Education in Japan - features, training for foreigners

The educational system in Japan and the high level of educational institutions are evidenced by the rapid growth of the state in the field of technical developments and innovations. The Land of the Rising Sun is radically different from European countries in culture, customs, and way of life. The policy of isolationism left its mark on Japan's educational system. At the end of the 19th century, the Japanese government carried out reforms in the country, and education was not left behind. Today, the Japanese education system has similar features to Europe.

Education in Japan is divided into four levels : preschool, primary, secondary and tertiary. There are features: the academic year is divided into trimesters, starting in April. Students go to school 6 days a week, but there are two Saturdays a month - always weekends.

Education structure

Little Japanese begin to learn from an early age. The purpose of education in Japan is not only to give students knowledge, but also to raise good people who are ready to adopt centuries-old traditions, respect their elders, continue the work of their ancestors, work hard and work in a team.

The structure of education in the Land of the Rising Sun is similar to other countries, although it has its own characteristics. Briefly it can be described as follows:

• a nursery, kindergarten or special preschool institution for the disabled - here children are taught to communicate with others, the rules of behavior are explained, they are taught to read, write and count;
• school – primary, middle and high school;
• higher education – university, college or special vocational technical schools.

After receiving a bachelor's degree at the university, students can enroll in master's or postgraduate studies, and after that - in doctoral studies. This is the most comprehensive training option, after which the former student receives a doctorate degree.

Although only primary and secondary school education is considered compulsory, almost all children first receive pre-school education, and after the secondary level they go to high school. More than 76 percent of graduates go on to colleges and universities.

Education for foreigners

The level of education in Japan is very high, so many foreigners want to get an education in this country. Foreigners have two options for obtaining education:

• Full education at the university (from 4 to 6 years). Tuition costs, on average, 6-9 thousand dollars, but the main issue is passing the exams. A foreigner will have to work hard not only with the Japanese language, but also with entrance exams.
• Short-term (two-year) course of education at a university. Everything is much simpler and cheaper here - you need to know at least English.

For those who want to obtain education after university, it is necessary to apostille their own diploma before submitting it to Japan. The country is a party to the Hague Convention, so you can use an apostille rather than legalization.

Universities provide equal opportunities for all students, regardless of country. If a person is able to pass all exams perfectly and pay for tuition, there will be no obstacles to obtaining a diploma in Japan.

Historical reference

Education in Japan has a long history. Until the 8th century, it was built according to the models of China and Korea. In the first half of the 6th century, Buddhist teachings began to spread in the country, and with it philosophy, science, astrology, and fine arts. A little later, thanks to the ruler Tenji, the first imperial school of Shojo appeared.

Emperor Tenji

By the eighth century, the Japanese were closely interacting with China, which was ruled by the Tang family. Thanks to these connections, Japan adopted the Chinese educational system.

At that time, Nara was the Japanese capital city, and the Academy was established there. Provincial institutions functioned locally. At the end of the 8th century, the capital was moved to Kyoto, but this scheme remained the same.

In the next four centuries, until the 12th century, the Chinese system flourished: institutions taught hieroglyphs and literary reading. At the same time, two types of alphabet appeared:

• katakana;
• hiragana.

Children from noble families attended classes in provincial and monastic schools. Children of the poor went to special institutions where they were taught reading, writing, arithmetic, and basic technical skills.

Life in Medieval Japan

After this period, education modeled on the Celestial Empire became obsolete. Then private and home schools began to appear in Japan. Often ordinary people were taught in the temples of the Buddhist teaching of Zen, which was then gaining momentum.

Much has changed since World War II. The Japanese borrowed some features in the educational structure from France, Great Britain and the USA.

Now let’s plunge into modern times and see what steps a person goes through before becoming a sought-after specialist.

Preschool

Hoikuen , or child care centers, have been opened for preschool education in the country Children from 3 months old are brought here, but not everyone can get there. City authorities choose children from disadvantaged, low-income families. A prerequisite for parents is to work more than 4 hours a day. Children are not taught anything at the Center, only 12-hour supervision is provided.

Japanese kindergartens - yotien are attended by children starting from the age of three. From this moment on, students learn the basics of science. Teachers teach writing, reading, and arithmetic. The development of communication abilities begins in kindergarten. This is associated with the transfer of the child to another group after 6 months; he must be able to adapt to the new team and teacher. Kindergartens in Japan are open until 14:00.

