More Universities in Japan Are Offering Degrees in English──Kikokushijo Academy Releases Free Guide

In recent years, the number of universities and academic programs in Japan offering degree programs taught entirely in English has been steadily increasing. In response to this trend, Kikokushijo Academy (KA) has released Bluebook Select University Prep: University Admissions for Returnee and Bilingual Students, a guidebook that compiles information on English-taught university programs in Japan as well as the latest developments in Comprehensive Selection Admissions (formerly AO Admissions). The guide provides an overview of domestic universities and faculties where students can earn degrees in English. It also introduces recent trends in Comprehensive Selection Admissions and examines the ongoing internationalization of Japanese higher education. Traditionally, students seeking to leverage their English proficiency have often looked primarily toward universities abroad. In recent years, however, the number of English-taught degree programs within Japan has grown rapidly. This shift has been driven by efforts to internationalize Japanese universities and by the expansion of Comprehensive Selection Admissions, which place greater emphasis on holistic evaluation. Increasingly, universities are assessing applicants based not only on standardized academic examinations, but also on English proficiency across the four skills, research and inquiry activities, leadership experience, extracurricular involvement, essays, and interviews. The guidebook includes commentary from education analyst Osamu Inoue on the internationalization of Japanese universities. It also introduces new English-medium programs scheduled to launch from 2027 onward, including the University of Tokyo's UTokyo College of Design and Tohoku University's Gateway College. Focusing primarily on the 2026 admissions cycle, the guide includes information on universities such as Akita International University, Waseda University, Keio University, Sophia University, and Ritsumeikan University. It organizes key admissions information, including eligibility requirements, admissions methods, required English qualifications, and application timelines. The guide addresses common questions for students and parents, including what types of activities are valued, how TOEFL and IELTS scores are used, and what should be included in personal statements. Beginning in the 2026 academic year, Kikokushijo Academy will launch a 'University Prep' program for students from 9th to 12th grade, supporting them with application essays, interviews, and standardized test preparation.