Tuition Fees in Kyoto for International Students

When choosing a university, it is important to look at the area that you are going to study because there are a lot of wonderful countries and cities that need to be visited to learn new information and achieve great experiences. When it comes to formal education, it is evident that Kyoto, which is one of the locations in Japan, tries to the best of its abilities to provide good education levels.

When it comes to popular educational institutions, it's difficult not to mention public universities. These universities serve as the foundation for formal education, and students who wish to apply to a public university in Kyoto should be aware that there are 6 universities in total, making their decision easier because there are only a few universities to compare and observe.

Private universities are also some of the most credible places where you can get your degree. Out 28 institutions in Kyoto, 22 of them are privately operated. With these options, along with public institutions, students have better chances of finding a university that fits their financial capabilities.

Tuition fees are among the most significant factors students weigh when it comes to their university applications. Fortunately, knowing about tuition fees ahead of time can help you prepare for this challenge. In this article, we will be looking at tuition fees in Kyoto.

Are there any free tuition universities in Kyoto?

No, there are no free-tuition universities in Kyoto. Students are expected to be capable of financing their education and paying their tuition fees. However, students may check the universities here if they offer financial help, such as grants, scholarships, or work-study opportunities. It’s also worth checking the cheapest universities in Kyoto to find the most affordable study destinations.

Is Kyoto affordable for International Students?

Those pursuing bachelor's degree studies as an international student in Kyoto spend an average of 637,400 Yen annually on tuition fees. On top of this, they also need to consider other costs, such as accommodation, food, and transport. With all these, those looking to study in Kyoto need to prepare well, as these expenses can easily add up to make a significant dent in their finances.

Meanwhile, international students in master's programs might not find Kyoto friendly to their wallets. The average tuition rate here is 460,000 Yen. This along with living costs and miscellaneous expenses can quickly add up and make budgeting quite a challenge.

Tuition Fees in Kyoto

There are multiple universities in Kyoto that are welcoming to both international and domestic students, and they provide great educational values with different tuition fee values. Here are the tuition fee ranges of universities in Kyoto, based on student type and degree.

Universities Annual Tuition Fee for Bachelor
Kyoto Prefectural University 535,800 Yen
Kyoto University 535,800 Yen
Kyoto City University of Arts 535,800 Yen
Kyoto Institute of Technology 535,800 Yen
Kyoto Sangyo University 745,000 Yen
Shuchiin University 750,000 Yen
Doshisha University 753,000 Yen - 1,250,000 Yen
Heian Jogakuin University 784,000 Yen
Kyoto University of Foreign Studies 795,000 Yen - 847,500 Yen
Hanazono University 826,000 Yen - 829,000 Yen
Kyoto Notre Dame University 840,000 Yen
Kyoto Koka Women’s University 862,500 Yen
Kyoto Tachibana University 870,000 Yen - 1,200,000 Yen
Bukkyo University 870,000 Yen - 920,000 Yen
Ritsumeikan University 974,600 Yen - 2,300,000 Yen
Ryukoku University 1,021,000 Yen - 1,572,600 Yen
Kyoto Seika Daigaku 1,086,000 Yen - 1,579,000 Yen
Kyoto University of the Arts 1,320,000 Yen
Kyoto Saga University of Arts 1,550,000 Yen
Kyoto University of Advanced Science 1,655,600 Yen
Universities Annual Tuition Fee for Master
Kyoto Tachibana University 400,000 Yen - 450,000 Yen
Doshisha University 508,000 Yen - 844,000 Yen
Bukkyo University 525,000 Yen - 720,000 Yen
Kyoto Sangyo University 528,000 Yen
Kyoto Prefectural University 535,800 Yen
Kyoto University 535,800 Yen
Kyoto City University of Arts 535,800 Yen
Kyoto Institute of Technology 535,800 Yen
Hanazono University 640,000 Yen - 643,000 Yen
Kyoto University of the Arts 670,000 Yen
Kyoto College of Graduate Studies for Informatics 700,000 Yen
Kyoto Seika Daigaku 750,000 Yen - 1,050,000 Yen
Ritsumeikan University 762,800 Yen - 1,169,600 Yen
Ryukoku University 763,000 Yen - 1,100,000 Yen
Kyoto University of Foreign Studies 795,000 Yen - 847,500 Yen
Kyoto Koka Women’s University 800,000 Yen - 930,000 Yen
Kyoto Notre Dame University 840,000 Yen
Kyoto Saga University of Arts 850,000 Yen
Kyoto University of Advanced Science 1,203,300 Yen

Tuition fees in Universities in Kyoto

1. Kyoto Tachibana University

  • Kyoto Tachibana University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 870,000 Yen - 1,200,000 Yen
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 400,000 Yen - 450,000 Yen

Kyoto Tachibana University used to be a handicraft school before it progressed to become a comprehensive university that offers education in numerous disciplines. The university aims to encourage and foster individuals by educating and fueling them with the necessary knowledge and skills. Situated in one of the largest cities in Japan, Kyoto Tachibana University continues to attract students worldwide.

