

Ryukoku Univesity
Kyoto, Japan
Study in a city of timeless temples and modern learning, in Japan.
Campuses
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Fukakusa Campus (Main): Located in southern Kyoto. This is the main campus where most international and first- and second-year classes are held.
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Omiya Campus: In central Kyoto, next to Nishi Hongwanji Temple. Used for third- and fourth-year students and the Graduate School of Psychology.
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Seta Campus: In Shiga Prefecture near Lake Biwa. The newest and largest campus, focused on science and agriculture.
Nomination Deadlines
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Fall Semester: 30 April
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Spring Semester: 31 October
Academic Calendar
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Fall Semester: September - March
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Spring Semester: April - September
JEP-E (Japanese Experience Program in Kyoto, in English)
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This program is for students with little or no Japanese language experience.
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Classes focus on Japanese society and culture, including history, economics, business, law, technology, literature, media, and pop culture. Students also take an introductory Japanese language class three times a week.
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Recommended English level: TOEFL PBT 500 or equivalent.
Students may also take selected English-taught courses from other faculties or graduate schools. -
Note: Once selected, the study course cannot be changed. One-year exchange students will continue in JEP-E for their second semester.
Important – Class Selection Guidelines
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STEP 1: Confirm your eligibility to register for JEP Kyoto classes by checking with your home university’s exchange program representatives.
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STEP 2: Select either [JEP-E] or [JEP-J] on your application form. This choice cannot be changed once submitted.
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STEP 3: Those selecting [JEP-E] or regular Faculty/Graduate School classes will not take the Japanese Language Placement Test.
Dormitory Options for International Students
Exchange students are housed in Ryukoku International House or Mitra-kan.
Resident Supporters (Japanese students) are available to help with daily life and adjustment.
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Rental Bedding Fee: ¥1,680 per month
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Room Assignment: Decided by the university and cannot be changed in principle.
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Special Consideration: Students with health concerns may receive priority in room allocation.
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Dormitory Fees: Amounts shown include the International Student Accommodation Support Scholarship (Single: ¥10,000/month, Twin: ¥5,000/month).
Estimated Monthly Cost of Living
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Total: ¥60,000–¥75,000 (excluding the one-time deposit)
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Food: ¥ 40,000
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Transportation: ¥ 5,000 - 8,000
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Health Insurance: ¥ 1,500 - 2,000
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Rental Bedding: ¥ 1,680
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Single Room: ¥ 35,000 - 45,000
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Utility Fees: ¥ 10,000
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Initial Security Deposit (cash): ¥ 80,000 - 100,000
Tuition Fees
No tuition fees for the Exchange Program if nominated by an exchange partner institution.
Application Period
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Fall Semester: 7 April - 14 May
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Spring Semester: 6 October - 12 November
Certificate of Eligibility (COE) & Student Visa
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Ryukoku University will apply for your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) after receiving all required documents. It usually takes 6–8 weeks to process.
Once issued, the COE and Letter of Acceptance will be sent to your home university so you can apply for a student visa at the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in your country.
JEP-J (Japanese Experience Program in Kyoto, in Japanese)
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This program offers Japanese language classes from upper beginner to advanced levels, along with elective subjects on Japanese culture and society.
Some English-taught electives are also available. -
Recommended for students who have studied Japanese for at least 300 hours or achieved JLPT N4 or higher.
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Students placed in Class 4 or above on the Japanese Placement Test may also register for additional English-taught classes.
Japanese National Health Insurance
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All exchange students staying in Japan for three months or longer are required by law to join the Japanese National Health Insurance system, even if they already have insurance from their home country.
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The fee is about ¥1,500–¥2,000 per month, and enrollment is completed at the local Ward Office near the student’s residence.
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Students may also purchase additional international health insurance in their home country if needed.
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​More details will be provided during Orientation Week.
Credit Requirements
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Exchange students must register for a minimum of 16 credits per semester (32 credits for one academic year). Note: Minimum credit requirements may change.
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To transfer credits after the exchange, students should confirm in advance which Ryukoku University courses are recognized by their home university.

