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Kyoto University

Kyoto, Kansai · Public University · Est. 1897

QS World #46 Admissions open
Type
Public University
Founded
1897
Students
22,000
International
3,000

Kyoto U: the applicant's brief

6 findings
  1. The short answer

    Kyoto University is a public national research university in Kyoto, Japan. It suits applicants who want a large, research-focused university with an international student body.

  2. What you can study

    Kyoto University is a national research university. The subject areas and programmes available are not listed here, so the current programme catalogue should be checked on the university website before applying.

  3. Getting in

    International applicants should apply through Kyoto University’s official admissions information and confirm the entry requirements for the programme they want. Check the application deadline, required documents, language requirements, and any programme-specific steps directly with the university.

  4. What it costs

    Tuition is listed at JPY 640,000 to JPY 860,000. Living costs in Kyoto will be an extra expense, so confirm accommodation, food, transport, and other monthly costs with the university and your own budget planning.

  5. Coming from abroad

    Kyoto University has about 3,000 international students. The language of instruction is not stated, so check the teaching language for each programme, as well as visa requirements, housing options, health insurance, and any document authentication needed before you apply.

  6. How it compares

    There are 571 universities in Japan, so Kyoto University sits in a very large national system. Its public status, research focus, and international student presence make it a strong option for applicants comparing major Japanese universities rather than smaller specialist institutions.

Written from this university's catalogue entry and its cited encyclopedia summary. Figures are only shown where the institution or a cited source publishes them — always confirm fees and entry requirements with the university itself before applying.

Questions about Kyoto U

What type of university is Kyoto University?

It is a public national research university.

Where is Kyoto University located?

It is in Kyoto, in the Kansai region of Japan.

How many students does Kyoto University have?

It has about 22,000 students.

What is the tuition range at Kyoto University?

Tuition is JPY 640,000 to JPY 860,000.

Overview

Kyoto University , or KyotoU , is a national research university in Kyoto, Japan. Founded in 1897, it is one of the former Imperial Universities and the second oldest university in Japan.

Ranking figures are indicative and provided for general guidance — always verify current positions with the official QS rankings and the university.

Tuition fees & costs

Indicative annual tuition

JPY 640,000 – JPY 860,000/yr

Premium tuition

Indicative living cost

Fees vary by programme and are indicative. Confirm exact fees with the university before applying.

Admission requirements

Recognised high-school qualification for undergraduate entry; a relevant bachelor’s degree for postgraduate entry.

English: IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL iBT 90 (varies by programme).

How to apply

  1. 1Check the entry requirements and intake dates for your chosen programme on the official university website.
  2. 2Confirm you meet the entry requirements: Recognised high-school qualification for undergraduate entry; a relevant bachelor’s degree for postgraduate entry..
  3. 3Apply directly through the university admission portal, or via its official application platform.
  4. 4Submit your transcripts and English-proficiency scores (IELTS / TOEFL / Duolingo English Test) and pay the application fee.
  5. 5On receiving your offer letter, accept it and begin your student-visa process for Japan.

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Last updated 29 Aug 2026. Information is provided for guidance — verify with official sources before applying.

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