There is one teacher for two preschool children. Children feel at home: they are lulled, hugged, and taken in their arms. Attention is also paid to nutrition; a special menu is being developed for allergy sufferers.

Preschool education in Japan is paid . Based on the form of ownership, kindergartens are divided into private and public kindergartens. There is almost no difference between them, only in the monthly cost. The level of teacher training, equipment and conditions are high everywhere.

Kindergarten

A kindergarten, together with nurseries and special schools for children with disabilities, is considered preschool education. Children from three to six years old are accepted here. At the same time, most nurseries do not teach any special skills; their main task is to raise children while parents are at work, and teach them to communicate with other children.

Nurseries and kindergartens are not part of the general education system, and therefore the Ministry of Welfare and Labor is responsible for them, while the Ministry of Culture and Education oversees schools and universities.

Kindergartens are divided into two types:

• state - for babies, they help mothers get back to work as soon as possible after the birth of a child;
• private - for older children, classes and full preparation for school are held here - they are taught to draw, sing, count, read and write.

Many kindergartens have their own uniform.

Today in Japan there are approximately 25 thousand nurseries and 15 thousand kindergartens. At the same time, public and private institutions were divided approximately equally. Some kindergartens belong to schools and even universities.

How can a foreigner enter a Japanese university?

Japanese universities accept citizens of other countries on a general basis. Applicants who have a secondary education equivalent to studying in a twelve-year Japanese school are allowed to apply. To obtain it, citizens of Russia and most CIS countries must additionally undergo a year of training at any local university or at a Japanese language school.

All foreign applicants take Japanese language proficiency tests. In Russia, it is held at the Institute of Asian and African Countries at Moscow State University. The exam consists of three blocks:

• testing knowledge of hieroglyphs and vocabulary;
• listening;
• reading.

To successfully pass this test you need to know about 2,000 hieroglyphs.

Also, applicants to study at Japanese universities must undergo national testing and pass entrance exams. Numerous language schools can help you prepare for them.

Video: personal experience of entering university

Features of obtaining a student visa

To enter Japan, students from Russia and the CIS countries need a special visa . To complete it, you must submit the following documents to the receiving party, acting as a guarantor:

• a copy of a foreign passport;
• 8 photographs measuring 3 by 4 cm;
• a diploma confirming completion of secondary education;
• certificate of successful completion of the Japanese language test;
• a certificate from the parents’ place of work indicating the amount of their salary (for minors);
• a bank account statement showing sufficient funds to live in Japan (at least $15,000 for one year).

After three to four months, the student receives a certificate from the guarantor (Certificate of Eligibility), issued by the country’s Immigration Bureau. This document must be submitted to the Japanese diplomatic mission, where a long-term entry visa will be issued on its basis.

To enter Japan for the purpose of studying, a foreigner must apply for a student visa

School

The school lasts 12 years and contains three levels. Compared to the continuous numbering in Russian schools - from 1st to 11th grade - here each level is numbered anew:

• primary (schoolchildren 6-12 years old) - sho-gakko, lasts 6 years;
• middle (13-15 years) – chu-gakko, lasts 3 years;
• the eldest (16-18 years old) – ko-gakko, lasts 3 years.

Each year is divided into semesters:

1. April 1 – second half of July.

2. September 1 – end of December.

3. January 7 – end of March.

During the breaks between semesters, schoolchildren have a well-deserved vacation time. The beginning of the school year is timed to coincide with the most picturesque event of the year - the cherry blossoms in April.

Features of school education:

• each class has a classroom where teachers come themselves;
• the lesson lasts 45-50 minutes;
• classes are distinguished by a large number of students - about 40;
• 94% of all schoolchildren complete their studies to the end of the last school level, although it is considered optional and paid;
• schoolchildren study 5, and in some schools – 6 days a week;
• parallel classes are distinguished by letters in the Latin alphabet - 3A, 3B, 3C, etc.;
• the rating system is similar to European standards;
• schools do not have numbers, but their own names - depending on the locality in which they are located
• In some institutions, boys and girls are taught separately.

There are fifteen schools in the Land of the Rising Sun

For Russians.
Schoolchildren must cope with Japanese and Russian curriculum subjects at the same time, which, according to the students themselves, is incredibly difficult.

Review of Japanese Universities

On the one hand, a large number of institutions provide a wide choice for applicants, and on the other hand, there are only a few dozen universities in the country whose diplomas are recognized throughout the world and are considered prestigious.

