Study Bachelor’s in Japan from Nepal (2026) Admission, GPA, Cost and Scholarships

Last updated: 19 July 2026

A bachelor’s degree in Japan takes 4 years and requires a minimum of 12 completed years of schooling, which in Nepal means your SEE plus (+2) class 12. There is no single GPA cutoff that applies to all Japanese universities, but the MEXT government scholarship, which is the most accessible fully funded pathway for Nepali students, requires approximately 75 percent marks (GPA 3.5) for Natural Sciences or 65 percent marks (GPA 2.9) for Humanities. National public university tuition is approximately JPY 535,800 per year which is roughly NPR 5 to 6 lakhs, and monthly living costs average approximately JPY 105,000 nationwide. As of 2025, over 64,800 Nepali students were studying in Japan, making Nepal the second largest source of international students in Japan after China.

For our complete guide on studying in Japan from Nepal covering all degree levels, scholarships, and visa process, you can read our guide on study in Japan from Nepal.

Why Study a Bachelor’s Degree in Japan?

Japan is known for its rigorous academic standards, cutting edge research environment, and exceptionally safe living conditions. Ninety four percent of international students surveyed by JASSO said they were glad they chose Japan. Among those students, 61 percent chose Japan because of interest in Japanese society and culture, and 37.8 percent specifically cited Japan’s educational and research strengths.

For Nepali students in particular, Japan offers several compelling advantages. The MEXT scholarship manages to be genuinely fully funded and is actively available to Nepali undergraduate applicants through the Embassy of Japan in Kathmandu. Tuition at national universities at approximately JPY 535,800 per year is significantly lower than equivalent programs in Australia, the UK, or the USA. Legal part time work up to 28 hours per week during semester helps students cover living costs. Japan’s technology industries in robotics, electronics, automotive, IT, and pharmaceuticals provide strong career pathways after graduation for students in relevant programs.

The most popular bachelor’s programs among Nepali students are engineering and technology, computer science, business administration, environmental science, and Japanese language and cultural studies. Both Japanese taught and English taught bachelor’s degree programs are available, with the number of fully English medium undergraduate programs growing steadily year on year.

Eligibility Requirements for Nepali Students

Academic Qualifications

To be eligible for an undergraduate bachelor’s program in Japan, you need to have completed 12 years of schooling outside Japan. In Nepal, this means completing your SEE (Class 10) plus your (+2) Class 11 and 12. This 12 year requirement directly matches Nepal’s standard school to (+2) class 12 structure, so you do not need any extra conversion or bridge qualification.

Your academic documents including your SEE marksheet, (+2) class 12 marksheet, and (+2) class 12 certificate need to be officially certified. For most Japanese universities you will need certified English or Japanese translations of any documents originally in Nepali. Some scholarship applications, particularly the MEXT Embassy Recommendation, require notarized copies of your citizenship or passport alongside your academic transcripts.

Minimum GPA Required for Bachelor’s Admission

There is no single GPA requirement that applies to all Japanese universities. Admission requirements vary significantly by university, program, and scholarship track.

For the MEXT undergraduate scholarship through the Embassy of Japan in Kathmandu, the requirement for Nepali students is approximately 75 percent average across SEE and (+2) class 12 for Natural Sciences, which equals approximately GPA 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, and approximately 65 percent for Humanities and Social Sciences, which equals approximately GPA 2.9.

For direct university admission without a scholarship, less selective private universities accept applicants with GPA from approximately 2.0 to 2.5. Mid tier national and private universities generally look for approximately 2.5 to 3.0. Top tier universities like the University of Tokyo and Kyoto University do not publish official GPA cutoffs but in practice admitted students typically have GPAs in the range of 3.3 to 3.5 or above.

If your GPA is below what competitive programs typically see, strong performance on entrance exams like the EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students) can compensate. A compelling Statement of Purpose, strong recommendation letters, and applying to a range of universities including less selective options all strengthen your chances.

For the complete breakdown of GPA expectations at different university tiers and for the MEXT scholarship specifically, you can read our guide on minimum GPA required to study in Japan from Nepal.

Age Requirements

The MEXT undergraduate scholarship for Nepali students for the 2027 intake requires applicants to be born on or after April 2, 2002. This means students who are 25 or older by that date are not eligible for the undergraduate scholarship, though they can still apply for direct university admission without MEXT.

