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Kyoto University : Fees, Rankings, Courses, Reviews
- Estd. 1897
Last updated on 28 Apr '25Kyoto UniversityWhat's new?
Admissions are open for international students at Kyoto University during the October 2026 intake and students can apply for this intake starting from Nov 1, 2025 till Dec 2, 2025 through the Online Application System
About Kyoto University
Kyoto University was founded in the year 1897 as a public research university and is located in Yoshida Honmachi, Kyoto, Japan. According to various web sources, the university has an overall acceptance rate of around 11% which makes it very selective for admissions. As per Shiksha Popularity Rankings, Kyoto University has an overall ranking of #93 in world and #2 in Japan.
Kyoto University has three campuses in location such as Yoshida, Uji, and Katsura as well as a range of facilities throughout Japan. The university has 10 faculties and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses for international students in a different areas of study such as IT and Software, Science, Humanities and Social Sciences and Business and Management Studies.
Some of the important things to know about Kyoto University are given as follows:
| Parameters | Statistics |
|---|---|
|
Establishment |
1887 |
|
Location |
Yoshida honmachi, Kyoto, Japan |
| Motto |
Freedom of academic culture |
|
Shiksha Popularity Rankings |
#93 in World |
|
University Type |
Public |
| President |
Nagahiro Minato |
|
QS Rankings 2026 |
#57 |
|
Acceptance Rate |
11% |
| Affiliations |
Kansai Big Six | ASAIHL |
|
Placement Rate |
98% |
|
Average Salary |
INR 14.29 LPA |
|
UG Annual Fee |
INR 3.16 L |
|
PG Annual Fee |
INR 11.12 K - 3.16 L |
|
Popular Streams |
Science | Medicine | Engineering |
Kyoto University History
Kyoto University is known as a national research university that was founded in 1897 and it is one of the Imperial Universities and is also the second oldest university in Japan. The oldest roots of the university have gone back to the Chemistry School which is an institute for Chemistry and Physics that was established in Osaka in the year 1869. Later in 1894, the institute was replaced by the Third Higher School hich was a specialised boys boarding school.
Prince Saionji Kinmochi, a Japanese politician, had suggested the establishment of the nation's second university and the plan had been edicted in 1896 and Kyoto Imperial University was founded on Jun 18, 2897. The university had started teaching with the College of Science and Engineering in its foundation year, and the College of Law was established in 1898.
Commonly asked questions On Highlights
Yes, Kyoto University does offer a variety of academic programs for their international students, through their 10 undergraduate and 18 graduate academic faculties. Listed below are the Kyoto University programs for international students, where the language of instruction is English:
Undergraduate Programs:
- Engineering
Graduate Programs:
- Economics;
- Engineering;
- Agriculture;
- Energy Science;
- Informatics;
- Biostudies;
- Global Environmental Studies;
- Letters;
- Science; and
- Management.
Kyoto University is not just one of the top two universities in Japan, but also a part of the top 50 global universities. Students across the world desire to study in Kyoto University. Listed below are some of the pros of attending Kyoto University in Japan:
- Kyoto has very high standards for research and produces some of the best scientific papers. Students get to work in a stimulating and fiercely competitive atmosphere;
- Excellent assistance for students from abroad. Japan has some of the world's the greatest hospitality;
- Affordable tuition fees;
- Students get to work in some of the most cutting-edge labs with top-notch facilities and receive instruction from some of the world's the greatest;
- International audience get to learn the Japanese language;
- Very high security system;
- Japan boasts the world's best public transportation system. Always on time, spotless, and provide exceptional service; and
- Kyoto University is a stunning university with a rich culture. There are many interesting sites to see and explore. Hikers and campers will find paradise in the abundance of nature. The cuisine of the area is excellent. The festivals, temples, shrines, and historical sites are breathtakingly beautiful, and the culture has been preserved for more than a millennium.
Kyoto University Ranking 2026: QS, US, THE
Kyoto University is one of the finest universities for higher education in the United States. Kyoto is not just one of the top 10 universities in the Japan, but also a part of the top 100 universities in the world. When it comes to Kyoto rankings, it is one of the highest-ranked universities worldwide. According to Shiksha Popularity Ranking, Kyoto University has an overall ranking of #93 in world and #2 in Japan.
