School system and important points to note
Studying at Japanese schools
Since universities and other tertiary education institutions in Japan offer classes basically in Japanese, students must learn Japanese to keep up. (Some universities offer certain courses in English.)
Therefore, students from overseas should (1) take one- to two-year Japanese courses at language schools in Japan, or (2) master Japanese in their country to directly enter Japanese universities (or take courses offered in English).
Studying at universities
(undergraduate courses)
Admission criteria differ from school to school. Non-degree programs are also available for short-term or exchange students.
Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU)
This examination is intended to evaluate foreign students’ Japanese and basic academic skills to see whether their skills have reached a sufficient level to study at Japanese universities. JASSO holds the examination semiannually in June and November in Japan and in 16 locations overseas, mainly in Asia. Results of the examination are used in the screening process at 98% of national universities and 48% of private universities in Japan.
Reference: JASSO website, http://www.jasso.go.jp/index_e.html
Graduate schools
Admission criteria differ from school to school.
Research students
Many universities offer “research student” courses that are short-term (6 months or 1 year) non-degree programs for foreign students to prepare for proper graduate school education. These universities recommend foreign students to take these courses before entering graduate schools. In many cases, admission to research student courses is decided based on the applications.
What is required to study in Japan
Visa
Students must obtain a “College Student” visa to study at Japanese universities and other educational institutions. Ask your preferred university regarding visa procedures.
Although College Student visas expire in one or two years, if the visa holder continues taking courses at his/her university, their expiry period can be extended by renewing their visas.
Government and private scholarship programs are available. There are two types of government scholarship programs: scholarship for students in overseas locations who wish to study in Japan (application via embassies or universities); and scholarship for self-funded students who are already at Japanese universities (for students in Japan).
Reference: Study in Japan Comprehensive Guide
http://www.studyjapan.go.jp/en/index.html