In a major milestone for education and international mobility, the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) ranked Nepal as the second-highest contributor of foreign students in Japan in its report dated May 1, 2024.. A total of 64,816 Nepali students are currently studying across various Japanese institutions, highlighting a strong and growing academic link between the two countries. This number has steadily increased over the past decade, making Japan one of the top destinations for Nepali youth seeking quality education and global exposure.
Nepal’s Rise in the Japanese Education System
The number of Nepali students in Japan has grown dramatically in recent years. What began as a small trickle of scholars and language learners has now become a large community contributing to Japan’s academic landscape. While China remains the top country sending students to Japan, Nepal has climbed steadily to the second position, surpassing many larger nations. This rise reflects a combination of push and pull factors limited opportunities at home, and Japan’s welcoming policies for international learners. The steady growth is not only a reflection of academic ambitions but also of the trust Nepali families place in Japanese institutions.
Why Japan Is a Popular Destination for Nepali Students
Japan offers a unique mix of high-quality education, cultural depth, safety, and employment opportunities, making it a top choice for thousands of Nepali students every year. Unlike many Western countries, Japan has relatively lower tuition fees and offers a range of scholarship programs through JASSO and universities themselves International students in Japan can legally work up to 28 hours a week, allowing them to manage the high cost of living in big cities like Tokyo through part-time employment.
Moreover, Japan’s strong academic reputation in fields such as engineering, IT, robotics, healthcare, business, and hospitality is a big draw for career-focused students. Many Nepali students begin their journey in Japan by attending Japanese language schools, where they prepare to enter universities, technical colleges, or vocational schools. The country’s structured education system and work-study flexibility have made it a preferred choice for middle-class Nepali families seeking international prospects for their children.
What Nepali Students Study in Japan
Nepali students in Japan pursue a variety of academic and technical programs. While Japanese language education is often the first step, it acts as a foundation for more advanced degrees. After learning the language, students enter undergraduate programs, technical schools, or graduate-level courses in their area of interest.
Popular fields of study include Information Technology, Computer Science, Electronics, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nursing, and Business Administration. Many also enroll in training for caregiving, hotel management, and other skill-based disciplines, which are in demand across Japan. These subjects not only equip students with world-class knowledge but also increase their employability in both Japan and other developed nations. Additionally, Japan’s investment in innovation and technology ensures that students gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge tools and systems, giving them a competitive edge in the global job market.
Life Experience of Nepali Students in Japan
Living in Japan is both exciting and challenging for Nepali students. While the country is safe, clean, and efficient, it also requires a high level of discipline, punctuality, and cultural understanding. Students quickly adapt to Japan’s structured lifestyle, learning to balance work and study while also navigating language and cultural differences.
Most Nepali students live in shared apartments, student dormitories, or accommodations arranged through language schools. Daily life involves early mornings, strict attendance policies, and a mix of classes and part-time jobs. Many work in convenience stores, restaurants, factories, or elder care facilities, earning enough to cover their basic expenses. Cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, and Nagoya have vibrant Nepali communities, temples, and restaurants, which help students feel more at home. Festivals like Dashain and Tihar are often celebrated collectively, allowing them to stay connected with their roots even while abroad.
How It Benefits Both Nepal and Japan
The rise in Nepali student numbers is beneficial for both countries. For Nepal, this trend means more youth gaining international experience, earning money, and bringing back valuable knowledge and skills. Many students send remittances home while studying, and some return to Nepal to start businesses, teach, or work in development projects. Others stay in Japan to pursue careers, contributing to the diaspora’s success.
For Japan, Nepali students help fill labor shortages, especially in the aging population sectors like caregiving, nursing, and factory work. These students contribute to the local economy, pay taxes, and often transition into long-term residents or workers under Japan’s Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa program. As Japan faces demographic challenges, skilled and educated foreign students are seen as a vital part of the solution. This dynamic strengthens the economic and diplomatic ties between Nepal and Japan.
What the Future Holds for Nepali Students in Japan
Looking ahead, the number of Nepali students in Japan is expected to grow even further. Japanese universities are expanding their international programs, increasing English-taught courses, and simplifying visa procedures. The Japanese government is also actively working on policies to retain foreign talent after graduation, offering smoother transitions from student to work visas.
At the same time, Nepal needs to invest in proper career counseling, pre-departure training, and language preparation to ensure that students are well equipped to thrive in Japan. More collaborations between Nepali and Japanese institutions could lead to joint degrees, research projects, and exchange programs that benefit both nations. If managed well, this growing academic relationship can become a long-term source of development, not just for individuals but for the entire country.
