Keio University: Study in Japan’s Ivy League

Keio University is one of Japan’s most prestigious and oldest private universities, often referred to as part of Japan’s “Ivy League.” Known for its academic excellence, influential alumni network, and innovative programs, Keio continues to attract international students seeking a world-class education in the heart of Tokyo. This guide explores everything you need to know about studying at Keio University—from its history and campuses to admissions, tuition, and student life.

Overview of Keio University

Founded in 1858 by Yukichi Fukuzawa, Keio University began as a school for Western studies and has since grown into a top-tier research university. It is Japan’s oldest private higher education institution and a member of the “Top Global Universities” initiative supported by Japan’s Ministry of Education.

Keio is known for its excellence in liberal arts, business, medicine, and international studies. The university emphasizes the values of independence, critical thinking, and leadership—qualities reflected in its graduates who often become leaders in politics, academia, and business.

Campuses and Locations

Keio University has six main campuses, each with its own focus and atmosphere:

• Mita Campus (Tokyo): The main campus, home to the Faculties of Law, Business and Commerce, and Letters. It represents the intellectual and administrative heart of Keio.

• Hiyoshi Campus (Yokohama): A hub for first- and second-year undergraduate students, with modern facilities and a vibrant student life.

• Yagami Campus (Yokohama): Houses the Faculty of Science and Technology, offering cutting-edge research and labs.

• Shonan Fujisawa Campus (SFC): Known for interdisciplinary studies in policy management, environment, and information technology.

• Shinanomachi Campus (Tokyo): Home to the Faculty of Medicine and Keio University Hospital, one of Japan’s top medical institutions.

• Tsukigase Campus (Gifu): A serene research and training site for outdoor education and fieldwork.

The variety of campuses allows Keio students to experience both the dynamism of Tokyo and the tranquility of Japan’s natural surroundings.

Academic Faculties and Programs

Keio offers 10 undergraduate faculties and 14 graduate schools, covering a wide range of academic fields.

Undergraduate Faculties

1. Letters

2. Economics

3. Law

4. Business and Commerce

5. Medicine

6. Science and Technology

7. Policy Management

8. Environment and Information Studies

9. Nursing and Medical Care

10. Pharmacy

Graduate Schools

Keio’s graduate programs are highly research-oriented, with notable schools in Media Design (KMD), Business Administration (Keio Business School), and Law (Law School).

English-Taught Programs

Keio offers several programs taught entirely in English, ideal for international students.

• GIGA Program (Global Information and Governance Academic Program) at the Shonan Fujisawa Campus focuses on information technology and global policy.

• PEARL Program (Programme in Economics for Alliances, Research and Leadership) in the Faculty of Economics provides a globally oriented economics education.

• Double Degree Programs with partner universities like Sciences Po (France), University of Cologne (Germany), and Peking University (China).

Admissions for International Students

Keio University welcomes international applicants through a range of admissions pathways.

1. English-Based Admissions

For programs like GIGA and PEARL, students can apply using standardized tests such as SAT, ACT, or IB scores. English proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS are also required.

2. Japanese-Based Admissions

Applicants fluent in Japanese can apply through the general entrance examinations or AO (Admissions Office) process. These often involve written exams and interviews conducted in Japanese.

3. Graduate Admissions

Graduate applicants must submit research proposals, academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and sometimes attend interviews or written exams.

Keio’s international admissions process emphasizes holistic evaluation—academic performance, leadership potential, and motivation all matter.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition varies by faculty but generally follows these annual estimates (in Japanese yen):

International students should also budget for living expenses in Tokyo, averaging ¥120,000–¥150,000 per month, covering housing, food, and transportation.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Keio University offers a wide range of scholarships to support international students, including:

• Keio University GIGA Scholarship for New International Students – partial tuition waiver and stipend.

• Keio University International Student Scholarship – up to ¥700,000 annually based on academic excellence.

• Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship – full tuition coverage, monthly stipend, and travel allowance.

• JASSO Honors Scholarship – provided by the Japan Student Services Organization.

Additionally, many private foundations offer scholarships specifically for Keio students.

Campus Life and Student Experience

Keio University fosters a lively, intellectually stimulating community.

Clubs and Organizations

Over 400 student clubs are active across campuses, ranging from sports and cultural societies to debate and volunteer groups. The Mita Festival, held annually, is one of Tokyo’s most popular university events.

