At a glance
What a student from Maharashtra needs to know before deciding — clearly and honestly.
The education
Top universities and a growing number of English-taught master's. MEXT scholarships can cover fees and living.
The true cost
Moderate national-university fees; scholarships and part-time work help. Living costs vary by city.
Safety & visa
Check the latest MEA advisory before you travel. After graduation, a “Designated Activities” job-search status can last up to 1 year in total; Japanese boosts hiring.
Top universities
A selection of universities popular with Maharashtra students, with indicative tuition.
After you graduate
Post-study work rights are the most important factor — and the most likely to change. Here is the position as of today.
After graduation you can change to a “Designated Activities” status of residence to look for a job. It is granted for 6 months at first and can be extended once, for up to 1 year in total. Once you are employed, you move to a suitable work status of residence.
Immigration rules, eligibility and salary thresholds change frequently and without notice. Always verify the latest official guidance before you apply, and never treat any figure here as a guarantee of future entitlement.
- 6 months at first, extendable once
- Up to 1 year in total to find a job
- Move to a work status once employed
- Japanese strongly boosts hiring
Visa, work & money rules
The official rules behind your visa, work, family and budget planning. Rules change often, so confirm each point on the official government or university website before you apply.
Student visa
Your university first obtains a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) for you. You then apply for the Student visa, and you receive a Residence Card when you arrive.
Visa & permit fees
The Student visa fee for Indian applicants is INR 500 under the current fee schedule. You apply for the visa after your Certificate of Eligibility is approved.
Work while studying
With “Permission to Engage in Activity Other than that Permitted under the Status of Residence”, you can work up to 28 hours a week, and up to 8 hours a day during long university vacations. Work in prohibited sectors is not allowed.
Family & dependants
Your spouse and children can apply for a “Dependent” status of residence, if you can show that you are able to support them.
Proof of funds
Japan does not publish a single national minimum amount for students. You must show enough funds to cover your tuition and living costs, and this is assessed through the COE process.
Health insurance
If you live in Japan for three months or more, you enrol in National Health Insurance (NHI), which covers a large share of your medical costs.
Scholarships
Options include the MEXT (Japanese Government) Scholarship and JASSO or university scholarships. Indian applicants apply through the Embassy or the university, depending on the scheme.
ROI calculator
Enter your own numbers to see total investment and an indicative payback period. This is a guide only — not financial advice.
Japan — Master's ROI
Indicative · based on today's assumptions
Figures are indicative only and vary with fees, salaries, exchange rates and visa rules. Treat this as one data point — not conclusive evidence or financial advice.
Safety snapshot
Based on Ministry of External Affairs guidance — always check the latest official advisory before you travel.
Check the latest MEA advisory
Check the latest guidance from the Ministry of External Affairs and the Embassy of India in Tokyo before you travel, follow earthquake and typhoon preparedness guidance, and register on MADAD (madad.gov.in).
Emergency contacts
Dial 110 or 119. MEA helpline: 1800 11 3090.
Register with the embassy
Register at madad.gov.in on arrival so the nearest Indian Mission can reach you in an emergency.
Food, culture & community
What to expect day-to-day — and how to feel at home far from home, as a student from Maharashtra.
Food & groceries
Indian groceries and restaurants in Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya. Vegetarian options need careful checking.
The Maharashtra community
Established Indian community in Tokyo (Nishikasai) and other cities; festivals celebrated.
Maha-Alumni Connect lets you speak with students from your own district who studied at these very universities.
Compare Japan with other destinations.
See the same degree across countries, or check the latest safety guidance before you commit.