15 Cheapest Universities in Tokyo for International Students

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In Tokyo, there are a lot of affordable universities that you can find. Enrolling in these schools will help you fulfill your dream of studying in Japan without paying a lot. These institutions also provide well-rounded academic programs and curriculums, allowing students to earn a degree with less burden on their pockets.

Now, if you’re planning to study in Tokyo, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 83 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Tokyo, make sure to read more!

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Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in Tokyo for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Tokyo ordered by their tuition fee for international bachelor's students.

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Tokyo Kasei-Gakuin University 308,000 Yen 68%
Tokyo Kasei University 370,000 Yen - 1,020,000 Yen 61%
Sophia University 390,000 Yen - 581,000 Yen 59%
Meiji Gakuin University 438,000 Yen - 996,000 Yen 54%
Tokyo Medical and Dental University 496,800 Yen 48%
Tokyo Metropolitan University 520,800 Yen 45%
Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology 535,800 Yen 43%
University of Tokyo 535,800 Yen 43%
Ochanomizu University 535,800 Yen 43%
Tokyo Institute of Technology 635,400 Yen 33%
Tokyo University of the Arts 643,000 Yen 32%
Otsuma Women’s University 695,000 Yen - 775,000 Yen 27%
University of the Sacred Heart 700,000 Yen 26%
Toyo University 710,000 Yen - 1,100,000 Yen 25%
Kokushikan University 730,000 Yen - 954,000 Yen 23%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 939,400 Yen for universities in Tokyo.

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1. Tokyo Kasei-Gakuin University

Tokyo Kasei-Gakuin University is a private university located in the Chiyoda ward in Tokyo, Japan. The school’s predecessor was founded in 1925, but it was only recognized as a university in 1963. Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs in a variety of disciplines are available, including human life science, economics, design, nutrition, and child studies.

2. Tokyo Kasei University

Tokyo Kasei University is a private institution that exclusively accepts female students. With the urge to educate and generate women leaders and professionals, the university has formed cutting-edge and explicitly designed programs to help develop students’ skills and knowledge in various study programs. These carefully-selected programs include studies in home economics, health sciences, humanities, and child studies.

3. Sophia University

Sophia University, one of the elite private universities in Japan, ranks highly in international rankings, including QS Top Universities and Times Higher Education. It is primarily established in globalization, literature, and foreign languages, ranking 360th for Arts and Humanities worldwide. Besides such courses, the university has science, engineering, and religious programs. It is a Roman Catholic institution founded by the Society of Jesus.

4. Meiji Gakuin University

Meiji Gakuin University is a Christian university that integrates science with Christian principles. Its exceptional academic curriculum and training programs allow students to explore academia with a strong presence of mind and passionate heart. The university’s mission is to produce highly competent graduates that are not just intelligent but also empathetic and compassionate.

5. Tokyo Medical and Dental University

Tokyo Medical and Dental University is one of the most prominent universities in Japan when it comes to medicine and dentistry. The university has valuable partnerships with hospitals and corporations, allowing students to gain sufficient exposure in the actual field. It highly supports research and innovation as it continues to do wonders in the global healthcare industry.

6. Tokyo Metropolitan University

Tokyo Metropolitan University takes pride in its active participation in numerous inter-faculty exchanges and research and development activities between industries and academia. The university deeply aims to heighten the level of research education on campus as it strives to widen its international scope in the coming years. Tokyo Metropolitan University has high hopes for its goal of providing an education that solves significant issues in metropolitan areas.

7. Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology

Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology is solely the marine university in Japan founded in 2003; however, its rich and long history can be traced back to 1875. Currently, the university offers top-quality maritime programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Since its primary goal is to be among the top marine universities worldwide, the institute has been thriving and undergoing reconstructions to improve its education structure and develop more innovative programs.

8. University of Tokyo

One of Japan’s prestigious universities, The University of Tokyo, continues to live with its vision of being a globally recognized platform for learning and research. As they aspire to build a community of leaders in society, they provide excellent academic programs to all levels. More than that, to expand their global engagement, they offer English-taught programs in some departments. International students at The University of Tokyo receive a well-rounded curriculum and services. They are able to attend various activities and events organized by the university that fosters engagement within the campus.

9. Ochanomizu University

Ochanomizu University is a Japanese institution founded in 1875 and is located in the country’s capital – Tokyo. It offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral programs. Around 2,800 students are currently enrolled with over 300 faculty and administrative staff handling them. The university also provides excellent education at the Kindergarten, Elementary, and Highschool levels.

