Top 10 TOEFL iBT® Accepting Universities in Japan

"Top universities in Japan like the University of Tokyo and Kyoto University accept TOEFL scores for admission. A TOEFL score of 79 -100 is typically required for admission to top Japanese universities."
Key Highlights
Japan, known for its technological advancements and rich cultural heritage, attracts students from all over the world. To gain admission to top universities like the University of Tokyo or Kyoto University, most institutions require a TOEFL score between 79 and 100.
Let’s dive into the Top 10 Universities in Japan Accepting TOEFL Scores, along with their QS World Rankings, minimum TOEFL iBT® score requirements, fees, and scholarship opportunities, to help you make an informed decision for your academic journey in Japan.
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Top 10 Universities Accepting TOEFL in Japan with Fees
Here are the top 10 universities accepting TOEFL scores in Japan, along with their QS World Rankings 2025, estimated tuition fees, and accepted TOEFL scores:
University |
QS World University Ranking 2025 |
TOEFL Score |
Estimated Annual Tuition Fees (¥) |
Estimated Annual Tuition Fees (INR) |
University of Tokyo |
32 |
100 or above |
780,000 - 1,000,000 |
546,000 - 700,000 |
Kyoto University |
50 |
79 or above |
460,000 - 1,000,000 |
322,000 - 700,000 |
Osaka University |
86 |
80 or above |
800,000 - 1,000,000 |
560,000 - 700,000 |
Tokyo Institute of Technology |
84 |
78 or above |
780,000 - 1,000,000 |
546,000 - 700,000 |
Tohoku University |
107 |
79 or above |
790,000 - 1,000,000 |
553,000 - 700,000 |
Nagoya University |
152 |
85 or above |
850,000 - 1,000,000 |
595,000 - 700,000 |
Kyushu University |
167 |
79 or above |
790,000 - 1,000,000 |
553,000 - 700,000 |
Hokkaido University |
173 |
79 or above |
790,000 - 1,000,000 |
553,000 - 700,000 |
Waseda University |
181 |
100 or above |
1,000,000+ |
700,000+ |
Keio University |
188 |
80 or above |
800,000 - 1,000,000 |
560,000 - 700,000 |
Check out - Essential Words for TOEFL iBT® Test
General Requirements for Admission to Japanese Universities
In addition to TOEFL, several other requirements are necessary to secure a place at a top university in Japan. Some of these requirements are:
Requirement |
Details |
High School Diploma |
Secondary education or its equivalent. |
Language Proficiency |
Proof of Japanese and/or English proficiency, ( TOEFL ) |
Entrance Examinations |
University entrance examination results; for example EJU for foreign students. |
Application Form |
Duly filled and submitted via the university admission portal. |
Statement of Purpose (SOP) |
Statement of purpose for applying to the course/university. This should be typically 1 to 2 pages long. |
Recommendation Letters |
Letters of recommendation from teachers/mentors. |
Passport |
Valid passport for international travel. |
Financial Proof |
Proof of adequate funds to cover tuition and living. |
Health Certificate |
Medical certificate of good health. |
Check out - How to Send Your TOEFL iBT® Scores to Colleges?
Admission Process for Universities in Japan
Here is a detailed step-by-step admission procedure to get admission to Japanese universities:
1. Research Universities and Programs: Make a list of universities and programs that will align with your interests in academics and your career goal. Check on their specific requirements and deadlines.
2. Prepare Necessary Documents: Gather documents usually required to be admitted into any university, such as a high school diploma, transcripts, certificates showing candidate language ability like JLPT/TOEFL/IELTS, a valid passport, proof of financial resources, and a health certificate.
3. Take Entrance Examinations: Apply and prepare for course-specific entrance examinations like the examination for Japanese University Admission for International Education, or examination tests held by respective universities.
4. Submit Application: Fill in the application form available on the admission portal of the University with due respect to documents and deadlines.
5. Write Statement of Purpose (SOP): A good Statement of Purpose shall be prepared, stating the reasons as to why, what, and for the selection of a particular program and university.
6. Obtain Recommendation Letters: Get recommendation letters from your teachers or mentor, usually 1 to 2, explaining your strengths in academics and as a person.
7. Attend Interviews: Some of these colleges may require an interview as part of their admission process. Be prepared for that and talk about your previous academic background, combined with your future plans.
8. Apply for a Student Visa: Apply for a student visa from the Japanese Embassy/Consulate from one's country of origin only after acceptance. Attach the original letter of admission from the university and any other documents that might be required.
Scholarships for International Students in Japan
Japan offers a variety of scholarships for International students in Japan to fund their education. Here are some of the scholarships available in Japan for international students, detailing what each covers and their eligibility criteria:
Scholarship Name |
Coverage |
Eligibility Criteria |
MEXT Scholarship |
Tuition, monthly stipend, travel expenses |
High academic merit; below 35 years |
JASSO Scholarship |
Monthly stipend |
Good academic record; financial need |
University-Specific Scholarships |
Tuition waivers, stipends, accommodation support |
Students already enrolled or accepted; good academic performance |
Rotary Yoneyama Scholarship |
Monthly stipend, travel expenses |
Below the age of 45; graduate degree or its equivalent |
ADB-Japan Scholarship Program |
Tuition, monthly stipend, travel, health insurance |
Citizens of member countries in ADB; bachelor's degree or equivalent |
Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) |
Tuition, monthly stipend, travel, health insurance |
Nationals of World Bank member countries; bachelor's degree or equivalent; professional work experience. |
I hope this blog has helped you explore your options for studying in Japan with your TOEFL scores. With top universities like the University of Tokyo and Kyoto University, there's plenty to consider when making your choice. Best of luck as you embark on your academic journey in Japan!
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