University exchange programs are a great way to get hands-on experience in cutting-edge research, lab experience, and learning under experts in Japan while having the opportunity to live there.
You’ve come to the right place if you’re looking for a Japan exchange science university program.
This article explores the most popular science-focused exchange programs available to university students as well as their key requirements.
1. Sakura Science Exchange Program
Sakura Science Program (SSP) Website
The Sakura Science Exchange Program is an initiative by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) to invite students to spend a short time in Japan.
During your time here, you can experience cutting-edge Japanese science and technology and learn about Japanese culture.
This program is the most well known and it’s open to:
- High school students
- Technical college students
- University students
- Graduate students
- Postdoctoral fellows
- Faculty members
- Professionals in science and technology fields who are below 40 years old
Applicants should have a strong academic background in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM).
Key features
- A Japanese host organization is required to apply on behalf of the participants.
- Open to students from all countries with a focus on first-time visitors to Japan.
- Offers various courses such as short-term research activities and science training.
- Ranges from 7 days to 3 weeks depending on the course
How to apply for the Sakura Science Exchange Program
The program does not accept direct applications from individuals. Instead, you will need an invitation from a Japanese host institution.
- Connect with a host institution in Japan. Get in contact with a Japanese professor or institution that is already participating in the Sakura Science Exchange Program.
- Apply with your Japanese host. They will be responsible for applying to the JST for you. As such, they will help you preview the necessary documents.
- Screening and selection: The JST will review your application based on several factors such as the project’s relevance to science and technology, the qualifications of the participants, and the potential for meaningful academic exchange.
- Travel and participation: If selected, you will receive an official invitation to join the program and travel to Japan for a short-term exchange.
The Sakura Science Exchange Program will typically cover accommodations in Japan such as meals, housing, and travel.
Via Wikimedia Commons
2. OUSSEP at Osaka University
The OUSSEP stands for Osaka University Short-Term Student Exchange Program, and it is a program that allows international university students to participate in research projects within their laboratories for hands-on experience in various scientific fields, including science, engineering, and other disciplines.
Key features:
One of the main features of OUSSEP is that there are English classes in the science and engineering departments that make its program very accessible to those abroad.
Other features include:
- Research opportunities: You can engage with Osaka University’s scientific departments.
- Cultural exchanges: From excursions and activities, you can explore Japan’s rich history, culture, and modern society.
- Short-Term program: It is a one-semester to full-year program.
- Eligibility: only undergraduate and graduate students from Osaka University’s partner institutions.
How to apply for OUSSEP
The application process for OUSSEP is as follows:
- Check if your university is partnered with Osaka University: You will also need to see any specific requirements, such as language proficiency and academic background.
- Obtain a nomination from your home university: Contact your study abroad office or exchange coordinator at your university about the OUSSEP nomination process, required documents, and deadlines.
- Apply: Your university will submit the following to Osaka University:
- Application Form
- Official Transcript
- Letter of Recommendation
- Proof of English Language Proficiency (for courses taught in English)
- Passport Copy
- Wait for the acceptance: If accepted, Osaka University will send you an official invitation.
- Prepare for departure: You will receive assistance with the visa application, housing arrangements, etc., for your stay in Japan.
OUSSEP will provide orientation sessions to help you adjust to your life at Osaka University and Japan.
Via Wikimedia Commons
3. HUSTEP at Hokkaido University
The Hokkaido University Short-Term Exchange Program (HUSTEP) is a study abroad program for undergraduate students and offers a variety of English courses in culture, society, science, technology, and environment.
Key features
- Duration: Short-term program. Either one semester or up to a full year.
- Research opportunities: Science and engineering fields students have a chance to participate in research projects at Hokkaido University’s laboratories.
- Cultural and academic immersion: Students can participate in cultural exchange activities, including field trips, local excursions, and Japanese language lessons.
- Language support: Students can improve their Japanese by taking Japanese language courses.
Like most university exchange programs, HUSTEP will support students’ visa applications, accommodation arrangements, and more to help them adjust to their life in Japan.
How to apply for HUSTEP
To apply for the HUSTEP program, you need to follow these steps:
- Check eligibility: undergraduate students must be at one in partnership with Hokkaido University.
- Get nominated: Your home university will need to nominate you for HUSTEP. So contact your international office or exchange coordinator about this process.
- Submit the required documents: after being nominated, you will need to submit the application form, academic transcript, etc.