Japanese language schools generally require applicants to be at least 18 years old. Most universities do not impose a strict upper age limit for direct admissions outside of the scholarship programs.

Other Admission Requirements

Beyond academic qualifications and GPA, many Japanese universities require the following.

For Japanese taught programs, the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU) is required by most national universities. The EJU tests Japanese language ability and academic subjects like Mathematics, Science, or Japan and the World depending on your program. EJU is held in June and November each year. For Nepali students, the nearest current EJU test center is in Delhi, India since there is currently no EJU center in Nepal. This means planning your EJU registration and travel to India well in advance is an important part of the Japan application timeline.

For English taught programs, SAT or IB scores are sometimes requested alongside English proficiency test results, particularly at highly competitive programs like the University of Tokyo’s PEAK undergraduate track.

Some programs such as art and design degrees require a portfolio of creative work. Some music and performing arts programs require an audition.

A Statement of Purpose or personal essay explaining your study goals is required by most programs. One to two recommendation letters from teachers or academic supervisors are required by most programs.

Language Requirements

Can You Study Without IELTS?

Yes. Many Japanese universities accept alternatives to IELTS for English taught programs. TOEFL iBT is the most widely accepted alternative and is accepted by virtually all English taught programs. The Duolingo English Test is increasingly accepted by major Japanese universities including Nagoya University, Tokyo International University, Hokkaido University, and others. TOEIC is accepted by some programs particularly in science and engineering.

Some universities waive all language test requirements if you have studied for four or more years at an institution where English was the language of instruction. In that case, an official Medium of Instruction certificate from your previous school can substitute for a test score.

For the complete guide on studying in Japan without IELTS including which universities accept alternatives and how to prepare a Medium of Instruction certificate, you can read our guide on can you study in Japan without IELTS.

English Taught Bachelor’s Programs

Japan has a growing number of fully English medium undergraduate programs. Many of these sit under the Super Global University or SGU initiative, which covers 37 major Japanese universities committed to English medium degree options.

Programs available in English at the bachelor’s level include Nagoya University’s Global 30 programs across engineering, science, and social sciences. Tokyo Institute of Technology’s Global Scientists and Engineers Program (GSEP). Osaka University’s Human Sciences International Undergraduate Program. Waseda University’s global undergraduate tracks in international liberal arts and science and engineering. Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University’s programs in Asia Pacific Studies and Business Administration. Kyoto University’s International Undergraduate Program (iUP). Temple University Japan which runs an American curriculum bachelor’s program in English across business, communications, and liberal arts.

For English taught programs, typical English proficiency benchmarks are TOEFL iBT 79 to 90 or IELTS 6.0 to 6.5 depending on the university and program. Competitive programs like the University of Tokyo’s PEAK track require TOEFL iBT 90 or IELTS 6.5 or above.

Japanese Language Requirements

For Japanese taught programs, JLPT N2 is the minimum expected by most universities. JLPT N1 is required by highly competitive programs and by national universities with demanding academic Japanese content.

The EJU Japanese language section is also required by many national universities. A typical benchmark is 250 or above on the EJU Japanese reading and listening components.

Even if you enroll in an English taught program, learning Japanese before and during your studies is strongly encouraged. Daily life in Japan, part time work, and long term career opportunities in Japan all become significantly easier with at least JLPT N3 or N2 ability.

For the MEXT undergraduate scholarship, all scholars who are placed in Japanese taught programs complete a one year Japanese language preparatory course funded by the scholarship before starting their degree. This means even with no prior Japanese knowledge, MEXT prepares you through the language year.

Other Accepted English Tests

In addition to IELTS, Japanese universities commonly accept the following as proof of English proficiency for English taught programs.

TOEFL iBT is the most universally accepted. Duolingo English Test (DET) is accepted at Nagoya University, Ritsumeikan APU (110 or above), Hokkaido University (110 or above), Tokyo International University (95 or above), and others. TOEIC L and R is accepted at Tohoku University exchange programs (730 or above) and Tokyo International University (700 or above). PTE Academic is accepted at Ritsumeikan APU (60 or above) and others. Cambridge C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency certificates are accepted at Ritsumeikan APU (169 or above).

Always verify the specific tests and minimum scores accepted by your target program directly from its official admissions page.

