Study in Japan | APU Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University

STUDY IN JAPAN
IN ENGLISH

Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU)

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Pursue your degree in English
while mastering Japanese

Join Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU) as an English-basis student, regardless of your Japanese language ability. Our courses are offered in both English and Japanese, allowing you to complete your degree in either language.

After enrolling at APU, you will take Japanese language classes up to intermediate level to acquire the basic fundamentals for everyday life. What makes APU's Japanese classes unique is the opportunity to work together with classmates from over 100 countries and regions. You can learn about each other’s cultural differences while simultaneously improving your intercultural competence.

Immerse yourself in Japan

Live in AP House

APU guarantees on-campus housing for all international students in their first year. You can learn about Japanese customs and language through daily life with Japanese students as well as friends from over 100 countries and regions.

Explore Japan from APU

APU is located in Beppu in the southern island of Kyushu, which is third largest island in Japan. It is famous for its dynamic landscapes, rich history, delicious food, relaxed lifestyle, and friendly people. Fukuoka, the largest city in Kyushu and known as the gateway to Asia, can be easily accessed by train or bus from APU. A ferry service to Osaka is also available.

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Study in Three Distinctive Colleges

College of

Asia Pacific Studies (APS)

International Relations
Culture, Society, and Media
Global Economy

College of

International Management (APM)

Strategic Management and Leadership
Accounting and Finance
Marketing
Entrepreneurship and Operations Management

College of

Sustainability and Tourism (ST)

Environmental Studies
Resource Management
International Development
Regional Development
Social Entrepreneurship
Data Science and Information System
Tourism Studies
Hospitality Operation
Tourism Industry Operations

What Our Students Say

Rina Tritt

United States/Japan
College of International Management

At APU, there is nearly a 50-50 ratio of Japanese and international students, and many Japanese students are very accommodating. Even though my Japanese isn't perfect, they are willing to listen and try to understand me. When we struggle to communicate, we use gestures and find other ways to get our points across. In classes with both Japanese and English-speaking students, we all make an effort to communicate in both languages. Many Japanese students are eager to learn English, so we can help each other practice. I have a lot of international friends, but I also have many Japanese friends, and my network at APU is always growing.

Tharusha Dilshan

Sri Lanka
College of Asia Pacific Studies

Choosing APU was an easy decision for me. As someone passionate about international relations, I was drawn to APU’s renowned program, which has a strong reputation in my home country of Sri Lanka. I challenged myself by applying as a Japanese-basis student and am proud to embrace this experience. APU’s language immersion programs, offered in six languages, have broadened my global perspective. Through internships and hands-on projects, I’ve gained practical skills and valuable connections. I’ve also applied for a domestic exchange in Japan to deepen my understanding of Japanese culture. APU has offered me great opportunities to grow, and I'm excited to see where this journey takes me.

Khan Lalain Iqbal

Pakistan
College of Asia Pacific Studies

During my time at AP House, I made many wonderful friends from Japan who regularly held themed parties, allowing me to enjoy delicious Japanese snacks. They supported me during challenges such as making phone calls to banks and visiting the hospital. Through a host program, I spent a weekend with a Japanese family in a small rural city, which enriched my understanding of daily life in Japan. I also met many Japanese friends in classes like the Multicultural Cooperative Workshop and Global Leadership, which foster collaboration between international and Japanese students. Additionally, language exchange classes helped me practice my Japanese, and I made one of my closest friends!

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Rankings

RANKED ＃

Learning Environment
(Private University in Japan)

Times Higher Education Japan University Rankings 2025

RANKED ＃

Private University in Western Japan

Times Higher Education Japan University Rankings 2025

FAQ

Does APU offer any scholarships?

Yes! 94% of international students have received scholarships, including a tuition reduction of up to 100% and a waiver of the AP House rent. You can apply for both scholarships during the online application process. Additionally, there are external scholarships for living expenses that you can apply after enrolling at APU.

Is it expensive to live in Beppu, where APU is located?

While big cities such as Tokyo and Osaka have quite high costs of living, APU is located in Beppu, which is a mid-sized city and considerably less expensive. Many students also choose to do part-time work while studying to cover their expenses.

What career support does APU offer?

The APU Career Office provides career guidance to support you in designing your career path as early as in your first year at APU. From the third year, you can attend on-campus recruiting events. Over 100 companies and organizations participating in this program hold information sessions and conduct at least the initial round of screenings at APU. A large number of students secure job offers through this unique opportunity.