University Options in Tokyo for IGCSE, A Levels & IBDP Students – International & Local Campuses

Tokyo offers diverse university options for students with IGCSE, International A Levels, or IBDP. This guide covers international branch campuses and local universities that accept these qualifications, helping expat and local families make informed choices.

International branch campuses in Tokyo

American universities:

• Temple University Japan Campus – accepts A Levels, IBDP; US-style education, strong in Business, Communications, Liberal Arts
• Lakeland University Japan – accepts A Levels, IBDP; US-style programmes, Business focus

Other international programmes:

• Sophia University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes (FLA, FST), strong in Liberal Arts, Sciences, International Relations
• Waseda University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes (SILS, SPSE), strong in Liberal Arts, Sciences, Engineering
• Keio University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes (PEARL), strong in Economics, Business

Size and establishment of international branch campuses

Well-established campuses:

• Temple University Japan Campus – established 1982 (over 43 years); 2,000+ students; Tokyo’s oldest international branch campus, well-established US-style education
• Sophia University – established 1913 (over 110 years); 12,000+ students; English-medium programmes established 2006; prestigious private university
• Waseda University – established 1882 (over 140 years); 45,000+ students; English-medium programmes established 2004; one of Japan’s top private universities
• Keio University – established 1858 (over 165 years); 33,000+ students; English-medium programmes established 2011; prestigious private university

Recent additions:

• Lakeland University Japan – established 1991 (over 34 years); 500+ students; smaller US-style campus

Note: Tokyo’s international branch campuses and English-medium programmes are well-established with proven track records. Most have been operating for 30–165+ years and have 500–45,000+ students, providing a stable, international learning environment in Japan’s capital.

Local universities accepting IGCSE/A Levels/IBDP

Top-tier universities:

• University of Tokyo – accepts A Levels, IBDP; Japan’s top university, highly competitive, strong in Sciences, Engineering, Medicine, Humanities
• Tokyo Institute of Technology – accepts A Levels, IBDP; strong in Engineering, Sciences, Technology
• Hitotsubashi University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; strong in Economics, Business, Social Sciences

Other universities:

• International Christian University (ICU) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; bilingual (English/Japanese), Liberal Arts focus
• Rikkyo University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, Liberal Arts focus
• Meiji University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, wide range of subjects

Admission requirements

IGCSE: Typically need 5 subjects at grade C or above, including English and Maths. For competitive programmes, A/A* grades may be required.

A Levels: Usually 3 A Levels with grades AAB-AAA for competitive programmes. University of Tokyo is highly selective and may require AAA or higher.

IBDP: Typically 32-38 points minimum, with higher points (38+) for competitive programmes. University of Tokyo often requires 38+ points with specific Higher Level requirements.

English language: IELTS 6.0-7.0 or equivalent (varies by university and programme). Some universities require Japanese language proficiency (JLPT N2-N1) for programmes taught in Japanese.

Additional requirements: Many universities require entrance exams (EJU - Examination for Japanese University Admission), interviews, or essays.

Tuition fees for expat/international students

International branch campuses:

• Temple University Japan: JPY 1,200,000–1,500,000 per year (approximately USD 8,000–10,000). Significantly lower than US home campus fees.
• Lakeland University Japan: JPY 1,000,000–1,300,000 per year (approximately USD 6,700–8,700).

Local universities (English-medium programmes):

• Sophia, Waseda, Keio: JPY 1,000,000–1,800,000 per year (approximately USD 6,700–12,000). Private universities typically higher fees.
• University of Tokyo, Tokyo Tech: JPY 535,800 per year (approximately USD 3,600). National universities have standardised fees, significantly lower than private universities.

Note: Fees vary by programme and university type (national vs private). Many universities offer merit-based scholarships (MEXT scholarships, university-specific scholarships) that can cover 50–100% of tuition. Always check current fees directly with universities as they change annually.

Why choose Tokyo?

• World-class education – home to Japan’s top universities
• Cultural experience – immerse in Japanese culture while studying
• Career opportunities – strong job market in Technology, Finance, Engineering, Consulting
• International environment – diverse student body, many English-medium programmes
• Strategic location – gateway to Asia-Pacific markets

Tips for expat families

• Language considerations – many programmes are English-medium, but learning Japanese enhances opportunities
• Entrance exams – prepare for EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission) if applying to Japanese-taught programmes
• Scholarships – explore MEXT scholarships and university-specific scholarships
• Accreditation – ensure the university is recognised by Japanese Ministry of Education
• Cost of living – Tokyo is expensive; factor in accommodation and living costs

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How Tutopiya supports university preparation

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This guide is based on publicly available information. Always check the latest admission requirements directly with universities.