When does academic advancement guidance begin?

Academic advancement guidance begins in stages, starting early after enrollment. Through advancement guidance sessions and individual counseling, we provide career and pathway advice tailored to each student's goals and Japanese proficiency. As application season approaches, we support students with specific school selection and preparation of application documents.

What is a designated school recommendation?

A designated school recommendation is a system that allows students to apply to universities or vocational schools that have a partnership with our school, using a recommendation-based admissions process. By meeting requirements such as academic grades and attendance rate, students may be able to advance to further education on more favorable terms than through general entrance exams. Details on eligible schools and requirements are provided during academic advancement guidance sessions.

How much does further education cost?

Further education costs vary depending on the school, department, and major, but as a general guide, including admission fees, tuition, and course materials, expect approximately several hundred thousand to over a million JPY per year. Academic advancement guidance also includes information on estimated tuition costs and scholarship programs.

Is the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) required?

Many universities and vocational schools require JLPT N2 or N1 level. However, some schools may base admission on exams other than the JLPT, or on in-school academic performance. Required Japanese levels vary depending on your intended school, so let's check the requirements together.

Is there support for the Graduate School Pathway Class?

For students aiming for graduate school, we provide support including guidance on writing a research proposal, how to contact professors, and reviewing application documents. Academic advancement guidance is tailored to each individual's goals, so please feel free to consult with us.

Is there support after advancing to a new school?

Yes, we continue to offer support as needed even after you've moved on to your new school. This includes consultations about life and studies at your new school, as well as advice on living in Japan, so you can start your new school life with peace of mind.

Academic Japanese Course

Academic Advancement Support

Drawing on our extensive track record, we provide thorough support for each student's school selection and admission success.

Japan has approximately 1,400 universities and graduate schools, and approximately 2,700 vocational schools, offering a wide variety of options for further education. At ISI, we support students in choosing the best school for them through events and special lectures. Career advisors and homeroom teachers work together to support students' academic advancement.

6 Types of Support to Help You Achieve Academic Advancement

1. Individual Academic Advancement Guidance

We have a proven track record and know-how in helping many students gain admission to highly competitive universities and graduate schools. Drawing on this experience, we provide the guidance and preparation each student needs for their specific exams. We also offer individualized support for preparing application documents and interview practice. Homeroom teachers and the head office Career Center work together to help each student gain admission to the school that's right for them.

2. Comprehensive Academic Information

Every ISI campus is fully equipped with information on universities, graduate schools, and vocational schools from across Japan. Our original school-analysis tool lets you compare and evaluate options objectively, based on past admissions data. We provide comprehensive support to help you choose the school that matches your goals.

3. Academic Advancement Events

We create opportunities to access real, first-hand information about prospective schools. At our Academic Expo, held exclusively for ISI students, you can speak directly with teachers and staff from universities and vocational schools. You can also join university campus tours, trial classes, and large external academic fairs, helping you weigh your options based on a wide range of information.

4. Special Academic Preparation Seminars

A special course tailored to the examination schedule is offered. It includes preparation of application documents, writing of motivation letters, graduate school applications, and interview preparation, all held according to the examination period. Students wishing to pursue a Graduate School Pathway Class can also participate in lectures with graduate school professors. Guidance for undecided students is also provided, ensuring detailed support throughout the examination period.

5. Flexible Learning Styles

We support your academic journey with a learning environment that integrates coursework and exam preparation. Students at Intermediate II level and above can take elective classes covering the Graduate School Pathway Class, EJU prep, and JLPT prep. For students aiming for highly competitive universities and graduate schools in Japan, we also offer our Graduate School Pathway Class, which goes beyond the standard curriculum, and every year, many of our students go on to gain admission to prestigious schools. Shinjuku Main Campus also has an In-House Prep School, allowing you to prepare according to your specific field of study.

6. Recommendation Admissions & In-Group Advancement

ISI holds designated-school recommendation slots at higher education institutions across Japan. Through this route, the admissions process is simplified, and tuition reductions or scholarships may also be available. In addition, students who wish to advance to universities or vocational schools within the WEWORLD Group (Beijing Language and Culture University Tokyo Campus, Tokyo Business and Language College, Nagano Business and Language College), will receive comprehensive support, including assistance with application document preparation and visa renewals.

About WEWORLD Group Schools

The Process of Advancement Support for Higher Education

Career Guidance and Career Counseling

We work together with each student to design the optimal study plan, tailored to their individual goals and wishes.

School Selection

Through advancement information sessions and school visits, students deepen their understanding of potential schools, and we support their school selection through individual consultations.

Application preparation and exam preparation

We provide support tailored to each student's intended school, including help writing a statement of purpose, interview practice, and guidance on research proposals.

Final Decision and Enrollment Preparation

After admission, we continue to provide ongoing support, from confirming enrollment procedures to preparing for life at the new school.

University and Graduate School Admission Results

Most competitive National Universities and Graduate Schools

The University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, Osaka University

Students

Well-Known National Universities and Graduate Schools

Nagoya University, Kyushu University, Hokkaido University, Hitotsubashi University, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Ochanomizu University, Yokohama National University, Tsukuba University, etc.

Students

Well-Known Private Universities and Graduate Schools

Waseda University

Students

Keio University

Students

Sophia University

Students

Tokyo University of Science

Students

GMARCH

Students

Kansai, Kwansei Gakuin, Doshisha, and Ritsumeikan universities.

Students

Nihon-Tokai-Komazawa-Senshu (a group of Japanese universities)

Students

Music Universities

Students

Art Universities

183

Students

*The above data includes results from JUQ Tokyo Campus.

