Waseda University Considers Higher Tuition for International Students

Japan's prestigious Waseda University is proposing a significant tuition increase for its international undergraduate students. The plan would raise annual fees by approximately 350,000 yen ($2,200 USD) starting in the 2026 academic year. University officials cite rising costs as the reason. They point to increased spending on specialized support services for foreign students. These services include enhanced Japanese language programs and dedicated career support. The proposed hike would apply only to new international undergraduates. Current students and all domestic students would not be affected. The university's board of trustees will make a final decision this autumn. If approved, annual tuition for international undergraduates in most programs would reach about 1.7 million yen ($10,700 USD). Waseda states the new funds will directly improve the educational experience for its foreign student population.