• The University of Tokyo has produced many laureates of the most prestigious world-class awards. Included in all TOP ratings and guarantees 100% employment in the best companies.
• Kyoto University is one of the main competitors of its Tokyo counterpart. Included in the top 5% of universities in the world.
• Osaka Prefectural University is conventionally considered the third in the country, but it is one of the few where full-fledged teaching is conducted in English.
• Tohoku University - the name comes from the name of the region on the island of Honshu. Among other things, it is famous for the abundance of good student exchange programs.
• Nagoya University is famous for its selective program for international students, many consider it discriminatory. But here there is a higher chance of receiving grants and other financial support.
• The Tokyo Institute of Technology is a technical university more focused on scientific activities, has unique laboratories, and boasts a lot of world-class discoveries and developments.
• Hokkaido University is located on the island of the same name in the city of Sapporo. One of the best regional universities. He successfully combined the availability of provincial education with the highest level of graduate qualifications.

Primary School

To enroll in school, six-year-old children must already be able to count and be familiar with the alphabet.

Many of the core disciplines are taught in elementary school:

• mathematics;
• native language;
• natural sciences (even the basics of chemistry and physics);
• introduction to history;
• basic ethics and etiquette;
• Physical Culture;
• basics of life safety;
• music lessons;
• work;
• painting;
• calligraphy.

At the end of six years, schoolchildren must pass an examination test to know half of the two thousand hieroglyphs.

It is interesting that there is no uniform uniform for younger schoolchildren. But when they get together to go to events - and this happens quite often - they should wear yellow hats, raincoats and umbrellas so as not to get lost.

The most prestigious universities and universities

Below is a table with information about the most popular higher education institutions in Japan.

Do you have questions about obtaining higher education in Japan? Get a free consultation!

• Selection of educational institutions taking into account your requirements
• Registration of documents and visas
• Official tuition prices without agent commission
• Full support at all stages of training
• Monitoring your child 24 hours (if necessary)

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high school

Here, in addition to the subjects studied at the initial stage, more complex humanities and natural sciences are added:

• algebra;
• geometry;
• English language;
• geography;
• biology;
• geology;
• social science.

Often, after the main classes, the class teacher conducts a class hour, during which he explains to his students the basics of religious studies, pacifism, and respect for nature.

After lessons, children attend hobby groups and extra classes.

Japanese schoolchildren consider Japanese and English, as well as mathematics, to be the most difficult subjects.

Clubs and festivals

The development of education in Japan goes back to ancient times. Already in the 6th century there was a national education system. The Japanese have always been supporters of early and harmonious development. This tradition continues today. In middle and high school, students are given the opportunity to attend hobby groups. Each circle is assigned its own scientific director, but he intervenes in the activities of the club only when there are upcoming competitions or creative competitions between schools, which happens quite often.

During the holidays, students attend excursions organized by the school. Trips are carried out not only within the country, but also abroad. After the trips, each class is required to provide a wall newspaper, which will detail everything that happened on the trip.

In high school, special attention is paid to such an event as the fall festival. The school allocates 30,000 yen for each class and purchases T-shirts. And the students are required to come up with an event to entertain the guests. Most often, cafeterias and fear rooms are organized in classrooms, creative groups can perform in the assembly hall, and sports sections organize small competitions.

A Japanese schoolchild has no time to wander the streets of the city in search of entertainment; he has enough of it at school. The government did everything possible to protect the younger generation from the influence of the street, and this idea worked out great for them. Children are always busy, but they are not mindless robots - they are given the right to choose. Students organize most school and university events independently, without the help of academic advisors. They come to adulthood fully prepared, and this is the main feature of education in Japan.

High school

By the time it is time to move on to high school, girls and boys are already 15 years old. The Japanese are distinguished by responsibility and seriousness, and by this age they already know in which direction they would like to realize themselves and what profession to choose for this. Therefore, in high school, they choose a specialization, which will depend on the subjects.

Usually you have to make a choice between the natural sciences and the humanities. But often teenagers know what kind of science they would like to connect their lives with - for example, economics, physics, computer science or a foreign language.

Students can also choose special subjects:

• agronomy;
• trade;
• fishing;
• industry;
• medicine;
• political economy.

High school students devote their main energy to successfully passing final and entrance exams for admission to higher education institutions.

