So I've already graduated from a high school in the US, I'm only 18, but I was wondering if it would be possible for me to attend a senior year of high school in Japan to better improve my reading, speaking, etc in the language. I'm going to try and do 2 years of university in Japan after doing 2 years back home. But I want to avoid doing that now, seeing as it's expensive and my language skills still aren't the best. If it was possible, what would I have to get? Student visa, permission from a school (then register myself?), a place to stay, way to pay for it... Speaking of which, what kind of fees or charges are students faced with attending high school in Japan?
Japan - 6 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
With regards to the language, the Japanese school authorities would expect you to have some sort of basic understanding. (Forget Kanji for know) ( Take for example, you want to attend high school in the U.K and you did not speak a word of english you won't be accepted). If you get to grips with the basics, you can apply for a high school on the back of good grades. The fees are not going to be cheaper where you are at. From what i have seen, it varies but it is just as or as expensive as most schools in the states. So unless your folks will be sponsoring you, then it will definately be a costly experience. As a estimate, expect to pay $50k and up for fees which would include accomodation and necessities like clothes, food, etc
2 :
As a general rule, I don't think public high schools in any country accept someone who has already graduated from high school because that would be a waste of taxpayers' money. What you can do at this point is either attend a Japanse language school in Japan before going to college, or attend one of the few universities that offer classes in English and take Japanese along with other classes. Either way, this will make you eligible for student visa. Costs will vary depending on the school and the location, but if you attend a school in Tokyo expect to spend 2,000,000 yen or so a year in tuition and living expense. Note also that it's not easy to 'transfer' to a Japanese university, even from another university in Japan, let alone from a school in the US, unless they have some kind of exchange program.
3 :
Personally, I think it is a lost cause. Really. You failed to indicate whether or not you have sufficient Japanese skills to operate on a daily basis at the level, which is of prime importance. But I am guessing NOT. Of course, yes, you are going to have to have a place to stay. Schools frown upon students living in cardboard boxes around the stations, especially if you try to cut down on the commute time and set up your box outside the school. So figure in about $1000/month just for that. But as I said before, I have never seen this kind of situation actually, and in reality, take place. From the disjointed nature of your post, I am going to hazard a guess and say not only is it hopeless, but useless. You will be lost. You would be much better off finding some Japanese classes where you live and study there. Much cheaper. As for fees, inconsequential at public schools. At private schools, well, I pay $500/month as a round figure for my daughter to attend. BUT, and this is a big but, you have to show residency in the area for the public schools. How do you do that? Goes back to the $1000/month figure for an apartment and utilities. And even then, there is going to be extreme sucking of air back through the teeth on what to do. And I think the final answer is going to be a flat out NO. Jesus H. Christ, why do I even bother with answering these questions?
4 :
Someone already suggested it, but the best solution to your problem is to attend a private Japanese language school. They will accept anyone who can pay the tuition and they can probably get you a temporary educational visa in Japan for the time you are studying. Good luck!
5 :
Unless you already know native level Japanese, there's no way you'd survive one day in a school Japanese kids go to. Sorry, this just isn't practical. I'd suggest you learn Japanese at the college level here.
6 :
A senor in high school is already expected to have learned most required kanji (2000+) , read and write Japanese. Your best option is: 1. Take Japanese classes at the University in your home country. 2. If you have a lot of money you can attend a private Japanese language school.
Read more discussion :
