Going to study in Japan: advice and scholarships

[1ntense]

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

 

[Perm]

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.

 

[Ellandrae]

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.