Housing

Keio offers dormitories and affiliated housing for international students. The Keio University International Dormitory (KUID) provides furnished rooms, communal kitchens, and cultural exchange activities. Off-campus housing options in Yokohama or central Tokyo are also common.

Support Services

Keio’s International Center provides comprehensive support including visa guidance, Japanese language courses, academic advising, and career counseling.

Research and Innovation

Keio is recognized as one of Japan’s most research-driven universities. It leads initiatives in AI, data science, and sustainability. The Keio Research Institute at SFC collaborates with corporations, government agencies, and NGOs on global-scale projects.

The university’s strong emphasis on innovation aligns with its founder Fukuzawa’s vision of “learning for independence and self-respect.”

Alumni and Global Network

Keio boasts one of Japan’s most powerful alumni networks. Notable graduates include:

• Junichiro Koizumi, former Prime Minister of Japan

• Tadashi Yanai, CEO of Fast Retailing (UNIQLO)

• Masayoshi Son, CEO of SoftBank

• Shinjiro Koizumi, politician and former Minister of the Environment

The Keio Alumni Association has over 390,000 members worldwide, offering mentorship and professional networking opportunities for graduates.

International Partnerships

Keio maintains academic exchange agreements with more than 300 universities worldwide, including:

• Columbia University (USA)

• University of Oxford (UK)

• Seoul National University (South Korea)

• National University of Singapore (NUS)

These collaborations include student exchange programs, joint research, and double-degree pathways.

Why Choose Keio University?

Studying at Keio offers unique advantages:

• Academic excellence with a global perspective

• Strong international community and English-taught programs

• Unrivaled alumni network and career prospects

• Cultural immersion in Tokyo, one of the world’s safest and most exciting cities

Keio is more than a university—it is a gateway to leadership, innovation, and lifelong learning.

Career Opportunities and Employability

Keio graduates are among the most sought-after in Japan. The university’s Career Services Center assists students with job hunting, internships, and networking events.

Many multinational companies recruit directly on campus. Sectors such as finance, technology, consulting, and media are popular among Keio alumni. International students may also find opportunities through the JETRO and Tokyo Employment Service Center for Foreigners.

How to Apply

Applications are submitted online through the Keio University admissions portal. Key steps include:

1. Prepare required documents (transcripts, test scores, essays).

2. Submit online application and pay the fee.

3. Attend interview (if required).

4. Receive results and complete enrollment procedures.

Deadlines vary by program, so applicants should check Keio’s official website for the latest details.

Conclusion

Keio University stands as a beacon of excellence, tradition, and forward-thinking education in Japan. Whether you’re interested in economics, law, medicine, or information technology, Keio provides the resources, global exposure, and community to help you thrive.

By joining Keio, you’ll not only receive a top-quality education—you’ll become part of a legacy shaping Japan’s and the world’s future leaders.

FAQs

What makes Keio University comparable to an “Ivy League” school in Japan?

Keio University is Japan’s oldest private university (founded in 1858) and is renowned for academic rigor, influential alumni, and strong industry connections. While “Ivy League” is a U.S.-specific term, people use it informally to signal Keio’s prestige, selectivity, and leadership training. Its graduates are widely represented in business, government, media, and research, and the university emphasizes independence of learning and global citizenship.

Which programs can I study in English at Keio?

Keio offers several full English-taught pathways at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Highlights include the GIGA Program (Global Information and Governance Academic Program) at Shonan Fujisawa Campus for policy, information, and technology fields, and PEARL (Programme in Economics for Alliances, Research and Leadership) in the Faculty of Economics. Many graduate schools, such as media design, business, and policy-related disciplines, also offer courses or tracks in English.

What are the typical admissions requirements for international undergraduates?

Requirements depend on the program. English-track admissions commonly consider high school transcripts, standardized tests (e.g., IB, A-Levels, SAT/ACT where applicable), proof of English proficiency (TOEFL iBT or IELTS), essays or statements of purpose, and recommendations. Some programs require online interviews or additional materials like portfolios. Japanese-track admissions often include subject exams and interviews conducted in Japanese.

How competitive is admissions and what is the acceptance rate?

