Decide what your purpose is in studying abroad.

Think about why you want to study abroad.
Think about what you want to learn and what kind of experiences you want to have while you’re studying abroad.
Think about how you plan to make the most of your study abroad experience after you return home.

Collect information about studying abroad.

Familiarize yourself with the different types of study abroad.
Find out how much it costs to study abroad, including the tuition fees and living expenses.
Collect information about different universities/schools and programs.
Find the study abroad program that best suits your purpose, English ability and grades.
Gather information on the English language exams such as the TOEIC/TOEFL.
Gather information on scholarships.

Make the necessary preparations to meet the selection requirements.

Make sure you understand the selection criteria of the host university.
Make sure you have the support and understanding of your parent(s) or guardian(s).
Plan to study for the English language exams such as the TOEIC/TOEFL.
Prepare the money you’ll need for your study abroad.

STEP
4

Get ready for the internal selection process.

Make sure you have all the necessary documents for your application.
Make sure you meet the selection criteria of your host institution.
Make sure you’ve written your reasons for applying.

Prepare for the screening by the host university.

Submit the necessary documents for the screening.

Prepare for departure.

Obtain a passport.
Obtain a visa.
Book an airline ticket.
Purchase travel insurance.
Make sure you find out about the different ways of transferring money and about communication methods such as cell phones and cell phone carriers between Japan and your study abroad destination.

Make the most of your study abroad experience.

Take classes proactively and participate in extracurricular activities.
Take care of your health and safety.

After returning home

Submit the academic transcript of the host university to your department for credit approval.
Reflect on your study abroad experience. Think about what you have gained and how you would like to utilize this experience in the future.
Present your experiences at study abroad information sessions and advise students who wish to study abroad.
Organize student-led events to promote study abroad.