Yamanashi Gakuin University - iCLA
4,200
Number of Students
500
International Students
12
Number of Programs

University Description:
International College of Liberal Arts (iCLA) at Yamanashi Gakuin University offers a truly global learning experience in the heart of Japan. Located near the stunning Mt. Fuji, iCLA combines a rigorous liberal arts curriculum with small, interactive classes taught in English. Students from around the world enjoy a multicultural campus, personalized academic support, and opportunities to explore Japanese language and culture. With a strong focus on critical thinking, creativity, and global citizenship, iCLA prepares you for success in an interconnected world—all while immersing you in one of Japan’s most beautiful regions.
Term system & start dates:
Bachelor: Semester
1. Term: September 7, 2026 to December 22, 2026
Application Deadline: April 13, 2026
Orientation: September 1, 2026
2. Term: March, 2027 to August, 2027
More dates
1. Term: August, 2027 to December, 2027
Download documents:
Bachelor: Semester
1. Term: September 7, 2026 to December 22, 2026
Application Deadline: April 13, 2026
Orientation: September 1, 2026
2. Term: March, 2027 to August, 2027
More dates
1. Term: August, 2027 to December, 2027
| Study Area | Study Course | Bachelor | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term 1 | Term 2 | ||
| Natural Sciences | Computer Sciences | ||
| Business | Entrepreneurship | ||
| Marketing | |||
| Economics | |||
| International Trade | |||
| Business Administration | |||
| Languages, Cultures, Leisure | Languages and Cultures | ||
| Japanese Studies | |||
| Social Sciences | Psychology | ||
| Arts | Fine Arts | ||
| Music | |||
| Liberal Arts | |||
University Facts
University Description
International College of Liberal Arts (iCLA) at Yamanashi Gakuin University offers a truly global learning experience in the heart of Japan. Located near the stunning Mt. Fuji, iCLA combines a rigorous liberal arts curriculum with small, interactive classes taught in English. Students from around the world enjoy a multicultural campus, personalized academic support, and opportunities to explore Japanese language and culture. With a strong focus on critical thinking, creativity, and global citizenship, iCLA prepares you for success in an interconnected world—all while immersing you in one of Japan’s most beautiful regions.Bachelor: Semester
1. Term: September 7, 2026 to December 22, 2026
Application Deadline: April 13, 2026
Orientation: September 1, 2026
2. Term: March, 2027 to August, 2027
More dates
1. Term: August, 2027 to December, 2027
Visa Information:
iCLA applies for your Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) at the Immigration Bureau of Japan. Once your CoE is issued, your CoE will be sent to you. Visit an Embassy or Consulate of Japan with the CoE to apply for your student visa to enter Japan.Why should you come and study with us?
While Yamanashi Gakuin University is a smaller institution and not ranked among global research giants, its strength lies in offering a personalized, high-quality liberal arts education in English. At iCLA, you’ll benefit from:American-style Liberal Arts Curriculum – Explore diverse subjects and develop critical thinking skills in small, interactive classes.
Global Community – Join a multicultural student body with peers from over 40 countries.
Immersive Japanese Experience – Learn Japanese language and culture while living near the iconic Mt. Fuji.
Individual Attention – Enjoy close interaction with professors and tailored academic support, something large universities often can’t provide.
Gateway to Global Opportunities – Degrees are fully accredited in Japan and recognized internationally, opening doors to graduate programs and careers worldwide.
Instead of focusing on rankings, iCLA emphasizes quality, diversity, and a transformative educational experience—perfect for students who value global perspectives and cultural immersion.
Study opportunities:
The International College of Liberal Arts (iCLA) at Yamanashi Gakuin University offers a wide range of programs and services designed to make international students feel welcome and supported. Here’s what stands out:English-Taught Curriculum
All courses are taught in English, leading to a Bachelor’s degree in International Liberal Arts. Majors Offered:
Global Business & Economics
Political Science
Interdisciplinary Arts
Japan Studies
Psychology
Data Science
Japanese Language Courses
Credit-bearing classes from beginner to advanced levels are available for international students.
Experiential Workshops: Unique for-credit workshops in traditional Japanese arts, music, theatre, martial arts, and more.
Small Class Sizes: Low student-to-faculty ratio (around 5:1), ensuring personalized attention and interactive learning.
On-Campus Dormitory
A multicultural residential environment that fosters community and cross-cultural exchange.
Counseling & Support Services
Confidential counseling in English and Japanese, plus a multilingual administration office for academic and non-academic assistance.
Clubs & Festivals
Active student clubs and cultural events throughout the year.
Global Environment
Over 80% international students from 55+ nationalities, and faculty educated overseas, creating a truly global campus atmosphere.
Great Location
Just 90 minutes from Tokyo, in Yamanashi Prefecture near Mt. Fuji—a safe, scenic, and culturally rich setting
Scholarship possibilities for international students:
Scholarships are offered to international degree-seeking students at the International College of Liberal Arts (iCLA) at Yamanashi Gakuin University.1. Merit-Based Tuition Waiver Scholarships
Covers 10%, 25%, 50%, 75%, or 100% of tuition, facility, and equipment fees.
Renewable annually for up to 4 years based on GPA and performance.
2. University of Tomorrow Scholarship
Fully funded: full tuition, matriculation, facility fees, dormitory costs, and a ¥50,000 monthly stipend for 4 years.
3. Peace Bell Scholarship
Covers tuition, dormitory fees, and facility expenses for the entire 4-year program.
4.Torch Relay High Endeavor Scholarship
Partial support: covers one-third of tuition and fees for one academic year
Internships:
iCLA actively supports internships through its Career Support Program, which includes:- Collaboration with external professional agencies specializing in recruiting and training foreign talent.
- Career seminars (7 sessions per year) covering topics like the Japanese job market, interview preparation, and networking.
- One-on-one career counseling in English for personalized guidance. [icla.ygu.ac.jp]
Students are encouraged to improve their Japanese language skills by the third year, as this significantly enhances internship and job prospects in Japan.
Application Deadline:
mid November for spring intakemid April for fall intake
Application requirements:
You have completed at least one academic year at your home institution by the time of entry to iCLA.You have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale or equivalent.
You have a TOEFL score of 80 (iBT), 550 (iTP), Cambridge FCE, IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.*
After reviewing your documents iCLA will invite you to a 20 minutes interview which will be conducted in English.
Orientation:
Orientation for international students at iCLA is held just before the start of each semester:Spring Intake (April start): Orientation typically takes place in late March, about one week before classes begin.
Fall Intake (September start): Orientation is usually scheduled for late August, also about one week before the semester starts
Examperiod:
end of July and mid DecemberAccessibility:
iCLA emphasizes a student-first policy and offers student counseling services in English and Japanese for mental health and personal issues.Working while studying:
Permission to Work: International students on a student visa can apply for a work permit from the Japanese Immigration Bureau.Hours Allowed: Typically up to 28 hours per week during the semester and up to 40 hours per week during long vacations.
Types of Jobs: Common part-time jobs include language tutoring, café or restaurant work, convenience stores, and roles in tourism or hospitality.

