In short
Kyoto University is a top-tier research institution in Japan, known for its academic freedom and global impact. It offers a wide range of programs across three distinct campuses in the culturally rich city of Kyoto and provides support for international students.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1897
- Students
- 22,756
- International students
- 2,577
- Acceptance rate
- 34%
- Tuition (intl)
- €3–3k/yr
- Languages
- EN, JA
- Location
- Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto University, established in 1897, is a leading research-intensive university in Japan, known for its "spirit of freedom" and commitment to academic excellence. Located in Kyoto, a city rich in culture and history, the university provides an exceptional environment for learning and discovery across its three main campuses: Yoshida, Uji, and Katsura. With a strong emphasis on foundational and cutting-edge research, Kyoto University aims to cultivate leaders who can make significant contributions to various sectors of society. The institution offers a wide array of programs across its 10 undergraduate faculties and 18 graduate schools, fostering intellectual curiosity and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration. Kyoto University is dedicated to nurturing globally-minded individuals equipped to address complex challenges. It actively promotes international exchange and offers various support systems for international students, including tuition fee exemptions and scholarships, to ensure a diverse and inclusive academic community.
Why study here
- Engage in world-class, pioneering research with a strong emphasis on originality and impact.
- Benefit from a "spirit of freedom" that encourages independent thought and diverse academic pursuits.
- Join a university highly rated for academic and employer reputation globally and within Asia.
- Access a wide range of academic disciplines, from humanities to cutting-edge science and engineering.
- Live and study in Kyoto, a city that blends rich cultural heritage with modern innovation.
Student life
Kyoto University fosters a vibrant and engaging student life, promoting a balance between rigorous academics and personal development. The university's multiple campuses in Kyoto offer a diverse range of activities and facilities. Students can participate in various clubs, cultural events, and community activities. The university also emphasizes entrepreneurship education, helping students develop skills to address societal challenges and innovate. Living in Kyoto provides an enriching cultural experience, with access to historical sites, traditional arts, and a dynamic urban environment.
Fees
InternationalKyoto University offers a tuition exemption system (full or half exemption) and an admission fee exemption/deferral system for students facing financial difficulties. For international students, it is recommended to consult the scholarship support page.
HomeFor Japanese undergraduate students, tuition and admission fee exemptions are primarily handled through the Japanese government's Higher Education Tuition Support System. The university's independent exemption system provides supplementary support for eligible students.
LivingInformation not provided in source.
For all students, applications for tuition exemption or deferral require demonstrating economic hardship and academic excellence. Specific procedures and deadlines are announced periodically.
Admissions
Undergraduate (Japanese-taught)Strong secondary-school record and success in the relevant entrance examinations, with Japanese-language proficiency
International undergraduate / graduate programsProgram-specific academic qualifications plus English and/or Japanese language proficiency as required
TOEFL iBTCommonly required for English-taught and graduate programs; typical competitive scores are 80 and above
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2026#57
QS Asia University Rankings 2026#28
THE World University Rankings 2026#61
THE Asia University Rankings 2026#16
QS Sustainability Rankings 2026#114
THE Japan University Rankings 2025#4
University scholarships
MEXT (Japanese Government) ScholarshipFull tuition plus monthly stipend
Kyoto University Tuition Fee ExemptionFull or half tuition exemption
Accreditation
Kyoto University is a National University Corporation in Japan. It was selected as a candidate for certification as a 'University of International Research Excellence' in December 2025.
Programs
a selectionKyoto University · Japan
Graduate Programs at Kyoto University
Kyoto University offers a range of graduate programs designed to deepen knowledge and skills acquired during undergraduate studies. These programs aim to cultivate future researchers and highly skilled professionals. Graduate study at Kyoto University involves specialized knowledge, research capabilities, and practical skills development, building upon undergraduate education. The university comprises three types of graduate schools: those affiliated with undergraduate faculties, independent graduate schools, and professional graduate schools focused on practical skills.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Kyoto University · Japan
Graduate School of Economics
The Graduate School of Economics at Kyoto University is dedicated to advanced study and research in economics, management, and related fields. Located on the main Yoshida campus, it serves as a hub for intellectual inquiry and academic development. The school is part of a larger faculty structure that includes the Faculty of Economics, Graduate School of Management, and interdisciplinary units like the Green Innovation Management Education Unit.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Kyoto University · Japan
Graduate School of Letters
The Graduate School of Letters at Kyoto University focuses on advanced studies within the field of literature and related humanities disciplines. It offers opportunities for in-depth research and academic development in a stimulating environment. The school is part of the broader Kyoto University campus, located in the Yoshida district of Sakyo Ward, Kyoto.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Kyoto University · Japan
Information for International Students Arriving in Japan
Kyoto University provides essential information for international students preparing to arrive and live in Japan. This guide covers crucial administrative procedures, essential insurances, and daily life necessities to help you settle in smoothly. It details requirements for obtaining your residence card, enrolling in national health insurance and pension systems, opening bank accounts, and understanding the Japanese address registration system. The university also outlines procedures for student ID cards, insurance policies, library access, and email accounts, all designed to support your academic journey and daily life in Kyoto.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Kyoto University · Japan
