Have you ever dreamed of studying in Japan somehow? Tokyo remains incredibly modern and ridiculously exciting among cities worldwide. It’s teeming with vibrant culture and cutting-edge tech, offering remarkably great opportunities. If you are a foreigner who wants to study something that is practical and build a career in Japan, then a senmon gakko for foreigners in Tokyo might be a perfect guide for you to get an idea and start your career in Japan.
Senmon gakko will be described as a superior choice for foreign students in Tokyo, with details on the application process and campus life.
What called as Senmon Gakko (専門学校)?
Vocational schools known as senmon gakko in Japan impart practical skills and job-specific knowledge with considerable proficiency. Unlike regular universities, Senmon Gakko focuses on hands-on training. They are great for students who want to quickly start working in fields like design, technology, fashion, tourism, animation, business, cooking, or healthcare.
Senmon gakko courses are generally for 2 years, although some schools might be longer or shorter. At the end of course, students will receive a diploma certificate and can start working right away or continue to higher studies in a university.
Why Should You Choose a Senmon in Tokyo?
Tokyo is home to hundreds of senmon gakko, offering a wide range of courses. It is the center of business, technology, and culture in Japan. Here are some reasons why choosing a senmon gakko for foreigners in Tokyo is a smart idea:
1. Wide Range of Courses
You can find almost any course you are interested in: anime production, IT, fashion design, hotel management, car mechanics, digital art, game development, Japanese cuisine, and more.
2. Career Opportunities
Being in Tokyo gives you access to many companies, internships, and job fairs. Many senmon gakko have partnerships with Japanese companies and help students find jobs after graduation.
3. Cultural Experience
Living in Tokyo is an amazing experience. You will learn about Japanese culture, Language, and way of life. The city is full of attractions, events, and food from all over the world.
4. Support for International Students
Many schools now offer Japanese language support, help with visas, and guidance for foreign students. Some even offer courses in English.
Popular Fields of Study at Senmon Gakko
Here are some of the most popular fields you can study as a foreigner at a senmon gakko in Tokyo:
1. Information Technology (IT)
Learn Web design, App development, Programming, Cybersecurity, and more. Japan is a leader in modern technology, and there are many IT jobs available in Tokyo.
2. Animation and Game Design
Tokyo is a paradise of anime and gaming culture. You can study character design, 3D modeling, drawing, game development and software like Unity or Maya.
3. Fashion and Design
Study at fashion schools in the stylish areas of Harajuku or Shibuya. Learn about clothing design and pattern making, or even start your own brand.
4. Culinary Arts
Japanese cuisine remains extremely popular globally nowadays in various countries. Learn to make sushi and various other Japanese delicacies like steaming bowls of ramen and intricately crafted wagashi quite thoroughly now. Culinary schools also teach food safety and hospitality.
5. Tourism and Hotel Management
With many tourists visiting Japan, this field has a lot of opportunities. You can learn customer service, travel planning, and hotel operations.
How to Apply to a Senmon Gakko in Tokyo
Applying to a senmon gakko for foreigners in Tokyo is not too complicated, but you must follow the steps below very carefully.
Check Requirements
Each school has different requirements. Most ask for:
- A high school diploma (or equivalent)
- Japanese language ability (usually JLPT N2 or N1)
- Passport and visa documents
- Some schools offer beginner courses in Japanese, but many classes are taught in Japanese.
Japanese Language
Typically, students must first attend a Japanese language school for around six months or maybe even a year before entering a senmon gakko. This aids you in passing the JLPT test quite effectively and grasping lessons somewhat deeply with considerable ease.
Application Process
You need to:
- Choose your school and course.
- Prepare documents (transcripts, photos, etc.)
- Pay an application fee.
- Take an interview or exam (sometimes online)
- Apply for a student visa after acceptance.
Tuition Fees
Fees may vary by school and course. On average, they cost ¥ $650,000 to ¥ $1,250,000 per year ($4,500–$9,500 USD). In some cases, some schools offer scholarships or discounts for foreign students.
Live in Tokyo as a Foreign Student
Living in Tokyo is fun and exciting, but it can also be expensive nowadays. Here are some things you should keep in mind:
1. Accommodation
You can live in:
- School dormitories (¥30,000–¥60,000 per month)
- Shared houses or apartments
- With a host family (homestay)
2. Part-time Jobs (Arabito)
As a student visa holder, you can only work up to 28 hours per week. Lots of students work in various restaurants, Japanese shops or convenience stores. Some even work in their field of study.
3. Transportation
Tokyo has one of the best train systems in the world. Get a commuter pass (teikiken) to save money. Bicycles are also popular.
4. Student Life
Many senmon gakko have clubs, events, and support centers. You can make friends from Japan and other countries.
Tips for Success at Senmon Gakko
Improve Your Japanese
Even if your course is partly in English, daily life in Japan is in Japanese. Practice reading, writing, and speaking as much as you can.
Be Open and Friendly
Try new things. Join clubs, attend school events, and explore the city. You’ll learn more than just job skills; you’ll grow as a person.
Ask for Help
If you have something, don’t understand Don’t be afraid to ask teachers or staff. Because They are there to help.
Plan Your Future
Take time and carefully Think about what you want to do after graduation. Like, If you want to work in Japan? Go to university? Start a business? Many senmon gakko offer career counseling.
Final Thoughts
A senmon gakko for foreigners in Tokyo is a great way to study practical skills, experience Japanese life, and build a career. Whether you want to be a game/app developer, a chef, a programmer, or a designer, there are a lot of courses waiting for you.
Tokyo is a very busy and modern city; studying here, you will get lots of memories and skills that last a lifetime. If you are a knowledge seeker and want to learn something new and live abroad, start researching Senmon Gakko today.
List of 15 Popular Senmon Gakko in Tokyo for Foreigners
- Sundai IT Business College
IT and Business Courses - Waseda-Bunri College of Art and Science
IT and Business Courses, etc. - Sundai Global Business College of Foreign Languages –
Trade and Business Courses, etc. - Sundai Tourism & Hotel Bridal Business College
Tourism, Hotel, and IT Courses, etc. - Sundai Law, Economics & Business College
Law, Management and Business Courses, etc. - Nakano School of Business
IT and Business Courses, etc. - Gregg Foreign Language College
Airlines, Trade, Digital Marketing, Hotel Courses, etc. - Tokyo Technical College
IT and Architecture Courses, etc. - Ochanomizu School of Business
IT and Business Courses, etc. - Sanko Gakuen
Medical, IT, Sports, Cooking, Pastry, Bridal Courses, etc. - HAL
Various IT-related Courses, etc. - JTB Tourism Business College
Tourism, Hotel and Bridal Courses, etc. - Yomiuri Institute of Technology & Welfare
Automobile, IT, Nursing, Media Courses, etc. - Nikken Technical College
CAD Business Courses, etc. - Nihon Kogakuin College
IT, Electrical engineering, Architecture, Automobile Courses, etc.
Other Resources to Help Your Journey
- Japan Student Services Organisation (JASSO) – Info about scholarships and schools
- JLPT Official Site – To learn about the Japanese language test
- Your local Japanese embassy or consulate – For visa help
If you have any questions or want to know more about a specific senmon gakko in Tokyo, feel free to leave a comment or message. Good luck with your Japan study journey!
Sundai IT Business College is best !!
Yes. There are many foreign students.