Frequently Asked Questions

Until what age is a student required to study under compulsory education?

15 years. Then he or she is free to go on to high school, but they are not forced to attend. Still, over 90 percent of Japanese students go on to high school.

What other languages do Japanese students learn?

Almost every Japanese student studies the English language from the seventh grade through his or her final year at high school.

How tough is it for a Japanese student to get into university?

Many Japanese universities are selective, and the toughest schools to get into are the University of Tokyo and the University of Kyoto. This is why more than 50 percent of students at selective universities go through some form of “juku”.

Is Japanese education free?

From elementary to junior high, Japanese law allow students to study for free.

Are there other kinds of Japanese colleges?

Aside from universities, Japan also offers technical colleges for the more-technically minded students (a five-year training course) and special training schools as well.

Does the MEXT approve textbooks for use in Japanese schools?

Yes. Only they can authorize what textbooks they deem as worthy, credible, and reliable.