Global Major Cities Guide

Information about universities, colleges, and other higher education institutions in Nagoya.

Sections

1. Overview of Higher Education in Nagoya

Nagoya is home to several prestigious universities and colleges offering a wide range of programs in Japanese and English. The city is particularly strong in fields such as engineering, automotive technology, business, and the sciences, reflecting its industrial heritage as the hub of companies like Toyota.

2. Major Universities in Nagoya

Here are some of the top universities in Nagoya that cater to both domestic and international students:

A. Nagoya University (名古屋大学)

Overview: One of Japan's top national universities and part of the prestigious National Seven Universities group. It is renowned for its research output and has produced several Nobel Prize winners.
Programs: Offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in fields such as science, engineering, medicine, law, economics, and humanities. English-taught programs are available, especially at the graduate level.
Tuition Fees:
- Undergraduate: Approximately ¥535,800 per year + ¥282,000 one-time admission fee.
- Graduate: Similar tuition structure, with slight variations depending on the program.
Notable Features: Strong emphasis on research, international collaborations, and a diverse student body.

B. Nagoya Institute of Technology (名古屋工業大学, NITech)

Overview: A leading institution for engineering and technology, ideal for students interested in automotive, robotics, and materials science.
Programs: Offers undergraduate and graduate programs, with some English-taught courses at the graduate level.
Tuition Fees: Similar to Nagoya University (¥535,800/year for undergraduates).
Notable Features: Close ties with industries in the region, providing excellent internship and job placement opportunities.

C. Nanzan University (南山大学)

Overview: A private Catholic university known for its liberal arts education and strong international focus.
Programs: Offers undergraduate and graduate programs in humanities, business, law, and international studies. The Center for Japanese Studies (CJS) is popular among international students for its Japanese language and culture programs.
Tuition Fees:
- Undergraduate: ¥800,000–¥1,200,000 per year, depending on the program.
- Graduate: ¥500,000–¥1,000,000 per year.
Notable Features: A welcoming environment for international students, with a strong emphasis on cultural exchange.

D. Aichi Prefectural University (愛知県立大学)

Overview: A public university offering programs in foreign studies, information science, and nursing.
Programs: Undergraduate and graduate programs, with a focus on practical and applied sciences.
Tuition Fees: ¥535,800/year for undergraduates, similar to other public universities.
Notable Features: Affordable tuition and a focus on regional development.

E. Nagoya University of Foreign Studies (名古屋外国語大学, NUFS)

Overview: A private university specializing in foreign languages, international relations, and global business.
Programs: Offers undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong emphasis on English and Japanese language education.
Tuition Fees: ¥1,000,000–¥1,300,000 per year.
Notable Features: Excellent for students interested in language studies and international careers.

3. Admissions Process

The admissions process for universities in Nagoya typically involves the following steps:

A. General Requirements

Academic Records: High school diploma (for undergraduate programs) or a bachelor’s degree (for graduate programs).
Language Proficiency:
- Japanese-taught programs: JLPT N2 or N1 level is usually required.
- English-taught programs: TOEFL iBT (minimum 80) or IELTS (minimum 6.0) scores are often required.
Entrance Exams: Some universities require international students to take the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU) or their own entrance exams.
Statement of Purpose: A personal essay explaining your academic goals and reasons for choosing the university.
Letters of Recommendation: Often required for graduate programs.

B. Application Timeline

April Intake: Most universities in Japan start their academic year in April. Applications are typically due between September and November of the previous year.
October Intake: Some universities offer a fall intake, with applications due between March and May.

C. Application Process

Research programs and check eligibility requirements.
Submit an online or paper application, along with required documents.
Pay the application fee (¥10,000–¥30,000, depending on the university).
Attend interviews or exams (if required).
Receive an admission decision and complete enrollment procedures.

4. Tuition Fees and Scholarships

Tuition Fees: Public universities (national and prefectural) are more affordable, with annual tuition around ¥535,800. Private universities charge higher fees, ranging from ¥800,000 to ¥1,500,000 per year.
Scholarships:
- MEXT Scholarship: Offered by the Japanese government, covering tuition, living expenses, and airfare.
- JASSO Scholarship: Provides monthly stipends for international students.
- University-Specific Scholarships: Many universities offer merit-based or need-based scholarships for international students.

5. Living Costs for Students in Nagoya

Nagoya is more affordable than Tokyo or Osaka, making it an attractive option for students. Here’s a breakdown of typical monthly expenses:

Accommodation: ¥30,000–¥60,000 (university dormitories are cheaper; private apartments cost more).
Food: ¥20,000–¥30,000 (eating at university cafeterias and cooking at home can save money).
Transportation: ¥5,000–¥10,000 (Nagoya has an efficient subway and bus system; student discounts are available).
Utilities and Internet: ¥10,000–¥15,000.
Miscellaneous: ¥10,000–¥20,000 (entertainment, books, etc.).
Total: ¥75,000–¥135,000 per month, depending on lifestyle.

6. Student Life in Nagoya

Campus Life: Universities in Nagoya have active student clubs and organizations, ranging from sports to cultural activities. Joining these is a great way to make friends and immerse yourself in Japanese culture.
Part-Time Work: International students with a student visa can work up to 28 hours per week. Common jobs include teaching English, working in restaurants, or retail.
Cultural Experiences: Nagoya is famous for its historical sites like Nagoya Castle, Atsuta Shrine, and Osu Kannon Temple. The city also hosts festivals such as the Nagoya Matsuri and World Cosplay Summit.
Transportation: Nagoya’s public transportation system is efficient and affordable. The city is also well-connected to other parts of Japan via the Shinkansen (bullet train).

7. Cultural and Local Considerations

Language: While English-taught programs are available, learning Japanese will greatly enhance your experience and opportunities in Nagoya.
Etiquette: Japanese culture places a strong emphasis on politeness and respect. Be mindful of social norms, such as bowing, punctuality, and proper use of honorifics.
Weather: Nagoya has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for seasonal changes.
Food: Nagoya is known for its unique cuisine, including hitsumabushi (grilled eel), miso katsu (pork cutlet with miso sauce), and kishimen (flat noodles). Exploring local food is a must!

8. Final Tips for International Students

Pre-Departure: Ensure you have a valid student visa, health insurance, and sufficient funds for your stay.
Support Services: Most universities have international offices to assist with housing, language support, and cultural adjustment.
Networking: Engage with local and international student communities to build connections and make the most of your time in Nagoya.

Nagoya offers a perfect blend of academic excellence, cultural richness, and affordability, making it an ideal destination for international students. If you have further questions or need assistance with specific universities, feel free to ask!