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Kyoto University

Kyoto, 🇯🇵 Japan Public
#2 National #57 QS World #61 THE #39 ARWU
Kyoto University campus
Founded 1897 22,426 students 13% international Multiple Campuses $6.2k - $6.5k/yr

About Kyoto University

Kyoto University, located in the historic city of Kyoto, Japan, is a prestigious national research university founded in 1897. It is recognized globally for its academic excellence, innovative research, and commitment to fostering a spirit of academic freedom. The university attracts a diverse body of students and researchers from around the world, contributing significantly to various fields.

Academics


Kyoto University comprises 10 faculties, 18 graduate schools, 13 research institutes, and 23 educational institutes. The university emphasizes independent thinking and a multidisciplinary approach to education and research. Notable programs include those in Economics, Engineering, Agriculture, Energy Science, Global Environmental Studies, and Informatics. The institution is a world-renowned research hub, boasting numerous Nobel laureates among its alumni and faculty, particularly in Physics, Medicine, and Chemistry.

International Students


Kyoto University actively welcomes international students, with approximately 2,600 students from over 110 countries and regions. The university offers various English-taught degree programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels, including the Kyoto University International Undergraduate Program (Kyoto iUP), which does not require prior Japanese language proficiency. Comprehensive support services are available, encompassing visa assistance, tuition and scholarship information, housing, and daily life guidance. The Kyoto University International Entrepreneurship Club (KUIEC) also provides a platform for international students to develop entrepreneurial skills and expand their networks.

Campus & Location


Kyoto University's main campus is situated in Kyoto, a city celebrated as the "heart and soul" of Japan, rich in culture and history. The city offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation, with numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, shrines, and temples. The university has three main campuses: Yoshida, Uji, and Katsura, each contributing to its academic and research endeavors. Kyoto provides a conducive environment for study and research, with a relatively lower cost of living compared to larger cities like Tokyo or Osaka, and convenient transportation options like cycling.

Career Outcomes


Kyoto University graduates demonstrate strong career prospects, with an employability rate of approximately 98% within six months of graduation. The university's strong industry connections and focus on cutting-edge research contribute to graduates being highly sought after globally. Career services for international students include basic job-hunting guidance and opportunities for internships. The university also fosters a vibrant startup culture, with initiatives like Innovation Hub Kyoto and the "Visiting Entrepreneur" program, supporting the translation of research into business opportunities.

Highlights

  • Prestigious national research university
  • Numerous Nobel laureates
  • Diverse international student body
  • English-taught programs available
  • Historic Kyoto location

Subject Areas

ScienceEngineeringMedicineAgricultureHumanities

Student Life & Support

Visa Support Campus Housing Work on Campus Work Placements Sports Facilities Scholarships Available

Photos

Kyoto University photo 1Kyoto University photo 2Kyoto University photo 3Kyoto University photo 4Kyoto University photo 5Kyoto University photo 6Kyoto University photo 7Kyoto University photo 8Kyoto University photo 9

Programs Offered at Kyoto University (20)

Offers programs in:

Business & Management Education Engineering Humanities Law Medicine & Health Natural Sciences Physics & Chemistry Social Sciences

Bachelor Programs (7)

Undergraduate Program in Economics

Economics

Economics
undergraduate program in economicsinternational studentbachelor economicsbachelor's degreeeconomic analysis
48 months Japanese Full-time

$535,800/yr

Undergraduate Program in Education

Education

Education
bacheloreducationjapanundergraduate
48 months Japanese Full-time

$535,800/yr

Undergraduate Program in Engineering

STEM

Engineering

Engineering
Engineering bachelor programstudy engineeringUndergraduate Program in Engineering program abroadbachelor degreeundergraduate
48 months Japanese Full-time

$535,800/yr

Undergraduate Program in Letters

Humanities

Humanities
liberal arts degreeHumanities English-taught Japanbachelor in Humanities in Japanstudy Humanities in Englishbachelor in Humanities
48 months Japanese Full-time

$535,800/yr

Undergraduate Program in Integrated Human Studies

Interdisciplinary Studies

Interdisciplinary Studies
bachelorhumanintegratedinterdisciplinaryinterdisciplinary studies
48 months Japanese Full-time

$535,800/yr

Undergraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences

STEM

Pharmaceutical Sciences

Pharmaceutical Sciences
study pharmaceutical sciences in kyotobachelor pharmaceutical sciences in japanpharmaceutical sciences at kyoto universityundergraduate program in pharmaceutical sciencespharmaceutical sciences program
48 months Japanese Full-time

$535,800/yr

Undergraduate Program in Science

STEM

Science

Science
babachelorbachelorsbsbsc
48 months Japanese Full-time

$535,800/yr

Master Programs (7)

Master's Program in Management (MBA)

Business Administration

Business Administration
master in business administration in kyotostudy business administration in japanmasters in business administrationmasters business administration degreemasters business administration in japan
24 months English Full-time

