FAQs
- Q1Can I complete the Master’s or Doctoral Program entirely in English?
- A1Most coursework is conducted primarily in Japanese. Some faculty members can provide individual research supervision in English, and a thesis or dissertation may be written in English with prior approval.
However, not all required courses, seminars, examinations, administrative procedures, fieldwork, or practica are necessarily available in English.
Contact the prospective supervisor before applying and confirm all language requirements. - Q2Is a Japanese-language test score required?
- A2The formal application requirements are specified in the current application guidelines.
Even where a particular Japanese-language certificate is not listed as an application document, sufficient Japanese may still be necessary for coursework, seminars, participant communication, fieldwork, daily life, and career development.
Advanced Japanese proficiency is indispensable for Clinical Psychology practica and other client-facing activities. - Q3Am I able to take the entrance examination for the programs, even if I have not graduated from a college or master’s program in psychology?
- A3Yes, you can take the entrance examination for the programs (both of master’s and doctoral programs), because there are no requirements regarding previous education. However, please keep in mind that you will need sufficient academic knowledge and skills to complete the courses in the programs.
- Q4Must I contact a faculty member before applying?
- A4Yes. Applicants to the Master’s and Doctoral Programs in Psychology must obtain prior consent from a prospective supervisor.
Applicants who list a second-choice supervisor should also obtain that faculty member’s consent. - Q5Does a supervisor’s consent mean that I will be admitted?
- A5No. Prior consent means that the faculty member is willing to be listed as the prospective supervisor. It does not exempt the applicant from the entrance examination and does not guarantee admission.
- Q6Must I first become a non-degree research student?
- A6No. Applicants who meet the eligibility requirements may apply directly to the Master’s or Doctoral Program.
Becoming a non-degree research student is not a general prerequisite for degree admission. - Q7Can non-degree research students earn credits or a degree?
- A7No. Non-degree research students cannot earn academic credits and are not eligible to receive a master’s or doctoral degree.
They may attend relevant courses only with the permission of the academic advisor or course instructor.
Non-degree Research Student Information - Q8What documents are required?
- A8Requirements differ by program, admission cycle, educational background, and eligibility category.
A research proposal, academic certificates, transcripts, and information on the prospective supervisor are generally required. Doctoral applicants are also normally required to submit a master’s thesis or equivalent research work.
Always use the checklist in the current official application guidelines. - Q9How much money will I need?
- A9You should budget for:
・ application and university fees;
・ housing and initial moving expenses;
・ monthly living expenses;
・ health insurance and medical costs;
・ books and research costs;
・ transportation and travel; and
・ emergency expenses.Use the official University pages for current figures.
Admission and Tuition Fees
Living Expenses - Q10Can I receive a scholarship?
- A10Scholarships are available, but admission does not guarantee scholarship funding.
Some scholarships require application before arrival, while others are available only after enrollment. Eligibility, deadlines, and selection procedures differ.
Scholarships - Q11Is university housing guaranteed?
- A11No. University accommodation has limited capacity.
Applicants should check application periods and also consider private housing.
Housing - Q12How do I obtain a COE and Student visa?
- A12Follow the instructions provided by the University after acceptance.
Students residing outside Japan generally require a Certificate of Eligibility before applying for a Student visa.
COE and Visa Procedures - Q13Where can I obtain advice about life in Japan?
- A13The University offers international student counseling, tutor support, Japanese-language education, housing information, and assistance with administrative procedures.
Support for International Students - Q14Where can I find safety and disaster-preparedness information?
- A14Consult the University’s SAFE LIVING guide.
SAFE LIVING - Q15Is emergency financial assistance available?
- A15Limited emergency assistance or short-term loans may be available to eligible international students after screening.
Emergency Support - Q16Can I work as a psychologist after graduating?
- A16This depends on the country, professional role, qualification, previous education, completed coursework, practicum experience, and language proficiency.
Japanese professional qualifications do not automatically authorize practice in another country or region. Applicants should consult the relevant licensing authority in the jurisdiction where they intend to work. - Q17Is the curriculum of the master’s program designed to fulfill the requirements to become Certified Public Psychologist(Japan)?
- A17The master’s program offers the curriculum required to qualify for the national examination for Certified Public Psychologist.
- Q18Is the curriculum of the master’s program designed to fulfill the requirements to become a Clinical Psychologist?
- A18Yes. Students who complete the designated clinical psychology curriculum in the master’s program are eligible to apply for the certification examination administered by the Foundation of the Japanese Certification Board for Clinical Psychologists.
- Q19Can I take the entrance examination online?
- A19No. Entrance examinations are conducted in person at the University of Tsukuba. While the application is submitted through the online Web Entry System, applicants must come to the University of Tsukuba to take the examination. Please check the current application guidelines and the “Information and Instructions for Examinees” for the latest details.
Master’s guidelines / Doctoral guidelines