Study abroad in Tokyo while living near Musashi University’s Ekoda campus, a residential neighborhood that offers an authentic perspective on daily life in the city. Explore local streets, small shops, and nearby cultural sites, while remaining well connected by train to central Tokyo. Living near the campus allows you to experience how Tokyo residents study, commute, and socialize, with access to diverse food options, neighborhood cafés, live music venues, and green spaces. Studying at Musashi University combines academic engagement with an immersive experience of contemporary urban life in Japan.
Direct Enrollment - Musashi University
At a Glance
Credits:
Visa Required:
Language of Instruction:
Language Prerequisites:
About the Program
Program Advisor
Sarah Duran
Once you’ve applied for a program, I’ll be your direct point of contact. From housing to course registration and everything in between, I’m here to help you prepare to study abroad. Once you’re accepted to your program, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!
About the Destination
Why Tokyo?
Tokyo is a city uniquely its own. It can appear straight from the future with its ultramodern skyscrapers, bright lights, and technology. Mix that with well-maintained and cherished traditions, like tea ceremony, festivals, and kimonos still worn in the streets, and you have a glimpse of Tokyo. Explore all of this and more in this one-of-a-kind city while living and attending classes in Chiba, just a train ride away from both the bustling city center as well as the vast and peaceful countryside.
The Student Experience
Before I go - First Post for Tokyo
My first post before Tokyo, the leadup to travel, and how I prepared for it.
Program Dates
Spring 2027
Program Dates:
Application Deadline:
Academics
Partner Institution
Musashi University
Founded in 1949, Musashi University is a private university known for its strong academic focus and emphasis on close faculty-student engagement. Its educational approach supports critical thinking and independent learning, values that align closely with the academic goals of IES Abroad programs. The University is located in Nerima Ward in northwest Tokyo, a leafy residential area that is approximately 20 minutes by train from major centers such as Ikebukuro and Shinjuku. Depending on housing placement, students can expect commute times of approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
Courses
Requirements
- 18 years of age
- In good standing at your home school
- 3.2 cumulative GPA or better on a 4.0 scale (Students with a GPA below 3.2 are ineligible)
- Must be currently enrolled in a four-year degree granting institution
- Sophomore, Junior, or first-semester Senior standing when program begins. Neither graduating second-semester Seniors nor college graduates are eligible for this program.
- Final admissions decision rests with Musashi University
About the IES Abroad Center
The IES Abroad Tokyo Center is located in Makuhari, a modern planned city in Chiba Prefecture that is part of the Greater Tokyo metropolitan area. While Musashi University’s Ekoda Campus is located in northcentral Tokyo and serves as your academic home base for the term, the IES Center remains an important academic and student support resource.
IES Abroad Tokyo Staff
Housing
Housing in Tokyo
We will secure housing for you prior to your arrival in Tokyo. We locate and contract housing for students every term that meets our high standards for health and safety while simultaneously increasing student understanding of the local culture. Housing options provided vary by term and location but may include hotel, residence hall, and/or apartment housing.
We recognize how important housing is to students and their families, and we aim to provide all the information needed to ensure confidence and clarity before arrival.
Please continue to monitor this page for the most up-to-date housing information for the Tokyo - Musashi Program!
Field Trips
Even though your adventure starts in Tokyo, our field trips take you beyond the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country. All trips are included in the program fee unless otherwise noted with ($).
Musashi University may also offer additional trips and tours each term which could incur additional fees.
NOTE: IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and lengths of stay may vary according to term and availability.
Program Cost
Spring 2027
$7.9 Million in Scholarships & Aid
We firmly believe that financial limitations should not prevent a qualified student from studying abroad. This is why we commit millions of dollars to our study abroad scholarships and aid.
Orientation
Health & Safety
With 75 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter which time zone you’re in. We plan for "what ifs" so that you don’t have to. From international health insurance included in your program cost to highly trained local staff who can connect you with English-speaking healthcare providers, we work around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.
Apply for your passport today!
Getting your passport is a crucial step for studying abroad. With processing times taking longer than usual, consider this a gentle reminder to not procrastinate on getting or renewing your passport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Identity Resources
Student Ambassadors
No one knows the IES Abroad experience better than a student who has lived it! From budget tips to housing experiences, our volunteer Ambassadors are here to share it all.
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How will study abroad redefine your world? We can’t wait to find out.