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FAQ

The Coto Japanese Institute is currently under application. The launch and operation of the school are pending final approval from the Ministry of Education.

Admissions & Eligibility

Is there an age limit for applying for a student visa?

There is no age limit set by the institute. Applicants of all ages are welcome. However, for applicants in their 40s and above, immigration may review study plans and future career goals more carefully. A clear purpose and relevant background are important.

Does my educational background matter?

Yes. Applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent level of education.

What are the enrollment requirements?

Applicants must:

  • Have a clear motivation and future plan for studying in Japan
  • Hold at least a bachelor’s degree
  • Have at least 150 hours of prior Japanese study or a JLPT N5 (or equivalent) certificate
  • Have Japanese ability appropriate for the course (confirmed in an entrance interview)
  • Have daily conversational English ability
  • Be able to cover tuition and living expenses (by themselves or a sponsor)

Can stocks or investments be used as financial proof?

Generally no. Immigration requires funds to be shown as cash in a savings or checking account, along with proof of regular income.

How much savings are required?

As a guideline, applicants should have around 3,000,000 JPY available to cover tuition and living expenses.

Application Documents

What documents are required for application?

Required documents include:

  • Statement of purpose (required if there is a gap of 5+ years since last schooling)
  • Application form, CV, and financial sponsorship form
  • Graduation certificate (with translation)
  • Proof of Japanese ability (with translation)
  • Proof of relationship with sponsor (if applicable)
  • Sponsor’s bank balance certificate (3 million JPY or more)
  • Sponsor’s financial history and income proof
  • Sponsor’s employment proof

Enrollment Process

Is the application process complicated?

The application deadline is about six months before the course start. Our staff will guide you step by step throughout the process.

Can I apply online?

Yes. The entire enrollment process is completed online. In some cases, documents may need to be mailed.

Can I apply to multiple schools at the same time?

No. Immigration regulations allow applications to only one school at a time.

When can I enroll?

Students can enroll in either the April or October term.

Can I change my course length after enrolling?

In specific cases, students may apply to extend their studies from the 1-year Practical Japanese course to the Advanced course, subject to attendance, grades, availability, and internal review.

How early should I arrive in Japan?

Please arrive in Japan 2–10 days before your term starts.

Visa & Immigration

How does the student visa process work?

The process includes application submission, interview, document preparation, COE application, visa application at a Japanese embassy, and arrival in Japan. The full process takes approximately 6–8 months.

Can I switch from a tourist visa to a student visa in Japan?

No. You must apply for a student visa from outside Japan.

Can I leave Japan temporarily during my studies?

Students must maintain at least 90% attendance and obtain a re-entry permit before leaving Japan. So, short trips are allowed as long as they do not interfere with classes.

Can I change to a work visa after graduation?

Yes, if you secure employment with visa sponsorship, you may change your visa status while in Japan.

Tuition & Fees

How much is the tuition?

The total cost for one year is 1,000,000 JPY (all fees included).

Breakdown:

  • Admission Exam Fee: 33,000 JPY
  • Admission Fee: 77,000 JPY
  • Facility Fee: 77,000 JPY
  • Material Fee: 55,000 JPY
  • Health Insurance: 10,000 JPY

The tuition portion (748,000 JPY) can be paid in two installments or as a lump sum.

Are scholarships available?

At this time, the institute does not offer scholarships or tuition discounts.

Are short-term programs available?

Short-term courses are available, but only the 1-year program includes student visa support.

Japanese Learning & Classes

What textbooks are used?

Courses use established textbooks such as Genki, Dekiru Nihongo, Kanji Tamago, business Japanese materials, newspapers, and original materials.

How many students are in each class?

Classes typically have 10–16 students.

Is the 150-hour Japanese study requirement mandatory?

Yes. This is an immigration requirement. Self-study is acceptable if clearly documented.

Are beginner classes available?

Applicants must already have basic Japanese (around JLPT N5). Absolute beginners are encouraged to start with online courses before applying.

What is the average timeline for JLPT levels?

  • N5: 3–6 months
  • N4: 6–12 months
  • N3: 1.5–2 years
  • N2: Around 2 years

Is after-school support available?

Yes. Self-study spaces and opportunities to ask questions are available.

Housing & Daily Life

What housing options are available?

We partner with housing providers offering share houses, social apartments, and private apartments.

Is airport pickup available?

Yes. Airport pickup is available for an additional fee. Details are shared after enrollment.

How much does accommodation cost?

A one-bedroom apartment in central Tokyo typically costs around 80,000–120,000 JPY per month.

Part-Time Work

Can I work part-time while studying?

Yes. Students may work up to 28 hours per week during the term and up to 40 hours during long vacations.

What kind of jobs are allowed?

Common part-time jobs include cafes, restaurants, convenience stores, tutoring, warehouses, and cleaning. Adult entertainment-related work is prohibited.

Health Insurance

Is health insurance required?

Yes. All students must enroll in Japan’s National Health Insurance after arrival.

How much does health insurance cost?

Typically around 2,000–4,000 JPY per month, depending on income.

Career & Future Planning

Is job-hunting support provided?

Formal job placement is not provided, but career guidance sessions, individual advice, and introductions to job boards and agents are offered during enrollment.

Can I look for a job before my student visa expires?

Yes. Job hunting is allowed, and in some cases, special activities visas may allow a short extension.

Community & Student Life

What kind of students attend Coto Institute?

Students come from diverse backgrounds, mainly in their 20s–40s, with a mix of nationalities including Europe, North America, and some Asian countries.

How does the Coto Institute ensure a safe and inclusive environment?

Staff maintain close communication with the local community and provide orientations on cultural manners and respectful behavior.

Are cultural activities offered?

Yes. Cultural elements are incorporated into classes and extracurricular activities throughout the year.