MBBS in Japan

Studying medicine in Japan, officially offered as a 6-year Igakushi (Doctor of Medicine or MD) program, is a great option if you're looking for high quality medical education at a globally recognized university. The annual tuition fee ranges from JPY 3,500,000 to JPY 7,500,000+ (approx. INR 20.71 Lakh to INR 44.38 Lakh), depending on the university you choose.  

To apply, Indian students must qualify NEET, meet the university's admission requirements, and demonstrate Japanese language proficiency, usually JLPT N2 or N1. Some universities may also require the Examination for Japanese University Admission (EJU) as part of the selection process.

In the sections ahead, you'll learn about the top universities, fees, eligibility, admission process, scholarships, and career opportunities for MBBS in Japan.  

Top Universities for MBBS in Japan 

Japan is home to some of the most prestigious medical universities in Asia, many of which are ranked globally for their research output, faculty quality, and medical programs.   

These universities offer a 6-year Bachelor of Medicine (MD) degree, the Japanese equivalent of an MBBS.   

Here’s a list of the top universities in Japan for international medical students, with updated QS 2027 rankings and tuition fee ranges:  

University Name	QS World University Ranking 2027
University of Tokyo	#39
Kyoto University	#64
Osaka University	#95
Tohoku University	#102
Nagoya University	#156
Kyushu University	#171
Hokkaido University	=179
Keio University	=213
Chiba University	851-900

Source: QS World University Ranking 2027  

Public national universities in Japan offer subsidized fees for all students, while private institutions have comparatively higher tuition.  

MBBS Course Duration and Curriculum in Japan  

The MBBS equivalent in Japan is a 6-year program called Bachelor of Medicine (MD) or Igaku-ka. 

The first 2 years are focused on basic medical sciences and Japanese language learning, followed by 4 years of clinical practice and internships at affiliated hospitals.  

Here’s a breakdown of the course structure:  

• Total Duration: 6 years (including internship)  
• Degree Name: MD / Bachelor of Medicine (MBBS equivalent)  
• Medium of Instruction: Primarily Japanese (some English support available in the early years).  

Now, let’s understand the course curriculum as per the clinical phases:   

Course Phase	Duration	What You'll Study
Pre-Clinical Phase	Years 1–2	Anatomy  Physiology   Biochemistry   Microbiology   Basic Japanese language training
Clinical Phase	Years 3–4	Pathology   Pharmacology   Surgery  Internal Medicine  Case Studies  Hospital Observations
Clinical Internship	Years 5–6	Clinical rotations in Surgery   Pediatrics  Gynecology  Psychiatry  Emergency Medicine

Note: After completing the MBBS course, students must pass the National Medical Licensing Exam in Japan to practice medicine in Japan. 

MBBS in Japan Eligibility for Indian Students

Getting into a medical university in Japan involves more than just good academic scores. Since most MBBS programs are taught in Japanese, universities also evaluate your language proficiency, entrance exam performance, and overall readiness for medical studies.

To help you understand the process better, here are the key eligibility and admission requirements for MBBS in Japan for Indian students:

1. Academic Qualifications

To apply for an MBBS program in Japan, students generally need:

• Completion of Class 12 or an equivalent qualification from a recognised board 
• Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as compulsory subjects in Class 12 
• Strong academic performance, as admission to medical universities is highly competitive 
• A minimum age of 17 years at the time of admission 

2. Entrance Exam Requirements

Most Japanese medical universities have their own admission process and may require one or more entrance examinations.

Common requirements include:

• EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission), required by many universities to assess academic preparedness 
• University-specific written entrance examinations and personal interviews, where applicable 
• NEET qualification for Indian students who wish to remain eligible to practise medicine in India after graduation, as per National Medical Commission (NMC) guidelines  

3. Japanese Language Proficiency

Since most medical programs in Japan are delivered in Japanese, language proficiency is an essential part of the admission process.

• JLPT N2 as the minimum level for admission 
• JLPT N1 may be preferred, especially for clinical training and patient interaction 

4. English Language Requirements

Most Japanese-medium MBBS programs do not require English language test scores. However, some universities offering English-supported coursework may ask for: 

• IELTS: Usually 6.0 or above 
• TOEFL iBT: Usually 70 or above 

The exact score requirements vary depending on the university.

5. Required Documents

Along with the application form, universities generally ask students to submit:

• Class 10 and Class 12 academic transcripts 
• Valid passport 
• NEET scorecard (for Indian students, where applicable) 
• JLPT and EJU scorecards, if required 
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) 
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs), if requested 
• Medical fitness certificate 
• Passport-sized photographs and other university-specific documents

Cost of MBBS in Japan

One of the biggest advantages of studying medicine in Japan is that your tuition fees depend on the type of university you choose. National and public universities receive government funding, making them much more affordable than private medical universities.

Here's an overview of the MBBS in Japan fees across different types of medical universities in Japan:

Type of University	Annual Tuition Fee (JPY)	Annual Tuition Fee (INR)
National Universities	JPY 535,800 – JPY 642,960	INR 3.17 Lakh – INR 3.80 Lakh
Public Universities	JPY 600,000 – JPY 1,000,000	INR 3.55 Lakh – INR 5.92 Lakh
Private Universities	JPY 3,000,000 – JPY 7,500,000+	INR 17.75 Lakh – INR 44.38 Lakh+

Note: Tuition fees may vary by university and generally do not include accommodation, meals, health insurance, books, or personal expenses.

