Japanese Foreign Student Program/Temporary Stay in Japan?

Question

I live in America, and I'm currently thinking about traveling to Japan and staying there for some time so I can grasp their culture and language. I'd like to know from people with experience or knowledge some ways I would go about doing this. Who would I talk to? How much would it cost on an estimate? What are some things I need to know? Could I take high school classes online to get credits? Any answers would be appreciated.

Answer 1

There are several ways you can go about studying/living in Japan as a High School Student, though some are more expensive than others.

When I studied abroad my Senior year of High School I used the Center for Cultural Interchange (CCI). I also had previous experience with them through hosting exchange students and I've always found them to be very helpful.

As a High School Student, CCI provides High School Abroad Programs that can last for 3 months, one semester, or a full year. This type of experience requires that you have been learning Japanese for at least one year and the price ranges from $3,700 to $6,900 depending on which length of time you choose.

You also have the option to participate in an Independent Home Stay. Though this program requires you to be 18, it is much cheaper. It still immerses you in the culture and language, but is not associated with going to High School. If you choose this, it would be best to go during the summer. With Independent Home Stays you can go for 1 to 4 weeks and live with a family. This is much cheaper than the High School program and ranges from about $900 to $1500 (not including airfare)

If you are over 18, or will be by next summer, you can also look into Language Schools in Japan. This is 4 weeks long and around $2300. With this, you will be able to stay with a host family, while attending classes to learn/improve your Japanese.

All this information pertains to CCI. There are many more organizations your can go through but I have used CCI for the past 5 years and they have always taken care of me. I hope this information helps and I hope that you end up going to Japan because knowing a second language and learning about a new culture is a great thing! If you are interested in these programs you can contact CCI via the Website below, and hopefully be on your way to discovering Japan Good Luck!