Can I study in Japan without IELTS?

Possibly, depending on the school and program. There is no nationwide IELTS waiver for every international applicant.

Do Japanese language schools require IELTS?

IELTS is often not their main requirement, but each school sets its own admission and documentation rules.

Can a Medium of Instruction letter replace IELTS?

Only if the exact university and faculty explicitly accept it for that intake. Obtain confirmation in writing.

Do English-taught Japanese universities require Japanese?

Some degree programs may not require Japanese for admission, but English evidence is commonly required and Japanese helps with daily life and employment.

Can Nepali Students Study in Japan without IELTS? University & Language School Guide

Understand when IELTS may not be required, when English proof is still necessary, and how language schools, Japanese-taught and English-taught degrees differ.

By SJLA University Admissions Team · Published 2026-08-03 · Updated 2026-08-03

Quick Answer

Some Nepali students can study in Japan without IELTS, but there is no Japan-wide exemption. Japanese language schools usually focus on Japanese-study and immigration requirements rather than IELTS. Japanese-taught universities may prioritise JLPT/EJU while still requesting English proof. English-taught degrees commonly require IELTS, TOEFL or another accepted alternative.

Requirement by Pathway

Pathway	IELTS situation
Japanese language school	Often not the main admission test; confirm school rules
Japanese-taught university	Japanese/EJU central, but English proof may still be required
English-taught university	English proficiency normally required in an accepted form
Senmon gakko	Japanese ability is central; other requirements vary by school
Graduate school	Depends on program, supervisor and admissions guide

Accepted Alternatives May Include

TOEFL iBT
Other named English tests
Institution-specific examination
Prior education in English, only when the university explicitly accepts it
Formal waiver under published conditions

Never assume an English-medium letter automatically replaces IELTS. Obtain written confirmation from the faculty.

Japanese-Taught University Route

Official guidance notes that universities may request certificates of both Japanese and English proficiency. Many use EJU and their own screening. A strong JLPT score does not automatically waive English if the faculty lists an English test.

English-Taught Degree Route

Study in Japan provides general English-score guidance, but the university's current requirement controls. Check minimum overall score, section minimums, test validity, accepted home/online versions, score-report method and deadline.

Verification Email

Write to admissions with your program, intake, citizenship, previous education language and proposed English evidence. Ask: “Does this document meet the English proficiency requirement for this exact intake?” Save the written answer.

Avoid These Claims

“Japan never needs IELTS”
“MOI is accepted by every university”
“IELTS guarantees admission”
“Language school automatically leads to an English degree”

Official Sources

University admission and general English guidance: studyinjapan.go.jp/en/planning/learn-about-schools/universities/
Examination guidance: studyinjapan.go.jp/en/planning/examination/
Japanese language school requirements: studyinjapan.go.jp/en/planning/learn-about-schools/japanese-language-schools/

The safe answer is program-specific: check the exact university, faculty and intake in writing.