Keio is selective. Acceptance rates vary by faculty, track (English/Japanese), and year. Rather than focusing on a single number, assess your fit with program strengths, your academic record, language ability, and demonstrated motivation. A polished application—clear goals, strong recommendations, and evidence of initiative—helps you stand out.

When are the application deadlines and when do results come out?

Deadlines differ by faculty and program; many English-track applications fall between late fall and early spring for September entry. Some programs have multiple rounds. Always check the specific faculty page for exact dates, required documents, and result release schedules. Start early to arrange test dates, recommendations, and certified translations if needed.

How much does it cost to study at Keio?

Tuition varies by faculty. Humanities and social sciences are generally lower than science and technology, with medicine and pharmacy at the higher end. Beyond tuition, budget for the admission fee, facilities fees, textbooks, insurance, and living costs. In the Tokyo–Yokohama area, a prudent monthly budget includes rent, utilities, food, transit, and personal expenses.

Are there scholarships for international students?

Yes. Keio administers university scholarships for high-achieving international students, including entrance scholarships for specific English programs (e.g., GIGA). External awards such as MEXT (Japanese Government) and JASSO are also popular. Some private foundations provide stipends or partial tuition waivers. Most scholarships are merit-based; a few consider need. Check eligibility, application timing, and whether you apply before or after admission.

Do I need Japanese to study at Keio?

For English-taught programs, Japanese is not required for admission, but daily life is easier with basic Japanese. Keio offers Japanese language courses and self-study resources. If you apply to Japanese-track programs, strong Japanese ability (often equivalent to JLPT N1/N2) is usually essential for coursework, readings, and exams.

Where are Keio’s campuses and how does location affect student life?

Keio spans multiple sites: Mita (central Tokyo), Shinanomachi (medicine), Hiyoshi and Yagami (Yokohama; lower-division studies and science/engineering), and Shonan Fujisawa Campus (SFC) for interdisciplinary programs. Mita offers classic urban Tokyo experiences; SFC provides a modern, project-driven environment; Hiyoshi/Yagami combine strong labs with student-friendly neighborhoods. Commuting by train is common and reliable.

What housing options are available?

International students may access Keio-operated dorms and affiliated residences, often with furnished rooms, shared kitchens, and community events. Availability varies by campus and semester. Off-campus rentals near Hiyoshi, Yagami, or central Tokyo are popular; costs depend on room size, distance to station, and amenities. Apply early and factor in deposits, key money, and guarantor requirements common in Japan.

How does Keio support careers, internships, and networking?

Keio’s career centers provide counseling, job-hunting workshops, and employer events. Many global and Japanese firms recruit on campus, especially in finance, consulting, tech, media, and manufacturing. Faculty-specific networks, mentorship by alumni, and research labs also connect students to internships and projects. International students can access job-search resources tailored to bilingual talent.

Can international students work part-time in Japan?

Yes, with the appropriate “Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted” (up to a set number of hours per week during term). Typical jobs include tutoring, retail, or campus roles. Balance work with study obligations, and ensure your visa status remains compliant. Japanese skills increase your job options, but some positions are English-friendly.

What is the teaching style and assessment like?

Approaches vary by faculty. Expect a mix of lectures, seminars, labs, case studies, and project-based learning—especially at SFC and in design/media programs. Assessment may include exams, reports, presentations, group projects, and participation. Independent study and steady coursework are crucial, and many classes emphasize critical thinking and real-world application.

Can I go on exchange or pursue double degrees?

Keio partners with leading universities worldwide. Students can join semester or year-long exchanges, summer programs, and in some faculties, double-degree tracks. Selection is competitive and usually requires a strong GPA, language prerequisites, and a study plan approved by your home faculty. Plan early to align credit transfer and graduation timelines.

How inclusive is campus life for international students?

Keio hosts a diverse student body and offers orientation, international advising, counseling, peer mentoring, and language support. Student clubs (sports, culture, arts, tech, debate, and more) are welcoming, and flagship campus festivals showcase student-led initiatives. Proactivity helps—join circles, attend language exchanges, and connect with alumni chapters.

Any tips to strengthen my application?

Articulate clear academic and career goals, link them to specific Keio courses, labs, or professors, and demonstrate initiative through projects, research, competitions, or leadership. Provide strong recommendations that speak to your intellectual independence and collaborative skills. Proofread meticulously and submit well before deadlines to handle any document or testing issues.