JAPAN

Application Guide for 2025
International Admissions

APPLICATION PERIOD 1:
October 7, 2024 – October 23, 2024
(For April or October 2025 admission)
APPLICATION PERIOD 2:
December 23, 2024 – January 21, 2025
(For October 2025 admission only)

Discovery Program for Global Learners
Program Overview
ENGLISH and JAPANESEThe Discovery Program for Global Learners is a four-year undergraduate program that can be completed
entirely in English. Students with advanced Japanese proficiency and the prerequisite subject knowledge havethe option of taking courses in Japanese and even conducting their senior project in Japanese. For thosestudents whose native language is not Japanese, we encourage students to take the Intensive Japanese
language courses offered at Okayama University to help students adapt to life in Okayama.

INTERDISCIPLINARY APPROACH

The program offers courses from a wide range of disciplines, including social sciences, humanities, andnatural sciences. Its open curriculum allows students to develop a personalized study program that combines
courses from different disciplines and fits their individual academic interests and future goals.

Admissions Policy
For the latest Admissions Policy, please refer to the following website.
https://discovery.okayama-u.ac.jp/en/prospective_students/admission/ー2ー▲ CON T EN T S

CONTENTS
Discovery Program for Global Learners

2Admissions Policy

2

Number of seats available for 2025 Admissions

4

Admission eligibility requirements

4

Selection process

5

Important dates

5

How to apply

6

Important notes for applicants

6

Application checklist

7

Application documents to submit by post

8-9

Application documents to submit online

10-11

Online application form

11

List of accepted English proficiency tests

12

Accepted English proficiency tests and their CEFR equivalent levels

13

Personal statements

14-15

Fields of study

16-18

Japanese language courses at Okayama University

18

Interview guidelines

19

Accepting an offer of admission

20

Disclosure of exam information

20

Student visas

21

Fees

21
22-23

Scholarships
University policy on the use of personal information

23

Applicants with disabilities

23

Frequently asked questions

24-26

Important Notice

All important information concerning the entrance exam including announcements related todisasters or infectious diseases is posted on our website.
https://discovery.okayama-u.ac.jp/en/
If an applicant commits or attempts to commit a fraudulent act or disobeys instructions from
Discover staff, the applicant will be disqualified from the admissions selection process and apolice report may be filed.

ー3ーNumber of seats available for 2025 Admissions
April 2025 Admission

October 2025 Admission

Application Period 1

5 students

10 students

Application Period 2

not applicable

20 students

Admission eligibility requirements
1

Commitment to Okayama
University

Applicants should have a strong desire to study in the Discovery
Program for Global Learners at Okayama University and must be
prepared to enroll in the program if they are accepted.
a) Complete a 12-year course of education as designated by the
Ministry of Education in Japan or abroad prior to enrollment(students who have skipped grades are also eligible).
b) Complete 11 years of education abroad, plus a Japanese
university pre-sessional course designated by MEXT (Ministry of
Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan).
c) Earn certification or test results equivalent to a 12-year courseof education outside of Japan, and be 18 years of age orolder prior to enrollment.

2

Students must satisfy ONE of
the following requirements:d) Complete a curriculum of 11 years or more equivalent to asenior high school education outside of Japan, as designatedby MEXT. Refer to the webpage for details.
e) Earn an International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB Full Diploma)
from the International Baccalaureate Organization.
f ) Earn an Abitur from the Federal Republic of Germany.
g) Earn a Baccalaureate from the French Republic.
h) Earn a GCE Advanced Level (GCEA) required for university
matriculation in Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
i ) Complete 12 years of education in an internationally-certified
program (WASC, CIS, ACSI).

3

Advanced Japanese language
proficiency(for April admission ONLY)

4

Legal residence status in
Japan (for applicants who do
not have a Japanese passportor legal long-term residency)

・April applicants must pass JLPT level 1 (N1) or demonstrate
similar ability in order to understand instructions and participate
in school activities such as orientation in Japanese.
・Japanese language ability is NOT required for Octoberadmission.
Successful applicants must have a valid passport and obtain asuitable visa to study in Japan legally prior to enrollment. For
information on student visas, see page 21.