$535,800/yr

Master's Program in Civil Engineering

STEM

Civil Engineering

Civil Engineering
civilengineeringjapanmastermaster's
24 months Japanese Full-time

$535,800/yr

Master's Program in Economics

Economics

Economics
economicsjapanmastermaster'sprogram
24 months Japanese Full-time

$535,800/yr

Master's Program in Advanced Energy Science and Engineering

STEM

Energy Engineering

Engineering
advancedenergyenergy engineeringengineeringjapan
24 months English Full-time

$535,800/yr

Master's Program in Global Environmental Studies

STEM

Environmental Studies

Environmental Studies
Master in Environmental Studiesstudy Environmental Studiesmaster of Environmental Studiesmaster's in Environmental Studiesstudy Environmental Studies in Japan
24 months English Full-time

$535,800/yr

Master's Program in Human and Environmental Studies

Human and Environmental Studies

Human and Environmental Studies
environmental studies degreehuman and environmental studies degreehuman and environmental studies programhuman and environmental studies university in kyotojapanese-taught human and environmental studies
24 months Japanese Full-time

$535,800/yr

Master's Program in Informatics

STEM

Informatics

Informatics
msc informaticsenglish-taught masters informaticsmaster of informaticsmasters informatics in kyotoenglish-taught masters informatics in japan
24 months Japanese Full-time

$535,800/yr

PhD Programs (6)

PhD Program in Agriculture

STEM

Agriculture

Agriculture
PhD in agriculturedoctorate in agriculturedoctoral program agriculturePhD program agriculturestudy agriculture in japan
36 months Japanese Full-time

$535,800/yr

PhD Program in Biostudies

STEM

Biostudies

Biology
biologybiostudiesdoctoraldoctoratejapan
36 months Japanese Full-time

$535,800/yr

PhD Program in Energy Science

STEM

Energy Science

Energy Science
phd energy sciencephd in energy sciencestudy energy science in japanenglish phd energy sciencephd energy science kyoto
36 months English Full-time

$535,800/yr

PhD Program in Global Environmental Studies

STEM

Environmental Studies

Environmental Studies
phd environmental studiesenvironmental studies at kyoto universityenvironmental studies degree abroaddoctorate environmental studiesphd in environmental studies
36 months English Full-time

$535,800/yr

PhD in Law

PhD Program in Law

Law

Law
japanjurisprudencekyotolawlegal
36 months Japanese Full-time

$535,800/yr

PhD Program in Medicine

STEM

Medicine

Medicine
phd in medicinedoctorate medicinestudy medicine in japanphd medicinemedical degree
48 months Japanese Full-time

$535,800/yr

Kyoto University Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate

Acceptance Rate Very Selective (<20%)
Intakes Spring, Fall
Tuition (per year) $6.2k - $6.5k/yr
Housing (monthly) ~$33500
Teaching Language Japanese, English
Accreditation
Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and TechnologyJapan University Accreditation Association (JUAA)National Institution for Academic Degrees and University Evaluation (NIAD-UE)EQUISABEST21

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Frequently Asked Questions About Kyoto University

Common questions from international students considering Kyoto University.

What is the acceptance rate at Kyoto University?

Kyoto University is classified as "Very Selective (<20%)" by admissions selectivity. Acceptance rates vary by program — competitive programs and graduate degrees typically have lower acceptance rates than undergraduate programs.

How much does Kyoto University cost for international students?

Tuition at Kyoto University ranges from $6.2k - $6.5k/yr per year. Costs vary by degree level and program. International students may also need to budget for housing (approximately $33500/month), books, and living expenses.

What is Kyoto University ranked globally?

Kyoto University holds the following rankings: QS World #57, Times Higher Education #61, ARWU #39, #2 in Japan. Rankings vary by methodology and subject area — for the most accurate picture, check the specific subject rankings for your intended field of study.

Are scholarships available at Kyoto University?

Yes, Kyoto University offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. Available aid varies by program, nationality, and academic merit. We recommend checking each program's funding page and applying early — many scholarships have separate deadlines from the main admission application.

When does Kyoto University start its semesters?

Kyoto University has intakes starting in Spring, Fall. Application deadlines typically fall 3-6 months before the semester start date. International students should apply earlier due to visa processing times — we recommend submitting applications 6-9 months ahead of the intended start date.

How many English-taught programs does Kyoto University offer?

Kyoto University offers 5+ programs taught in English, accessible to international students without local language proficiency. These span Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels across multiple disciplines.

Where is Kyoto University located?

Kyoto University is located in Kyoto, Japan 🇯🇵. The city offers an international student-friendly environment with access to academic facilities, accommodation, and cultural amenities.

What programs does Kyoto University offer?

For specific details about Kyoto University, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

How do I apply to Kyoto University?

For specific details about Kyoto University, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

Are there scholarships available at Kyoto University?

For specific details about Kyoto University, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

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