Best Public Universities in Japan: Rankings, Fees, Courses & More

Japan is one of the leading Asian study destinations for international students. Known as the Land of the Rising Sun, Japan has a highly regarded education system and is home to several top-ranked universities. The Japanese education system places strong emphasis on science, technology, innovation, and research. For international students seeking high-quality education, public universities in Japan offer an excellent option. Here’s everything that students should know about pursuing higher studies in Japan’s public universities.

Key highlights:

• Why Choose Public Universities in Japan for International Students?
• Best Public Universities in Japan
• Admission Requirements to Study in Japan

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Why Choose Public Universities in Japan for International Students?

Research Excellence

Government-funded institutions or public universities in Japan receive research support through grants such as KAKENHI, which help build innovative research projects that drive social development. This funding base makes them ideal for students pursuing studies in STEM fields, robotics, and advanced medical sciences.

Reputation of Public Universities in Japan

In the United States, private universities often dominate national and global rankings, whereas Japanese public universities for international students present a contrasting picture. In Japan, the top-ranked institutions are predominantly national universities, which enjoy the highest prestige among Japanese employers and are highly regarded by global research institutions.

High Job Demand and Tech Hub

Japan’s ageing population is driving strong demand for young foreign talent, particularly in IT and engineering, while its global leadership in innovation offers exposure to cutting-edge fields such as robotics, AI, and automotive technology.

Part-time Work Opportunities

Unlike many other countries, Japan offers a great work policy for international students. Those holding a “Student” status of residence for more than three months may apply for permission to work up to 28 hours per week during the academic term and up to 8 hours per day during official long holidays.

Post-study Work Opportunities

Japan encourages international students to stay and work after graduation, and many students want the same opportunity. The Future Creation Individual System (J-Find Visa) allows graduates from top universities to remain in Japan for up to two years to search for a job or start a business. So, students do not have the pressure to leave immediately after completing their studies.

English-medium Programmes

Under the Global 30 (G30) initiative, Japan offers full degree programmes taught entirely in English, allowing students to gain admission and begin their studies without any prior knowledge of Japanese. The Global 30 Project funds Japanese universities to internationalise campuses and attract outstanding international students.

Best Public Universities in Japan

1. Kyoto University

One of Asia’s leading research-oriented institutions, Kyoto University is renowned for producing world-class researchers, including 13 Nobel Prize laureates. The main Yoshida Campus is the historic heart of the university and is known for its iconic architecture, ranging from the Clock Tower and Centennial Hall to modern research buildings. Kyoto University also includes the Uji Campus, which includes advanced research institutes, cutting-edge laboratories, and advanced testing facilities.

2. University of Tokyo (UTokyo)

The University of Tokyo is the most prestigious institution in Japan. It comprises 10 faculties, 15 graduate schools, and a wide network of research and advanced study institutes, along with numerous collaborative research organisations. It actively promotes international education, offering numerous English-taught programmes, especially at the graduate level. As a premier research university, UTokyo provides undergraduate and graduate programmes across nearly all academic fields and carries out research spanning the entire range of scholarly disciplines.

3. Osaka University

Osaka University has over 15,000 undergraduate students enrolled across various courses. If you are interested in studying immunology, robotics, or human sciences, this university is an excellent choice. It is a public research university, considered one of Japan’s most respected institutions of higher learning. The Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology has recognised Osaka University as a leading university within the Top Global University Project, which is an initiative that aims to enhance the international competitiveness of higher education in Japan.

4. Institute of Science Tokyo (Science Tokyo) (Formerly Tokyo Tech)

The university was established through the merger of Tokyo Tech and Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU) in October 2024 and is often regarded as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) of Japan. Across the Ookayama, Suzukakedai, and Tamachi campuses, around 10,500 students study, evenly split between undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. It is renowned for its strong focus on robotics, engineering, and medical sciences, and it has a very high employment rate for technical graduates.

5. Tohoku University

Tohoku University is ranked among the leading universities in Japan. The university is widely recognised for its excellence in technological innovation and its strong commitment to applying these advances for the benefit of society. Tohoku University has 10 faculties, 15 graduate schools, multiple research institutes, and a university hospital, with around 18,000 students, including 2,200 international students. Located in Sendai, the university offers a lower cost of living compared to Tokyo and provides the Future Global Leadership (FGL) programme, providing three undergraduate degrees entirely in English, designed to cultivate global leaders.

Admission Requirements to Study in Japan

To apply to top public universities in Japan, students should fulfil some general admission requirements and documents:

• Academic transcripts such as Class 10th and 12th marksheets for a bachelor’s degree. For a master’s, you need to complete a bachelor’s degree.
• English language proficiency through tests such as the International English Language Test (IELTS) and Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
• Score for standardised tests such as Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) or Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) for graduate schools.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Letter of Recommendation (LOR)

Note: All public, national, and private universities in Japan follow similar eligibility criteria. The admitting university specifies any additional requirements that may be necessary.

Studying at public universities in Japan is becoming increasingly popular among international students. While it offers access to world-class education, planning for other expenses plays an important role in making the journey smooth and well-prepared.

At Avanse Financial Services, we offer customised student loans with 100% financing, quick sanctions, and flexible repayment options. Our abroad study loan can make your dream of studying at top public universities in Japan a reality. You can use our education loan calculator to understand estimated monthly EMIs and plan your finances better. Get in touch with us for any queries you may have.

Also Read: Study Cost in Japan 2026: Complete Guide for Indian Students