The information below is based on advice and guidance from the administrative staff of the Graduate School of Education. For any clarification regarding application procedures, please contact the Admissions Assistance Office (AAO) directly. This page is intended only to assist prospective international students in understanding the process and expectations.
General Information
For general details about education and admissions at Kyoto University, please see:
👉 Kyoto University: Education and Admissions
For information specific to the Graduate School of Education:
👉 Graduate Entrance Examination – Graduate School of Education
MEXT Scholarship (University Recommendation)
- The Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship under University Recommendation is available only for October enrollment.
- However, the Graduate School of Education begins its regular degree programs in April.
- Therefore, applicants who wish to enroll in October will first need to begin as a research student before entering a regular degree program.
📌 Application notes
- Applicants should first consult with their prospective supervisor regarding the possibility of recommendation.
- The application period is typically from late December to early February.
👉 MEXT Scholarship (University Recommendation)
AAO Application Procedures (For Graduates of Overseas Universities)
Applicants who have graduated (or expect to graduate) from a foreign university must complete the AAO application process before contacting any faculty member.
👉 AAO Website: Application Procedures
Important Notes for Admission to the Graduate School of Education
- All applicants are required to take the admission examination at Kyoto University.
- All application guidelines, examination materials, and forms are provided only in Japanese.
- Guidelines are posted on the Japanese website.
- Applications must be submitted by postal mail (not electronically).
- There are currently no English-taught degree programs. Most courses are taught in Japanese.
- International applicants are strongly encouraged to first enroll as a research student, and then proceed to the regular Master’s or Doctoral program.
🌐 Language Proficiency and Study at Kyoto University
At the Graduate School of Education, Japanese language proficiency is highly recommended for international students.
- Master’s programs: Most courses are conducted in Japanese, and students are expected to follow lectures, participate in discussions, and complete assignments in Japanese.
- Doctoral programs: Applicants coming from outside the Graduate School of Education are required to take the English examination designed originally for Japanese students. This exam may include tasks such as translating English sentences into Japanese.
- Administrative matters: Admission guidelines, forms, and entrance examinations are available only in Japanese.
At the same time…
It is important to note that language proficiency alone does not guarantee success. Even students with strong Japanese skills may face challenges in research, adaptation, or well-being. Academic preparation, research direction, and personal support networks are also critical.
My message to prospective students
I kindly ask for your understanding that:
- Japanese proficiency is not a formal prerequisite, but it is practically essential for smooth study and adjustment.
- Students are strongly encouraged to develop their Japanese ability before and during their studies.
- Japanese proficiency is important, but motivation, adaptability, and scholarly engagement play an even greater role in academic success.