*GMARCH: Gakushuin University, Meiji University, Aoyama Gakuin University, Rikkyo University, Chuo University, Hosei University.

Kankandōritsu: Kansai University, Kwansei Gakuin University, Doshisha University, Ritsumeikan University.

*Nitto Komasen: Nihon University, Toyo University, Komazawa University, Senshu University.

*Music Universities: Tokyo University of the Arts, Musashino Academia Musicae, Showa University of Music, Senzoku Gakuen College of Music, Tokyo College of Music.

*Art universities: Tokyo University of the Arts, Tama Art University, Musashino Art University, Tokyo Zokei University, Joshibi University of Art and Design, Kyoto Seika University, etc.

*2025 academic year results

Voices of Successful Applicants

Tokyo University, Faculty of Science, Course 2, etc.

Wang

From China

My homeroom teacher always encouraged me.

The facilities at ISI's campus are very well maintained and modern, and the atmosphere in my class is very relaxed and friendly. The teachers are extremely kind, and I can talk to my homeroom teacher about any problem. Before I went for my interview, my homeroom teacher did a mock interview with me and always gave me encouragement.

Tokyo University, Graduate School of New Frontier Sciences, and others.

Qiao

From China

I became able to approach exams with confidence and ease.

During my time at the school, so many teachers helped me in so many ways. At ISI, there were many opportunities to practice writing, and I was able to learn a wide range of skills, from basic grammar to using the right style for different situations, and even how to write academic papers.

Waseda University, Faculty of Social Sciences & Faculty of Culture and Design

Zhu

From China

I'm really glad that I chose ISI.

All of the teachers were kind and fun, and they really looked out for me. My classmates were also incredibly international, from diverse backgrounds, and every one of them was interesting and fun to be around. Whether in class or outside of it, the atmosphere with my teachers and classmates was always warm and relaxed.

Comments From Our Partner Schools (Universities, Graduate Schools, and Vocational Schools)

Message

ISI Japanese Language School brings together international students from around the world, building a truly international educational environment through high-quality Japanese language instruction.
Many international students, including those admitted through designated-school recommendation, have come to Hosei University from ISI, and an increasing number of students are pursuing not only undergraduate study but also graduate school and international careers. I can see that the teachers and academic advisors at ISI provide careful, ongoing support that helps students succeed in our university's entrance examinations.
As international society continues to develop, I believe that nurturing talent who can bridge Japan and the rest of the world will become increasingly important, and I feel that ISI Japanese Language School plays a major role in that effort.

HOSEI University, HOSEI Business School of Innovation Management Professor / Director, Global MBA Program, Dr. Kenneth Pechter

Message

I find that many of the students studying at ISI Japanese Language School have a clear sense of purpose for studying in Japan, and take their future seriously.
I myself used to work as a teacher at a Japanese language school, interacting with international students, and I still clearly remember how they struggled with their futures while studying Japanese, yet kept striving to take on new challenges.
HAL Tokyo is a school specializing in fields such as game design, CG, anime, and IT, where students grow through hands-on, practical learning while we value each individual's passions and ambitions.
If you're ever unsure about your future path, choosing a school, or what comes after learning Japanese, please feel free to reach out. We're committed to fully supporting you as you move toward a future that's true to who you are.

HAL Tokyo Admissions Consultation Staff

Mr. Igarashi

Message

Many students at ISI Japanese Language School have a strong sense of purpose and the ability to keep working toward their future goals.
Their awareness of working in Japan's food industry is also very high, and we've often seen them practicing on their own outside of class time. We hope they'll continue to be a source of inspiration, not only for international students from other schools, but for Japanese students as well.
We look forward to seeing students continue to absorb new skills and knowledge, and to forge their own paths going forward. Our entire staff at Akahori Confectionery College is here to support you as you work toward your dreams, so please enroll with confidence.

Akahori Confectionery College, International Student Support Center

Ms. Lin Yiye

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Further Education Support

When does academic advancement guidance begin?: Academic advancement guidance begins in stages, starting early after enrollment. Through advancement guidance sessions and individual counseling, we provide career and pathway advice tailored to each student's goals and Japanese proficiency. As application season approaches, we support students with specific school selection and preparation of application documents.
What is a designated school recommendation?: A designated school recommendation is a system that allows students to apply to universities or vocational schools that have a partnership with our school, using a recommendation-based admissions process. By meeting requirements such as academic grades and attendance rate, students may be able to advance to further education on more favorable terms than through general entrance exams. Details on eligible schools and requirements are provided during academic advancement guidance sessions.
How much does further education cost?: Further education costs vary depending on the school, department, and major, but as a general guide, including admission fees, tuition, and course materials, expect approximately several hundred thousand to over a million JPY per year. Academic advancement guidance also includes information on estimated tuition costs and scholarship programs.
Is the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) required?: Many universities and vocational schools require JLPT N2 or N1 level. However, some schools may base admission on exams other than the JLPT, or on in-school academic performance. Required Japanese levels vary depending on your intended school, so let's check the requirements together.
Is there support for the Graduate School Pathway Class?: For students aiming for graduate school, we provide support including guidance on writing a research proposal, how to contact professors, and reviewing application documents. Academic advancement guidance is tailored to each individual's goals, so please feel free to consult with us.
Is there support after advancing to a new school?: Yes, we continue to offer support as needed even after you've moved on to your new school. This includes consultations about life and studies at your new school, as well as advice on living in Japan, so you can start your new school life with peace of mind.

See the Full FAQ Page