MBBS in Japan: Japan, known for its advanced technology, strong healthcare system, and high standard of living, is increasingly becoming a preferred destination for international students. Among the many academic fields, pursuing MBBS in Japan is gaining traction due to the quality of education, innovative medical research, and career opportunities.
The section below provides everything candidates require to know about studying MBBS in Japan, including eligibility, admission process, tuition fees, top medical universities, scholarships, cost of living, and much more.
Japan, known for its innovation, cleanliness, and strong education system, has seen a growing influx of international students, particularly in medical fields. Below are some reasons why students choose Japan to study MBBS:
Global recognition of Japanese medical degrees
Affordable tuition compared to Western countries
Modern infrastructure and high-tech hospitals
Cultural richness and safety
Opportunities for research and development
Availability of English-taught MBBS programs
The MBBS program in Japan is structured to provide a detailed education in medical science while also focusing on practical exposure. It includes various phases like foundational science, clinical skills, and hospital-based training. The table contains an overview of the course duration:
MBBS in Japan Duration |
|
---|---|
Phase |
Duration |
Pre-medical Course |
1 year (optional) |
Basic Sciences & Language |
Years 1–2 |
Pre-clinical Studies |
Years 3–4 |
Clinical Training & Internship |
Years 5–6 |
Total Duration |
6–7 years |
To get admission to Japanese medical university, students must meet specific academic and language requirements. Japan’s strict admission standards make sure that only capable and dedicated students gain entry into their renowned MBBS programs. The table below contains MBBS in Japan eligibility criteria:
MBBS in Japan Eligiblity Criteria |
|
---|---|
Criteria |
Details |
Academic Qualification |
Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology |
Minimum Marks |
At least 70% in PCB subjects |
Entrance Exam |
EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission), NEET (for Indian students) |
Language Requirement |
JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) N2/N1 or TOEFL/IELTS if applying for English-medium programs |
Age Limit |
Generally between 17-25 years |
Valid Passport |
Mandatory |
To get admission into a medical university in Japan involves a well-structured process. Applicants must fulfill academic, language, and entrance exam requirements while preparing for admission. Below is a step-by-step admission process for MBBS in Japan:
Step 1: Research Universities.
Step 2: Language Preparation.
Step 3: Clear Entrance Exams, i.e, EJU or NEET.
Step 4: Apply to Universities.
Step 5: Attend Interviews conducted by the specific university.
Step 6: Receive the offer letter.
Step 7: Apply for Student Visa.
Japan has some of Asia’s best medical universities that are globally recognized for their academic excellence and research. These institutions offer MBBS programs and provide international students with modern medical training, hands-on experience, and strong global opportunities. Below are the top medical universities for MBBS in Japan:
Top Medical Universities for MBBS in Japan |
|||
---|---|---|---|
University |
Location |
Language of Instruction |
QS World Ranking (Medicine) |
University of Tokyo |
Tokyo |
Japanese |
48 |
Kyoto University |
Kyoto |
Japanese |
72 |
Osaka University |
Osaka |
Japanese |
124 |
Tohoku University |
Sendai |
Japanese |
199 |
Nagoya University |
Nagoya |
Japanese |
201-250 |
Juntendo University |
Tokyo |
Japanese |
Not Ranked |
For Indian students, Japan is a good choice to pursue MBBS with its high educational standards and safe environment. However, it’s important to understand specific requirements such as NEET qualification and NMC recognition. Below are the requirements for Indian students to study MBBS in Japan:
Clear NEET-UG for eligibility abroad.
Opt for universities recognized by the NMC (National Medical Commission).
Undergo Japanese language training.
Check for MCI-approved medical colleges in Japan (most Japanese universities require post-graduation training to practice in India).
The cost of tuition is an important factor when planning to study MBBS abroad. In Japan, tuition fees depend on whether candidates choose a public or private university. The table below contains the expected tuition expenses for international students pursuing MBBS in Japan.
MBBS in Japan Tuition Fees |
||
---|---|---|
Type of University |
Annual Tuition Fee (INR) |
Duration |
Public Universities |
INR 3 lakh – INR 5 lakh |
6 years |
Private Universities |
INR 6 lakh – INR 10 lakh |
6 years |
Other than tuition fees, the cost of living is important for planning education abroad. Japan is a modern and developed country, offers a range of living options to suit different budgets. From accommodation and food to transportation and utilities, the table below contains monthly expenses for an MBBS student in Japan:
MBBS in Japan Cost of Living |
|
---|---|
Expense Type |
Monthly Cost (INR) |
Accommodation |
INR 20,000 – INR 40,000 |
Food |
INR 10,000 – INR 15,000 |
Transportation |
INR 3,000 – INR 5,000 |
Utilities & Internet |
INR 3,000 – INR 5,000 |
Miscellaneous |
INR 5,000 – INR 7,000 |
Scholarships offer huge financial support to international students while pursuing MBBS in Japan. The country offers various government-funded, university-specific, and international scholarships aimed at helping deserving students cover tuition fees and living costs during their medical studies. Below are some scholarships for MBBS in Japan:
1. MEXT Scholarship (Monbukagakusho)
Offered by the Japanese government
Covers tuition, accommodation, and stipend
Highly competitive
2. JASSO Scholarship
Provided by Japan Student Services Organization
Monthly stipend for living expenses
3. University-Specific Scholarships
Offered based on academic performance and financial need
4. Indian Government Scholarships
Schemes like ICCR can support Indian students studying abroad
To study MBBS in Japan, obtaining a student visa is important for international students. The process is easy but requires some documentation and timely application. The visa is generally valid for two years and can be extended depending on the duration of the candidate's course. Typically, the processing time takes about 4 to 6 weeks, so students are advised to apply earlier to avoid delays.
Passport
Letter of Admission
Certificate of Eligibility (from a Japanese university)
Financial proof
Medical certificate
Visa application form
Japan allows international students to work up to 28 hours/week during academic sessions and up to 40 hours/week during vacations. Below are some common part-time jobs available at Japan for international students:
English teaching assistant
Retail and convenience store staff
Restaurant or café jobs
Translation or tutoring services
Completing an MBBS in Japan offers various career opportunities both within Japan and internationally. Whether candidates choose to pursue further studies, return to their home country, or begin clinical practice in Japan, the qualifications they earn are highly regarded. Below are some potential career options after get MBBS degree in Japan:
Career Prospects After MBBS in Japan |
|
---|---|
Option |
Details |
Postgraduate Study in Japan |
MD or specialization courses |
Return to Home Country |
Clear licensing exam (like FMGE for India) and start practicing |
Practice in Japan |
Requires passing the National Medical Practitioners Qualifying Exam |
Work in Research or Pharma |
Japan has a robust pharmaceutical industry |
Apply for Residency |
Seek employment and apply for long-term residency in Japan |
Studying MBBS in Japan offers academic excellence, cultural immersion, and career opportunities. While it comes with challenges like language and a strict admission process, the rewards are equally significant. With careful planning, dedication, and language preparation, Japan can be a great destination for aspiring doctors from around the world.