Interesting to know

Studying in Japan is challenging but fun. After all, students have the opportunity to develop harmoniously, make independent decisions and decide their own future. So, education in Japan, interesting facts:

• In elementary school, students are not given homework.
• Primary and secondary education is compulsory and free in government institutions.
• To enter the school, you need to pass exams; those who could not pass can try their luck next year.
• Schoolgirls are not allowed to dye their hair, wear makeup or jewelry, except for wristwatches. The appearance of students in schools is carefully monitored. Even socks can be taken away if they are not the right color.
• There are no cleaners in schools. Starting from elementary school, students clean the classrooms and corridors themselves after finishing classes.

• Also, each group of students in the class is assigned their own responsibilities. There is a group that is responsible for cleaning the school grounds, organizing events, healthcare, etc.
• Schools often change the composition of the student body so that children learn to quickly join the team. In higher education institutions, groups are formed according to the chosen subjects for study.
• "Lifetime employment system." Education in Japan is also significant in that many universities cooperate with high schools, accepting students with good grades. And above the universities there are well-known companies that hire graduates. A Japanese person who has graduated from a university can be confident in future employment and career advancement. Many Japanese work their way up from junior employee to department/branch manager and retire with a sense of accomplishment to the country.
• Holidays last only 60 days a year.
• The middle and high schools have unique uniforms.
• Each academic year begins and ends with ceremonies to welcome newcomers and congratulate graduates.

Exams

The Japanese have known what exams are since middle school. Until the end of the senior stage, they take exams five times a year - after each trimester and in the middle of the first and second. They show the level of mastery of each subject.

After graduating from high school, students take exams that determine the prestige of their future higher school, and therefore their path to the profession. However, the biggest stress is final exams. Unfortunately, they often become the cause of suicide among teenagers.

Education system in Japan:

1. Japanese

   :

   05/10/2021 at 16:38

   thanks for the info

   Answer

2. Zoya

   :

   09.24.2020 at 05:06

   Can a Japanese person with a bachelor's degree go directly to graduate school without going through a master's degree?

   Answer

   Uncle

   :

   10.23.2020 at 10:01

   No

   Answer

Juku

A unique phenomenon of Japanese schools is juku. This is a kind of tutoring school. Almost all middle and high school students attend them.

There are two types of juku:

• Academic - here teachers consolidate knowledge on school subjects or teach material that is not studied in class.
• Non-academic – work to discover and develop talents. Children can engage in different types of activities based on their own wishes - the art of ikebana, judo, the basics of the tea ceremony, theatrical performances, singing, board games.

Children visit juku in the evening after school 3-4 times a week.

Special education in Japan

The special education system in Japan is almost similar to domestic and Western models. Note that it is quite difficult to obtain a vocational education, since skilled workers are highly valued.

Juku stands apart - the so-called “mastery schools” or, to put it correctly, tutoring schools. Advertising of such schools is carried out from the 7th grade, and each student enrolls in those courses that are suitable for him. Classes are held two to three times a week, in the evenings. Teachers in these schools study school material in detail and study additional ones to successfully pass exams at school.

Almost all schoolchildren study in Juku, and all courses are paid. The total amount of funds that Juku brings in exceeds a trillion yen - an amount comparable to the country's military budget. Note that there is no such system anywhere in the world.

Higher education

To obtain higher education, you can go one of three ways:

• College

Training usually lasts from 2 to 5 years, the humanities or natural sciences are taught, depending on the specialty. After this, you can enter the third year of university.

• Vocational training institutions

Narrow professions are taught here, for example, hairdresser, pastry chef, electrician.

• University

Studying to obtain a bachelor's degree lasts 4 years, and then you can study for 2 years in a master's degree and 3 years in a doctorate.

University in Osako

There are approximately 700 universities in the Land of the Rising Sun. They are divided into state, national and private. Admission to prestigious universities guarantees further employment in a company with a good name, which means a lot to the Japanese - they are used to working in one place all their lives.

The best universities include:

• Tokyo;
• Osako;
• Kyoto;
• Kyushu;
• Hokkaido.

Foreign citizens often come to study there. Many universities have programs for foreigners. They can choose one of two options:

1. full-fledged training for 4-5 years - they will have to take exams on knowledge of Japanese and pay about 5-8 thousand dollars for a year of training;
2. 2-year courses at the university - classes are taught in English, and the price is much lower.

Each university provides a detailed description of the program for international students and a price list.

Japanese education system

Japan has long followed a policy of isolationism, which has resulted in the formation of an education system unlike any other. But since 1868, a number of reforms have been carried out in the state aimed at bringing it closer to Western models. Today, the Japanese educational system consists of four main stages:

• preschool education;
• elementary education;
• secondary education;
• higher education.

