Tokyo - Language & Culture Application Requirements
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Eligibility Requirements:
- 18 years of age
- In good standing at your home school
- 2.75 cumulative GPA or better on a 4.0 scale (GPAs under 2.75 will be considered on a case-by-case basis)
- Sophomore, Junior, or Senior standing when program begins
- Prior Japanese language knowledge is not required for the program but is strongly recommended. Beginning Japanese students should have a basic working knowledge of hiranga and katakana alphabets before the program begins.
- Non-U.S. citizens: Native English fluency or test scores demonstrating English proficiency, including IELTS scores of 7.0 or above or TOEFL certificate with a score of 575 or above for paper, or 90 or above for internet.
Application Requirements:
- Online Application
Applications may be considered after the published deadline on a space available basis. Please note that late applicants may be required to submit a non-refundable confirmation deposit upon acceptance in order to secure a place in the program. Please contact us with questions about applying after the deadline.
Submit the following in your MyIESabroad account after your Online Application is processed:
- Home School Authorization
Your on-campus study abroad advisor can either complete the Home School Authorization electronically through IES Abroad’s PartnerPortal system, or by filling out the PDF form linked above. Consult your study abroad advisor to determine how they would prefer to complete your Home School Authorization. - Official Transcript(s) for each college/university you have attended since high school.
- Proof of English Language Proficiency (non-U.S. citizens)
Non-U.S. citizens may be required to submit English language proficiency exam results that meet the eligibility requirement above. Contact your IES Abroad Representative for more information.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS IF CUMULATIVE GPA IS BELOW 2.75:
- Professor Recommendation
Although there is no length requirement, the recommendation must indicate a professor’s opinion of the applicant’s academic ability to pursue university-level coursework in a foreign country, in addition to any information that would help IES Abroad gain a better understanding of the applicant. - Personal Academic Essay
Although there is no length requirement, the essay must address your GPA, any particular academic challenges faced, reasons you chose this IES Abroad program, and how it fits into your academic career.
Passport & Visa Requirements:
A passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the end date of the program, with at least two blank pages is required. Visit travel.state.gov to locate U.S. passport agencies in your area.
A student visa is required to enter Japan. Upon admission, you will receive more information about the application process and any related fees. The visa application process for non-U.S. citizens can be extremely lengthy, please contact us for more information.