Documents Required for Bachelor’s Admission

Academic Documents

Completed application form from the university. SEE or SLC marksheet and certificate, certified and translated into English or Japanese if originally in Nepali. (+2) class 12 marksheet and certificate, certified and translated. High school graduation certificate or equivalent confirming completion of 12 years of schooling. Transcripts from any post secondary study if applicable.

All academic documents typically need to be legalized through Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs apostille process. Some scholarship applications require an additional notarization through the Japanese Embassy in Kathmandu.

Language Proficiency Documents

For English taught programs, an official score report from TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, PTE, TOEIC, or another accepted test. If using a Medium of Instruction waiver instead of a test, an official letter from your previous institution on institutional letterhead confirming English was the language of instruction.

For Japanese taught programs, a JLPT certificate at the required level (N2 or N1). EJU Japanese language section score report if required by your target university.

Financial Documents

Bank statements showing sufficient funds to cover at least one year of tuition and living combined, typically approximately JPY 1.2 to 2.0 million (approximately NPR 11 to 18 lakhs). Financial support declaration from the account holder if funds belong to a parent or sponsor. Sponsorship letter if someone other than yourself is financing your studies. Scholarship award letter if you have already secured a scholarship, since this replaces the need for large personal bank balances.

Other Supporting Documents

A Statement of Purpose or personal essay typically 300 to 600 words in English, explaining your academic background, why you chose your program and university, and your career goals. One to two recommendation letters from teachers or professors on official institutional letterhead. Passport copy with at least 6 months of validity remaining. Passport sized photographs as specified by each university, typically 45 by 45mm on a white background. Nepali citizenship certificate copy where specifically requested by scholarship programs. Any portfolio or audition material for specialized programs in art, design, music, or architecture.

For the NOC from Nepal’s Ministry of Education, Science and Technology which is required for all Nepali students going abroad to study, apply at noc.moest.gov.np after receiving your university acceptance. This is needed before transferring tuition fees through a Nepali bank.

Step by Step Admission Process

Choose a University and Bachelor’s Program

Research universities and programs that match your academic background, career goals, language ability, and budget. Use the official Study in Japan portal at studyinjapan.go.jp to search programs by field, language of instruction, location, and scholarship availability. Decide early whether you are targeting a Japanese taught program where JLPT preparation is central, or an Englishtaught program where your preparation focuses on English test scores.

Prepare the Required Documents

Begin gathering documents at least 6 to 9 months before your application deadline. Have your SEE and (+2) class 12 transcripts certified and translated. Prepare your Statement of Purpose. Approach teachers for recommendation letters giving them at least 4 to 6 weeks of notice. Take your language proficiency exam and receive your scores well before the application deadline.

If you need your academic documents attested through Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, start that process early because it adds processing time.

Submit Your Application

Submit applications through each university’s online admissions portal or by mail as required by the specific institution. Pay any application fees which typically run JPY 15,000 to 30,000 per university.

For the MEXT undergraduate scholarship, the only application channel for Nepali students is through the Embassy of Japan in Kathmandu. The 2027 MEXT undergraduate scholarship deadline was June 14, 2026. For the 2028 intake, watch the Embassy of Japan in Nepal website from April 2027 for the announcement.

For the MEXT scholarship, applications include submitting transcripts, citizenship certificate copies, recommendation letters, and completing the MEXT application form. Shortlisted candidates then sit written exams in subject areas relevant to their program and attend interviews at the Embassy in Kathmandu.

Receive the Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

After you are offered admission, your Japanese university applies for a Certificate of Eligibility on your behalf from Japan’s Immigration Services Agency. COE processing takes approximately 6 to 8 weeks. The COE is the essential document that confirms you are authorized for a student visa. From June 2025 onward, Nepali nationals are required to undergo the Japan Pre Entry Tuberculosis Screening (JPETS) as part of the COE application process. Your university will guide you on scheduling this TB test at an approved facility in Nepal.

Apply for a Japan Student Visa

With the COE in hand, submit your student visa application at the Embassy of Japan in Kathmandu. Documents needed for the visa application are your valid passport, the COE, visa application form downloaded from the Embassy website, passport sized photographs, your admission letter, financial documents, and the JPETS TB clearance certificate.

Visa processing at the Embassy of Japan in Kathmandu typically takes approximately 5 to 7 working days after submission. Apply to the Embassy using the token system. Tokens are distributed at the Embassy gate on Tuesday to Friday from 8 AM to 11 AM and your token assigns you an application date.