Receiving incomplete secondary education is compulsory for all Japanese.
The school year in Japan begins in April. It consists of three semesters separated by holidays. The longest break from studying occurs in the summer and lasts thirty days. Spring and autumn holidays do not exceed two weeks.

Developing the ability to work harmoniously in a team plays an important role in preparing Japanese children for adult life. Teachers do not welcome the emergence of rivalry between children, since the victory of one inevitably means the defeat of the other.

All schoolchildren in the country independently clean their classrooms, common areas and surrounding areas. It is almost impossible to refuse to participate in putting things in order.

Preschool education

Preschool institutions in Japan are divided into two groups:

• child care centers (保育所 – hoikuen);
• kindergartens (幼稚園 – yotien).

The care centers accept children from three months of age. But getting into them is not so easy. The decision on the advisability of enrollment in the center is made by the municipality. Children from single-parent and low-income families receive preference. If one of the parents works less than four hours a day, then the child cannot attend this type of preschool institution.

Child care centers (hoikuen) are designed for the youngest visitors

The centers are usually open from 7 am to 8 pm. They do not provide any educational programs. The main task of these institutions is to provide child care while their parents are busy at work.

Today we were at an organizational meeting, where we were told how to gather a child and what the daily routine is in the kindergarten - so, today there were 12 people in the kindergarten, and there were 6 teachers plus the head of them. Children are hugged, carried in arms, rocked to sleep, and this is the norm. In the kindergarten you don’t feel any danger or anxiety of a government institution, and in general, everything they undertake is very Japanese. Sleeping children under 2 years old have their breathing checked every 15 minutes (in connection with SIDS), and those who fall asleep on their stomach are turned onto their back. The kindergarten itself buys for the child the milk formula that the baby prefers, and, if necessary, buys the bottle and pacifier familiar to the child. Naturally, allergies are taken into account, and the child is not given a product that he should not.

melon_panda

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Kindergartens accept pupils over three years of age. As a rule, they are open until 2 pm. In kindergartens, children learn writing, counting and reading skills through play. In addition, much attention is paid to the development of children's communication abilities. To this end, many kindergartens change the composition of groups every six months and assign a new teacher.

Preschools in Japan can be public or private. They practically do not differ from each other either in terms of equipment or educational programs. The cost of public and private institutions is also the same. Depending on the financial capabilities of the parents, it can range from 11,000 to 55,000 yen (from 100 to 500 dollars) per month.

Video: Japanese kindergarten through the eyes of a Russian mother

Elementary education

Japanese children enter primary school (小学校 – sho:gakko) at the age of six . Most educational institutions at this stage belong to the state. Education there is free for all residents of the country, regardless of their citizenship. Attending private schools is not cheap. On average, they cost about 400,000 yen ($3,500) per year.

Primary school education lasts for 6 years. During this time, students become familiar with the basics of basic disciplines. From first to third grades, compulsory subjects include:

• Japanese language, including calligraphy;
• English language;
• mathematics;
• physical training;
• LIFE SAFETY FUNDAMENTALS;
• art.

In the third grade, natural sciences and humanities are added to them. In private schools, the curriculum may include teaching of religious studies, secular ethics and other subjects.

Most educational institutions at this stage do not have school uniforms. Only Panama hats, umbrellas and raincoats of bright yellow color are required to be worn, helping children not to get lost during excursions and walks.

Children go to primary school in casual clothes

There are no exams in primary school. After graduation, children can enter any secondary educational institution. The most popular of them conduct lotteries among applicants for admission.

Secondary education

Secondary education in Japan consists of two levels:

• incomplete;
• complete.

Junior secondary education is compulsory and free for all children permanently residing in Japan. It can be obtained from public or private junior high schools.

Complete education is provided only on a paid basis. Educational institutions at this level are represented by:

• senior secondary schools;
• vocational colleges.

Junior and senior high school students are required to wear a uniform. Even the color of socks is regulated: they can only be white, black or dark blue.

Wearing a uniform is compulsory in high school

Junior High School (中学校 – chūgakko)

Japanese children attend junior high school from 12 to 15 years of age. The main subjects at this level are:

• Japanese language;
• English language;
• algebra and geometry;
• story;
• social science;
• physics;
• chemistry;
• biology;
• geography;
• visual arts and music;
• physical training.

