Going to study in Japan: advice and scholarships

Hi. I'm planning to study in Japan next fall, 2011 but haven't done any paperwork yet. It's all due by the end of winter break this year. However I still need to speak with an advisor and pay a $500 deposit. It will be in my Junior year of my Bachelor's degree.

I plan to attend Sophia University in Tokyo. My question is: even though my paperwork isn't finished, should I begin to apply to scholarships? And what if I end up studying in Japan in the spring of 2012 instead? Will I be able to still utilize my scholarships or will I have to reapply?

Anyway, I have a scholarship that will pay for tuition but I need extra cash for books, food, clothing, transportation, cell phone, etc, etc.

hope to get some advice

I'm afraid I don't have any advice to offer to you. I'm actaully planning on doing the exact same thing you just described. If i find any answers I'll come back and let you know.

Do you have advisors within the study abroad and exchange department at your university? If you do, I would meet with them as soon as possible, it will save you a lot of work. There is going to be a lot of paperwork, and waiting, so it's good to have someone to communicate with regularly.

Although I do not know if scholarships would carry over or when you should start applying, I would see your exchange advisor (again, if you have one) and ask about the JASSO scholarship. Depending on funding, you can receive a pretty generous monthly stipend.