The total timeline from receiving your admission letter to having your visa in hand typically runs 2 to 3 months when you factor in COE processing and visa stamping.

For the complete Japan student visa guide covering all documents, the COE process, and current Embassy of Japan Kathmandu procedures, you can read our article on Japan student visa for Nepali students.

Travel to Japan and Complete Enrollment

After receiving your visa, arrange your flight and housing before departure. Arrive in Japan before your program start date. Within 14 days of registering your address with the local city or ward office after finding accommodation, enroll in National Health Insurance. Collect your Residence Card at the airport on arrival if your stay is over 3 months. Attend new student orientation, complete course registration, and open a Japanese bank account.

Cost of Studying for a Bachelor’s Degree in Japan

Tuition Fees

National public universities have a standardized annual tuition of approximately JPY 535,800 which is roughly NPR 5 to 6 lakhs. In the first year there is also a one time enrollment fee of approximately JPY 282,000. So your first year total at a national university is approximately JPY 820,000 including enrollment fee and tuition. The University of Tokyo updated its tuition to approximately JPY 642,960 for new undergraduate students from 2025 onward.

Local public universities run by prefectures or cities charge similar amounts to national universities, approximately JPY 400,000 to 600,000 per year.

Private universities charge significantly more. Annual tuition typically runs JPY 700,000 to 1,500,000 for most programs. First year private university costs including enrollment fee run approximately JPY 900,000 to 1,800,000. Medicine, dental science, and pharmacy at private universities can reach JPY 3,000,000 to 4,000,000 per year.

A 4 year total cost estimate for tuition alone at a national university is approximately JPY 2,425,200 (four years of JPY 535,800 plus the JPY 282,000 first year enrollment fee). At a mid range private university, the 4 year tuition total runs approximately JPY 4,500,000 to 6,000,000.

Living Expenses

Monthly living costs for international students in Japan average approximately JPY 105,000 per month based on JASSO surveys. In Tokyo this rises to approximately JPY 120,000 to 130,000. In regional cities like Fukuoka, Sapporo, or Sendai, monthly living runs approximately JPY 80,000 to 95,000.

The breakdown of average monthly spending is approximately JPY 41,000 for rent nationally (JPY 57,000 in Tokyo), JPY 32,000 for food, JPY 8,000 for utilities, JPY 8,000 for transport and personal, and JPY 16,000 for miscellaneous.

For an overall 4 year total budget combining tuition and living at a national university, studying in a regional city costs approximately JPY 7.6 million total, in Osaka approximately JPY 8.6 million, and in Tokyo approximately JPY 9.5 million.

For the complete breakdown of costs including part time work income estimates, accommodation options, and city by city comparisons, you can read our guide on cost of studying in Japan from Nepal.

Accommodation Costs

University dormitories are the most affordable option at approximately JPY 20,000 to 50,000 per month, often with utilities included. They are popular and competitive for spots.

Share houses cost approximately JPY 30,000 to 60,000 per month with shared common areas and lower initial setup costs than private apartments.

Private apartments (1R or 1K) cost approximately JPY 40,000 to 80,000 per month in regional cities and JPY 60,000 to 120,000 in Tokyo. Private apartments require significant upfront costs including a security deposit of one to two months rent, sometimes key money of one to two months, and a real estate agent commission.

Health Insurance

All international students staying in Japan for more than three months must enroll in National Health Insurance (NHI) at the local city or ward office within 14 days of registering their address.

NHI covers 70 percent of medical costs. Students pay the remaining 30 percent as a copayment. Monthly NHI premiums for first year students with no Japanese income are approximately JPY 1,500 to 3,800. This is genuinely affordable healthcare access.

Annual NHI premiums increase slightly in your second and later years based on your reported income. File your annual Japanese tax return each March and report any part time income accurately.

Other Student Expenses

Textbooks and study materials typically cost approximately JPY 5,000 to 15,000 per semester. Lab fees and specialized materials may add extra costs for engineering and science programs.

Mobile phone plans starting from approximately JPY 2,000 per month on affordable MVNO networks. Internet if not included in rent adds approximately JPY 4,000 per month.

Initial setup costs on arrival including furniture, bedding, and kitchen items for off campus accommodation typically run JPY 50,000 to 100,000 one time.

The student visa fee as of July 2026 is JPY 15,000 for a single entry visa. Flight to Japan from Kathmandu typically runs NPR 60,000 to 100,000 for a one way economy ticket depending on season and booking lead time.