In addition, many schools hold classes dedicated to the history of their native land and pacifism.

At the end of each semester, students face comprehensive exams covering all major disciplines. In addition, in the middle of the first two semesters there is testing in algebra, geometry, as well as Japanese and English.

Japanese schoolchildren take a large number of exams

In May, Yuki took her first series of school tests. Tests in Japanese high school are very unique: they last 2-3 days, i.e. all lessons during this time are tests. A week before the tests, classes in school sections are suspended: you are supposed to sit at home and prepare.

YAPONSKIEBUDNI1

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After finishing school, students will also have to take exams in basic subjects. Admission to educational institutions at the next level depends on their results.

Senior High School (高等学校 – ko:to:gakko)

Although high school is not compulsory, almost 95% of Japanese teenagers attend it. The main task of educational institutions of this type is to prepare students for admission to universities in the country. Within its framework, schoolchildren study:

• ancient and modern Japanese;
• English language;
• algebra and geometry;
• computer science;
• physics;
• chemistry;
• geography;
• biology;
• geology;
• Japanese and world history;
• social sciences (sociology, political science and ethics);
• economics;
• art;
• physical education.

Almost all senior schoolchildren attend not only compulsory classes, but also interest groups.
Additionally, students can choose several specialized disciplines, for example:

• trading business;
• agronomy;
• foreign languages;
• fundamentals of industry;
• medical training.

Attending various clubs is of great importance in the lives of high school students. On them, Japanese teenagers practice:

• national martial arts;
• light and weightlifting;
• calligraphy;
• in-depth study of school subjects.

Tuition at government-owned high schools is about 1,600 yen ($15) per month. Fees for attending private educational institutions are usually higher. In prestigious institutions it can reach $30,000 per year.

During high school, Japanese teenagers take exams in core subjects 5 times a year. Graduates of educational institutions at this level undergo national testing for university admissions (National Test for University Admissions). Successful completion of this test allows you to take part in intra-university entrance exams.

National testing usually takes place in mid-January and takes two days. Many Japanese note the extreme difficulty of this test. To successfully complete it, schoolchildren often have to attend additional classes and use the services of tutors.

Video: features of Japanese high schools

Vocational colleges

Japanese who do not wish to attend senior high school can enroll in vocational colleges. Their training lasts 5 years. Graduates of educational institutions of this type receive a working specialty. In addition, they have the right to continue their education at universities. Specialized universities often accept them immediately into the third year.

Becoming a vocational college student is not easy. The competition is especially high in educational institutions collaborating with the country's leading corporations. Their graduates almost always get stable and well-paid jobs.

Education in vocational colleges is paid. Its cost ranges from 350,000 to 1,400,000 yen ($3,000 to $13,000) per year.

Higher education

The vast majority of Japanese continue their education at public and private universities. Today there are about 730 educational institutions of this type in the country.

Studying at the university consists of three stages:

• Bachelor's degree (4 years);
• master's degree (2 years);
• postgraduate study (3 years).

Education at medical and veterinary faculties lasts at least 6 years.

During the first two years of undergraduate study, students undergo general scientific disciplines and attend lectures on special subjects. The next two years are entirely devoted to professional training. During the course of study, the future bachelor must score from 124 to 150 credit points, which are assigned for attending lectures, passing seminars and passing exams.

Most graduates of Japanese schools enter universities in the country

In two years of master's degree, a student must score 30 points. In addition, to obtain a degree, he will have to complete a thesis and pass final exams.

Future doctors of science must score 50 points. They will also have to defend a dissertation based on their own research and pass several exams.

The biggest difference between Russian and Japanese education is the level of freedom. There is no schedule at all. To graduate from my university, you need to complete 144 credit hours over four years. The subject, which is taught once a week for one semester, provides 2 credit hours upon successful completion. You choose the subjects yourself, but in each category (general education courses, foreign languages, private law, public law, etc.) you need to score a certain minimum. Plus, there are semi-compulsory basic disciplines. So everyone creates their own schedule, but you won’t be satisfied with the theory of ceramics and Chinese medieval literature alone.

Maxim Krylov

https://republic.ru/world/zapiski_yaponskogo_studenta-787963.xhtml

Almost all universities in the country teach in Japanese. Only a small number of universities offer educational programs in English.

In addition to universities, the higher education system includes two-year private colleges. Most of them train specialists in the field of pedagogy and the humanities. Most often, girls study there who are determined to have a short career before marriage. Graduates of two-year colleges do not receive any advanced degrees.

