Kwansei Gakuin University
| Area of Study | Languages |
|---|---|
| Course Language(s) | Japanese, English |
| Average Credit Load | 10-16 Credits |
| Semester dates | Fall September - FebruarySpring April - August |
About the University
Kwansei Gakuin University, colloquially known as Kangaku, is a non-denominational Christian private and coeducational university in Japan. Kwansei Gakuin is one of the most prestigious private schools in Japan, dating back to 1889, when it was founded in Kobe by the American missionary Reverend Walter Russell Lambuth, M.D. It is now a comprehensive and integrated educational institution spread across six campuses: Nishinomiya Uegahara, Nishinomiya Seiwa, Kobe Sanda, Osaka Umeda, Tokyo Marunouchi, and Takarazuka.
Location
Nishinomiya, JapanBefore the 15th century, the city of Nishinomiya was a gathering place for puppet handlers (傀儡師 kugutsu shi). A Shinto shrine in the centre of the city was the focus of their settlements. This shrine, located to the west of Kyoto, is the origin for the name Nishinomiya, whose meaning is the most commonly accepted "a west shrine". The Ebisu deity, who was thought to be a fisherman and to make people's commercial activities successful, was enshrined in the shrine of Nishinomiya.
Make sure you go to Koshien Stadium to see one of Japan's oldest baseball teams. Fans of the Tigers are known to be the most fanatical and dedicated. The stadium itself is the oldest in Japan and is famous for having a grass field, dirt infield, and being visited by Babe Ruth.
Exchange information
Courses available
The Contemporary Japan Program is specially designed for incoming exchange students to Kwansei Gakuin University. Exchange students are offered a choice between two study tracks that will define the main focus of their time at KGU, the “Japanese Language Track” and the “Modern Japan Track”. Exchange students are also able to select elective courses to learn more about “Contemporary Japan” from a variety of aspects such as language, culture, society, economy, and politics.
Accommodation
KGU guarantees accommodation to incoming exchange students who request it, but not all students will be able to be placed in the accommodation of their choice.
Homestay costs ~2,200 JPY/day includes 2 meals/day on weekdays, 3 meals/day on weekends and holidays, and utilities. Note: KGU may not be able to find a placement for exchange students due to their preferences, dietary needs or health conditions.
Dormitory costs ~35,000-52,500 JPY/month, and excludes meals and utilities.
Cost of living
The average monthly living expenses in Tokyo are approximately YEN 100,000 per month including accommodation. Exchange student required to enroll into Japanese National Health Insurance after arrival. Insurance fee is approximate YEN 1,500 month.
Visa requirements
When the student is accepted, the International Center will send an official Letter of Acceptance from KGU University and a document for visa application “Certificate of Eligibility for a Status of Residence” to the student’s home institution. Generally, it will take two months (three months for graduate program) to send you these documents after the application deadline.
Other information
Exchange students can apply for a scholarship (JASSO, HUMAP, etc.) through KGU along with their application to KGU.