Scholarships for Nepali Students

Government Scholarships

The MEXT (Monbukagakusho) undergraduate scholarship is the most prestigious and comprehensive scholarship available to Nepali students for studying a bachelor’s degree in Japan. Applications go through the Embassy of Japan in Kathmandu which is the only application channel for Nepali students.

MEXT covers 100 percent of tuition and examination fees, a monthly living stipend of approximately JPY 117,000 (approximately NPR 112,000), roundtrip economy class airfare between Nepal and Japan, and a one year Japanese language preparatory course before your degree begins.

For the 2027 intake, the MEXT undergraduate eligibility requires being a Nepali citizen born on or after April 2, 2002, approximately 75 percent marks in Natural Sciences (GPA 3.5) or 65 percent in Humanities (GPA 2.9) averaged across SEE and (+2) class 12, and having completed 12 years of schooling.

The application process involves submitting your application to the Embassy by the announced deadline (June 14, 2026 for 2027 intake), sitting a written exam covering English and subject knowledge, attending an Embassy interview, and if selected being matched to a Japanese national university for placement.

University Scholarships

Many Japanese universities offer their own scholarships or tuition reduction programs for international students. The University of Tokyo has a Support Fund and tuition exemption program for international students. Private universities like Waseda, Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University, and Sophia all have merit scholarships ranging from partial tuition waivers to full tuition coverage. These are typically awarded after admission based on academic performance.

JASSO (Japan Student Services Organization) Honors Scholarship provides approximately JPY 48,000 per month to privately financed undergraduate students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance after enrollment. This scholarship is applied for through your Japanese university after you arrive.

For the complete guide on all available scholarships for Nepali students in Japan including MEXT, JASSO, university scholarships, and private foundation awards with eligibility and application steps, you can read our dedicated guide on scholarships for Nepali students in Japan.

Private Scholarships

The Rotary Yoneyama Memorial Foundation offers approximately JPY 100,000 per month for undergraduate students enrolled at designated Japanese colleges. Application is typically in October for the following year’s intake. This is one of the largest private scholarship programs available to international students in Japan.

The Honjo International Scholarship Foundation provides approximately JPY 100,000 to 130,000 per month plus full tuition for selected master’s and PhD students at Japanese institutions. Age limits of approximately mid 30s apply.

JICA scholarships are primarily for Nepali government employees through the JDS program and cover master’s and PhD study, not bachelor’s degrees.

Tips to Improve Your Scholarship Chances

Maintain the strongest possible academic record from your (+2) class 12 onward. Scholarship selection committees specifically look for consistent high performance across all subjects.

Begin Japanese language study early. Even reaching JLPT N5 or N4 before applying demonstrates genuine commitment to Japan which strengthens your MEXT application.

Write a compelling and specific Statement of Purpose. The most effective applications clearly explain why Japan and why this specific program and university, connecting your past academic work to your future career goals.

Apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously rather than sequentially. MEXT, JASSO, and university scholarships have different timelines and requirements. Applying broadly maximizes your chances.

Secure strong recommendation letters early. Give your teachers and professors at least 4 to 6 weeks of advance notice and provide them with your Statement of Purpose and program details so their letters can be specific.

Apply early rather than at the deadline. For MEXT Embassy Track, the timeline is fixed and strict. Missing the deadline by even one day means waiting another full year.

Student Visa for Japan

Visa Eligibility

You need an official admission letter from a Japanese educational institution, a Certificate of Eligibility issued by Japanese immigration through your university, sufficient financial proof, and for Nepali nationals a JPETS tuberculosis clearance certificate.

Required Documents

Valid passport with at least 6 months of validity. Original or copy of the Certificate of Eligibility. Completed visa application form downloaded from the Embassy of Japan website. Passport sized photograph 45 by 45 mm on a white background. Admission letter from your Japanese institution. Financial documents showing approximately JPY 1.2 to 2.0 million in available funds per year. JPETS tuberculosis clearance certificate from an approved medical facility in Nepal. NOC from Nepal’s Ministry of Education at noc.moest.gov.np.

Application Process

After your university applies for and you receive the COE, submit your complete visa application package at the Embassy of Japan in Kathmandu. Use the token system at the Embassy gate on Tuesday through Friday from 8 AM to 11 AM. Your token assigns you an application submission date.

