Ninja Your Way into Studying in Japan for Free

Picture this: You, in Tokyo, strolling past the bright lights, stopping to sample fried octopus balls as you go. Or how about this: you, wandering through the cherry blossoms in Kyoto as you explore ancient temples. You, soaking up the sun on the beaches of Okinawa while studying Japanese. You, charging down the slopes of Niseko in the winter.

Sure, you're probably thinking, that sounds great. But there's one little problem - Japan is expensive. It's true that Japan has a reputation for being pricey, but that doesn't have to be a deal breaker. If you've always wanted to study in Japan, now's your chance. We've pulled together a few resources that can help you study in Japan for free - or very close to it.
Money Saving Tips Before You Study in Japan

Research your options and keep in mind that studying abroad is likely to incur some costs, whether or not you manage to snag a scholarship. Work out what your budget is, and think about ways you can live within your means once you get to Japan.
1. Apply for Any (and Every!) Scholarship for Studying in Japan

Now is the time to find out which scholarships you might be eligible for and apply for them. Be thorough in your application and make sure to fill it out completely. There are several different organizations that offer scholarships for both short-term and long-term study in Japan.

Japanese Government The Japanese government offers a few scholarships to foreign students. The JASSO International Student Scholarship for short-term study in Japan can go from three months to one year, while the Japanese Government (Monbukagakusho) Scholarship Japanese Studies Program lasts for one academic year.

Visit the National Diet building!

Private Scholarships There are several scholarships available each year for US students who want to study abroad in Japan. Here are some possibilities:
The Bridging Project
Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship
Boren Scholarships
Fulbright Japan
STA Travel, Inc.
65 Grants and Scholarships

Other Scholarship Options If you are involved with any university groups like an honor society, or even a fraternity or sorority, find out if they offer any scholarships for overseas study. Explore what's on offer from your home university or from universities in Japan. If you choose to go with a study abroad program, there may be scholarship opportunities for you there, so be sure to inquire with your advisor.

If your scholarship application efforts fall short, consider fundraising for study abroad. Getting other people excited about your trip will undoubtedly strengthen your motivations for studying abroad.
2. Book Cheap Accommodations

Where you choose to sleep and eat can have a big impact on your study abroad budget, especially in Japan. Consider cutting costs by doing a homestay with a Japanese family, an option offered by several study abroad programs. In some cities, like Kyoto and Osaka, there are also opportunities for students to stay for free at Buddhist temples. This can be arranged independently by contacting the temples directly, and is best done in advance. Keep in mind that you will be expected to follow the rules of the temple, and be respectful at all times.
3. Consider Direct Enrollment in a Japanese University

Sometimes it pays to skip a program and apply straight through a Japanese university. Although the trade-off may be less support as you head overseas, you can save a considerable amount of money by dealing directly with a university, as well as enjoy a considerable number of other perks. Try contacting the International Student Centers of Japanese national universities for more information, or check out the GoOverseas direct enrollment at international universities database for more options.