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Last updated on 9 Jun '26Tohoku UniversityWhat's new?
- Admissions are now open for Indian students at Tohoku University
About Tohoku University
Tohoku University is the third-oldest national university in Japan. It is a public uni recognized by MEXT. Tohoku Uni is credited for offering world-class STEM and exchange programs, low tuition and living costs, a quality research environment, and several scholarships to Indian students, which in some cases, cover up to 100% of the tuition costs.
It is one of the best universities in Japan, and ranks among the top 5 universities in the country overall, as part of THE (#3) and QS University Rankings (#5). Tohoku Uni Japan maintains academic exchange agreements with more than 240 foreign institutions in 30+ countries. It has also produced 5 Nobel Prize winners.
Tohoku University Acceptance Rate for Indian Students is 41%, as per several unofficial sources. This means interested students from India will need to maintain a strong academic and extracurricular profile to get a seat here.
Tohoku University Key Facts
Some important facts worth knowing about Tohoku University, Japan are mentioned below:
| Tohoku University Fact | Validation |
|---|---|
| Main Campus Address | 2 Chome-1-1 Katahira, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8577, Japan |
| Total Degree Students Enrolled | 17,975 |
| Total International Students | 1,806 |
| Total Indian Students | 28 |
| Campuses | 4 |
| Research Institutes | 6 |
| Inter-Department Institutes for Education and Research | 15 |
|
Tohoku University Indian Student Guide RELEASED: Free Download Indian Student Guide 2026/27 PDF |
Tohoku University History
Tohoku Uni started in 1907, under the name Tohoku Imperial University. It was started by the Meiji Government as the 3rd imperial university of Japan, after Tokyo University and Kyoto Imperial University. It was the first university in Japan to accept female and foreign students.
Teaching and research activities started in 1911. Today, it stands as one of the best options for students to study in Japan.
Check out the videos below to know more about studies in Japan:
Commonly asked questions On Highlights
Tohoku Uni Japan is best known for its world-class materials Science programs/research, a strong commitment to open-door policies, and low costs of studies.
- It ranks #4 in Japan and #62 in the world for Materals Sciences as part of the QS WUR By Subject 2026
- Leading institution globally for Disaster Prevention, Mitigation, and Recovery Science
- Cutting-edge research facilities like the NanoTerasu and WPI-AIMR
- Tuition costs less than INR 4 Lakhs per year
Tohoku and UTokyo rank among the top 3 universities in Japan. Both carry a strong global reputation and come with affordable tuition. The choice of which is better depends on what a student is looking for.
Tohoku University is better for Indian students who want:
- Lower tuition and living costs
- quality English-taught STEM programs
- Quieter, more focused academic environment
Uni Tokyo is better for Indian students interested in:
- Better global reputation
- Bigger alumni network
- Vibrant metropolitan lifestyle
Tohoku Uni is highly competitive to enroll in as an Indian student with an acceptance rate of 41%.
Indian students are welcome to enroll. However, being eligible for a seat at Tohoku requires:
- High academic scores in past studies (minimum equivalent GPA 2.3 on a 3.0 scale)
- Standardized testing
- Meeting the course-specific English/Japanese entry requirements
Tohoku University Ranking 2026
Tohoku ranks among the best Japanese universities in 2026 as part of the latest Shiksha Popularity Rankings. The university ranks #3 among colleges and universities in Japan. Globally, it ranks among the top 200 universities in the world. The Tohoku University World Ranking 2026 is #187, according to Shiksha. The table below shows how it ranks at the national level for some of its popular courses.
| Tohoku University Course Name | Shiksha Popularity Ranking 2026 (World) | Shiksha Popularity Ranking 2026 (Japan) |
|---|---|---|
| LLM | #381 | #8 |
| MA | #377 | #6 |
| MArch | #121 | #6 |
| Others PG | #451 | #8 |
| MS | #77 | #4 |
| MIM | #431 | #8 |
By Other Ranking Bodies
Tohoku Japan, also ranks highly in the university rankings across global platforms. Check the table below to see how some popular platforms rank the university as part of their latest rankings at the country and global levels.
| Platform | Tohoku University Rank |
|---|---|
| Times Higher Education World Ranking 2026 | #103 |
| ARWU Shanghai World University Rankings | #201 |
| US News and World Report Global Universities Ranking 2025 | #308 |
#187
#3
Commonly asked questions On Rankings
Tohoku Uni ranks among the top 100-150 universities globally in 2026. Listed below is how it ranks as part of the world university rankings given by some popular platforms:
- Tohoku University QS World Ranking 2026 - #109
- Tohoku University THE World Ranking 2026 - #103
- US News Global Universities 2025/26 - #308
Tohoku Uni ranks among the top 100 universities in the world in 2026 for its programs in areas like Engineering, Life Sciences, Computer Science, and Medicine/Health.
