Are you a high school student dreaming of studying in Japan, or a parent supporting this dream? Finding the right English-taught degree program can be challenging just by looking at university websites.
Attending an official Study in Japan Fair—such as those organized by the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO)—is a wonderful chance to speak directly with university admissions staff and clarify your options. You can check the latest schedule and find an upcoming fair near you on the official Study in Japan Events page.
However, going to these events without a plan might leave you with just a heavy bag of brochures. To help you gather accurate information and confidently plan your future, here is a practical checklist of 6 essential questions every student and parent should ask at the fair.
1. Campus Locations and Moving During the 4 Years
It is easy to assume a student will stay in one place, but you need to know exactly where the campus is located.
Questions to Ask:
“Will the student study on the same campus for all four years, or do they need to move to a different campus later?”
“What is the local neighborhood like regarding public transportation, grocery stores, and safety?”
Why It Matters: Some Japanese universities have freshmen and sophomores study in a regional area, and then require them to move to a city campus (like Tokyo) for their junior and senior years. Moving can cost extra time and money. Parents will also want to know if the surrounding environment is safe and convenient for daily life.
2. Are All Required Classes Truly in English?
Do not assume an “English program” means zero Japanese language requirements.
Questions to Ask:
“Can a student earn all the credits needed to graduate by taking only English-taught classes?”
“Are there any mandatory Japanese language classes or language test requirements (like the JLPT) needed to graduate?”
Why It Matters: Some English-taught programs still require students to take basic Japanese language classes or pass a certain level of a Japanese proficiency test to earn their degree. Knowing this early helps students prepare without facing unexpected academic stress.
3. Admissions and High School Curriculums
Every university evaluates international school backgrounds differently.
Questions to Ask:
“What are the minimum IELTS or TOEFL scores needed to apply?”
“How does your university evaluate international curriculums like the IB (International Baccalaureate), A-Levels, or the SAT?”
Why It Matters: Admissions rules vary widely between universities. If you bring a digital copy of the student’s current high school transcripts or test scores on your smartphone, university staff can give you very helpful, specific advice on whether the student is a good fit.
4. Scholarships and Tuition Discounts
Budgeting is one of the most important aspects of studying abroad for families.
Questions to Ask:
“What kind of scholarships or tuition discounts can international students apply for before and after enrollment?”
“What grades (GPA) does a student need to maintain to keep their scholarship in their second, third, and fourth years?”
Why It Matters: It is important to look beyond the first-year costs. Understanding the actual chances of getting a scholarship—and the rules for keeping it—helps parents plan the budget for the full four years without any financial surprises.
5. Jobs and Career Support
Many families want to know what opportunities are waiting after graduation.
Questions to Ask:
“What kind of companies or industries do international graduates from this program usually work in?”
“Does the university provide specialized career support or help international students find internships in Japan?”
Why It Matters: Japanese companies are actively looking for global talent, but the job-hunting process in Japan is very unique. It is reassuring to know if the university will actively guide and support international students through this process.
6. Housing and Student Support
Moving to a new country is a big step. A supportive environment is key to a student’s success.
Questions to Ask:
“Are international students guaranteed a spot in a university dormitory for their first year?”
“What kind of support systems are in place for students who get sick or need help adjusting to life in Japan?”
Why It Matters: Knowing that the university provides strong support for housing, health, and daily life helps students focus on their studies and gives parents great peace of mind.
Next Steps: Before and After the Fair
To make your visit to the Study in Japan Fair as useful as possible, remember these three simple rules:
Save these 6 questions on your smartphone so you don’t forget them.
Have your academic information ready, such as current grades and English test scores, in case you need specific advice.
Connect through official channels. Before you leave a booth, ask if they have a QR code for their official mailing list, LINE account, or social media. Signing up is the best way to get future updates on online info sessions and application deadlines.
A strategic approach to these fairs can make the difference between simply collecting brochures and securing an ideal academic path. Continue exploring Global University In Japan for the in-depth insights and unvarnished truths you need to navigate Japanese higher education with confidence.