10. Tokyo Institute of Technology

Tokyo Institute of Technology, more commonly known as Tokyo Tech, is a leading university that entirely concentrates on providing first-class education in science and technology. It attracts brilliant and talented students who aspire to obtain a degree at this elite university. At present, Tokyo Tech is also open to admitting international students. Aside from its Japanese-taught programs, it also offers English-taught programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

11. Tokyo University of the Arts

Tokyo University of the Arts is a perfect place to level up one’s creativity and artistry. It is a university that develops artistic students in the modern world, integrating technology into its course offerings. The university has maintained an excellent reputation worldwide because of its comprehensive art lessons and well-adept instructors that are deeply knowledgeable in the arts and media field.

12. Otsuma Women’s University

Otsuma Women’s University is a private university in Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan. Otsuma Kotaka, a pioneer of traditional women’s education, founded it as a sewing school in 1908. Undergraduate and graduate degrees in home economics, language, literature, and communication are currently available at the university. “Nurturing maternal qualities” and “deepening the value of a gentle and generous heart” are central to Otsuma’s philosophy.

13. University of the Sacred Heart

The University of the Sacred Heart is a well-known private university in the bustling city of Tokyo, Japan, where it provides educational opportunities for close to nine thousand students. This all-women university is renowned for offering affordable tuition to local and international students. Several graduates from the University of Sacred Heart have become politicians, authors, and prominent scholars.

14. Toyo University

Toyo University was originally created to fill a gap in Japanese universities: the lack of philosophy courses. Over the years, it has expanded but maintains the same principles of putting philosophy at the core of education, being committed to finding the truth and finding solutions to society’s problems. The university has almost 30 faculties and graduate schools distributed on 5 campuses. It also has more than 20 research centers and institutes that specialize in areas such as sustainable development, social sciences, biomedical engineering, etc.

15. Kokushikan University

Kokushikan University is a private institution that has been educating students since 1917. The university aims to generate problem-seeking, competent, and responsible individuals who will play essential roles in society and the international community. The school puts in tremendous efforts to provide top-quality education to its students. Moreover, it regularly updates its curricula and makes necessary improvements to its teaching and research.

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in Tokyo for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Tokyo ordered by their tuition fee for international master's students.

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Sophia University 240,000 Yen - 473,000 Yen 65%
Tokyo Zokei University 300,000 Yen 56%
Meiji Gakuin University 340,000 Yen - 510,000 Yen 51%
Taisho University 400,000 Yen - 700,000 Yen 42%
Showa University 400,000 Yen 42%
Tokyo Medical University 400,000 Yen 42%
Otsuma Women’s University 415,000 Yen - 555,000 Yen 40%
Musashino University 430,000 Yen - 600,000 Yen 37%
Toyo University 450,000 Yen - 600,000 Yen 34%
Teikyo University 459,000 Yen - 530,000 Yen 33%
Tokyo Kasei-Gakuin University 480,000 Yen 30%
Toho University 500,000 Yen - 700,000 Yen 27%
Kokugakuin University 505,000 Yen 26%
Gakushuin University 508,000 Yen - 688,000 Yen 26%
Nishogakusha University 520,000 Yen 24%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 680,700 Yen for universities in Tokyo.

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1. Sophia University

Sophia University, one of the elite private universities in Japan, ranks highly in international rankings, including QS Top Universities and Times Higher Education. It is primarily established in globalization, literature, and foreign languages, ranking 360th for Arts and Humanities worldwide. Besides such courses, the university has science, engineering, and religious programs. It is a Roman Catholic institution founded by the Society of Jesus.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, Sophia University should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 240,000 Yen to 473,000 Yen annually for their master's degree.

2. Tokyo Zokei University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Tokyo Zokei University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Tokyo Zokei University is 300,000 Yen.

Tokyo Zokei University (TZU) is a privately-funded institute that offers comprehensive art and design programs. This specialized university was founded by a design journalist, Kuwasawa Yoko, in 1966. She had successfully convened numerous educators, artists, and art experts to educate and train students in her school. Today, TSU has a vibrant academic faculty that is comprised of highly-qualified professors and experts working together to support the school’s creative and talented students.

3. Meiji Gakuin University

Meiji Gakuin University is a Christian university that integrates science with Christian principles. Its exceptional academic curriculum and training programs allow students to explore academia with a strong presence of mind and passionate heart. The university’s mission is to produce highly competent graduates that are not just intelligent but also empathetic and compassionate.

The tuition fee at Meiji Gakuin University for incoming international master’s students is 340,000 Yen to 510,000 Yen. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Taisho University

Another affordable university to consider in Tokyo is Taisho University.

Taisho University is a very old but advanced university that was founded in 1926 and is located in Tokyo, Japan. This university is unique because it provides studies in almost every field of education, and students can choose from a variety of programs that can help advance their careers in the future.

The tuition fee in Taisho University for master’s program for foreign students starts from 400,000 Yen.

5. Showa University

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Showa University has some of the lowest tuition fee prices for foreign students who are planning to take a master's degree here. International master's students only pay as low as 400,000 Yen yearly.