Mentioned below is how it ranks for each of these programs on a global level in 2026:
| Tohoku University Program | Times Higher Education World Ranking 2026 |
|---|---|
| Engineering | #61 |
| Life Sciences | #75 |
| PG Computer Science | #88 |
| Medicine and Health | #92 |
Arts and Humanities | #201 |
Source: THE
Tohoku University Programs for Indian Students
Tohoku University is highly regarded for offering the best academic programs for its international and Indian students. Tohoku University offers several programs taught in both English and Japanese at the UG, PG, and research levels. The university delivers its programs via 10 UG schools, 19 Graduate schools, 5 research institutes, 12 research centers, and the University Hospital.
Tohoku University Course Catalog offers 3 English-taught courses at the UG level and 20+ English-taught course options at the PG and doctoral levels of study.
Tohoku University Popular Courses for Indian Students
Listed below are some popular courses worth considering for Indian students at Tohoku University:
- Global Program in Economics and Management
- Interface Oral Health Science Course
- International Course of Life Sciences (ICLS)
- International Graduate Program in Language Sciences
- International Environmental Security Leadership Program
14.7K+ students got admitted through us.
We can fast-track your application in a week.
We can fast-track your application in a week.
Commonly asked questions On Popular Programs
Yes, Indian students can take Japanese classes alongside their primary courses at Tohoku Uni. The university actively encourages students to learn the language as it helps them adapt to life and is important to be eligible for research in Japan.
The univeristy's Japanese Language Program (JLP) can be taken by students free of charge.
Yes, Indian students are allowed to change their programme at Tohoku Uni. However, the process for that varies for a regular degree-seeking student and an exchange/short-term student.
- Exchange/Non-degree students are generally not allowed to change their program
- Regular students can change their program. This may involve taking a new entrance exam or going through a formal transfer process.
To know more, consult the academic advisor at Tohoku Uni.
Tohoku University currently offers 3 UG degree programs in English. These are listed below:
- BS in Advanced Molecular Chemistry
- BE in International Mechanical and Aersopace Engineering
- BA in Applied Marine Biology
Admission to the FGL UG Program for the 2026 enrollment will be the last one. A new English-taught program, "Gateway College" will launch in 2027. To know more, students can visit the Admissions Center website.
How to get into Tohoku University from India?
For entry to most Tohoku University programs, Indian students need to submit past academic records with a minimum GPA of 2.30 on a 3.0 scale (as per JASSO's GPA formula), proof of English/Japanese proficiency, and valid scores in standardized tests or the university entrance exam (if required).
Tohoku University Application Deadline
The university accepts applications during 2 main intakes (April and October). Upcoming deadlines to complete the Tohoku University Application Process are mentioned below for both:
| Intake | Tohoku University General Application Deadline |
|---|---|
| April 2027 | Dec, 2026 |
| October 2027 | Apr, 2027 |
Note: Application deadlines vary by program. Certain English-taught UG courses accepts application by Mid-Jan, while English-taught PG courses accept applications between mid-Jan and mid-March.
Tohoku University Admission Requirements for Indian Students
The table below lists all required materials that students need to submit as part of their completed Tohoku University application:
| Material | Required |
|---|---|
| Documents |
|
| English Test Scores Accepted |
|
- Application fees :No Fees
- Type of deadline :Regular
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
Yes, Indian students may be asked to take an entrance exam to study at Tohoku Uni depending on whether the programme is taught in Japanese or English.
