroad destinations.

If you want to study in Japan and save money at the same time, here are a few hacks you’ll need to learn:

Table of Contents

• Apply for Scholarships
• Find a Cheap Accommodation
• Direct Enrolment in a Japanese University
• Study in Small Japanese Cities
• How to Save Money While Studying in Japan

Saving money in another country is easy as long as you do your homework: research! Try to search for your options. Remember, studying abroad has its costs.

1. Apply for Scholarships

The first thing to do is to apply for scholarships. You need to be specific and try to apply for each and every scholarship you find. Here are some ways you can find a scholarship in Japan:

Japanese Government
The JASSO International Student Scholarship is a program offered by the government, which usually lasts three months to one year. Moreover, the Japanese Government (Monbukagakusho) Scholarship Japanese Studies Program takes one academic year.

Private Scholarships
US students who are interested to study in Japan can do so with private scholarships.

Scholarship Programs in Japan

• The Bridging Project
• STA Travel, Inc.
• Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship
• Boren Scholarships
• Fulbright (Japan)

2. Find a Cheap Accommodation

Once you decide that you want to study abroad, you need to carefully choose where you’ll stay. You can cut costs by doing a homestay with a family, which can be provided by study abroad programs. You can arrange your accommodation early on even before you arrive in Japan.

Take note: follow the rules and be respectful to your host family.

3. Direct Enrollment in a Japanese University

Try applying directly to a Japanese university. As you go abroad, you can save money when you deal with a university directly. You’ll also be surprised to gain some benefits with direct enrollment. Similarly, there are also cheap or low-cost study abroad providers who help students:

• CIEE
• IES Abroad
• Japanese Language Program (Peace Boat)
• NRCSA Japanese Language Study Program

4. Study in Small Japanese Cities

The cost of living in major cities like Tokyo can be more expensive than those of smaller cities in Japan. Try applying to universities in smaller cities in Hokkaido or Kyushu, for example.

5. How to Save Money While Studying in Japan

Once you’ve made up your mind with your course of study, you need to make a budget plan and stick to it. You need to be frugal in order to save money in Japan.

Here are some ways you can do so.

1. Shop Local
Local markets are your best friend. You can save money on fresh products and street food, compared to comfort food or fast food. When shopping for clothes, try going in 30 minutes before closing time, as they put on discounts before closing.

2. Free Events
Attending free events is one of the best ways to explore the city while on a budget. You don’t need to hide in your room forever!

3. Bike to work
Public transportation in Japan can also contribute to your budget cut. Avoid it by renting or buying your own bicycle. You’ll find that it’s free to rent a bike on Sundays in Tokyo. How cool is that?

Apart from increased career opportunities and new perspectives, you will gain a lot of memorable experiences studying in Japan.