Japanese Language Education at Kyoto University
Kyoto University does not offer a dedicated undergraduate program solely for Japanese language studies. For international students wishing to prepare for admission by learning Japanese, it is recommended to utilize language schools or similar institutions. However, the university provides Japanese language education for its international students through the Center for Japanese and Japanese Culture Education, which is part of the Institute for Liberal Arts and Sciences. This includes credited Japanese language courses within the general curriculum and extracurricular Japanese language support programs. The academic year is divided into two semesters: the first semester runs from April to August, and the second semester from October to February. Registration for these courses and programs typically takes place online in March and September.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Kyoto University · Japan
Kyoto University
Kyoto University offers a comprehensive university experience with a focus on academic excellence and diverse campus life. While specific program details vary, the university provides resources for prospective and current students, including career support, international exchange opportunities, and information on student welfare. Prospective students can explore academic offerings through events like Open Campus, where they can attend lectures, visit research labs, and consult with faculty and current students. The university also emphasizes support for international students through various services and events designed to foster cultural exchange and integration.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Scholarships
for Japan
full fundingNational Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS)
GRIPS Fully Funded Scholarships (National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies)
Open to international students applying to GRIPS master's and PhD policy programs taught in English. Master's and five-year PhD applicants need a bachelor's degree or equivalent; three-year PhD applicants need a master's degree or equivalent. Specific scholarships (MEXT, ADB-JSP, JJ/WBGSP, JICA, Japan-IMF) each carry their own nationality, age and work-experience conditions tied to the program selected.
full
Funding
€40k
Max
Jan 15, 2027
Deadline
full fundingNational Institute of Genetics (NIG)
NIG Postdoctoral Fellowship (National Institute of Genetics)
Open to researchers of any nationality who hold a PhD (or will obtain it before the start date) and have the research skills to pursue a genetics project. Applicants who were previously enrolled at NIG as postdocs, technical staff or SOKENDAI graduate students are not eligible.
full
Funding
€27k
Max
-29d left
Deadline
living only fundingNishimura Foundation
Nishimura Foundation Japan International Scholarship
Open to Indonesian citizens who are graduates of UGM, ITB, UI or UNAIR and who will apply for S1 (undergraduate), S2 (master's) or S3 (doctoral) study at an eligible Japanese university. Applicants must self-fund their study programme (the scholarship covers living expenses, not tuition), meet the minimum GPA (3.0 for undergraduate, 3.5 for master's), demonstrate financial need, and have or be willing to learn Japanese with an interest in Japanese culture and Indonesia-Japan relations.
living only
Funding
€22k
Max
Dec 10, 2026
Deadline
full fundingOsaka University (funded by MEXT, Japanese Government)
Osaka University MEXT Scholarship for Robotics and Bioengineering
Open to non-Japanese citizens with a strong academic background in a relevant field such as robotics, bioengineering or mechanical science, who meet the MEXT programme conditions, present a focused research proposal, and obtain a supporting supervisor at Osaka University before applying.
full
Funding
€22k
Max
Nov 15, 2026
Deadline
full fundingJapan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
JICA Knowledge Co-Creation Program (Long-Term Scholarships)
For young government officials and professionals from partner developing countries who are nominated/selected through their country's JICA programme (such as JDS) to pursue a master's (and some doctoral) degree in Japan. Applicants apply through the in-country JICA/JDS process during the partner country's call.
full
Funding
€20k
Max
Rolling
Deadline
full fundingKyoto University (funded by the Bai Xian Asia Institute)
Asian Future Leaders Scholarship Program (AFLSP) at Kyoto University
Citizens of eligible Asian countries who meet Kyoto University's academic and admission requirements, are committed to completing the two-year programme and participating in AFLSP leadership activities, and are admitted to a qualifying undergraduate programme. Open to students of all academic disciplines.
full
Funding
€18k
Max
Apr 10, 2027
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are Kyoto University's global rankings?
+
Kyoto University is ranked #57 by QS World University Rankings 2026 and #61 by THE World University Rankings 2026. It is also recognized globally and within Asia, ranking #28 in QS Asia University Rankings 2026 and #16 in THE Asia University Rankings 2026.
What is the academic culture like at Kyoto University?
+
Kyoto University is known for its "spirit of freedom," which encourages independent thought and diverse academic pursuits. The university emphasizes pioneering research with a strong focus on originality and impact across various disciplines.
Are there scholarships available for international students at Kyoto University?
+
Yes, Kyoto University offers scholarships such as the MEXT (Japanese Government) Scholarship, which provides full tuition and a monthly stipend. They also have a tuition fee exemption system for students facing financial difficulties who demonstrate academic excellence.
What are the campus locations at Kyoto University?
+
Kyoto University operates across three main campuses: Yoshida, Uji, and Katsura. Yoshida is the main hub, Uji focuses on natural sciences and energy research, and Katsura integrates technology and science.
What academic programs are offered at Kyoto University?
+
The university offers a wide array of programs across its 10 undergraduate faculties and 18 graduate schools, covering diverse fields from humanities to cutting-edge science and engineering.
Last updated