For Japanese-Taught programs:
- An Exam for Japanese University Admission (EJU) followed by Tohoku's internal Special Entrance Exam is required
For English-Taught programs:
- Instead of a entrance exam, students are usually evaluated via document screening, standardized test scores/research plan, past academics, and a interview
Indian students can apply to Tohoku University through the Official University Portal for both UG and PG programs. Tohoku University application fee for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs is listed below:
| Application Type | Tohoku University Application Fee |
|---|---|
| UG | 17,000 Yen (INR 10.1 K) |
| PG | 30,000 Yen (INR 17.9 K) |
JPY 1 - INR 0.60
Tohoku UniversityTohoku University Scholarships for Indian Students 2026
Tohoku University scholarships are awarded mostly based on merit to Indian students. Some popular ones include the MEXT Scholarship and the Monbukagakusho Honors Scholarship. Some private scholarships given by certain private Japanese foundations are also available to students. Check the table below to know more about these Tohoku University Scholarships for Indian students:
| Scholarship | Financial Reward | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| MEXT Scholarship (For Sendai City) |
|
|
| Monbukagakusho Honors Scholarship for Privately-Financed International Students |
|
|
Source: insc.tohoku.ac.jp
Students who don't qualify for the above scholarships can consider funding their studies via one of the external scholarships in Japan
Commonly asked questions On Scholarships
Yes, Tohoku University offers a large variety of scholarships for its international students. Tohoku University offers various scholarships for international students which are available after applicants have arrived in Japan and are provided through local governments, associations or foundations. A few Tohoku University scholarships for Indian student are listed below:
Scholarship | Details |
|---|---|
MEXT (University & Embassy Recommendation) | Full support (stipend, fees, airfare) via official routes |
Monbukagakusho Honors Scholarship (JASSO) | JPY 48,000 (INR 28,806)/month stipend for privately funded students |
Sakata Agri Foundation Scholarship | JPY 100,000 (INR 60,020)/month for agriculture students from India (JLPT N3 required) |
JEES T. Banaji Indian Student Scholarship | Indian nationals; Japanese proficiency not strictly required |
Other Private Foundation Scholarships (Engineering etc.) | Varies by foundation; some accept internationals including Indian students |
MEXT through SIM in ICEEC programme (Dept-specific) | Eligible for MEXT with stipend & fees waived |
Source: Tohoku University Official Website
Conversion used: JPY 1 - INR 0.60
Tohoku University Popular Courses
2 yearsTohoku University Post Study Job Outcomes
Tohoku University graduates are in high demand by top companies across sectors like Engineering, Research, Education, Business Development, and the IT sector. Tohoku grads are recruited by top companies like Hitachi, Mitsubishi, Canon, Fujitsu, and the National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Sciences and Technology (QST).
Tohoku University Top Sectors for Graduate Employment
Given below are the top sectors where Tohoku University grads are currently employed:
| Sector | Percentage of Graduates Employed |
|---|---|
| Engineering | 11.9% |
| Education | 10.7% |
| Research | 9.9% |
| Business Development | 9.2% |
| IT | 5.1% |
Also, check the Job Scene in Japan for Indian students in 2026
Commonly asked questions On Placements
Tohoku University graduates are constantly in high demand all over the world. Tohoku University graduates work in top sectors that are listed below:
- Engineering
- Education
- Research
- Business Development
- Operations
Tohoku University Cost for Indian Students 2026
Tohoku University will be increasing tuition costs for Indian students enrolling after April 2027. Current tuition rates for both UG and PG courses are 535,800 Yen (INR 3.2 Lakhs) per year. This will increase to 900,000 Yen (INR 5.37 Lakhs) per year. However, doctoral students will continue to pay the same Tohoku University tuition fees. Students will also need to pay for other costs like health insurance, food, transportation, and some other utilities and bills.
Tohoku University Cost of Living for Indian Students 2026
Given below are the monthly costs of living for Indian students at Tohoku Uni:
| Expense Type | Monthly Cost in Yen | Monthly Cost in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | 13,000 Yen to 40,000 Yen | INR 7.7 K to INR 23.8 K |
| Living Expenses | 80,000 Yen | INR 47.7 K |
| Tuition | 44,650 Yen to 67,000 Yen | INR 26.6 K to INR 40 K |
| Total | 1,37,650 Yen to 1,87,000 Yen | INR 82.1 K to INR 1.11 Lakhs |
1 Yen = INR 0.60
Source: sup.bureau.tohoku.ac.jp
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
MBA/PGDM(1 course) | INR 3 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: GMAT, GRE, IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 79 & Above, Duolingo |
MS(1 course) | INR 3 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo |
MIM(1 course) | INR 3 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: GMAT, GRE, IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 79 & Above, Duolingo |
Commonly asked questions On Fees and Eligibility
Yes, Tohoku Uni offers application and tuition fee waivers to eligible Indian students. These exemptions are not guaranteed and generally require a formal application/screening process.
Students who meet the conditions below may be eligible for a waiver:
- Enrolled as a regular degree student
- Proven financial difficulties
- Maintain strong academics
- Have a valid Japan study visa
Consult one of our expert Shiksha Study Abroad counsellors to know about your chances of getting a fee waiver at Tohoku Uni.
Yes, Indian students can pay their Tohoku Uni tuition fees in monthly installments. This option is available to students enrolled in degree programs who:
- are facing economic difficulties or other unavoidable circumstances
- have outstanding academic potential
To pay tuition in installments, students need to submit a online application each semester, via the Student Affairs Information System.