Apart from this, Kyoto University is also ranked by QS 2026 at #57 for World University Ranking category. The university ranking for QS at World University Ranking level for 2025 was #50. This shows that the university's position has witnessed a declined trend this year. According to Times Higher Education 2025, Kyoto University is ranked at #55 in World University Rankings 2025. Also, Kyoto University has an overall ranking of #187 in Best Global Universities 2025, by US News and World Report. A few of the Kyoto University courses are also ranked by Shiksha Popularity Ranking. Below are the course rankings:
|
Course name |
Shiksha Popularity Ranking 2025 |
|---|---|
|
MS |
#2 |
|
Mathematics |
#2 |
|
Physics |
#2 |
|
LL.M. |
#2 |
|
M.A. |
#2 |
|
Politics |
#3 |
|
Computer Science Engineering |
#2 |
|
MIM |
#2 |
|
M. Arch |
#3 |
#95
#2
Commonly asked questions On Rankings
Founded in 1897, Kyoto University is known to be one of the top public universities in the world and is the second the oldest university in Japan. The world rankings of the university are given as follows:
| Ranked by | 2025 |
|---|---|
| QS World University | 50 |
| Times Higher University Ranking | 55 |
Kyoto University has been ranked at #2 for MS, Mathematics and Physics courses and a rank of #3 for Politics courses according to the Shiksha Popularity Rankings.
Kyoto University is among the top ranked universities worldwide. Kyoto offers a wide range of academic programs at undergraduate and postgraduate levels for its international students. According to Shiksha Popularity Ranking, Kyoto University has an overall ranking of #93 in world and #2 in Japan. Also, Kyoto University is ranked by top ranking authorities worldwide that are shown below:
Rankings Authorities | Rank |
|---|---|
Shiksha Popularity Rankings 2025 | #93 in world and #2 in Japan
|
QS World University Rankings 2026 | #57 |
Times Higher Education 2025 | #55 |
US News & World Report 2025 | #187 in Best Global Universities |
Kyoto University Degrees for Indian Students
Kyoto University is highly renowned for offering best academic programs for its international and Indian students in Japan. Kyoto University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs across 10 UG faculties, 18 graduate schools, and 4 professional graduate schools. Some of the popular program at Kyoto include Economics, Business Administration and Management, Law, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Physics, etc. The top program opted by international students at Kyoto University are listed below:
Kyoto University Undergraduate Faculties
|
Faculty of Integrated Human Studies |
Faculty of Letters |
|
Faculty of Education |
Faculty of Law |
|
Faculty of Economics |
Faculty of Science |
|
Faculty of Medicine |
Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences |
|
Faculty of Engineering |
Faculty of Agriculture |
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Commonly asked questions On Popular Programs
Kyoto University is well known for offering best degree programs for its international and Indian students. Kyoto University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs across 10 UG faculties, 18 graduate schools, and 4 professional graduate schools. Some of the popular programme at Kyoto include Economics, Business Administration and Management, Law, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Physics, etc. The top programs opted by Kyoto University alumni are given below:
- Economics
- Business Administration and Management
- Law
- Electrical and Electronics Engineering
- Physics
How to Get Into Kyoto University: Admission Requirements for Indian Students
The Kyoto University admission for international students has varied eligibility criteria depending on the level of the course and field of study. Students can apply directly through the official website of the university. Additionally, students need to submit specific documents as per the department of their interest. Students also need to pay an application fee to be eligible for the selection purpose.
Admission Requirements for International Students
The general admission requirements for international students at Kyoto University are listed below:
- Completed Online Application
- Application Fees
- Academic Transcripts
- Graduation Certificate
- English Language Test
- Medical Certificate
- Statement of Purpose
- LOR
Application Deadlines 2026
Kyoto University has admissions open for international students during the October 2026 intake and students can apply for this intake starting from Nov 1, 2025 till Dec 2, 2025 through the Online Application System. Incomplete or applications not sent before the mentioned deadlines will not be accepted.
Acceptance Rate
Kyoto University has an overall acceptance rate of around 11%.
Application Fee
International Students are required to submit an application fee at Kyoto University based on the level of course they are applying for. The application fee for UG courses is JPY 17,000 and for graduate courses, it is JPY 30,000.
Kyoto UniversityKyoto University Scholarships 2025 for Indian Students
Kyoto University offers a wide range of scholarship programs that are available for international students who wish to study at Kyoto University. The selection process for international admissions is very competitive and students are suggested to keep sufficient financial resources before joining the university.
