MEXT - Level of Japanese Language to follow Master Studies

[sradevski]

I got the MEXT scholarship for Master studies for this year, so I should be leaving for Japan at Nara Institute of Science and Technology in April. What troubles me is the language. I have started studying Japanese few months ago, and I will finish Genki 1 until I leave for Japan. There I will have the 6 months intensive japanese language course, and after that 6 more months as a research student. After that my master degree program starts.

What troubles me is will the 6 months intensive japanese language course, plus 6 months as a research student (I plan to take some additional language course) be enough to follow the courses for my master programme? I am really worried about it, so and experience or opinion is welcomed.

 

[Sukii]

Your final confirmation has arrived?

My Japanese is JLPT N4/N3 level and I am also worried... because my English is not very good.

I think the first 6 months of the study will be important because it is total dedication.

I also want to hear experience or opinion!

 

[sradevski]

Hi Sukii,

No, I still haven't recieved the final confirmation, I don't know what is happening with the embassies... I am pretty sure about the scholarship because I have already started the japanese language program application process. I will follow it in Osaka University, and they have already contacted me, sent me all the information, I have sent back some forms and pictures by post to make my ID card.

You are in much better position than me, I am not even JLPT N5...

 

[Sukii]

I am still waiting for my final notification...

March is coming...

 

[sradevski]

Same here, don't worry. I contacted the embassy yesterday and they told me that they still haven't got the information. They didn't know why MEXT still haven't sent any information.

Anyway, noone telling us how difficult the Japanese will be

 

[tomoni]

Japanese level for graduate studies

I t sounds like you may be in one of the azia jinzai programs. But in any case, if you are doing a masters program in Japanese (fully in Japanese, you should be well ABOVE JLPT lvl 2). However, most programs that accept foreign students make consider the language issues that the students are encountering.

If you are in one of the azia jinzai programs, you need to reach JLPT lvl 2 for graduation. If you are in a program that is taught in English, then you need survival Japanese (JLPT lvl 3 is fine). If you are in a research program, you will be able to manage with JPLT 3, since much of your learning will involve reading academic papers (in English), self directed research, and interaction with prof (who will most certainly speak English) and students (who may or may not).

Hope that helps