Coto School Finder is currently open for applications for the 2026 semester for those interested in studying Japanese in Japan. You can enroll in a 12-month or longer language program at leading Japanese language schools through this process. Here is some important information regarding the student visa application, including the deadline, document preparation, and application procedure.
For those seeking assistance with their application, Coto School Finder offers free support. Feel free to reach out to our coordinators!
Timeline for Japanese Student Visa Intake
When is the right time to apply a student visa to a Japanese language school?
The preparations for studying in Japan on a student visa typically begin six months in advance. While the application deadline is not yet set, it is generally advisable to inquire and start the process as early as possible. This allows for sufficient time to match you with an appropriate school and program, ensure proper document preparation, and minimize any errors in your application.
Additionally, it is recommended to seek support from our team at Coto School Finder to assist you throughout the application process. We can help ensure a smooth and successful application experience for you.
While document submission typically begins six months in advance, we recommend starting to choose a school and preparing your Japanese language studies around 8 months to 1 year before your desired start date. In recent years, school seats have tended to fill up very quickly.
Month 1: Coto School Finder Application Opens
Now is the ideal moment to arrange a free 30-minute consultation with the coordinators at Coto School Finder. During this consultation, we will delve into your future objectives, desired location, and specific requirements to ensure we find the perfect Japanese language program for you. This one-on-one conversation will also provide an opportunity for you to address any questions or concerns you may have regarding studying in Japan.
Month 1 to Month 3: Application Preparation
1. Confirmation of Japanese language school, study length, and term
At Coto School Finder, our team has extensive experience in assisting students of various backgrounds and ages in finding their ideal school in Japan. Based on your profile and preferences, we will provide you with a curated list of excellent school options that align with your needs.
Typically, you can study for up to 2 years in Japan regardless of the term you applied for. Keep in mind that some schools have a structured program duration. Here is how long you can expect to study for each term start:
- January start: 1 year and 3 months
- April start: 1 year or 2 years
- July start: 1 year and 9 months
- October start: 1 year and 6 months
Once you have decided on your preferred school and study length, we will promptly send a confirmation to the chosen institution, solidifying your enrollment process.
2. Japanese language school acceptance and interview
In certain cases, some schools may require a casual 30-minute interview as part of their acceptance process. There’s no need to worry about this interview, as its purpose is for the Japanese language teachers to assess your language proficiency and understand how they can support you in achieving your current and future goals in Japan.
Even if interviews are not mandatory, it is common for schools to ask a few questions about your background and motivation for studying in Japan. We will do our best to answer any inquiries, but if we are unable to respond, we will forward the questions to you so that you can address them directly with the school.
3. Document preparation
Once your school choice is confirmed, the Coto School Finder team will provide comprehensive support throughout the application process. We will help you gather the required documents and ensure that your application is submitted accurately and on time.
Keep in mind that this is the stage where you will have to submit documents like a financial statement and graduation certificate. They will all be kept secure and private.
| Application for Japanese language school | Documents provided by the applicant (you) |
| Documents provided by the financial guarantor | Copy of your passport (including any immigration stamps if you have been to Japan) Passport-style photo ID Diploma and/or transcript of your last education |
| Documents provided by the financial guarantor | A most recent bank statement that shows at least 2,000,000 yen Income tax returns or payslips to prove your or your sponsor’s annual income |
Each application is unique, and the necessary documents differ accordingly. Typically, students require approximately two weeks to gather all the required paperwork, provided they have convenient access to it.
There are some circumstances that might make your application a bit more complex, such as your age and previous long-term visa history in Japan. If you have studied long-term or worked in Japan before on a specific visa, please contact us so we can consult with you directly.
Check out the complete list of documents here.
When applying for a student visa in Japan, you are generally required to show proof of at least 150 hours of Japanese language study. This is an official immigration requirement to demonstrate that you have a basic understanding of the language and can adapt to life and study in Japan.
While some schools may be flexible — accepting self-study records or proof of motivation — most institutions prefer official documentation, such as a JLPT N5 certificate or a completion record from a credited Japanese course. Without proper proof, your visa application could be rejected by immigration authorities if they deem your Japanese level insufficient.
If you haven’t reached 150 hours yet, don’t worry! You can start studying with Coto Online to obtain the required hours. And if you apply through Coto School Finder to find your Japanese language school, you’ll be eligible for free online lessons to help you meet the 150-hour requirement and strengthen your student visa application.
Month 3: Application Deadline
As part of our application flow, we may review your submitted documents and make any necessary corrections or adjustments. We aim to ensure that your application is error-free and meets the requirements set by the Immigration Bureau for your student visa. If any corrections or clarifications are needed, we will follow up with you to address them promptly.
Once this step is completed, the most challenging part of the process is behind you!
Month 4 to Month 6: COE Insurance For Student Visa
This is the time when we do all the hard work. We’ll send your documents to immigration, who will then proceed to screen your application for your Certificate of Eligibility issuance.
The COE takes 2-3 months to be issued, so expect a quiet period from us. We’ll occasionally give you a brief update, but rest assured, your application is still being processed!
We’ll let you know when the school has your COE.
Month 6: Tuition Payment
Once the school verifies your Certificate of Eligibility (COE), you will be required to make the tuition fee payment. Once the payment is confirmed by the school, they will send you the COE. The COE is typically issued approximately one month before your scheduled arrival in Japan and will be delivered to you via postal mail.
Month 7: Apply for Student Visa & Make Arrangements!
Once you obtain your Certificate of Eligibility (COE), you can proceed to apply for a student visa at the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate. The process of converting your COE into a student visa is relatively straightforward and typically takes approximately one week to complete.
It’s time to book your flight and pack the essential things for your trip to Japan!
Ready to study in Japan? Contact us for free support!
FAQ
When should I apply for a student visa In Japan?
Start 6 months in advance. The earlier, the better to secure your spot and prepare documents.
What documents do I need for a student visa in Japan?
Basic requirements include:
- Financial guarantor letter
- Application form
- Passport copy & ID photo
- Diploma/transcript
- Bank statement (min. ¥2,000,000)
How long can I study in Japan with a student visa?
Up to 2 years, depending on the term:
- Jan: 1 yr 3 mo
- Apr: 1–2 yrs
- July: 1 yr 9 mo
- Oct: 1 yr 6 mo
Do I need to speak Japanese?
No, some schools may ask basic questions in a casual interview, but no prior skills are required.
Is Coto School Finder support free?
Yes, completely free. You only pay the school’s tuition after acceptance.
