How to Apply

Applying to APU's Graduate Schools

The admission requirements and application process for APU's Graduate Schools vary by program. Before you begin your application, please read over the information provided to ensure you can submit the best application possible. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact the Office of International Admissions for assistance.

Applications for 2026 enrollment will open on September 1, 2025. You can view the 2026 Application Schedule here.

I want to apply for the:

• Master's Programs
• Doctoral (Ph.D.) Program

Admissions Policy

Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU) welcomes students who will uphold the university’s basic ideals of Freedom, Peace, and Humanity, International Mutual Understanding, and the Future Shape of the Asia Pacific Region. These students should also be ready to acknowledge and understand differences in cultures and values, engage actively in an international campus community, and contribute to mutual learning.

New graduate school students must possess the following attributes and abilities in order to engage in this kind of learning:

1. 1.Specialized knowledge and global perspective required to pursue advanced studies in one’s graduate school and division
2. 2.Analytical skills, perceptiveness, and aptitude to solve real-world problems
3. 3.Requisite English language proficiency for research and study
4. 4.Desire to contribute to and make full use of a multicultural collaborative learning environment

Graduate School of Asia Pacific Studies

Master’s Program in Asia Pacific Studies

1. 1.High-level interest in research pertaining to specialist fields including international relations, social studies, and cultural studies required for the development of the Asia Pacific region and the world at large
2. 2.Strong intention to contribute to sustainable development and coexistence across the world

Master’s Program in International Cooperation Policy

1. 1.High-level interest in research pertaining to specialist fields including administration, environmental studies, development, health science and tourism required for the development of the Asia Pacific region and the world at large
2. 2.Strong intention to contribute to sustainable development and coexistence across the world

Doctoral Program in Asia Pacific Studies

1. 1.High-level interest in pioneering new academic disciplines required for the development of the Asia Pacific region and the world at large
2. 2.Aptitude and skills for mastering new academic theories and applications as an independent researcher
3. 3.Strong intention to contribute to sustainable development and coexistence across the world

Graduate School of Management

Master’s of Business Administration

1. 1.High-level interest in solving the management issues faced by companies and other organizations within global society
2. 2.Ability to contribute innovative ideas to the sustainable development of the Asia Pacific region and the world as a whole, as a well-rounded manager and inclusive leader with a deep sense of social responsibility
3. 3.Analytical skills, perceptiveness, and problem-solving ability acquired through at least three years of workplace experience

In order to admit graduate students compatible with APU’s learning environment, research plans, assessment tests, interviews, academic transcripts, and other materials will be used in a multi-faceted evaluation of the aforementioned knowledge, attributes, skills, and intentions.

APPLICATION CATEGORY

Before applying, please confirm which category you fall under as the requirements and deadlines differ. The categories are as follows:

Overseas Applicants

Applicants who currently reside outside of Japan, will remain outside of Japan for the entire application process, or any applicants who are not categorized as “Domestic Applicants” written below.

Domestic Applicants

If either of the following applies.

• Applicants currently possess a “Student” status of residence or another valid status of residence (excluding short-term or permanent residency) that is valid until their prospective enrollment date. (The date of enrollment for April enrollment is April 1, and for September enrollment is September 21.)
• Applicants possess Japanese citizenship, including Japanese dual nationality, or hold permanent residency status in Japan.*
• Having a valid status of residence means that you are currently engaging in activities in Japan permitted under a designated status of residence within its period of validity.
• Applicants who lose their status of residence prior to enrollment but are permitted by the Immigration Bureau of Japan to remain in Japan between the time of status expiration and the date of enrollment due to visa renewal or any other reasons.

If an applicant’s current visa is scheduled to expire by the time of their enrollment at APU, the applicant must confirm with the Japanese Immigration Bureau whether it will be possible to either extend the current visa or change to a student visa before submitting an application to APU.

Internal Applicants

Applicants currently enrolled in Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU) or Ritsumeikan University.

Dual Enrollment

Dual enrollment means a student enrolling in two or more universities, colleges, or departments at the same time. In principle, students may not be enrolled in a degree-seeking program at APU and another university simultaneously. If there is any possibility of dual enrollment after admission to APU, Please promptly contact APU in advance before applying.