It depends on program/course you apply. If you are applying to the PEAK program or GSC program, Japanese proficiency is not required as the courses are taught in English, but Japanese language courses are also offered as a part of the curriculum. For any other undergraduate courses, Japanese proficiency is required as classes are generally conducted in Japanese. For postgraduate courses, language requirements vary depending on the course you take. Please check with the relevant offices of the graduate schools. Again, Japanese language courses are available at the Japanese Language Center and in some graduate schools. Regardless of course requirements we would recommend that you learn Japanese while at the university to be able to carry out day-to-day conversations and make the most of your time.

For some courses it is recommended that you contact your prospective professor, especially if you are applying as a postgraduate. In some cases, however, this is not necessary. Please confirm with the department administration before making contact. However, it is against university rules and regulations for faculty members to be in contact with a prospective student once applications are under review. All communications, if any, must be made prior to sending in your application. The following address leads to the UTokyo Faculty Search website where you will be able to search by name, department or keywords.

As a general rule, the first 2 years of undergraduate study (Junior Division) are spent on Komaba Campus. From the 3rd year onwards (Senior Division), your campus will depend on your field of specialization. In most cases, this will be Hongo Campus, but there are some departments which are located on Komaba Campus. If you are entering as a postgraduate student, you could be based on Kashiwa, Hongo or Komaba Campus. Please check with the relevant department or website for details. For undergraduate students taking the degree courses in English, PEAK students (College of Arts and Sciences) will be on Komaba Campus and GSC students (Faculty of Science) will be on Hongo Campus.

As a student of UTokyo you will be able to take part in a study abroad program during your time at the University. UTokyo has a number of university-wide agreements with other top-tier universities overseas. Moreover, many faculties and graduate schools have department level exchange agreements with other universities in a wide range of countries. Please check the “Go Global” website for University-wide Student Exchange Program and the department websites to see which programs are available for that year.

On the other hand, studying abroad may affect your curriculum plan at UTokyo. Please inquire at the office of your faculty/graduate school before applying the program.

International Student Support Room, Center for Global Education collaborates with the University Career Support Office and holds career seminars for international students who are planning to seek their career opportunities in Japan. The center also provides useful information regarding job hunting in Japan and offers personal career counseling. For more information, please see the following website.

UTokyo offers a wide range of extracurricular activities for students, ranging from team and individual sports to voluntary work in addition to clubs or “circles” which are commonly found in Japanese universities. There are several International Student Associations at the University which can be of help for new students arriving from overseas. Some International Student Associations are listed on the following website.