7 Best Universities In Kumamoto For International Students 2025

Kumamoto is surely one of the places you should be considering if you’re looking to study in Japan. This location has a lot to offer for international students, including world-class universities and exciting student experiences.

Out of 7 universities in Kumamoto, Kumamoto University and Sojo University are the top-performing schools in Kumamoto. This list covers both public and private institutions in Kumamoto.

In this article, we’ve compiled the best universities in Kumamoto. We based our rankings on academic reputations from reputable sources and the number of international students. By doing this, you’ll have an efficient way of comparing your target universities and choose your host university in Kumamoto.

How do I get admission to the best universities in Kumamoto?

Applying to the universities in Kumamoto involves submitting requirements and following specific admissions procedures set by your chosen university. The requirements often include a student visa, application packages, and language scores. Check out our guide for international students who want to study in Kumamoto to learn more about applying for admission in this country’s universities!

How much are the tuition fees at the best universities in Kumamoto?

Tuition fees at Kumamoto’s universities can vary depending on which university, degree, and program you will be enrolling in. Generally, tuition fees for the bachelor’s level range from 535,800 Yen to 1,040,000 Yen , while tuition fees for the master’s level range from 535,800 Yen to 1,000,000 Yen. If you are interested, check out the affordable universities in Kumamoto!

As we cover the best universities in Kumamoto for international students, feel free to check out the university’s information on Admission, Tuition, Courses, and Language Requirements by looking at the individual university pages.

Top Universities in Kumamoto for International Students

Kumamoto University identifies itself as a research-focused university that emphasizes the importance of maintaining cultural traditions and contributing to the local community. It has four campuses in the city of Kumamoto that are known for being surrounded by breathtaking nature, like the seashore or mountains. However, nature isn’t the most impressive aspect of them. They have 10 research institutes and organizations with modern technology, as well as recreational facilities for extracurricular activities. The university has also partnered with other institutions to offer collaborative academic activities at research centers and hospitals.

Sojo University does not limit students’ knowledge and ensures that they gain adequate experience in order to stand out in the field. Its university atmosphere is maintained at a level where students can both be productive academically and socially. It highly supports student organizations and partakes in numerous community activities to give back to society in its own little ways.

The Kumamoto Gakuen University (GKU) is an institution with a long history of academic excellence. This institution was founded in 1954 in Kumamoto, Japan, and since then it has continued to develop its research in various fields, particularly in English and the Japanese language. Although it is a traditional university, GKU uses new teaching techniques from which students can benefit as they prepare for their careers.

The Prefectural University of Kumamoto seeks to develop students that are willing to face the various challenges of mankind and attempt to solve them through research and education. The university maintains a practical academic curriculum where students are encouraged to enhance not just their theoretical knowledge but also their critical thinking and skills. As technology progresses each day, the Prefectural University of Kumamoto aims to use it in a good way to uplift the lives of the community.

 

The Kumamoto Health Science University is a very young private university that was founded in 2003. The facilities it possesses are some of the most technologically advanced in the region. It offers studies in the fields of pharmacy, health sciences, and general research. The university aims to attract international academic staff that can help develop the next generation of healthcare professionals in Japan.

Kyushu Lutheran College was founded in 1997 in Kumamoto, Japan. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs. Programs are handled by departments for multiple fields of study like Early Childhood Education, Clinical Psychology, and Humanities. Additionally, all students are supported by the school with multiple scholarships and career programs. Some of its principles include promoting Christian values, liberal arts, and practical education.

Shokei College was founded in 1975 but was initially established as an affiliate of the Seiseiko School in 1888. The university offers two four-year Bachelor’s programs in Cultural Communication and Nutritional Science. Aside from the Bachelor’s programs, its junior college offers two-year programs in Integrated Career Studies, Food and Nutrition, and Childhood Education.