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Overview of Kanazawa University Exchange Programs
Located in the historic Ishikawa Prefecture along the Sea of Japan, Kanazawa University is a major national university known for combining traditional cultural heritage with cutting-edge research in science, engineering, medicine, and human sciences.
The Kanazawa University Exchange Program (KUEP) and the Japanese Language and Culture Program enable undergraduate and graduate students from partner universities worldwide to study in Japan for one semester (5 months) or one academic year (11 months).
Selected exchange candidates benefit from 100% tuition exemptions under inter-university reciprocal agreements and are nominated for monthly living stipends through the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO).
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Program Framework & Financial Benefits
| Feature | Details |
| Host Institution | Kanazawa University, Ishikawa, Japan |
| Target Audience | Regular enrolled students at partner institutions with bilateral exchange agreements |
| Study Duration | Semester Track: 5 Months (April–August or October–February) Full-Year Track: 11 Months (April–February or October–August) |
| Tuition Coverage | 100% Waived (Admission, examination, and tuition fees are fully exempted) |
| Living Allowance | JASSO Exchange Scholarship: ¥80,000 / month (Awarded to top candidates) |
| Primary Intakes | Spring Semester: April Entry | Fall Semester: October Entry |
Program Options & Track Structures
Exchange students at Kanazawa University enroll under one of two primary academic frameworks:
- Kanazawa University Exchange Program (KUEP):
- Special Auditor Status: Enrolls in credit-bearing courses offered across Kanazawa University’s colleges (Human & Social Sciences, Science & Engineering, Medical Sciences, Transdisciplinary Sciences). Available in both English and Japanese tracks.
- Special Research Student Status: For graduate students focusing primarily on independent research under a designated professor without taking regular lecture credits.
- Japanese Language & Culture Program:
- Specialized program focusing on intensive Japanese language study, regional traditions, and cultural heritage research. Designed primarily for students majoring in Japanese studies at their home institutions.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Kanazawa University Exchange Program 2027, applicants must fulfill the following mandatory requirements:
- Enrollment Status: Must be a regular, degree-seeking student enrolled at an official partner university that maintains an active exchange agreement with Kanazawa University throughout the study period.
- Academic Record: Strong academic performance (typically a GPA of 3.00 out of 4.00 or upper-tier cohort standing).
- Language Proficiency:
- English Track: TOEFL iBT 72+, IELTS 5.5+, TOEIC 700+, or official proof of English-medium instruction.
- Japanese Track: JLPT N2 or above (or equivalent demonstrated ability).
- Return Commitment: Must return to their home university to complete their primary degree after finishing the exchange period.
- JASSO Scholarship Requirements: Must hold citizenship of a country maintaining diplomatic relations with Japan and not receive other external monthly scholarships exceeding ¥80,000.
Step-by-Step Application Process
1.Home University Nomination:Confirm exchange eligibility with your international office.
Contact your home university’s exchange coordinator. Your institution must officially nominate you to Kanazawa University via the online nomination system.
2.Submit Application Dossier:Complete the KUEP online portal application.
After nomination, complete the online application webform. Upload official transcripts, study plans, recommendation letters, and language test certificates.
3.Institutional Screening & JASSO Selection:Conducted by Kanazawa University selection board.
Kanazawa University reviews academic qualifications, proposed course plans, and assigns university housing and JASSO scholarship recommendations.
4.Receive Acceptance & Certificate of Eligibility (COE):Official Acceptance Letters issued.
Accepted students receive official admission certificates. Kanazawa University processes the COE for Japanese student visa issuance.
5.Visa Application & Arrival in Kanazawa:Finalize visa and housing arrangements.
Obtain your Student Visa at the nearest Japanese embassy/consulate and arrange housing in Kanazawa University dormitories (Kakuma or Kakuma-machi).
Key Deadlines & Timelines for 2027 Intakes
| Milestone | Spring Semester 2027 (April Entry) | Fall Semester 2027 (October Entry) |
| Nomination Deadline | September 25, 2026 | February 5,2027 |
| Application Deadline | October 16, 2026 | February 26, 2027 |
| Notification of Acceptance | December 2026 | June 2027 |
| Program Start Date | Early April 2027 | October 1, 2027 |
Required Application Documents Checklist
Ensure all documentation is submitted in English or accompanied by certified translations:
- Kanazawa University Online Application Form
- Official Certificate of Enrollment from home university
- Official Academic Transcripts (certified by home institution)
- Formal Letter of Recommendation from an academic advisor or department head
- Proof of Language Proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, TOEIC, or JLPT certificate)
- Detailed Study Plan / Learning Agreement outlining intended courses or research
- Copy of Valid Passport (Bio-data page)
- Passport-Style Photograph
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FAQs
Can independent students apply for the Kanazawa University Exchange Scholarship?
No. Candidates must be enrolled at a university that holds an active official inter-university or inter-departmental exchange agreement with Kanazawa University. Independent applications are not accepted.
Is university housing guaranteed for exchange students?
Yes. Admitted exchange students are given priority placement in student dormitories located on or near the Kakuma Campus (such as Student Quarters SAKURA), providing affordable, convenient accommodation during their stay in Japan.
How is the JASSO Exchange Scholarship awarded?
You do not apply for the JASSO scholarship separately. Kanazawa University nominates high-performing exchange applicants directly to JASSO based on the academic merit and study plans submitted in their exchange application packet.
Final Tip From ScholarshipsHive
Pro Tip for Applicants: When filling out your study plan, be specific about course choices or research objectives. Clearly demonstrating how Kanazawa University’s academic offerings fit into your home degree requirements substantially increases your chances of being nominated for the JASSO ¥80,000/month living stipend!
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