Tokyo for students
For those who want to study amid the hustle and bustle of the big city, they don't come much bigger and busier than Tokyo, the capital city of Japan and one of the world’s most populous urban areas. Tokyo is Asia’s leading city in the QS Best Student Cities ranking, bettered worldwide only by London.
Tokyo is home to 11 world recognized universities this year, with the University of Tokyo taking the top spot, ranking in 24th place in the QS World University Rankings 2021.
Tokyo scores notably well for desirability, which considers both the overall quality of living in the city, and how in-demand it is among prospective international students.
Have you studied in Tokyo? Share your experience.
Best universities in Tokyo – QS Best Student Cities ranking: 2nd
University of Tokyo (24th); Tokyo Institute of Technology (56th) Waseda University (=189th); Keio University (=191st); Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU) (=362nd) Tokyo Metropolitan University (651-700); Hitotsubashi University (501-510); Yokohama City University (=465); Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology (601-650); Yokohama National University (801-1000); Tokyo University of Science (751-800)
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More about Tokyo
Study in Tokyo Overview
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Number of universities ranked by QS
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11
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Highest-ranked institution
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University of Tokyo (24th in the world)
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Population
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38,001,000
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Average international fees (at ranked unis)
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US$5,700
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Desirability rank
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1st
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Employer Activity rank
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1st
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Affordability rank
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51st
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Student View rank
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24th
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To find out how each of the above categories is calculated, view the methodology.
Why study in Tokyo?
It’s the most desirable city in the world to study in
Tokyo places first in the world in the desirability indicator this year, earning a perfect score.
It’s home to many top universities
The city contains 11 world-renowned universities – including the University of Tokyo, which ranks 24th worldwide.
It offers a unique cultural experience
Tokyo has traditions and customs that go back thousands of years. These traditions, blended with modern culture, produce a unique experience for students.
Japanese gardens are some of the most beautiful in the world
These gorgeous gardens display the Buddhist influences that were brought to Japan in the 12th century. Today, students can enjoy the tea ceremonies and calming walks in Tokyo’s gardens.
Plenty of employment opportunities
Tokyo is one of the world’s leading financial sectors and provides many work experience opportunities for students and graduates in the city.
Need more convincing? Here are 13 excellent reasons you’ll love studying in Tokyo.
Cost of studying in Tokyo
Tokyo ranks 51st in the world for affordability this year, with international tuition fees costing an average of US$5,700.
According to Numbeo, a one-bedroom apartment in Tokyo’s city center will set you back around 129,208.46 ¥ (approximately $1,220) per month, which is 47 percent lower than London.
To find out more about gaining funding while studying in Japan, take a look at the information provided on JASSO’s Gateway to Study in Japan website or search the online scholarship database provided by Japan Study Support (JPSS).
Alternatively, check your university’s website for additional scholarships on offer. You can also view the scholarships available for universities in the world’s best student cities, including Tokyo.
Life and culture in Tokyo
Tokyo is often referred to as the cultural center of Japan, mixing the ethnic Jomon culture with that of China and Korea, Greece and India, Europe and America. This creates a unique blend of customs in the city.
Tokyo is a city for those who favor total immersion in local culture rather than living in a “student bubble”, with students making up just 0.5 percent of the city’s 38,001,000 total population.
One upside of Tokyo's gargantuan size is that it offers one of the most varied and cosmopolitan living environments on Earth. It is probably best known for its historic shrines and temples, delicious sushi and its fashion.
Career in Tokyo
As one of the world's three leading financial centers, alongside New York and London, Tokyo provides enviable professional and internship opportunities, consistently ranking as the best in the world for the employer activity indicator.
The city also earns a high rating from graduate employers (where it ranks in first place worldwide).
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