Dreaming of studying in Japan — the land of technology, tradition and innovation?
Then Kyoto University should be on top of your list.
As one of Asia’s most prestigious universities and part of Japan’s Imperial University Group, Kyoto University combines academic excellence, world-class research and cultural richness.
For international students — especially from India — it’s a perfect blend of modern science, global exposure and career opportunity.
In this blog, we’ll explore Kyoto University’s acceptance rate, rankings, top courses, fees, accommodation and scholarships for 2025–26, so you can plan your Japan study dream confidently.
About Kyoto University
Founded in 1897, Kyoto University is Japan’s second oldest national university.
It is globally known for producing 13 Nobel Laureates, ranking consistently among the Top 50 universities in the world.
With campuses in Yoshida, Uji and Katsura, Kyoto University offers students a green, safe, and inspiring study environment.
Quick Facts
- Location: Kyoto, Japan
- Type: National (Public) University
- Students: 23,000+ (including 2,000+ international students)
- Global Rank: Top 40 worldwide (QS & Times Higher Education 2025)
- Popular Programs: Engineering, Medicine, Law, Business, Environmental Science, and Humanities
Kyoto University is where innovation meets ancient Japanese wisdom.
Kyoto University Acceptance Rate 2025–26
Getting into Kyoto University is highly competitive but not impossible for determined students.
- Overall Acceptance Rate: ~10–12%
- International Undergraduate Program (iUP): Around 6% acceptance (very selective)
- Graduate Admissions: 15–25% depending on the department and research area
Strong academic grades, a detailed research proposal, and clear motivation letters make a big difference.
Kyoto University Rankings (2025)
| Ranking System | 2025 Position | Category |
| QS World University Rankings | #46 | Overall |
| Times Higher Education (THE) | #55 | Global |
| QS Asia Rankings | #9 | Asia |
| US News Global Rankings | #126 | Global |
| Subject-wise Strength | Top 50 in Engineering, Science, and Medicine |
Kyoto University is Japan’s “Harvard of Science” — leading in Chemistry, Physics, and Engineering worldwide.
Top Courses at Kyoto University for International Students
Kyoto University offers both Japanese-taught and English-taught programs at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Popular Undergraduate Programs
- BSc / BE in Mechanical & Electrical Engineering
- BSc Computer Science
- BSc Chemistry / Biotechnology
- BA Economics & Business
- BA International Relations
- MBBS (Medicine)
The Kyoto iUP (International Undergraduate Program) offers courses in English for the first year, then gradually shifts to Japanese — ideal for non-Japanese speakers.
Top Postgraduate (Master’s & PhD) Programs
- MSc / PhD in Engineering
- MSc Data Science & AI
- MSc Environmental Science
- MBA (Graduate School of Management)
- MSc Physics / Chemistry / Biology
- MSc Architecture & Design
Most postgraduate programs are fully taught in English — perfect for Indian students with MOI certificates.
Kyoto University Fees for 2025–26
| Course Type | Annual Tuition Fees | One-time Admission Fee | Application Fee |
| Undergraduate | ¥535,800 (~₹3.0 lakh) | ¥282,000 | ¥17,000 |
| Graduate (Master’s/PhD) | ¥535,800 (~₹3.0 lakh) | ¥282,000 | ¥30,000 |
| Law School | ¥804,000 (~₹4.6 lakh) | ¥282,000 | ¥30,000 |
Compared to Western universities, Kyoto University offers top-quality education at half the cost.
Accommodation for International Students
Kyoto University offers comfortable and affordable housing options for international students:
On-Campus Dormitories
- Yoshida International House
- Uji International House
- Okazaki International House
Average Rent: ¥25,000 – ¥40,000/month (~₹13,000–₹22,000)
Private Apartments (Off-Campus)
- Rent ranges from ¥35,000 – ¥60,000/month, depending on location.
- Kyoto University assists students in finding accommodation through its Co-op Housing Office.
Kyoto is cheaper and more peaceful than Tokyo — perfect for focused study life.
Scholarships for Indian Students at Kyoto University
Kyoto University provides various merit-based and government-funded scholarships for international students.
| Scholarship Name | Type | Amount / Benefit |
| MEXT Scholarship (Japanese Govt.) | Fully Funded | Tuition + Living + Flight |
| JASSO Scholarship | Partial | ¥48,000/month stipend |
| Kyoto iUP Scholarship | Partial / Full | Tuition + Monthly Allowance |
| Private Foundation Scholarships | External | ¥30,000 – ¥180,000/month |
| Kyoto University International Award | Merit-based | Partial tuition waiver |
Most scholarships do not require a separate application — students are automatically considered.
Eligibility & Admission Requirements
Undergraduate (Kyoto iUP)
- Completed 12 years of education
- Minimum 75–80% in high school
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS 6.0 or MOI)
- Motivation letter & teacher recommendations
Postgraduate
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field
- Strong research proposal
- English proficiency proof (IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL 90 or MOI)
- Supervisor acceptance (for PhD applicants)
For research-based programs, contact your potential supervisor early before applying.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Graduates from Kyoto University are highly sought after by Japanese and global employers.
Top Career Fields:
- Engineering & Technology
- Research & Development
- Environmental Science
- Healthcare & Biotechnology
- Data Analytics & Artificial Intelligence
- Academia & Public Sector
Average Salary for Graduates:
¥4,000,000 – ¥6,500,000 per year (~₹22–36 lakh)
Many international students get full-time offers through Japan’s career placement programs.
Living in Kyoto City
Kyoto is one of the most beautiful and student-friendly cities in Japan blending ancient culture with modern convenience.
Cost of Living (Monthly Average)
| Expense | Cost (Approx.) |
| Rent | ¥30,000 – ¥50,000 |
| Food | ¥25,000 – ¥35,000 |
| Transportation | ¥10,000 |
| Personal & Miscellaneous | ¥10,000 |
| Total (per month) | ¥70,000 – ¥100,000 (~₹40,000–₹55,000) |
Students can work part-time up to 28 hours/week on a valid visa.
Why Choose Kyoto University?
- Top 50 University in the World
- Affordable tuition and scholarships
- English-taught international programs
- Strong in Engineering, Science, and Research
- Safe & affordable living
- Global employability after graduation
Kyoto University is the perfect destination for ambitious Indian students who want world-class education with Asian affordability.
How Stubard Helps You Study at Kyoto University
At Stubard, we guide Indian students in:
- Selecting the right program & university in Japan
- Preparing applications, SOPs, and scholarship forms
- Handling visa documentation
- Finding safe student accommodation in Kyoto
Contact Stubard today for free counselling and start your journey to Kyoto University 2025–26 — one of Asia’s most prestigious institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Kyoto University hard to get into?
Yes, it’s competitive with around 10–12% acceptance rate, but Indian students with strong academic backgrounds can get in.
2. Does Kyoto University offer English-taught programs?
Yes, the Kyoto iUP Program and several graduate programs are fully or partially taught in English.
3. What is the tuition fee at Kyoto University?
The annual tuition fee is ¥535,800 (~₹3 lakh) for most programs.
4. Can Indian students study in Japan without Japanese?
Yes! Many programs at Kyoto University start in English, and Japanese is taught gradually.
5. Is Kyoto University good for engineering and science?
Absolutely! Kyoto ranks among the Top 50 globally for Engineering, Science, and Medicine.
6. What scholarships are available for Indian students?
Students can apply for MEXT, JASSO, and Kyoto iUP Scholarships for tuition and living support.