Japan is making significant strides toward its ambitious goal of hosting 400,000 international students by 2033. As of May 2024, the country had already surpassed a major milestone, exceeding its pre-pandemic benchmark of 312,000 students—three years ahead of schedule, according to a report by ICEF Monitor.

Data from the Japan Student Services Organisation (JASSO) shows that the number of international students has now reached 336,708, marking a 21% increase from the previous year. The steady rise signals Japan’s growing appeal as an academic destination and positions it well on the path to meeting its long-term target.

Of the total international student population, the vast majority (96%) are self-funded, with a small portion receiving scholarships from the Japanese government or foreign sources. Higher education institutions account for 68% of enrolments, while Japanese language schools make up the remaining 32%.

Among those enrolled in higher education (229,467 students), 40% are in undergraduate or junior college programmes, 25% are pursuing graduate studies, 33% are enrolled in professional training colleges, and 2% are taking university preparatory courses.

Students from Asia continue to dominate the international student demographic, with 92.5% hailing from the region. China, Nepal, Vietnam, Myanmar, and South Korea collectively account for nearly 80% of total enrollments. Notably, Nepal recorded a year-on-year growth of 70%, reflecting rising interest in Japanese education.

Urban centres remain the primary hubs for international students. The Kanto and Kinki regions, home to major cities such as Tokyo and Osaka, accommodate more than 75% of the international student body.

In terms of academic focus, 70% of international students are pursuing degrees in the humanities or social sciences, while 14% are enrolled in science or engineering programmes. Japan’s education policy continues to emphasise internationalisation, and the current enrolment figures underscore both rising demand and improved access for students across Asia.