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International Programs

At Yamagata University we offer degree and non-degree programs in broad disciplinary areas to domestic and international students with varied academic needs and language proficiency levels.

Degree Programs

Degree-seeking students should possess at least a lower advanced level of Japanese (*JLPT level N2 or higher) to comprehend lectures in Japanese at the undergraduate level along with a satisfying **EJU score required by each academic department. Target language requirements at the graduate level vary as English may be the primary language of communication at some departments depending on the availability of English-speaking faculty. More information>Undergraduate, Graduate

* JLPT - Japanese Language Proficiency Test
** EJU - Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students

Study Abroad and Exchange - STEP-YU

We offer a variety of fixed-term programs to accept international students for up to one year. In Japan, this type of program is typically called a short-term study abroad or exchange program.
At YU, we call it STEP-YU (Short-Term Exchange Program at YU). STEP-YU is comprised of reciprocal exchange programs and non-degree study programs that are described below.

Click here for application forms and a program brochure.

Reciprocal exchange programs are designed for matriculated students at their home institution who are nominated as an exchange student to study at YU for a semester or one academic year. We enroll exchange students in either regular programs offered at each academic department or the Japan Studies Program according to their language level and purpose of study. There are a range of courses for the students to choose from according to their language level, including regular courses in their major field of study, Japanese language courses, English-based courses in Japanese culture, multicultural studies, and fieldwork. Credits earned at YU will be evaluated at the students' home institutions. For more information on JSP, please click here.

Non-degree study programs are targeted for those who wish to take courses for credit as a non-degree study student (kamokuto rishusei) in their fields of study for up to one year. These include the Japanese Studies Program (undergraduate), which is part of STEP-YU, and also the Teacher Training Program (graduate), both of which are government-funded and fairly competitive. Please visit the web page of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology for more information on our Japanese Studies Program and Teacher Training Program.

Research Programs

Research programs are designed for those who wish to enroll as a research student (kenkyusei) at an academic department on our campus for a semester or a year either to prepare to be matriculated in a graduate program in the subsequent semester, or to engage in their research under the supervision of an academic advisor. >Campus Information