Scholarships for MBBS in Japan

Studying medicine in Japan can be expensive, especially at private universities. Fortunately, several government and university-funded scholarships can help reduce your tuition and living expenses. 

Since most scholarships are competitive, it's a good idea to check the eligibility criteria and apply well before the deadline.

1. Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship

• Eligibility: Open to international students from eligible countries who have completed 12 years of schooling, have a strong academic record, meet the prescribed age criteria, and qualify through the Embassy or university selection process.
• Coverage: Covers full tuition and admission fees, a monthly living stipend, round-trip airfare, and Japanese language training (where applicable). Funding for medical programs can extend up to 7 years.

2. JASSO Monbukagakusho Honors Scholarship

• Eligibility: For privately funded international students with a strong academic record, financial need, and a valid Japanese student visa.
• Coverage: Provides a monthly stipend of JPY 48,000 (approx. INR 28,400) for up to one academic year.

3. ASEAN–Japan Medical Scholarship Programme (AJMSP)

• Eligibility: Available to students from ASEAN member countries admitted to eligible medical universities in Japan.
• Coverage: Covers full tuition, admission fees, living expenses, textbooks, and return airfare.

4. Aichi Scholarship Program

• Eligibility: Open to international students under 35 years who meet the academic and Japanese language requirements and intend to work in Aichi Prefecture after graduation.
• Coverage: Covers full tuition, admission and examination fees, a monthly stipend of JPY 150,000 (approx. INR 88,800), and travel expenses.

5. Asian Future Leaders Scholarship Program (AFLSP)

• Eligibility: Offered through participating universities to outstanding Asian students with strong academic records, leadership potential, and admission to an eligible program.
• Coverage: Covers tuition fees and provides financial support for living expenses. Benefits vary by university.

Note: Scholarship eligibility, benefits, and application deadlines may change each year. Always refer to the official scholarship or university website for the latest information.

MBBS in Japan Admission Process  

Applying to a medical university in Japan involves a few important steps, from choosing the right university to meeting the admission requirements and securing your student visa.

Since each university follows its own application process and deadlines, it's important to understand the requirements in advance and keep your documents ready.

Here’s the step-by-step admission process for MBBS in Japan for Indian students:  

• Step 1: Shortlist Universities  
  Choose national, public, or private medical universities in Japan listed in WDOMS and suitable for international students.  
• Step 2: Check Eligibility Criteria   
  Verify that you meet academic requirements, NEET qualification, JLPT N1/N2 scores, and any English test requirements (if applicable).  
• Step 3: Prepare Required Documents   
  Collect Class 12 transcripts, NEET scorecard, JLPT or English scores, passport, SOP, LORs, and medical fitness proof.  
• Step 4: Take University Entrance Tests/Interviews   
  Some universities conduct their own exams and interviews (online or in person) to test academic and language readiness.  
• Step 5: Apply on University Portal   
  Submit an online application with all required documents and pay the application fee before the deadline.  
• Step 6: Receive Offer Letter   
  Successful candidates receive a conditional or confirmed admission offer from the university.  
• Step 7: Pay the Tuition Deposit   
  Pay the initial tuition fee deposit (usually 10–30% of the first-year fee) to secure your seat.  
• Step 8: Apply for a Student Visa   
  Submit your COE (Certificate of Eligibility) and other documents at the nearest Japanese Embassy/Consulate.  
• Step 9: Fly to Japan & Enroll   
  Complete on-campus formalities, attend orientation, and begin the program (typically in April or October intakes).  

Start your university search and JLPT preparation at least a year in advance to boost your chances of acceptance.  

Career Opportunities After MBBS in Japan

Your career options will depend on whether you plan to build your career in Japan or return to India after graduation.

If you wish to practise medicine in Japan, you'll need to:

• Pass the Japanese National Medical Licensing Examination 
• Complete the required residency training 
• Meet the Japanese language requirements for clinical practice 

If you plan to return to India, you'll need to fulfil the National Medical Commission (NMC) guidelines, including clearing the National Exit Test (NExT) to practise medicine.

Here are some of the popular career options after completing an MBBS in Japan:

Job Roles after MBBS in Japan	Approx. Annual Salary (JPY)	Approx. Annual Salary (INR)
Medical Doctor	JPY 8.5 Million – 10 Million	INR 50.3 Lakh – 59.2 Lakh
Medical Researcher	JPY 4.7 Million – 14.5 Million	INR 27.8 Lakh – 85.8 Lakh
Clinical Research Associate	JPY 4.5 Million – 6 Million	INR 26.6 Lakh – 35.5 Lakh
Resident Doctor	JPY 3.6 Million – 4.86 Million	INR 21.3 Lakh – 28.8 Lakh
University Research Assistant	JPY 0.4 Million – 0.5 Million	INR 2.4 Lakh – 3 Lakh

Source: Glassdoor

Note: Salaries are approximate and can vary based on your experience, employer, city, medical specialty, and licensing status.

Conclusion

Studying medicine in Japan can be a rewarding choice if you're looking for globally recognised education, advanced clinical training, and long-term career opportunities. While the admission process may seem challenging at first, understanding the eligibility requirements, language expectations, and application process in advance can help you make informed decisions and plan your journey with confidence.

If you're ready to take the next step but aren't sure where to begin, book a free 1:1 counselling session with upGrad experts. From shortlisting the right universities to understanding scholarships, admissions, and visa requirements, our experts will guide you through every stage and help you move closer to your dream of studying medicine in Japan.