There is no free higher education in Japan. Gifted students can receive various scholarships, but in general their number is insignificant.

Language schools

The Japanese government is extremely interested in popularizing the official language among foreigners. For this purpose, a large number of language schools have been created in the country, which offer many educational programs for citizens of other countries.

Students from different countries study at language schools

Based on the duration, courses are divided into short-term (from one week to three months) and long-term (1–2 years). Short-term programs are usually chosen by foreign students to get acquainted with the language and culture of Japan during the holidays. Students are admitted to such schools from the age of 15.

Another group of short-term programs is intended for philology students at foreign universities studying Japanese. Such classes help to significantly improve the qualifications of a translator or prepare for entry into a master's program.

Long-term courses are most often attended by foreign applicants to Japanese universities. To successfully enter the university, you need to know at least 2,000 hieroglyphs. Most experts believe that it is almost impossible to learn them in less than 2 years.

Learning couldn’t be more intense, and language school is just one part of the process. We all study here every day: we make new friends, read books, leaf through magazines, watch TV and listen to the radio. I regularly receive my share of new vocabulary from friends, Japanese blogs and books. Not a day goes by without your vocabulary expanding by at least a couple of points.

Daria Pechorina

https://gaku.ru/students/1_year_in_japan.html

Additional and inclusive education

The school of additional education, juku, is popular among Japanese schoolchildren. They first appeared in the 17th century. At that time, juku trained masters of samurai swords. Modern schools are divided into academic and non-academic. The first type of juku is visited for in-depth study of school subjects and preparation for exams. In non-academic schools, children participate in various arts and sports.

The cost of visiting a juku is about 15-20 thousand yen ($130-170). Despite the rather high fees, 99% of high school students, 50% of junior school students and 15% of primary school students attend them.

In Japan, much attention is paid to the education of children with disabilities. From a very early age they are involved in society. This is realized in joint classes, which are possible at all stages of education. Special programs are being developed for special children to enable them to acquire the necessary knowledge.

The Japanese state is doing everything possible to integrate special children into society

Most schools employ specialists who advise children with disabilities. If necessary, a tutor is assigned to them, who constantly accompanies them and provides all possible assistance.

There are also specialized schools for disabled children in Japan. Parents have the right to independently choose the type of educational institution that their child will attend.

Cost of education

Many people are concerned about the question of whether education in Japan is paid or free. Only nurseries, primary and secondary schools are free, and only if they are public and not private.

You can give approximate tuition prices per year (it should be borne in mind that they vary depending on the prestige of the institution), expressed in thousands of dollars:

• private school, school for the disabled, high school – 3.5;
• college – 7;
• university – from 5 to 10.

There are still budget places in universities, but they are negligible - there are only 100 out of 3 million total places.

School education

The school education system in Japan is represented by three levels: in elementary school students study for 6 years, in middle school for 3 years, in high school for another 3 years. The numbering of classes differs from domestic ones. This means that there is not a cross-cutting, but an internal class system - the fourth grade of primary school, the first grade of secondary school, etc. Parallel classes are designated by letters of the Latin alphabet - 1A, 1B, etc.

There is no free high school or university, but government owned institutions (of which there are very few) can provide tuition at lower prices. Japan is a country with an excellent private education system. Thus, as of 2008, 206 private and 73 public primary schools, 76 public and 721 private secondary schools, as well as 15 public and 1,321 private high schools were registered. Thus, education in Japan is free only for schoolchildren and kindergarteners.

The school year in Japan consists of three trimesters. The first trimester lasts from April 6 to July 20, after which there are long summer holidays, the second trimester begins on September 1 and lasts until December 26, and the third trimester lasts from January 7 to March 25. The last week before the first trimester is reserved for the transition from one class to another. Training begins in April due to the fact that spring arrives in Japan at this time and cherry blossoms begin to bloom.

The training lasts six days (in some schools - five days), and twice a month Saturday must be a day off. The features of the school curriculum depend on the particular school, but they are all based on standards developed by the state.

Despite the development of the country, there are only 15 schools for Russians in Japan. Let us note that such schools are extremely complex (since the program of both Russian and Japanese schools is given), and for schoolchildren such a volume of information is often overwhelming.

Some more interesting facts

• There is no homework in elementary school
• Girls are not allowed to wear makeup, and the only allowed accessory is a watch.
• Instead of cleaners, the students themselves clean the classrooms and grounds.
• Time for students to work part-time is no more than four hours daily.