2. Doshisha University

  • Doshisha University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 753,000 Yen - 1,250,000 Yen
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 508,000 Yen - 844,000 Yen

Doshisha University was founded by Doshisha and Joseph Hardy Neesima in 1875. The university is deeply rooted in its Christian principles, and its curricula are aligned with its traditions and beliefs. It offers a broad spectrum of study programs at all levels. Theology, law, economics, engineering, and commerce are just a few academic disciplines currently offered. In addition, the institute has created several English-taught undergraduate and graduate programs explicitly designed for international students.

3. Bukkyo University

  • Bukkyo University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 870,000 Yen - 920,000 Yen
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 525,000 Yen - 720,000 Yen

Bukkyo University is a private Japanese university located in Kyoto. It was established in 1868 as a Buddhist research institute for monks in the Genkoin temples. Undergraduate and graduate programs in education, history, literature, social welfare, and Buddhist studies are available at the university. As their source of wisdom, Bukkyo University draws its primary inspiration from the teachings of Buddha and Reverend Honen.

4. Kyoto Sangyo University

  • Kyoto Sangyo University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 745,000 Yen - 745,000 Yen
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 528,000 Yen - 528,000 Yen

Kyoto Sangyo University was founded in 1965 and is located in Kyoto, Japan. It offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral programs. Over 10 faculties for undergraduate-level education and 8 divisions for graduate-level education are present. Additionally, well-equipped facilities are home to different extracurricular clubs and societies for students. These extracurricular clubs and facilities include academics, interests, and sports.

5. Kyoto Prefectural University

  • Kyoto Prefectural University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 535,800 Yen - 535,800 Yen
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 535,800 Yen - 535,800 Yen

The Kyoto Prefectural University was founded in 1949 in the suburbs of Kyoto, Japan, and it is a very attractive institute of education. This university focuses on providing new and developing programs from which students can benefit and help their country. Kyoto Prefectural University is best known for its programs in agriculture and is equipped with an exceptional university farm and library.

6. Kyoto University

  • Kyoto University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 535,800 Yen - 535,800 Yen
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 535,800 Yen - 535,800 Yen

Kyoto University, a public university in Kyoto, Japan, was founded in 1897, making it one of the oldest academic institutions in the country. The university’s founding principles “freedom from academic culture” serves as its guide in providing high-quality education to more than 22,000 students. As such, the university is one of the top universities in Japan, as assessed by reputable global ranking institutions.

7. Kyoto City University of Arts

  • Kyoto City University of Arts
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 535,800 Yen - 535,800 Yen
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 535,800 Yen - 535,800 Yen

The Kyoto City University of Arts is one of the oldest higher education institutions in Japan, specializing in music and arts. Its education and research studies are focused on excellence, cultural diversity, and creativity. The university offers dozens of programs that have a multidisciplinary approach since students must meet different requirements in order to graduate. These include performances, art projects, reports, and a thesis. It also offers unique degrees you won’t find anywhere else, like the major in Nihonga, a Japanese traditional painting style.

8. Kyoto Institute of Technology

  • Kyoto Institute of Technology
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 535,800 Yen - 535,800 Yen
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 535,800 Yen - 535,800 Yen

Kyoto Institute of Technology (KIT) began operating as a higher education school in 1949, offering undergraduate engineering and textile science programs. As the institute has flourished over the years, it has grown into an excellent school that provides top-rated and internationally recognized study programs. KIT ensures that all enrolled students will be presented with countless opportunities, numerous academic resources, and relevant local and international partnerships and connections.

9. Hanazono University

  • Hanazono University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 826,000 Yen - 829,000 Yen
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 640,000 Yen - 643,000 Yen

Hanazono University is a private educational institution located in Kyoto, a city known as one of the world’s best student cities. The university was founded in 1872 and continues to educate its students based on the principles of Zen Buddhism, aiming to help them discover their purpose and develop their knowledge and skills to pursue it. Hanazono University has a retreat hall for students and staff to gather and meditate.

10. Kyoto University of the Arts

  • Kyoto University of the Arts
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 1,320,000 Yen - 1,320,000 Yen
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 670,000 Yen - 670,000 Yen

Kyoto University of the Arts is a good starting point for aspiring artists. This art school was founded in 1977, giving it extensive experience and credibility. Programs available encompass bachelor’s up to doctorate levels. Several excellent facilities and resources are available at Kyoto University of the Arts, including an art theater, museum, libraries, research centers, and more.

