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NEET UG: Reasons Japan may become the next destination for aspiring Indian medical students.
According to the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO), the number of international students reached 279,274 in 2023, representing a 20.8% increase from the previous year. By May 2024, this figure grew to 336,708, showing an additional 21% rise.
The National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test for Undergraduate (NEET UG) serves as the entry exam for MBBS admissions in India, with millions of candidates vying for a limited number of spots each year. In 2025, over 22 lakh individuals participated in the exam, highlighting the popularity of medicine as a preferred field of higher education.
Due to the stiff competition and limited availability of MBBS seats domestically, many students are exploring overseas medical education as a means to secure their future careers. The National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test for Undergraduate (NEET UG) serves as the entry exam for MBBS admissions in India, with millions of candidates vying for a limited number of spots each year. In 2025, over 22 lakh individuals participated in the exam, highlighting the popularity of medicine as a preferred field of higher education.
Historically, countries in Eastern Europe, Russia, and West Asia have been favored choices. However, in recent times, new alternatives have emerged. One such destination, Japan, has become a viable option, providing high-quality education, internationally recognized medical programs, and increasing opportunities in the healthcare sector.
Visa requirements for students in Japan:
The journey of studying in Japan starts with obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the institution one intends to join. Once the COE is issued, students need to apply for a student visa at the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate. This visa usually corresponds to the duration of the course, which can range from one to four years.
Applicants must demonstrate adequate financial resources, either through personal savings or sponsorship, to cover tuition fees and living expenses. After arriving, students must register for a Resident Card and enroll in the National Health Insurance system, which covers approximately 70% of healthcare costs. The insurance premiums are relatively low, generally between JPY 1,800 – 2,000 per month (around Rs 1,100 – 1,200).
Medical courses and in-demand specializations:Japan’s six-year MD program (equivalent to MBBS) is the main medical path, though English-taught programs are on the rise. Besides conventional fields, newer areas gaining popularity include Global Health, Public Health, and biomedical science.
The aging population in Japan has also led to an increased demand for specialties such as geriatric nursing, palliative care, and digital health/bioinformatics. Some institutions, like Keio University, are offering programs in healthcare management and nurse practitioner roles, merging clinical training with leadership skills.
Recommended application timeline for Class 12 graduates in 2026:Students who finish Class 12 in February or March 2026 and wish to pursue MBBS in Japan will need to take the NEET UG 2026, as most Japanese universities expect Indian applicants to have a valid NEET score. Even if they pass NEET in 2026, the earliest possible enrollment in Japan will be in April 2027. This is due to April being the main academic intake period for Japanese universities, and the time frame between the NEET results and the beginning of the academic year is insufficient to complete all necessary steps. These include achieving language proficiency in English or Japanese, obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), and arranging for financial support.As a result, there is typically about a one-year gap between completing Class 12 and starting an MBBS program in Japan. This time is often utilized to enhance language skills, finalize university applications, and prepare the needed documentation for a seamless transition.
Trends in student enrollment for medical programs
Indian students commonly gather in prestigious and English-friendly universities, such as:
University of Tokyo: Highly regarded for its MD research and clinical excellence.
Keio University School of Medicine: Provides various graduate medical programs in English.
Osaka University and Tohoku University: Recognized for their focus on biomedical sciences and nursing specializations.
Expenses associated with medical education in Japan:
Opportunities for placement and factors to consider regarding FMGE:
To practice in Japan, medical graduates must clear the National Medical Licensing Exam with JLPT N2-level Japanese. FMGE applies only to Indian returnees. Nursing graduates need licensure and supervised training. Proficient Japanese speakers enjoy strong job prospects, especially in healthcare via the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) pathway.
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