The University of Tokyo (UTokyo), founded in 1877, is Japan’s first national university and a leader in research and innovation. It offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across diverse fields. UTokyo is located primarily in Bunkyō, Tokyo, with campuses in Kashiwa and Komaba. It consistently ranks among the top universities globally, particularly in QS World Rankings and THE Rankings. UTokyo provides programs in Japanese and English, attracting international students. Application periods vary by program and intake, typically falling in October-April. Program duration: Bachelor’s (4 years), Master’s (2 years), and PhD (3-5 years).
2. Study Areas: Program List
Undergraduate Programs
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Law
- Literature
- Economics
- Education
- Arts and Sciences
- Natural Sciences and Engineering
- Science (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biological Sciences)
- Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Computer Science, etc.)
- Agriculture and Life Sciences
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Medicine
- PEAK (Programs in English at Komaba)
- International Program on Japan in East Asia
- Environmental Sciences
Graduate Programs (Master’s and PhD)
- Graduate School of Science
- Physics, Chemistry, Earth and Planetary Sciences, Biology
- Mathematical Sciences
- Graduate School of Engineering
- Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and Materials Engineering
- Computer Science, Robotics, and AI
- Graduate School of Medicine
- Medical Science, Public Health, Health Economics
- Graduate School of Law and Politics
- International Relations, Public Policy, Political Science
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences
- Bioengineering, Environmental Science, Food Science, Agroecology
- Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Information Studies
- Data Science, Information Technology, Media Studies
- Graduate School of Public Policy (GraSPP)
- International Development, Public Policy, Governance
Interdisciplinary and Specialized Programs
- Environmental Studies (focus on sustainable development and urban planning)
- Global Health Sciences
- Advanced Studies in Business and Management
- Cognitive Science and Psychology
- Nanotechnology and Materials Science
These study areas offer flexibility to pursue research-driven paths or professional degrees, with opportunities for interdisciplinary collaborations. Many programs offer English-taught options, especially at the graduate level, making UTokyo a welcoming destination for international students.
3. Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s
- GPA: 3.5+ preferred
- English: TOEFL iBT (80+), IELTS (6.0+ if applicable)
- Standardized Test: SAT, ACT, or IB scores recommended
- Master’s
- Bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0-3.2
- TOEFL iBT (90+), IELTS (6.5+)
- GRE may be required for some programs
- PhD
- Master’s degree in a relevant field
- TOEFL iBT (100+), IELTS (7.0+)
- Research proposal and publication experience preferred
4. Required Documents to Apply
- Academic transcripts (translated if needed)
- Standardized test scores (TOEFL/IELTS, SAT/GRE, etc.)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) or research proposal
- Letters of Recommendation (2-3)
- Passport copy
- Financial guarantee or bank statement
- Application fee payment receipt
5. Tuition Fees for International Students
- Bachelor’s: JPY 535,800 per year (~USD 3,600)
- Master’s & PhD: JPY 535,800 per year (~USD 3,600)
- Admission Fee (one-time): JPY 282,000 (~USD 1,900)
- Other Fees: JPY 30,000 – 50,000 annually for materials
6. Living Expenses
- Accommodation: JPY 40,000 – 80,000/month (~USD 270 – 540)
- Food: JPY 30,000 – 50,000/month (~USD 200 – 340)
- Public Transport: JPY 10,000 – 20,000/month (~USD 70 – 135)
- Miscellaneous: JPY 20,000 – 40,000/month (~USD 135 – 270)
- Total Monthly Living Costs: JPY 100,000 – 150,000 (~USD 670 – 1,000)
7. Why Choose This University
- Global Reputation: Consistently ranked among the world’s best universities.
- Research Excellence: Strong focus on innovation and interdisciplinary studies.
- International Programs: Offers English-taught programs and diverse fields of study.
- Career Opportunities: Close industry partnerships and internships in Japan.
- Cultural Experience: Located in Tokyo, one of the most vibrant cities in the world.
8. Suggestions for International Applicants
- Start the application process 6-8 months early to manage deadlines.
- Prepare for TOEFL or IELTS in advance, as English proficiency is crucial.
- Explore PEAK programs if you prefer English-taught undergraduate degrees.
- Join student communities to get advice on accommodation and university life.
- Be aware of scholarship deadlines, as some require early applications.
9. Additional and Important Information
- Application Timeline: Varies by program, typically between October and April.
- Language Support: Japanese language classes are available to international students.
- Student Services: Offers mental health counseling, career guidance, and student housing.
- Research Opportunities: Access to cutting-edge labs and projects.
10. Available Scholarships for International Students
- Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship: Covers full tuition, stipend, and airfare.
- University of Tokyo Special Scholarship for International Students
- JASSO Scholarship: Monthly stipend for international students.
- PEAK Scholarship: For students in English-taught undergraduate programs.
- Private Foundation Scholarships: Rotating list of awards based on merit.