- Wait for the Letter of Acceptance: Hokkaido University will notify you of their decision.
- Prepare for departure: Once accepted, you will prepare for your stay and study in Japan.
4. GSC at the University of Tokyo
The GSC (Global Science Course) is an undergraduate transfer program to the School of Science at the University of Tokyo, that is geared towards international students for an immersive science education in Japan.
Key features
- English language instruction: All classes and lab sessions are conducted in English.
- Interdisciplinary curriculum: The program covers diverse science fields such as chemistry, physics, biology, and mathematics.
- Generous scholarship: All GSC Undergraduate Transfer Program students are awarded the “Faculty of Science Scholarship,” receiving 150,000 Japanese Yen per month.
How to apply for GSC at the University of Tokyo
- Review your eligibility: You will need at least 2 years of university education, completed specific general courses, have at least 62 credits, and be proficient in English.
- Prepare your documents: on their application portal, you will need official transcripts, enrolment verification, a personal statement, complete syllabi of your science courses, a copy of your passport, and proof of payment of the application fee.
- Submit everything at the GSC application portal.
- Application review and interview: a GSC Faculty Committee will evaluate your application. You may be invited for an interview for further assessment.
- Wait for the results: You will be notified whether you have been selected for the program. Accepted students will receive an official confirmation.
- Visa application and enrolment: University of Tokyo will help you prepare for a student visa.
5. The JOY Program at Yokohama National University
The JOY Program is the Junior Year Overseas Program at Yokohama National University.
It is a short-term program where students can study a variety of courses including science and technology for up to one academic year.
All the available courses are taught in English unless specified. However, students can get approval to attend classes in Japanese in their area of study.
Key features
- Diverse curriculum: Students can enroll in courses across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, and engineering. These courses are taught in English specifically for JOY participants.
- Language proficiency requirements: Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in either English or N2 Japanese level.
- Scholarship opportunities: JOY students are encouraged to apply for the Japan Student Services Association (JASSO) scholarship, which provides a monthly stipend of JPY 80,000.
How to apply for the JOY program
- Check eligibility: Students must be enrolled in a full-time undergraduate degree program at a partner university with Yokohama National University. They will also need to confirm their English or Japanese proficiency.
- Contact your home university: Reach out to your university’s International Office to be an official nominee.
- Prepare the application documents: your international office advisor will give you a list of documents you need to prepare.
- Submit the application: YNU to send you the application link after your nomination where you can complete and submit the application process. At the same time, you can apply for the JASSO scholarship.
- Wait for the admission decision.
- If accepted: Complete enrolment procedures as instructed by YNU.
6. JYPE and DEEP Programs at Tohoku University Exchange Programs
Tohoku University offers two main exchange programs tailored to science students.
Their JYPE (Junior Year Program in English) mainly focuses on science, engineering, and agriculture for third- or fourth-year undergraduates. A key aspect is their Individual Research Training (IRT) where students can engage in research projects under faculty supervision.
While the DEEP (Direct Enrolments Education Program) is for natural sciences and medicine students with Japanese proficiency.
Both programs are available for one or two semesters.
Key features
JYPE’s key features are:
- Focused on science, engineering, and agriculture courses
- All lectures are in English
- Primarily for third or fourth-year undergraduate students
- The core component is the Individual Research Training (IRT) course
While the DEEP’s key features are:
- For natural science students
- Courses are taught in Japanese
- Available for both undergraduate and graduate students
- Students take regular courses alongside Japanese students
Application Steps
- Confirm your eligibility: You need to be a third or fourth-year undergraduate student for JYPE. While you need to be an undergraduate student at a partner university for DEEP. Additionally, you’ll need JLPT N1 for DEEP.
- Be nominated by your home university: Contact your university’s exchange program coordinator and express your interest in one of these programs.
- Apply online: After being nominated, follow Tohoku University’s Admissions Office (TAO) online instructions.
- Submit the required documents: Such transcripts, official enrolment, TOEFL/IELTS scores, JLPT, copy of your passport, recommendation letter, etc.
- Wait for the result notification: After submitting, Tohoku University will review your application and notify successful candidates. Once accepted, students will receive further instructions on visa applications, accommodation, and orientation schedules.
Conclusion
Japan offers a wide range of science exchange university programs where international students can come and study here.
While many of these are short-term, it is one of the few opportunities to be able to learn and research in another country.
If you plan correctly, you can even get a job in Japan after your university study by switching to a Japanese work visa or applying online abroad.