Some of the international scholarships offered at Kyoto University are given as follows:
- Japanese Government Scholarships;
- Student Exchange Support Program;
- Scholarships from Private Foundations; and
- Foreign Government Scholarships
Kyoto University Popular Courses
18 months₹3.21 LGet Fee Details
₹3.21 LGet Fee Details
Kyoto University Job Outcomes
Kyoto University is renowned for offering the highest placement rate in the Japan. Kyoto University graduates are always in high demand worldwide. Kyoto University placement rate attracts students from all over the world. Kyoto University placement rate is 98%, and the graduates are employed within 6 months of graduation. This figure states that out of every 100 students, around 98 students secured employment.
Alumni Statistics: Sectors Placed
- Graduates work for top companies such as Accenture, Deloitte, Mitsui & Co. Ltd., etc.
- Kyoto graduates work for leading sectors including Business Development, Engineering, Operations, and more.
- Kyoto University graduates are highly skilled in Project Management, Python and others.
- The top programs opted by Kyoto alumni include Economics, Law, and more.
ROI After Kyoto University | Is It Worth It for Indian Students?
According to Kyoto University official website, the average salary of Kyoto University graduate is YEN 24,00,000 (INR 14.29 L), annually.
Top Employers Hiring Indian Students
Some of the top employers at the Kyoto University are as follows:
- Kyoto University
- Deloitte
- Accenture
- The University of Tokyo
- Mitsui & Co., Ltd
Commonly asked questions On Placements
Kyoto University employability rate is 98%, and the graduates are employed within 6 months of graduation. This means out of every 100 students, around 98 students are employed. Kyoto University is recognised for having the highest placement rate in the Japan. Kyoto University graduates are always in high demand worldwide. Kyoto University placement rate attracts students from all over the world. Kyoto University graduates are working for leading sectors such as Business Development, Operations, Engineering, Research, Education, and more. Furthermore, the Kyoto University graduates are highly skilled in Project Management, English, Python (programming language), Research Skills, and more. Furthermore, Kyoto University graduates work for leading organizations such as Kyoto University, Deloitte, Accenture, The University of Tokyo, Mitsui & Co, etc.
Kyoto University graduates are in high demand all over the world. Kyoto University placement rate stands at is 98%, and the graduates are employed within 6 months of graduation. This figure states that out of every 100 students, around 98 students secured employment. Kyoto University placement rate attracts international students the most. Moreover, Kyoto University graduates are working in leading sectors such as Business Development, Education, Research, Operations, Engineering, and more. Some of the top recruiters at the Kyoto University are given below:
- Kyoto University
- Accenture
- Deloitte
- The University of Tokyo
- Mitsui & Co. Ltd.
Kyoto University Cost in INR for Indian Students
The costs for UG and PG courses at Kyoto University varies based on the courses selected by the students. Kyoto University tuition fee & duration will vary as per student and program.
Kyoto University annual tuition fees for UG courses is INR 3.16 L. For those seeking to pursue Graduate courses, the first-year tuition fees is INR 11.12 K - 3.16 L. The annual tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate courses at the university are given as follows:
| Course level | Annual Tuition Fee in INR |
|---|---|
| UG |
INR 3.16 L
|
| PG |
INR 11.12 K - 3.16 L
|
The tuition fees for students wanting to pursue all degree courses at Kyoto University are given as follows:
| Category | Tuition per year | Tuition per half year | Admission fee | Entrance Examination fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | JPY 535,800 (INR 3.21 L) | JPY 267,900 (INR 1.60 L) | JPY 282,000 (INR 1.69 L) | JPY 17,000 (INR 10,200) |
| Graduate students | JPY 535,800 (INR 3.21 L) | JPY 267,900 (INR 1.60 L) | JPY 282,000 (INR 1.69 L) | JPY 30,000 (INR 18,000) |
| Law School students | JPY 804,000 (INR 4.82 L) | JPY 402,000 (INR 2.41 L) | JPY 282,000 (INR 1.69 L) | JPY 30,000 (INR 18,000) |
| Students transferring from other faculties or universities / readmitted students | JPY 535,800 (INR 3.21 L) | JPY 267,900 (INR 1.60 L) | JPY 282,000 (INR 1.69 L) | JPY 30,000 (INR 18,000) |
Source: Koyoto University Official Website and conversion used JPY 1 - INR 0.60
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
MS(5 courses) | INR 3 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 18 months-2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS, TOEFL |
MBA/PGDM(2 courses) | INR 3 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS, TOEFL |
MEng(2 courses) | INR 3 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS, TOEFL |
B.E. / B.Tech(1 course) | INR 3 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
MIM(1 course) | INR 3 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS, TOEFL |
M.A.(1 course) | INR 11 KGet Fee Details | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above |
Commonly asked questions On Fees and Eligibility
Fulfilling the English language requirement is one of the major Kyoto University admission requirements for international students. The university accepts IELTS/TOEFL score as a proof of proficiency in the English language and students can refer to the table below for minimum score details:
| English Proficiency Exam | Minimum Score Requirements |
|---|---|
| IELTS | Overall score of 5.5 |
| TOEFL | Overall score of 72 |
In order to secure an admission, overseas audience must fulfill the Kyoto University admission requirements for international students listed below:
- Completion of 12 years’ schooling abroad, or equivalent (including those who are expected to graduate by the end of the year preceding the year of admission) as specified by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology;
- High school or equivalent Diploma recognised by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology such as the International Baccalaureate;
- Academic transcript for all academic years of university attended;
- Certificate of graduation or degree certificate of the university attended;
- Proof of English language proficiency;
- Statement of Purpose (SOP); and
- Letters of Recommendation (LOR).