Processing Time

Visa processing at the Embassy of Japan in Kathmandu typically takes 5 to 7 working days after document submission. The full timeline from receiving your university admission to having your visa in hand runs approximately 2 to 3 months when factoring in COE processing, TB test scheduling, and visa stamping.

Part Time Work Opportunities

Working Hour Limits

International students in Japan can work legally after obtaining a work permission stamp from immigration, called Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted by the Status of Residence. This is typically processed on arrival or at a regional immigration services center and is guided by your university’s international student office.

During regular semester periods, the permitted maximum is 28 hours per week across all jobs combined. During official long vacation periods including summer and winter breaks, the limit is 8 hours per day which effectively allows full time work.

Working over the permitted hours is a serious immigration violation that can result in visa cancellation and bars you from re-entering Japan. Always track your hours carefully across all jobs.

Popular Part Time Jobs

The most common part time jobs for international students are in restaurant and food service (39.2 percent of students), retail sales (28.4 percent), factory and warehouse work during vacations (6 percent), teaching assistant or research assistant roles (5.6 percent), and hotel and hospitality service (4.2 percent).

English tutoring and IT support roles pay JPY 1,500 to 3,000 per hour and are significantly higher paying than service industry work. These require demonstrated English fluency or technical skills. University campus jobs like research assistant roles pay approximately JPY 1,000 to 1,800 per hour and have flexible hours aligned with your academic schedule.

Expected Earnings

Japan’s minimum wage is approximately JPY 1,300 per hour in 2026 with Tokyo at JPY 1,226 and most prefectures ranging JPY 1,000 to 1,200.

Working 28 hours per week at JPY 1,200 per hour generates approximately JPY 134,400 per month before tax. The JASSO average actual monthly income from part time work is approximately JPY 81,000 because students do not always work every available hour especially during exam and assignment periods.

JPY 81,000 per month covers a significant portion of the average JPY 105,000 monthly living cost but does not cover tuition. Approximately 65 percent of privately financed international students in Japan work part time.

Rules for International Students

You must have the work permission stamp before starting any job. You cannot work in adult entertainment, gambling, or any prohibited business category. Your academic attendance and grades must remain satisfactory or your visa renewal becomes difficult. Income is treated as supplementary to cover living costs. Track your earnings as income above approximately JPY 1,030,000 per year is subject to Japanese income tax.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Employment Opportunities in Japan

Japan faces a significant demographic challenge with a shrinking workforce. The government actively encourages international graduates to remain and work in Japan after graduation. Japan’s new graduate employment rate is approximately 97 to 98 percent, though for international graduates without Japanese language ability, competition for professional roles is more challenging.

Graduates who can switch to an Engineer or Specialist in Humanities visa, which requires a professional job offer from a sponsor company, can remain in Japan legally for work. Popular sectors for international graduates include IT and software, engineering and manufacturing, business and international trade, education and research, and hospitality and tourism.

First year salaries for new graduates in professional roles in Japan average approximately JPY 210,000 to 240,000 per month (approximately NPR 200,000 to 230,000). Technical fields like IT and engineering tend to be at the higher end.

Japanese language ability significantly affects employment prospects. Graduates with JLPT N2 or N1 have access to a far wider range of roles than those with no Japanese.

Returning to Nepal After Graduation

A Japanese bachelor’s degree is internationally recognized and valued in Nepal’s growing technology, engineering, and international business sectors. Japanese companies operating in Nepal through JICA projects, Japanese Nepali business partnerships, and Nepal’s own growing IT sector all value graduates who understand Japanese work culture and language.

Returnees commonly enter IT companies, engineering firms, international NGO and development organization roles, government sector positions, academia, and entrepreneurship. Students who received funding through service linked scholarships like JDS must complete their required service period before pursuing other roles.

Higher Studies After a Bachelor’s Degree

Many Nepali graduates choose to continue with a master’s or PhD in Japan. The MEXT Research Scholarship for master’s and doctoral students is available to Nepali applicants through the same Embassy channel, with applications through the Embassy of Japan in Kathmandu each spring. University specific master’s scholarships and research assistantship funding are also widely available for students who complete a strong undergraduate record.

Some graduates pursue master’s degrees in the UK, USA, Germany, or other countries. A Japanese bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is accepted by graduate programs globally and the English language and research skills built during an English taught Japanese program add to your international graduate school application strength.

Frequently Asked Questions