Tokyo Program Overview

From its founding, Sophia University has been dedicated to student-centered education and research. It is a fellow Jesuit University that consists of two campuses, both located in the heart of Tokyo. The Imperial Palace, historic Meiji Shrine, and the National Diet Library are just a couple of stops away on the subway. The student body includes a diverse mixture of Japanese students and  more than 500 foreign students from 54 countries.

Numerous on-campus activities, clubs, and sports teams provide a great opportunity for exchange students to participate in student life.  English courses on Japan and Asia in a wide variety of academic fields enrich foreign students' academic experiences.  Additionally, students are required to take a Japanese language class while studying abroad. 

Located on the perimeter of the Yotsuya campus is the National Theater, the National Stadium, international conventions facilities, and the Akasaka Palace where visiting royal families and political leaders are accommodated. The abundant greenery of the campus creates an atmosphere of peace and serenity, which belies its location in the center of a bustling metropolis. Student life is further enhanced by a wealth of facilities for music, drama, art, and sports.

Program Type:

This is a Marquette-exchange program, so most financial aid generally applies. To learn more about how this program will affect your specific financial aid package, please see the Office of Student Financial Aid.

Living:

University housing service. Students are accommodated in the university dorms.  There are two dorms separated by gender, both of which are fully equipped with a desk, chair, bookshelf, bed, etc.  The men’s dorms, located on the Yotsuya campus, are double rooms with a 240 person capacity; students are generally paired with a Japanese student.  The women’s dorm is located approximately 7 minutes on foot from the Kagurazaka Station and is 30 minutes from the university. These dorms are single person with a capacity of 62 students.

Duration & Dates:

Fall semester: late September to mid February
Spring semester: mid March to mid July
Summer:late July to mid August

Because of the incompatibility of the dates, students will most likely not be able to attend Sophia University during the fall semester only; however, if combined with the spring, students may spend an entire academic year there.

Eligibility:

Most majors; minimum junior standing 3.0 GPA

Language:

Courses are taught in English, but the national language is Japanese. However, you will be required to take a Japanese language class each semester.

Permit/Visa:

Visa required (Need to apply 3 months in advance)