Kyoto University Notable Alumni
Kyoto University has more than 347,000 alumni members coming from many countries around the world. Some of the notable alumni members at the university are given as follows:
| Name | Profession | Photograph |
|---|---|---|
| Tasuku Honjo | Japanese physician-scientist and immunologist |  |
| Lee Teng-hui | Taiwanese politician |  |
| Chizuko Ueno | Japanese sociologist |  |
| Shinya Yamanaka | Japanese stem cell researcher |  |
| Kenichi Maeyamada | Japanese composer, lyricist, and musician |  |
| Nagisa ?shima | Japanese filmmaker, writer, and left-wing activist |  |
| Hideki Yukawa | Japanese theoretical physicist |  |
Kyoto University vs Waseda vs University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign: Which is better?
Kyoto University, Waseda University, and University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign are some of the most prominent universities for international students. Each university offers a large variety of programs, top-notch infrastructure, welcoming environment, and more. Every student has its own needs and requirements when choosing a university.
In terms of Shiksha Popularity Rankings, UIUC is among the most prestigious universities. UIUC also wins in average graduate salary. When considering a university, students must check crucial factors such as fees, location, programs, average salary, and more. Check the comparison listed below between Kyoto University, Waseda, and University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign. The below comparison will surely assist international students in gaining more clarity on these universities:
|
Parameters |
Kyoto University |
Waseda University |
University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Establishment |
1887 |
1882 |
1867 |
|
Location |
Yoshida honmachi, Kyoto, Japan |
Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan |
Champaign, Illinois, USA |
|
Shiksha Popularity Rankings |
#93 in World |
#310 in World |
#72 in World |
|
University Type |
Public |
Private |
Public |
|
QS Rankings 2026 |
#57 |
#196 |
#70 |
|
Acceptance Rate |
11% |
16% |
42.3% |
|
Placement Rate |
98% |
NA |
95% |
|
Average Salary |
INR 14.29 LPA |
INR 32.06 LPA |
INR 69.5 LPA |
|
UG Annual Fee |
INR 3.16 L |
NA |
INR 29.44 L - 39.2 L |
|
PG Annual Fee |
INR 11.12 K - 3.16 L |
INR 5.68 L - 9.68 L |
INR 15.5 L - 44.91 L |
|
Popular Streams |
Science | Medicine | Engineering |
Economics | Law | Physics |
Engineering | Computer Science | Business |
Compare Kyoto University with other similar colleges
| College | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| INR 3.21 L | #57 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 1.69 L | #36 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 5.77 L | #196 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 3.81 L | #85 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 26.18 K - 12.56 L | #851 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 13.61 L - 18.85 L | #116 QS, 2026 |
CompareCommonly asked questions On Comparisons
Kyoto University and University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign both are among the top choices of international students for pursuing higher education. Every university offers something unique for its international students to stand out of the herd. Both universities have its advantages and disadvantages.