One of Japan’s premier medical universities is Showa University, founded as Showa Medical University in 1928. It was established to provide quality training to aspiring doctors, so they could become sincere medical professionals capable of meeting patients’ needs and earning their trust. Dr. Shusuke Kamijo, the university’s founder, was especially intent on this aspect of medical training to shift from the primarily technical and academic education that prevailed in medical schools of that era.

Although Showa University continues to focus on medicine, its programs have since expanded to become more specialized and encompass other health sciences. Thus, you may pursue courses such as nursing, pharmacy, or dentistry at Showa.

6. Tokyo Medical University

Tokyo Medical University is one of the most professional institutions in the area, providing studies in the fields of medicine and nursing. This university was founded in 1946 and has one of the most well-prepared faculty and administrative staff in its field. The main value that comes from this university is that it has a broad range of degrees, from bachelor’s up to Ph.D. degrees.

7. Otsuma Women’s University

Otsuma Women’s University is a private university in Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan. Otsuma Kotaka, a pioneer of traditional women’s education, founded it as a sewing school in 1908. Undergraduate and graduate degrees in home economics, language, literature, and communication are currently available at the university. “Nurturing maternal qualities” and “deepening the value of a gentle and generous heart” are central to Otsuma’s philosophy.

8. Musashino University

Musashino University is a private university in Tokyo, Japan’s Koto Ward. It was founded in 1924 as Musashino Women’s Academy by Buddhist scholar, Junjiro Takakusu. The university provides undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of disciplines, such as literature, global studies, law, economics, and data science. Musashino University is distinguished by its commitment to the ideals of the Hongwanji Jodo Shinshu School of Buddhism.

9. Toyo University

Toyo University was originally created to fill a gap in Japanese universities: the lack of philosophy courses. Over the years, it has expanded but maintains the same principles of putting philosophy at the core of education, being committed to finding the truth and finding solutions to society’s problems. The university has almost 30 faculties and graduate schools distributed on 5 campuses. It also has more than 20 research centers and institutes that specialize in areas such as sustainable development, social sciences, biomedical engineering, etc.

10. Teikyo University

Teikyo University is a private university in Tokyo’s Itabashi District. It was founded in 1931 as Teikyo Commercial High School and is part of the Teikyo Group, a multinational educational foundation. The university offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs on five campuses across the country, as well as exchange students on international campuses.

11. Tokyo Kasei-Gakuin University

Tokyo Kasei-Gakuin University is a private university located in the Chiyoda ward in Tokyo, Japan. The school’s predecessor was founded in 1925, but it was only recognized as a university in 1963. Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs in a variety of disciplines are available, including human life science, economics, design, nutrition, and child studies.

12. Toho University

The priority of Toho University is to provide optimal learning opportunities for students with high potential. With almost 100 years of experience, the university has already influenced the social and economic activities of the country. It aims to prepare students with the knowledge and practical skills needed to thrive in the professional field.

13. Kokugakuin University

Kokugakuin University is a private university in Tokyo’s Shibuya District. It was established in 1882 as one of Japan’s first universities to be recognized by the university system. Programs in Shinto studies, Japanese history, oriental literature, and community development are prioritized at Kokugakuin. They also offer a course to become a Shinto priest, which is only available at two universities.

14. Gakushuin University

Gakushuin University is a private university in Tokyo’s Mejiro district. It was founded in Kyoto in 1847, but it was re-established as a private university in 1949. Undergraduate and graduate programs in law, economics, and science are available at the university. As one of the most prestigious universities in Japan, most of the Imperial House of Japan have attended the Gakushuin University.

15. Nishogakusha University

Nishogakusha University is a private university located in Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan. Its origins date back to 1877 when the Chinese Classics Studies Academy was founded, but it was not chartered as a university until 1949. Literature, politics, and economics courses are available at the Bachelor’s and Master’s levels at the university.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get admission to affordable universities in Tokyo?

Applying to cheap universities in Tokyo requires you to complete different requirements depending on your degree and chosen university. These usually include admission forms, language proficiency scores, and a visa. Check out our full guide to studying in Japan for a more comprehensive guide!

2. What can I study at Best affordable universities in Tokyo?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Tokyo. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Tokyo is the Meiji Gakuin University, which offers Sociology , English, and Social Work to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Kokugakuin University offers Religious Studies, Literature Studies, and History Studies.

It's important to take a look at all your options when selecting where to attend post-secondary school. With so many different types of schools, degrees, and universities in Tokyo, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

So, make sure to explore the best public universities in Tokyo as well if you're looking for affordable education!

We hope that this article on affordable institutions in Tokyo for international students was helpful!

2 Comments

  1. I am an international student currently studying in a Japanese language institution, I would like to study at a low cost university, is this possible?