Study in Japan Checklist
I. Travel Documents
Passport
Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Japan. Check the expiration date carefully. Renew it in advance if necessary.
Keep several photocopies of the personal information page of your passport. You may need to provide copies for various applications and registrations in Japan.
Visa
Obtain the appropriate student visa according to your study program. Make sure to complete all the required application procedures and submit all the necessary documents to the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country.
Carry the original visa approval letter and any other related visa application documents with you during your journey.
II. Academic Materials
Admission Letter
Bring the original admission letter from the Japanese educational institution you will be attending. This is essential for proving your enrollment status and may be required at various administrative procedures.
Make digital and hard copies of the admission letter for backup purposes.
Transcripts and Diplomas
Prepare official transcripts of your previous academic records, both in the original language and in Japanese or English translations. Have them sealed and stamped by the issuing institutions.
Carry the original diplomas or certificates of your previous degrees, along with their translations. These will be used for academic verification and credit transfer, if applicable.
Study Plan and Resume
Prepare a detailed study plan outlining your academic goals, course selection, and research interests in Japan. This can be useful when communicating with professors and academic advisors.
Have an updated resume highlighting your educational background, work experience, skills, and any relevant achievements.
III. Financial Documents
Bank Statements
Bring bank statements from your home bank showing sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs during your study in Japan. The statements should cover a recent period, usually the past few months.
If you have any scholarship award letters or sponsorship agreements, carry the original documents with you.
Credit Cards and Cash
Bring an international credit card that is widely accepted in Japan, such as Visa or Mastercard. Notify your bank in advance about your overseas travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.
Carry a small amount of Japanese yen in cash for immediate expenses upon arrival, such as transportation from the airport to your accommodation.
IV. Clothing and Personal Items
Seasonal Clothing
Research the climate of the city where you will be studying in Japan. Pack appropriate clothing for different seasons, including warm coats for winter, light and breathable clothes for summer, and layers for the transitional seasons.
Consider bringing some formal clothing for academic events, job interviews, or other special occasions.
Underwear and Socks
Pack an adequate supply of underwear and socks. These items are relatively easy to carry and may be more expensive to purchase in Japan.
Footwear
Bring comfortable walking shoes, as you may do a lot of walking in Japan. Also, pack a pair of indoor shoes or slippers, as it is customary to remove outdoor shoes when entering homes, temples, and some public buildings.
Toiletries
Pack travel-sized toiletries such as toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, conditioner, soap, and body lotion for the first few days. You can purchase larger quantities of these items in Japan once you have settled in.
If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring an extra pair of glasses and a sufficient supply of contact lens solution and replacement lenses.
V. Electronics and Accessories
Laptop and Chargers
Bring your laptop, which will be essential for your study and research. Make sure to bring the charger and any other necessary accessories, such as an external hard drive for data storage.
Mobile Phone and Accessories
Check if your mobile phone is compatible with the Japanese mobile network. If not, consider purchasing a new phone in Japan. Bring the charger, earphones, and a power bank for your mobile phone.
Adapters and Converters
Japan uses a different electrical outlet type and voltage (100V, 50/60Hz) than many other countries. Bring the appropriate adapters and converters to charge your electronic devices.
VI. Medical and Health Items
Medical Records
Carry a copy of your medical records, including any prescriptions you are currently taking. This can be useful if you need to see a doctor in Japan.
Medications
If you have any chronic medical conditions and require prescription medications, bring an adequate supply of your medications. Make sure to carry the original prescription and a doctor's letter explaining the need for the medications.
Also, pack some basic over-the-counter medications for common ailments such as cold, flu, headache, and stomachache.
VII. Other Important Items
Japanese Language Learning Materials
Bring some Japanese language textbooks, dictionaries, and study guides to help you improve your language skills. You can also download language learning apps on your mobile phone or tablet.
Address and Contact Information
Write down the address and contact information of your Japanese educational institution, your accommodation, and any important contacts in Japan, such as your academic advisor, classmates, or local friends.
Gift Items
Consider bringing some small gift items from your home country to give to your Japanese host family, classmates, or professors as a gesture of goodwill. These could be traditional handicrafts, food items, or other souvenirs.