Waseda University

About the university

Waseda University is one of Japan's most prestigious private universities, established in 1882 by Shigenobu Okuma. Located in Tokyo, it is renowned for academic excellence and has produced many of Japan's political, business, and cultural leaders. With approximately 50,000 students across undergraduate and graduate programs, Waseda offers a comprehensive range of disciplines including political science, economics, business, law, literature, science, engineering, and social sciences. The university maintains a strong international focus with numerous exchange programs and partnerships worldwide. Waseda is known for its innovative research, vibrant campus life, and commitment to fostering independent thinking and global citizenship. The university has multiple campuses in Tokyo and maintains strong connections with industry, government, and international organizations. Many graduates pursue successful careers in politics, business, academia, media, and the arts.

Key information

Location: Tokyo, JP
Ranking #181
QS #181
THE #201
US News #432
National ranking #6
Institution type: private

Popular faculties

Political Science
Economics
Business Administration
Law
Literature
Science and Engineering
Social Sciences
Education
Commerce
Human Sciences

Programs (6)

Business Administration
International Relations
Journalism and Communication
Law
Political Science
Sociology

Student body

Total students: 50,000
Undergraduate: 40,000
Graduate: 10,000
International students: 12%

Campus life

Waseda University offers a vibrant campus life with modern facilities including extensive libraries, research centers, sports facilities, cafeterias, and cultural centers. The campus hosts numerous cultural events, festivals, lectures by prominent figures, and academic conferences throughout the year. Students can participate in over 600 student clubs and organizations covering interests from sports to academics to cultural activities. The university's location in Tokyo provides access to a dynamic city with rich cultural heritage, modern amenities, and numerous opportunities for entertainment and professional development. The campus fosters intellectual exchange and collaboration, with students actively engaging in academic discussions and extracurricular activities. Waseda organizes regular events including career fairs, networking sessions, and social gatherings. The university maintains strong traditions while embracing innovation, creating a unique blend of Japanese culture and international perspectives. Tokyo's vibrant atmosphere offers additional opportunities for students to explore Japanese culture, cuisine, and contemporary urban life.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: $500 - $1,200 / per month

Housing options

University residence halls
Private apartments
Shared apartments
Student dormitories
Off-campus housing
Homestay accommodation

Student clubs and organizations

Sports clubs
Cultural clubs
Academic societies
International student associations
Music and arts groups
Volunteer organizations
Debate clubs
Political clubs
Environmental groups
Traditional Japanese culture clubs

Sports

Baseball
Football
Basketball
Volleyball
Tennis
Swimming
Athletics
Rugby
Judo
Kendo
Track and field

Career & internships

Employment rate: 96%

Partner companies

Sony
Toyota
Mitsubishi
Rakuten
Deloitte
PwC
SoftBank

Internships: Waseda University has a strong career services department that facilitates internships and work placements for students. The university maintains extensive partnerships with leading Japanese companies, multinational corporations, government institutions, and international organizations. Students can access internship opportunities through the university's career portal, job fairs, and counseling services. Many programs include optional internships that allow students to gain practical experience in professional settings. The institution participates in international exchange programs and maintains connections with companies worldwide. The university also offers career workshops, networking events, company presentations, and personalized career counseling to help students connect with potential employers. Waseda's strong connections with Japanese business and political communities provide excellent opportunities for internships and employment. The university's reputation and alumni network offer significant advantages for graduates seeking positions in Japan and internationally. Alumni networks provide additional support for professional development and job placement, with many graduates working in top positions in government, business, and academia.

Admission requirements

Required tests

IELTS
TOEFL

Required documents

High school diploma or equivalent
Academic transcripts
Language proficiency certificate (Japanese/English)
Passport copy
Application form
Proof of identity
Entrance examination results
Letter of motivation
CV/Resume
Letters of recommendation
Health certificate

Minimum GPA: 3.5

Tuition costs

$8,000 - $15,000 / per year
Acceptance rate: 17.00%
Scholarships available: Waseda University offers various scholarship and financial aid programs for students, including merit-based scholarships for academic excellence, need-based financial assistance, and specific grants for international students. The university participates in Japanese government scholarship programs such as MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology) scholarships. There are scholarships available for outstanding students, those facing economic difficulties, and students participating in exchange programs. Waseda also offers university-specific scholarships and grants for research activities. International students may access JASSO (Japan Student Services Organization) scholarships and other support programs. The university's financial aid office provides guidance on available scholarship opportunities and application procedures. Additionally, students may be eligible for tuition reduction programs based on financial need and academic performance.

Quick facts

Founded: 1882
Teaching languages: Japanese, English, english, japanese
Study formats: offline

Contact

Website: https://www.waseda.jp
[email protected]
+81 3 3203 4141