Certified Japanese-language schools are educational institutes recognized as official schools under the School Education Act of Japan. While it is possible to receive a student visa by attending any school approved under Ministry of Justice standards or nationally accredited Japanese-language educational institutions, certified Japanese-language schools provide an extra measure of reassurance since class schedules, the student-teacher ratio, size of classrooms, ownership of the school building by the operator and other factors are strictly stipulated by law. They are also publicly administered, which means they require approval for even minor changes—such as increasing student capacity—to ensure quality.
Since the operators of these certified schools own the school buildings they use, students can study in a relaxed atmosphere. Many schools also offer off-campus activities such as clubs, providing an opportunity to learn about Japanese culture outside of class hours. On the other hand, since uncertified schools are allowed to operate in rented spaces, such as a room in a building, they may not feel much like schools.
*Nationally accredited Japanese-language educational institutions are officially approved by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, similar to schools the Ministry of Justice designated under the previous system. Teachers working in these institutions are required to have national qualifications, which means the quality of Japanese-language education is expected to be better and more consistent compared to the previous system. (The new system took effect on April 1, 2024.)
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Certified schools may also help you financially. You may use a student commuter pass if you are enrolled in a certified school. And only students of certified schools are eligible for student discount programs at museums and other facilities. Students of uncertified schools must pay general admission.
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As a rule, you need twelve years of schooling in your home country to enroll at a Japanese university or professional training college. However, you may meet admission requirements if you complete a one-year university preparatory course in Japan, even if you are from a country or region that does not offer twelve years of education. Many certified Japanese-language schools in Tokyo offer such preparatory courses designated by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.
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Certified Japanese-language schools in Tokyo have designated educational philosophy and goals, school management, teaching staff and other methods of self-inspection and assessment to improve their standing as schools specializing in Japanese-language education. They make their assessment data public and work to maintain the school’s quality and reputation. Their goals are to realize practical Japanese-language education that gives students the language skills needed to pass qualifications and exams as well as marketable career skills.
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Starting with population, many things in Japan are concentrated in Tokyo. In addition to traditional Japanese culture, many different subcultures can be found in this city that are sure to offer stimulating experiences that will motivate you to continue working hard. Since many companies are based in Tokyo or have a presence here, you also have a wider range of employment options after graduation. Tokyo offers great advantages and countless options.
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ⅠCourse content
Always research the school beforehand to confirm factors such as whether the course fits your goals and its level of difficulty.
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ⅡCurrent student body
Depending on the school, the composition of the student body may be quite different, such as mostly Chinese or Vietnamese, or otherwise diverse.
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ⅢAcademic fees and financial aid
Confirm the total of the admission fee and all other expenses necessary until graduation. Some schools offer financial aid programs unique to their school.
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ⅣLocation
Living costs may be high in large cities, but there are advantages, such as being able to find a part-time job easily. Meanwhile, many school in suburban cities have dormitories, so living costs are lower than in large cities. Research the location first and figure out what fits your preferences.
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ⅤLiving support
Check whether schools have dormitories. If they do, where are they? If no dormitories are available, find out whether the school has a system for helping students find apartments. It is also important to check if the school provides support for everyday life, such as referrals to part-time jobs.
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ⅥInformation about advancing to higher education and guidance structure
If you plan to go on to a professional training college, university or graduate school after learning Japanese, it’s a good idea to choose a Japanese-language school based on whether former students there advanced to your desired higher education institute. Check the school’s guidance structure and advancement results from school guides and pamphlets, or ask the school directly by e-mail or telephone.
Certified Japanese-Language Schools in Tokyo
Member schools (as of August 2025)
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Toa Language Institute
Akasaka Kazan Building, 2-17-47 Akasaka, Minato-ku 107-0052
TEL.03-5575-6303
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Kyoritsu Japanese Language Academy
Kyoritsu Ikueikai Building, 2-17-12 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku 113-0034
TEL.03-5805-0381
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Japanese Language School affiliated with Chuo College of Technology
Our school is a group school of Incorporated Educational Institution Chuo College of Technology, a leader in education in Japan with an advanced educational record which was established in 1909.
Since our school opened, we have focused on improving the educational environment. The new school building provides an even more comfortable learning environment, which began in August 2019.
The foundation of education is "steady and reliable", which is the school policy of Chuo College of Technology. Not only do our faculty and staff teach Japanese, but they also support the daily life of international students so that they can concentrate on learning Japanese every day. The staff works closely together to give serious instruction with care.1-4-8 Higashi-tabata, Kita-ku 114-0013
TEL.03-3895-1909
Japanese Language School affiliated with Chuo College of Technology -
Akamonkai Japanese Language School - Nippori Campus
Our school is conveniently located just a four-minute walk from Nippori Station, and is one of the Japanese language schools operated by the Arai Gakuen Educational Institution. We have been accepting about 2,000 students from more than 50 countries and regions with a good balance of nationalities. We provide high-quality classes through meticulous class divisions and curriculum that correspond to different Japanese proficiency levels and study abroad purposes. We also have a generous support system for further education and employment. In addition, we have a full support system such as student dormitories, self-study area, library, document processing assistance in multiple languages, life consultation services for illnesses and injuries, and scholarship programs.