Kyoto University placement rate stands at 98%, and the graduates are employed within 6 months of graduation. On the other hand, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign placement rate is 95%, this means out of every 100 students, around 95 students secured employment. In terms of placement, Kyoto University stands taller than University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign. Check the comparison listed below between Kyoto University and University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign. The below comparison will help students in gaining more clarity on these universities respectively:
Parameters | Kyoto University | University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign |
|---|---|---|
Establishment | 1887 | 1867 |
Location | Yoshida honmachi, Kyoto, Japan | Champaign, Illinois, USA |
Shiksha Popularity Rankings | #93 in World | #72 in World |
University Type | Public | Public |
QS Rankings 2026 | #57 | #70 |
Acceptance Rate | 11% | 42.3% |
Placement Rate | 98% | 95% |
Average Salary | INR 14.29 LPA | INR 69.5 LPA |
UG Annual Fee | INR 3.16 L | INR 29.44 L - 39.2 L |
PG Annual Fee | INR 11.12 K - 3.16 L | INR 15.5 L - 44.91 L |
Popular Streams | Science | Medicine | Engineering | Engineering | Computer Science | Business |
Kyoto UniversityStudying in Japan
Kyoto University Campus Life
The Kyoto University campus is located in Yoshida honmachi, Japan. Additionally, to enjoy the Kyoto University campus life, students can take part in one of the student organizations and clubs. On top of this, students can also take part in university’s athletics. There are multiple sports teams at this university.
Students can also enjoy different fun activities and check out weekend gateways close to the campus.Kyoto University offers accommodation facilities for international students and the housing options are situated in the districts of Shugakuin, Yoshida, Okazaki, Uji, and Ohbaku. Additionally, other lodging options offered by outside parties with which Kyoto University has a leasing agreement are available to international students. The weather in Kyoto, Japan is known to experience humid sub-tropical climate with distinct seasons. The summer season in Kyoto, Japan is also known to have a hot and humid temperature and winter season is relatively colder.
Kyoto University Cost of Living
|
Room Type |
Cost in YEN |
Cost in INR |
|---|---|---|
|
Single Room |
YEN 12,400 |
INR 69K |
|
Married Couples Room |
YEN 19,800 |
INR 1.1 Lakhs |
|
Family Room |
YEN 24,900 |
INR 1.3 Lakhs |
Conversion Used: 1 YEN = INR 0.56
Kyoto University FAQs
Kyoto University is one of the best universities in the world and has earned top positions in prestigious ranking bodies such as QS, US News, and Times Higher Education (THE). Listed below are the Kyoto University rankings as mentioned in the prominent rankings:
| Ranking Body, Category & Year | University of Bern Rankings |
|---|---|
| QS Rankings - Best Global Universities 2024 | #46 |
| QS Rankings - Asian University Rankings 2024 | #14 |
| QS Rankings - Sustainability Rankings 2024 | #29 |
| US News - Best Global Universities 2024 | #140 |
| US News - Best Global Universities in Asia 2024 | #23 |
| US News - Best Global Universities in Japan 2024 | #2 |
| Times Higher Education (THE) - World University Rankings 2024 | #55 |
Kyoto University
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered a month ago
Kyoto University is one of the most esteemed universities for pursuing higher education in Japan. The university offers a large variety of degree programs for its international and Indian students. According to Shiksha Popularity Ranking, Kyoto University has an overall ranking of #93 in world and #
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 4 months ago
As per the historical data of the university's alumni, most of the Kyoto University graduates get placed in industries such as:
| Business Development | Education | Research |
| Engineering | Operations | Information Technology |
| Finance | Sales | Consulting |
| Legal | Community & Social Services | Program & Project Management |
| Marketing | Media & Communication | Administrative |
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 4 months ago
Master of Business Administration (MBA) is one of the best courses offered at Kyoto University. With the help of this course, students get to develop communication skills, analytical and strategic thinking abilities, and leadership skills by getting to work in teams. Mentioned below are the details
J
Contributor-Level 8
Answered 5 months ago
Kyoto University is known to offer a wide range of scholarship programs for international students based on the eligibility criteria mentioned on the official website. The scholarships offered to international students at the university are given as follows:
- Japanese Government (Monbukagakusho: MEXT)
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 5 months ago
International students at Kyoto University can apply for admission through the Online Application System on the university website. The application deadlines for international student applicants are given as follows:
| Student Type | Application Opens | Application Closes |
|---|---|---|
| International Student | Early Nov 2025 | Early Dec 2025 |
Contributor-Level 10
About the author
Kyoto UniversityTake a look at Campus
University
Building
auditorium
LibraryKyoto UniversityLocation
| University City | Yoshida honmachi, Kyoto, Japan |
Kyoto UniversityContact Information
Yoshidahonmachi, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
Yoshida honmachi ( Kyoto)
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