Of course, like any educational system, the Japanese one also has its pros and cons. For example, undeniable advantages include prestige on the world stage, a high level of knowledge acquired, and guaranteed subsequent employment. There is perhaps only one downside - a very high price.

Universities in Japan

There are about 726 universities in Japan, 80% of them are private. The total number of students exceeds 2.8 million people. The most prestigious public universities are Tokyo University (founded in 1877), Kyoto University (1897) and Osaka University (1931). They are followed in the ranking by the universities of Hokkaido and Tohoku.

The most famous private universities are Tokyo International University, Chuo, Nihon, Waseda, Meiji, Tokai and Kansai University in Osaka.

There are separate women's universities in dietetics and nutrition (for example, Kagawa Nutrition University).

Due to its national traditions and the complexity of the language, Japan has always been closed to the education of foreign students. However, in recent years, the situation has been changing, and Japan has become popular among international students. There are currently more than 100,000 foreign students studying in Japan.

The terms of study at universities are standardized:

1. Bachelor's degree in higher education:
2. The university has a full cycle - 4 years in all main areas of study and specialties. Doctors, dentists and veterinarians study for 6 years. Upon completion of the course and 124 credit units, a bachelor's degree (Gakushi) is awarded.
3. At accelerated cycle universities, studies last for 2 or 3 years. Upon completion of the course and receiving 62 or 93 credit units, respectively, a bachelor's degree from an accelerated cycle university (TankiDaiGakushi) is awarded.

A characteristic feature of the organization of the educational process at Japanese universities is a clear division into general scientific and special disciplines. For the first 2 years, all students receive general education training, studying general scientific disciplines - history, philosophy, literature, social studies, foreign languages, as well as taking special courses in their future specialty. During the first 2-year period, students get the opportunity to delve deeper into the essence of their chosen specialty, and teachers get to make sure that the student has made the right choice and determine his scientific potential. In the last two years, students study their chosen specialty.

Admission to a bachelor's degree at a university in Japan

enter state universities at the age of 18, having completed 12 years of secondary school.

Reception is carried out in 2 stages:

1. At the first stage, applicants centrally take the “General First Stage Achievement Test”, which is conducted by the National Center for University Admission.
2. Those who successfully pass the test are allowed to take entrance exams held directly at universities. Those who receive the highest marks in tests are allowed to take exams at the most prestigious universities in the country.

Private universities conduct their own entrance exams. The best private universities have primary, junior and senior secondary schools and even kindergartens in their structure. And if an applicant has successfully completed the entire path from kindergarten to high school in the system of a given university, he is enrolled in it without exams.

From 2021, Russian students can apply for a bachelor's program without a preparatory year of study.

Japanese language requirements for foreigners:

• Nihon Ryugaku Shiken Exam (minimum 200 points) or
• Level determination exam (level 1 or 2) Nihongo Nosreku Shiken.

Visas for studying in Japan

A visa “entry to study” is issued for the preparatory course. A “study in Japan” visa is issued for studying basic programs at the university.

Scholarships to study at universities in Japan

The Japanese student support organization JASSO helps with scholarships. The application must be submitted after arriving in Japan.

There are also scholarships available for students who achieve top scores in the Nihon Ryugaku Shiken Japanese Language Examination for Foreigners.

Some universities, such as Tokyo International University, also offer their own scholarships to international students.

Working in Japan during and after studying

During your university program, you can work from 4 to 28 hours per week, depending on the type of study permit. You need to obtain permission from the immigration service to work part-time as a student.

To work in Japan after university, you must submit an application to the immigration service, which indicates the intended employer.

Problems in the school system

In Japan, as throughout the world, there are a number of problems in school and education. Bullying and violence in school are not uncommon. Recently, increased attention has been paid to school refusal by students. Students who isolate themselves in their room, and not least students who drop out of school.

Since the 1980s, the term yutori-kyoku, “stress-free learning,” began to be discussed, and a number of school reforms were introduced. In the 80s the curriculum was limited and the number of hours was also reduced. In the 1990s, reforms of the same type were continued; Saturday lessons were partially exempted, reducing them to two per month. In 2002, such reforms were continued and a free Saturday was introduced for all students. Education reforms have received a lot of criticism that the school has become too weak and provides little knowledge. Since 2013, Japan's second largest city, Osaka, has banned Saturday classes in all elementary schools in the city.

Japan is a rich country with poor children

Japanese school uniform

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