2-54-4 Nishi-nippori, Arakawa-ku 116-0013
TEL.03-3806-6106
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Toyo Language School
With our original education system, JCT, Toyo Language School supports each student and their goals through individual counseling. This is done through a fusion of offline and online learning, called the “4 M’s” (My Teacher, My Study, My Days, My Career) – a system designed to help with studying as well as daily life. With five major study plans, whether a student’s goal is to find employment or to attend a college, university, or technical school, TLS supports each and every student and helps them to achieve their goals.
7-6-3 Nishi-kasai, Edogawa-ku 134-0088
TEL.03-5605-6211
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Japanese Language School of The Tokyo Foreign Language Academy
3-19-21 Ukima, Kita-ku 115-0051
TEL.03-3966-8910
Japanese Language School of The Tokyo Foreign Language Academy -
Tokyo Kogakuin Japanese Language School
This traditional Japanese language school was opened in 1971. It is one school in an educational foundation that adheres to the strict standards of private school law in Japan. Vocational colleges incorporating a four-year university studies course are also contained within the educational foundation.Students not only from Asia but from all over the world study here. There is an at-home atmosphere at our schools, where each student receives personal and individualized care. The Japanese language school is accessible from two major train stations. It is also located near the expansive Shinjuku Park, so the school is quiet and relaxed. Finally, tuition fees are not expensive, according to the will of the founder of the educational foundation.
5-30-16 Sendagaya, Shibuya-ku 151-0051
TEL.03-3352-3851
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KCP International Japanese Language School
Ever since the establishment KCP has been making utmost effort in supporting the young students all over the world achieve their dreams. For the young students who live in the 21st century to work their way out for the future they strive for, it is essential for them to educe their potential ability and find the true joy of learning as independent learners. KCP has been making pepetual effort in providing supreme learning environment in both hardware and sofware for these students to lead rich and fruitful study abroad life in Japan.
Please believe in your possibility and set your goal high for the study abroad, we all look forward to working with you for the realization of your dream.1-29-12 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku 160-0022
TEL.03-3356-2359
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Shinjuku Japanese Language Institute
2-9-7 Takadanobaba, Shinjuku-ku 169-0075
TEL.03-5273-0044
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Japanese Language School Affiliated with Tokyo International University
Japanese Language School affiliated with Tokyo International University was established in 1987. There are full-time courses, half-day courses, and university preparatory courses, and you can choose the course that suits your purpose of studying abroad. One of the features of our school is the in-depth guidance for higher education provided by your homeroom teacher and full-time career guidance staff. We carefully guide each student according to their goals. In addition to learning Japanese, you can also experience various Japanese cultures and cross-cultural exchanges with students from other countries in your class. There are many scholarship programs available.
4-23-23 Takadanobaba, Shinjuku-ku 169-0075
TEL.03-3371-6121
Japanese Language School Affiliated with Tokyo International University -
Eastwest Japanese Language School
We offer numerous opportunities for students to interact with Japanese people, such as participating in exchange classes with various organizations, regional events, or sports activities with university students. Students learn real Japanese through their interactions with Japanese people, and gain a deeper understanding of Japan and Japanese culture.
2-36-9 Chuo, Nakano-ku 164-0011
TEL.03-3366-4717
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Meros Language School
Located in Ikebukuro which has easy access. In the other hand, around Meros is quiet and suitable environment for study. Offering various levels of classes, each student can choose classes depending on his/her own needs and levels. In all levels, curricula are make up to improve "practical Japanese" and "Communication skill". In addition to, we also offer various activities not only studying Japanese program. Students can make their Japanese life more enjoyable with learning Japanese culture, talking with Japanese students, and so on.
2-45-7 Higashi-ikebukuro, Toshima-ku 170-0013
TEL.03-3980-0068
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Yamano Japanese Language School
3-10-6, Sendagaya, Shibuyaｰku 151-0051
TEL.03-5772-5112
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Sendagaya Language School
As a group school of Sendagaya Japanese Institute established in 1975, our school opened in 2017. So far, students from 16 countries and regions, including Asia and Europe, have enrolled and are working hard to learn Japanese, mainly for finding a job in Japan. The school offers a wide range of off-campus activities, such as experiencing Japanese culture and international exchange, as well as active communications in Japanese language within the school. In addition, the school lends each student a tablet device for free, which students can use in class for writing reports and making presentations, or take home to study Japanese.
1-13-11 Komagome Toshima-ku 170-0003
TEL.03-5937-1995