Manila Office: (02) 8-689-1928
Manila Office: (02) 8-689-1928
January 15, 2025 | JEP
Are you ready to take the first step toward studying in Japan in 2025 but have a lot of questions? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! This guide provides a step-by-step process to help you through a successful application. The best part? Our company can assist you every step of the way—from your initial application to your departure for https://jellyfisheducation.com.ph/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Screenshot-2025-01-15-231008.pngJapan as a student!
| Step 1: Research Your Options and Check for Local Agents
The first step is crucial—conduct thorough research. This will help you identify Japanese language schools that match your preferences. When considering schools, take note of the following details: location, requirements, tuition fees, admission months, the nationality of most students enrolled, and any other factors that are important to you. These considerations will help you determine if the school is the right fit. Once you’ve selected your target school, it’s time to look for agents who can assist with your application. Ideally, choose local agents both inside and outside Japan, especially those in your home country. Be sure to conduct a thorough background check on any agency to ensure they are legitimate. Verify their website, social media profiles, visit their office, or call them to inquire. It’s also important to request proof of company registration to guarantee you’re dealing with a reputable agency. Remember, these agents will play a vital role in helping you achieve your dream of studying in Japan, so make sure you choose one that you can trust. |
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Step 2: Understand the Process, Find a Sponsor, and Seal the Deal
Now that you’ve completed Step 1 and conducted your research, it’s time to dive deeper into the details of the Study in Japan program. Start by learning about the process with your chosen local agency. Pay attention to the important details such as the timeline for document submission, the amount of money you need to prepare for the application,
and when to expect the results. Typically, your agency should provide this information during the assessment process, so be sure to listen carefully. If any points are unclear, don’t hesitate to ask.
Next, you’ll need to determine who will financially support you. For the Study in Japan program, the Japan Immigration considers you a full-time student, so a sponsor (either a blood relative or legally related individual) is required. The sponsor must provide financial documents proving they have enough funds to support your application. If one sponsor’s bank balance isn’t sufficient, you can have up to two sponsors, as long as the
combined financial support meets the requirement.
Once all the details are clear, and you’re confident that the local agency aligns with your goal of a successful application, it’s time to sign the contract. This contract will protect both you and the agency throughout the process. Be sure to read the terms carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.
| Step 3: Study the Language While Your Application is Ongoing
Once you’ve signed the deal with your local agent, it’s time to enroll in a Japanese language course, which is also a key part of your application. For some applications, it’s beneficial to already have at least 150-170 hours of Japanese language study, along with a certification. This can make the application process easier, as you’ll only need to focus on submitting the other required documents, without having to worry about language classes on the side. However, if you don’t have any prior language background, don’t worry—you can still take language courses while your application is in progress. The advantage of starting your language studies during the application process is that your skills will be fresh in your mind, and it will help prepare you for more intensive classes in Japan once your application is successful. Ultimately, the key point in this step is to have a solid foundation in the Japanese language. |
 
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Step 4: Application Process – Preparing and Submitting Documents
While your language training is ongoing, expect to spend significant time preparing your documents. It’s important to keep track of each document’s validity and submission deadlines. Be sure to stay in close contact with your local agency’s document specialist, as they can provide professional advice and guidance if you encounter any obstacles along the way.
To help you set your expectations, here are some of the key documents you’ll need to
prepare as a student, along with those from your sponsor.
APPLICANT’S REQUIREMENTS
1. Application Form (school format)
2. Personal Record (school format)
3. Certificate of Graduation from the Last School (diploma)
4. Copy of Transcript of Record
5. Copy of Certificate of Employment (for all previous employment and current employment)
6. Applicant’s Birth Certificate (1 copy)
7. Applicant’s Marriage Contract (1 copy)
8. Copy of Passport (pages of personal information)
9. Certificate of Studying Japanese (more than 150 hours)
10. Copy of NBI Clearance
11. Copy of Medical Examination
12. 4cm×3cm Photo (6 copies)
SPONSOR’S REQUIREMENTS |  |
| Step 5: Wait Patiently, Prepare for the Result and Pay the Necessary Fees
After submitting your documents, it’s time to wait for the COE (Certificate of Eligibility) approval. The COE is issued by the Ministry of Justice of Japan and verifies a foreigner’s intended activity— in this case, as a student. At this stage, there are only two possible outcomes: either an approved or denied COE. If your COE is approved, the application process continues, and you can move forward with preparing for your departure to Japan. Be sure to have the funds ready for tuition fees, airfare, accommodation or dormitory costs, and visa application fees. On the other hand, if your COE is denied, the application process ends there. Your local agent will inform you of the reasons for the denial, and if reapplication is possible, they will offer you that option. However, keep in mind that reapplication does not guarantee approval, so it’s important to carefully consider your next steps. |
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Step 6: Attend the PDOS and Pack Your Bags
At this stage, you’ll experience a mix of emotions—happiness, sadness, and anxiety.
Happiness because everything you’ve worked for has paid off. The sacrifices you made during the application process were all worth it, and you’re now incredibly close to your dream: to study, live, and experience Japan.
Sadness may also kick in, as you’ll be leaving your life behind in your home country. It means leaving your family, friends, and loved ones to pursue your dream.
And finally, anxiety. You’ll be on your own in a new country. But remember, this is your dream, and it will bring out the best and strongest version of yourself.
Now, moving on to the process—once you’ve successfully paid all the necessary fees, you’ll need to attend a Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS). This seminar is designed to fully prepare you before your departure to Japan. During the PDOS, you’ll receive important information on everything from entering the airport in your home country to landing in Japan. The seminar will cover which documents you’ll need to present to immigration officers, how to answer their questions, and packing tips to ensure you don’t bring any prohibited items.
