Ritsumeikan University Overview
Ritsumeikan University is one of Japan’s most prestigious private universities, established in 1900 and based in Kyoto, Japan. It is known for its global outlook, innovative research, and strong academic reputation in fields such as international relations, policy science, engineering, and business. With campuses in Kyoto, Osaka, and Shiga, the university serves a diverse student population, including a growing number of international students. It offers programs in both English and Japanese and maintains partnerships with over 400 institutions worldwide.
Ritsumeikan University Offered Programs
- International Relations
- Global Liberal Arts
- Business Administration
- Policy Science
- Science and Engineering
- Information Science and Engineering
- Life Sciences
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Sport and Health Science
- Image Arts and Sciences
- Law
- Sociology
- Economics
- Letters (Humanities)
- Graduate Programs in English (e.g., International Relations, Science and Engineering, Economics)
Ritsumeikan University Tuition Fees
| Program Type | Annual Tuition (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate (Japanese-taught) | ¥1,200,000 – ¥1,600,000 |
| Undergraduate (English-taught) | ¥1,300,000 – ¥1,700,000 |
| Graduate Programs | ¥1,200,000 – ¥1,800,000 |
| Application Fee (one-time) | ¥30,000 – ¥35,000 |
Ritsumeikan University Required Documents and Admission Requirements
- Completed Application Form
- Official Transcripts from High School or University
- Proof of English or Japanese proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, JLPT)
- Personal Statement or Essay
- Letters of Recommendation
- Passport Copy
- Application Fee Payment Proof
- Additional Documents for Graduate Programs (e.g., Research Plan, Portfolio if applicable)
Ritsumeikan University Deadlines
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start | October – November (varies) |
| Application Deadline | December – January |
| Notification of Results | February – March |
| Enrollment Procedures | March – April |
| Semester Start (Spring) | April |
| Semester Start (Fall) | September |
Ritsumeikan University Scholarships Offerings
Ritsumeikan University offers a wide range of scholarships, especially for international students. These include tuition reduction schemes (up to 100%), entrance scholarships, and scholarships provided by the Japanese government (MEXT) or private organizations. Scholarships are often awarded based on academic merit, financial need, and program of study.
Ritsumeikan University Rankings
| Ranking Type | Position |
|---|---|
| Japan Ranking | Top 30 |
| World Ranking | ~800 |
Ritsumeikan University Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate for international programs ranges between 20% and 40%, depending on the competitiveness of the program and the applicant’s academic background.
Ritsumeikan University Student Campus Life (with accommodation options)
Student life at Ritsumeikan University is vibrant and multicultural. Students can join over 450 student organizations, including academic clubs, sports teams, and cultural groups. Each campus offers modern facilities including libraries, sports centers, cafeterias, and research labs.
Accommodation options include university dormitories and private apartments. The university provides international dormitories with support for daily life and integration into Japanese society. Dormitory rooms are typically furnished and include utilities.
Ritsumeikan University Cost of Living
Living in Japan as a student comes with moderate expenses, especially in cities like Kyoto or Osaka. Students should budget for accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, and personal expenses. The cost of living may vary depending on lifestyle and housing choices.
| Expense Type | Monthly Cost (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | ¥30,000 – ¥60,000 |
| Food | ¥25,000 – ¥40,000 |
| Transportation | ¥5,000 – ¥10,000 |
| Utilities & Internet | ¥5,000 – ¥10,000 |
| Health Insurance | ¥2,000 |
| Personal Expenses | ¥10,000 – ¥20,000 |
| Total | ¥77,000 – ¥142,000 |
Ritsumeikan University Contact Informations
- Website: Ritsumeikan University official site
- Phone Number: +81-75-813-8300
- Email Address: ru-inter@st.ritsumei.ac.jp
- Address: 56-1 Toji-in Kitamachi, Kita-ku, Kyoto 603-8577, Japan
Ritsumeikan University Online Application
Ritsumeikan University offers a fully online application process for both undergraduate and graduate programs. Applicants can submit forms, upload documents, and track their application status through the online admission portal. Early applications are highly encouraged due to limited seats in English-based programs.