University Fees
Application Fee
54 EUR 10,000 JPYBachelor Semester Study Abroad
5,155 EUR 948,000 JPYExchange rate: 1 JPY = 0.0054 EUR | Last updated: 01.04.2026
City & Living
City features:
Nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains and just 90 minutes from Tokyo, Kōfu offers international students the perfect balance of natural beauty and cultural richness. Enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji, explore historic sites like Takeda Shrine, and relax in traditional hot springs. Known as Japan’s wine capital, Kōfu delights with local specialties such as Hōtō noodles and Koshu grapes. With its safe, welcoming community and affordable cost of living, Kōfu is an ideal destination for students seeking an immersive Japanese experience in a serene yet accessible settingAddress in Kofu, Japan:
Yamanashi Gakuin University - iCLA2-4-5 Sakaori
Kofu, Japan
Population:
199,000Closest Airport:
Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) – about 132 km from KōfuSightseeing:
Top Attractions in KōfuShosenkyo Gorge – One of Japan’s most beautiful gorges, famous for hiking trails, autumn foliage, and the Shosenkyo Ropeway offering panoramic views of Mt. Fuji and the Kōfu Basin.
Takeda Shrine – Dedicated to the legendary samurai lord Takeda Shingen, a key figure in Japanese history.
Kōfu Castle Ruins (Maizuru Castle Park) – Historic castle grounds with cherry blossoms in spring and scenic views of the city.
Yumura Onsen – A traditional hot spring resort perfect for relaxation after exploring the city.
Kai-Zenkoji Temple – A large Buddhist temple with historical ties to Takeda Shingen.
Local Wineries (Katsunuma area) – Yamanashi is Japan’s wine capital; enjoy tours and tastings of Koshu wine.
Nearby Highlights
Mt. Fuji & Fuji Five Lakes – Iconic views, hiking, and cultural experiences just an hour away.
Hottarakashi Onsen – An open-air hot spring with spectacular views of Mt. Fuji.
Nishizawa Gorge – Another stunning valley for nature lovers and hikers.
Fuji-Q Highland – A famous amusement park near Mt. Fuji for thrill-seekers.
Shopping:
Explore Koshu Yumekoji, a traditional-style alley near Kōfu Station with local wine, crafts, and sweets. For convenience, visit Celeo Kōfu mall or Okajima Department Store. Bargain hunters will love Mega Don Quijote, while wine lovers can shop at Yamanashi Wine Kingdom. Don’t miss farmers’ markets for fresh grapes and peaches—perfect for tasting Yamanashi’s local flavor.How to get to university:
The campus is about 10 minutes by taxi or 15 minutes by bus from Kōfu StationHousing On-Campus:
International students can live on campus or off campus. If you decide to live off campus, the iCLA Administrative Office will assist you with finding accommodation and other administrative matters. Accommodation Fee: Around ¥180,000–¥200,000 per semester - Room Type: Private rooms (approx. 6.5 m² / 70 ft²) with shared facilities in each unit (mini kitchen, showers, toilets, laundry).Amenities: Bed frame, desk, chair, bookshelf, air conditioner, Wi-Fi, and optional rental items (futon bedding, mini-fridge, bicycle).
Community: International and Japanese students live together, fostering a multicultural environment.
Meal Plan: Students in dorms are enrolled in a weekday meal plan (3 meals/day), included in the accommodation system
Housing Off-Campus:
4-month semester: Standard apartment: ¥160,000–¥240,000 (approx. <input class= Apartments near campus (e.g., LaVie II, Shalom Furuya, Leopalace series).Premium apartments (e.g., Sunlit Square, Leonext Aster)

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