Japan is well-known for its advanced technology and high-quality Information Technology (IT) programmes. For Indian students, studying IT in Japan offers a blend of strong education and industry experience, with universities working closely with top tech companies, providing students with great opportunities to conduct research and gain real-world skills. With Japan’s focus on new technology and innovation, IT students get to learn at the cutting edge of the field.
Key highlights:
- 10 Best IT Universities in Japan: An Overview
- Kyoto University
- The University of Tokyo
- Tohuku University
- Osaka University
- Waseda University
- Kyushu University
- Nagoya University
- Keio University
- University of Tsukuba
- University of Aizu
- Eligibility Requirements to Study in IT Universities in Japan
- How to Apply to Japan’s IT Universities
- Job Opportunities and Career Scope for IT Graduates in Japan
Best IT Universities in Japan: An Overview
1. Kyoto University
Kyoto University was founded in June 1897 and is among Japan’s oldest and most prestigious research universities. The university’s commitment is to uphold academic freedom and to generate world-class knowledge through independent, high-ethical research, while educating humane specialists who contribute to human and ecological well-being.
- Some IT Programmes:
- Intelligence Science and Technology
- Social Informatics
- Average Tuition Fee: ~JPY 5,35,800 per year
2. The University of Tokyo
The University of Tokyo was established in 1877 as Japan’s first national university. UTokyo offers courses across essentially all academic disciplines at undergraduate and graduate levels and conducts world-class research, aiming to provide students with a rich and varied academic environment for both intellectual development and professional skills.
- Some IT Programmes:
- Information and Communication Engineering
- Mathematical Informatics
- Average Tuition Fee: ~JPY 5,35,800 per year
3. Tohuku University
Tohoku University was established in 1907 as Japan’s third national university and has grown into one of the country’s leading research institutions. The university embraces a long-standing philosophy of “Research First,” “Open Door,” and “Practice-Oriented Research and Education,” which emphasises high-level research, equal opportunity for all students, and education grounded in real-world impact.
- Some IT Programmes:
- Applied Information Sciences
- Computer and Mathematical Sciences
- Average Tuition Fee: ~JPY 5,35,800 per year
4. Osaka University
The University of Osaka was founded in 1931 (originating from older Edo-era institutions), and today stands as one of Japan’s premier national comprehensive research universities. It comprises multiple campuses and hosts 11 undergraduate schools, 15 graduate schools, and over 20 research centres and institutes, offering a wide variety of disciplines from science and engineering to medicine and social sciences.
- Some IT Programmes:
- Pure and Applied Mathematics
- Information and Physical Sciences
- Average Tuition Fee: ~JPY 5,35,800 per year
5. Waseda University
Waseda University was founded in 1882 by Shigenobu Okuma, originally as “Tokyo Senmon Gakko”, and has grown into one of Japan’s most prestigious private research universities. Its founding principles emphasise “independence of scholarship, the practical application of scholarship, and the fostering of good citizens.”
- Some IT Programmes:
- Computer Science and Engineering
- Major in Computer Science and Communications Engineering
- Average Tuition Fee: ~JPY 1 3,90,000 - ~15,15,000 per year
6. Kyushu University
Kyushu University was founded in 1911 and is one of Japan’s leading research-oriented universities. Kyushu U aims to “Drive Social Change with Integrative Knowledge,” combining a wide range of academic disciplines, from humanities to engineering and medical sciences, to address real-world challenges while promoting global and interdisciplinary education.
- IT Programmes:
- Information Architecture and Security
- Data Science
- Average Tuition Fee: ~JPY 5,35,800 per year
7. Nagoya University
Nagoya University traces its roots to a medical school and public hospital established in 1871, and was formally designated as an imperial university in 1939. Over time, it has grown into a leading comprehensive research university in central Japan, known for its open academic culture and innovation. The university remains committed to “discovery and innovation,” making it a major destination for strong science, engineering, and interdisciplinary education.
- Some IT Programmes:
- Computer Science and Mathematical Informatics
- Computing and Software Systems
- Average Tuition Fee: ~JPY 5,35,800
8. Keio University
Keio University was founded in 1858 by Yukichi Fukuzawa, making it the oldest private institution of modern higher learning in Japan. True to its founding philosophy of “practical learning” (jitsugaku), Keio focuses on producing socially responsible leaders, combining academic excellence with moral character, broad education, and global engagement.
- Some IT Programmes:
- Chemistry, Life Science, and Informatics
- Informatics, Management, and Human Sciences
- Average Tuition Fee: ~JPY 1 9,20,000 per year
9. University of Tsukuba
The University of Tsukuba was established in 1973 as a “new-concept” comprehensive national university in Japan, committed to openness, continuous reform, and leadership in modern higher education. The university is deeply rooted in one of Japan’s primary science and research hubs, facilitating collaboration among academia, industry, and government, and providing a global, internationally oriented academic environment.
- Some IT Programmes:
- Computer Science
- Service Engineering
- Average Tuition Fee: ~JPY 5,35,800 per year
10. University of Aizu
The University of Aizu was founded in 1993 as Japan’s first university solely dedicated to computer science and engineering. The campus boasts a truly international environment, with many of its faculty members hailing from overseas. Many computer science courses at both the undergraduate and graduate levels are taught in English here.
- Some IT Programmes:
- Computer Networks System Modelling and Simulation
- Network Security
- Average Tuition Fee: ~JPY 5,20,800 per year
Note: All the above-mentioned universities in Japan offer programmes in both English and Japanese. However, the availability of English-taught programmes may vary depending on the course. Students are advised to visit the respective university websites for accurate and updated information about their chosen programmes.
Eligibility Requirements to Study in IT Universities in Japan
These eligibility requirements may vary by degree level. Below are the general admission requirements to study in Japan:
For a Bachelor’s Degree in Japan
- Academic transcripts from high school
- Standardised test scores in the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) and American College Testing (ACT) exams
For a Master’s Degree in Japan
- A bachelor’s degree from a recognised university
- Standardised test scores in the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), as required
General Documents
- English proficiency tests such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Test of English as a Foreign Language – Internet-Based Test (TOEFL iBT)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of recommendation (LOR)
- A valid copy of the passport
How to Apply to Japan’s IT Universities
- Research and Shortlist Universities
- Check if the university offers your preferred programme.
- Review entry requirements, deadlines, and application periods.
- Prepare the Required Application Documents
- Complete the university application form with all the relevant documents.
- Take Entrance Examinations/Interviews
- Some universities require written tests or interviews.
- Submit the Application
- The university may request additional documents based on your chosen programme.
- Make sure all documents are translated into English or Japanese, as instructed.
- Receive the Admission Decision
- If accepted, follow enrollment instructions and pay the admission or tuition fees.
- Apply for a Student Visa (International Students)
- Obtain your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) through the university.
- Submit COE, passport, visa application form, and photo to the Japanese embassy/consulate.
Also Read: Study in Japan for Indian Students 2026: A Complete Guide
Job Opportunities and Career Scope for IT Graduates in Japan
Japan is one of the leading countries in technology-related development. Below are some of the most in-demand jobs after an IT degree in Japan.
- Project Manager
- Data Analyst
- Business Analyst
- Data Engineer
- Java Developer
- DevOps Engineer
- Software Developer
- Network Engineer
- Solution Architect
- Data Scientist
Japan’s tech industry is moving forward at lightning speed, with technology revolutionising the way we connect and interact.
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