Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
What Study in Japan says
Under "Other Tests", Study in Japan lists TOEFL, IELTS, TOEIC and Eiken as proof of English proficiency and adds that most Japanese universities require proof of English in their application (Study in Japan: Examinations). It also tells applicants to check the admission guidelines of their chosen school and sit the designated exam, because some tests run only a few times a year.
| Test | What it shows | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS, TOEFL, TOEIC, Eiken | English proficiency | Most applications; English-taught degrees |
| EJU | Academic Japanese plus Science, Japan and the World, Mathematics | Undergraduate entry at 479 universities |
| JLPT | Japanese proficiency, N5 to N1 | Japanese-taught study and language schools |
English-taught degrees
Some universities and graduate schools run degree programmes taught only in English, where Japanese is no obstacle (Study in Japan: Degree Programs in English). Colleges of technology and specialised training colleges do not offer them. For these programmes, the English score is the language test that counts.
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Japanese-taught entry: the EJU
The EJU is held in June and November, and its scores are valid for two years. 479 universities, over 60% of Japan's universities including most national universities, require EJU scores (Study in Japan: Examinations). The Science, Japan and the World and Mathematics papers can be taken in English or Japanese; take the subjects and language your university designates. Requirements change between intakes and scholarship rounds. Confirm the current rule on the Study in Japan examinations page before you book a test or apply. This guide is general information, not admissions advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is IELTS accepted in Japan?+
Yes. Study in Japan lists IELTS as proof of English proficiency. Each university sets which tests and scores it accepts.
Do I need Japanese for an English-taught degree in Japan?+
Not for admission to a degree taught only in English, according to Study in Japan. Japanese-taught programmes usually need the EJU or JLPT.
How long is an EJU score valid?+
Two years, though some schools only accept scores from a certain date.
Do all Japanese universities use the EJU?+
No. 479 universities, over 60% of the total, require it.
Keep reading
Related
- Temple University Japan IELTS requirement
- IELTS in Japan: fees and test cities
- CEFR to IELTS
- All 3605 guides
Guide updated on 31 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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