Yes, Indian students planning to enroll in a full-time degree at Tohoku Uni pay a one-time fee worth 282,000 Yen (INR 1.67 Lakhs). This fee serves as a registration conribution to cover the initial processing, onboarding, and matriculation costs of registering a student.
Admission fee for research students is 84,600 Yen (INR 50.3 K).
Tohoku University Notable Alumni
Tohoku University has produced Nobel Prize Winners, modern authors, business leaders, and tech professionals working at top companies in Asia and around the globe. Popular names who pursued their studies here include Koichi Tanaka (2002 Nobel Laureate in Chemistry), Fujio Masuoka (Inventor of the Flash memory), and La Xun (Chinese Author). Check the table below to know more:
| Name | Known For | Alumnus |
|---|---|---|
| Koichi Tanaka |
|
 |
| Fujio Masuoka |
|
 |
| La Xun |
|
Commonly asked questions On Alumni
Tohoku University is one of the best universities in the Japan. Tohoku has a vast alumni network which includes more than 20,000 alumni members from all over the world. The Tohoku University alumni are working worldwide. The University graduates are working in the top sector such Engineering, Education, Research, Business Development, Operations, and more. Some of the famous personalities that are part of Tohoku alumni network are as follows:
- Masayuki Yamamoto
- Fumihiko Imamura
- Ryuta Kawashima
- Jun-ichi Nishizawa
- T? ru Nakazawa
- Keiichi Sasaki
- Chika Kuroda
- Hitoshi Oshitani
- Naoki Suzuki
- Kazuhiko Igarashi
- Miho Wakabayashi
- Susumu Yamazawa
- Yukio Edano
- Shoichiro Toyoda
College comparison
Compare Tohoku University with other similar colleges
| College | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| INR 3.24 L | #103 THE, 2026 | |
| INR 3.24 L | #1001 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 3.24 L | #164 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 3.34 L - 8.16 L | #401 THE, 2026 | |
| INR 9.92 L | #196 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 6.05 K | #215 QS, 2026 |
CompareTohoku UniversityStudying in Japan
Tohoku University Campus
Tohoku University in Japan offers Indian students a multicultural and supportive student life across its campuses. To help students in their academic journey, the university maintains several top international student support services for matters related to visa, resident registration, health insurance, housing, medical facilities, mental health, and more.
Tohoku University Campus Locations
The university operates 4 campuses in Kawauchi, Aobayama, Seiryo, and the main Tohoku University campus in Katahira.
Tohoku University Campus Life for Indian Students
Mentioned below are some key features of Indian student life at Tohoku University, Japan:
- Much of the social and academic life revolves around specific research labs. Tohoku is one of the best research universities in Japan and maintains dedicated research facilities spanning several areas. Institute for Materials Research (IMR), the Institute of Development, Aging, and Cancer, and the Institute of Fluid Science are some popular ones.
- The International Student Help Desk offers multi helps students overcome language barriers, open a postal or local bank account, locate and schedule medical appointments, housing transition, and community events.
Commonly asked questions On Others
According to official university data, Tohoku University currently has 12 inter-department institutes for Education and 11 university collaborating institutions. Some of the research institutes at the university are given as follows:
- Institute for Materials Research
- Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer
- Institute of Fluid Science
- Research Institute of Electrical Communication
- Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Advanced Materials
- International Research Institute of Disaster Science
Additionally, a few of the collaborating institutions of the university are mentioned below:
- Office of Cooperative Research and Development
- Office for Strategic Promotion of Basic Research
- Center for Research Strategy and Support (CRESS)
- Environment Conservation Research Institute
- Center for International Exchange
Tohoku University
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 9 months ago
Tohoku University is one of the best universities for higher education in the Japan. Tohoku University offers various programs at postgraduate levels for its Indian students. Also, the admission requirements at Tohoku University can vary from one programme to another. Students must refer to the Toho
K
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a year ago
Tohoku University was founded in 1907 and is known to be a public research university located in Sandai, Miyagi, Japan. The university has multiple campuses in Sandai and is the third national university in Japan. Some of the reasons why Tohoku University is good for international students are giv
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a year ago
Tohoku University offers the Japanese Government MEXT scholarship which has a monthly scholarship stipend opportunity for undergraduate and Masters degree level students. The scholarship levels and amount for students are given as follows:
| Degree Level | Student Type | Monthly Stipend (in JYN) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate level | Undergraduate student | 119,000 |
| Graduate level | Research student | 145,000 |
| Master's student | 146,000 | |
| Ph.D. student | 147,000 |
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| University City | Sandai, Miyagi, Japan |
Tohoku UniversityContact Information
2-1-1 Katahira, Aoba-ku,
Sendai, Miyagi, Japan 980-8577
Sandai ( Miyagi)
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