🎓 Why More Students from Kathmandu Are Choosing to Study in Japan

Japan is fast becoming a top destination for students from Kathmandu. With its blend of world-class education, affordable costs, and a safe, welcoming environment, it’s no wonder more Nepali students are making the move. In the 2023/24 academic year, over 34,731 Nepali students received No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to study in Japan—a clear sign of the growing trend (1).

📚 Quality Education with Global Recognition

• Top-Ranked Universities:
  Institutions like Tohoku University, The University of Tokyo, and Tokyo Institute of Technology consistently rank high in global listings (2, 3).

• Popular Programs:
  Fields like engineering, business, IT, and science attract many Nepali students due to Japan’s reputation for innovation and strong research facilities.

💰 Affordable Tuition and Living Costs

• Lower Tuition Fees:
  Undergraduate programs cost between ¥500,000 and ¥1,000,000 per year, while graduate programs range from ¥500,000 to ¥1,500,000—a stark contrast to fees in Western countries (4).

• Scholarships:
  Scholarships like MEXT and JASSO offer full tuition and monthly stipends (up to ¥144,000), easing financial burdens (5).

• Living Expenses:
  In Tokyo, monthly living costs can be around ¥150,000–¥200,000, while cities like Osaka offer more affordable options at ¥100,000–¥150,000 (6).

🛠️ Part-Time Job Opportunities for Students

• Work Regulations:
  Students can work up to 28 hours per week during school terms and 40 hours during vacations (7).

• Common Jobs & Earnings:

  • Convenience Stores: ¥1,000–¥1,500 per hour

  • Tutoring: ¥1,500–¥3,000 per hour
    These opportunities help students manage expenses while gaining valuable local experience (8).

🤝 Cultural Connection and a Safe Environment

• Cultural Values:
  Japan is known for its respect, discipline, and hospitality. These traits create a secure and friendly atmosphere.

• Supportive Community:
  A growing Nepali community and organizations like the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) help new students settle in quickly (9).

📝 Easy Application and Visa Process

• Streamlined Process:
  With a clear step-by-step process—from obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility to securing a visa—students can prepare well in advance.

• Consultancy Support:
  Educational consultancies such as Hardford Education and OBGI offer end-to-end assistance, ensuring a smooth application process (1).

🌐 Supportive Learning Environment & Language Advantage

• Language Preparation:
  Most universities require a JLPT N2 or N3 level, so learning Japanese is crucial. Many Kathmandu-based language schools offer intensive courses to get you ready (10).

• English-Taught Programs:
  A growing number of programs are available in English, making the transition easier for international students.

🚀 Future Career Opportunities After Graduation

• Post-Study Work Options:
  Japan provides clear pathways for international graduates, with around 90% finding employment within six months (8).

• Growing Job Market:
  Demand in engineering, IT, research, and other fields is high, offering promising career prospects for Kathmandu-based alumni.

🔚 Conclusion

Japan offers a unique combination of quality education, affordable living, extensive work opportunities, and a secure, culturally rich environment. For Nepali students from Kathmandu, these advantages create a compelling case to choose Japan as a study destination. Ready to take the next step? Connect with educational consultancies in Nepal and join supportive networks to start your exciting journey today (1).

References:

1. Hardford Education – Study in Japan from Nepal

2. NICJP – Japanese Education System

3. Times Higher Education – Japan University Rankings 2025

4. Axiom BD – Tuition Fees in Japan

5. NP Embassy of Japan – Scholarship Information

6. Instarem – Cost of Living in Japan

7. Japan Travelife – Part-Time Job Regulations

8. ICLA – Part-Time Jobs for International Students

9. Wikipedia – Nepalis in Japan

10. Shine Education Services – Guide for Nepali Students