As a specialized university, the education provided is specific and quality. Some fields covered are writing, production, historical heritage, and more.

11. Kyoto Seika Daigaku

  • Kyoto Seika Daigaku
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 1,086,000 Yen - 1,579,000 Yen
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 750,000 Yen - 1,050,000 Yen

Kyoto Seika University is a private university located in Kyoto, Japan. It was founded in 1968 by School Corporation Kyoto Seika Gakuen. The university is well-known for its art programs, particularly those in manga and anime. There are also programs in literature, history, language, and painting. Famous alumni include Naoto Oshima and Yoji Shinkawa, both artists and designers of internationally renowned video games.

12. Ritsumeikan University

  • Ritsumeikan University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 974,600 Yen - 2,300,000 Yen
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 762,800 Yen - 1,169,600 Yen

Ritsumeikan University is a private institution in Kyoto that has been in the academic industry since 1859. Today, it is considered to be among the best institutions in Japan. Teachers and professionals across the globe highly recommend the school due to its academic excellence. Its best features include its vibrant learning environment, top-rated study programs, and student support, to name a few.

13. Ryukoku University

  • Ryukoku University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 1,021,000 Yen - 1,572,600 Yen
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 763,000 Yen - 1,100,000 Yen

Ryukoku University was originally a Buddhist boarding school when it was established in 1639, over three centuries ago. Over the years, the university expanded and started offering a wide variety of study programs but still continues to embrace Buddhist principles and values. Its main goal is to educate and enlighten its students and train them to become individuals who continuously seek and share their knowledge with the world. 

14. Kyoto University of Foreign Studies

  • Kyoto University of Foreign Studies
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 795,000 Yen - 847,500 Yen
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 795,000 Yen - 847,500 Yen

The Kyoto University of Foreign Studies is a very well-known university in its field, where it is recognized for its global tourism studies. This university was founded in 1959 in Kyoto, Japan, and serves as the cornerstone of foreign affairs education in this prefecture because its staff puts their maximum effort into growing the next Japanese experts in the field of foreign studies.

15. Kyoto Koka Women’s University

  • Kyoto Koka Women’s University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 862,500 Yen - 862,500 Yen
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 800,000 Yen - 930,000 Yen

Kyoto Koka Women’s University is an all-exclusive female institution that generates competent individuals capable of contributing to society. The university has carefully selected the academic programs that would fit the interests of the majority of female students. These educational programs include child education, nursing, psychology, nursing, and career development. Moreover, the institute’s curriculum is based on a practiced-based learning approach ensuring that students will be equipped with the core skills and capabilities upon completing the program.

16. Kyoto Notre Dame University

  • Kyoto Notre Dame University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 840,000 Yen - 840,000 Yen
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 840,000 Yen - 840,000 Yen

The Kyoto Notre Dame University is located in the suburbs of Kyoto, Japan, and it is home to 1365 students studying in different fields of psychology, language, and culture. Founded by the School Sisters of Notre Dame, this Christian university aims to impart both knowledge and values to its students.

17. Kyoto Saga University of Arts

  • Kyoto Saga University of Arts
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 1,550,000 Yen - 1,550,000 Yen
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 850,000 Yen - 850,000 Yen

The Kyoto Saga University of Arts is a well-formed arts college that offers innovative and astonishing programs for talented students all around the world. This university is famous because of its manga and illustration programs. The university aims to continue developing facilities in order to create an inspiring space for student artists to learn and create.

18. Kyoto University of Advanced Science

  • Kyoto University of Advanced Science
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 1,655,600 Yen - 1,655,600 Yen
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 1,203,300 Yen - 1,203,300 Yen

Kyoto University of Advanced Science (KUAS) provides superior quality education, particularly in engineering studies. It also offers academic programs in humanities, medical sciences, bioenvironmental sciences, economics, and business administration. While most of its programs are taught in Japanese, few engineering programs are taught in English. KUAS guarantees that the quality of education and training provided are comparable with other renowned science and technology institutions in Japan.

The primary goal of this article is to provide information about tuition fees in Kyoto and to assist students in their quest to achieve their goals. By describing the average tuition fees and providing you with the best ones available, we hope to help you make an informed decision about your education. Remember that studying in Kyoto can be a financially viable option, so don't let the cost of tuition prevent you from pursuing your dreams.

And make sure to check out the most affordable universities in Kyoto to learn more about making the best out of your finances as an international student.