For questions regarding admission eligibility requirements, please contact the Discovery Office atadmission_discovery@adm.okayama-u.ac.jp.
ー4ー▲ CON T EN T S

Applying to the Discovery Program

Selection process

Submission of application documents:

All applications and accompanying documents must reach our office by the deadline. Late submissions orincomplete applications will not be considered.

Preliminary screening:

The Selection Committee reviews application documents and posts results of the preliminary
screening on our website. Successful applicants move on to the final screening.

Final screening:Those who pass the preliminary screening have interviews online. See page 19 for interview
guidelines.

Screening Results:

Results of final screening and pass rates posted online. Accepted applicants are notified
individually by post and are provided with detailed information on admission procedures.

Important dates
Application Period 1
April or October 2025 Admission

Application Period 2
October 2025 Admission only

Application period

October 7, 2024 –October 23, 2024
(17:00 JST*)

December 23, 2024 –January 21, 2025
(17:00 JST*)

Results of preliminary screening
announced

November 15, 2024
(10:00 JST*)

February 18, 2025
(10:00 JST*)

Final screening**

November 30, 2024

March 2, 2025

Results of final screening announced

December 16, 2024
(10:00 JST*)

March 24, 2025
(10:00 JST*)

Deadline to complete admission
procedures

January 24, 2025
(17:00 JST*)

April 30, 2025
(17:00 JST*)*JST: Japan Standard Time**Applicants should check interview dates and confirm they will be available before applying.

ー5ー▲ CON T EN T S

How to apply

Application Deadlines
Application Period 1: October 23, 2024 (17:00 JST*)
Application Period 2: January 21, 2025 (17:00 JST*)
Step 1

All applications and accompanying documents must reach our office by the deadline.
The necessary documents will be listed on the following pages.

Step 2Enter the required information into the following online application system.
https://e-apply.jp/n/okayama-gdp

Step 3

Pay the application fee and complete your application online by the deadline.

*The order of Step 1 and Step 2 may be reversed.

Important notes for applicants・Applications must arrive at our office by 17:00 (JST) on the last day of the application period. Incomplete orlate applications will not be accepted. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all required documents
reach the Discovery Office by the deadline.
・Application documents will not be returned for any reason.
・Applications may be rejected at any time, including during or after admission or enrollment, if it is determinedthat the applicant has made a false statement on any part of the application.
・If a document with a former name is submitted, please attach a document stating both your former andcurrent names, and the date of the name change.
・Applicants may reapply if not accepted after their first attempt by updating and revising their application
documents. Please note that all documents must be resubmitted, and new application fees will apply.
・When an applicant engages in or attempts to engage in any misconduct or fails to follow the instructions of
the interviewers regarding their application or during the exam, they may be disqualified from the selection
process and a complaint may be filed with the police. The following actions are considered as misconduct:(a) Intentionally providing false information on the Application Form and submitting an application with aphoto of someone other than the applicant.
(b) Providing answers to other examinees or assisting in cheating.
(c) Using any items or materials other than those specified by Okayama University during the exam.
(d) Using any equipment other than the one specified for use during the interview.
(e) Communicating with others during the examination period.
( f ) Any other act that may compromise the fairness of the exam or be considered misconduct by Okayama
University.

ー6ー▲ CON T EN T S

Application checklist*The following necessary documents should be submitted to the Discovery Office by the application deadline.

To submit by post

Check

Certificate of graduation or statement certifying expected graduation date
For those who are currently in secondary school (high school):
Please submit a statement certifying expected graduation date.
For those who have already graduated from secondary school (high school):
Please submit a certificate of graduation.
Official transcripts
For those who have graduated from secondary school (high school) and are currently attending
tertiary institution (college or university):
Please submit both your secondary school (high school) transcript and your tertiary institution(college or university) transcript.
School profile*Please submit the school profile of your secondary school (high school).
Letter of academic evaluation of your secondary school (high school)
Letter of recommendation
Standardized test results (where applicable)

To submit online

Check

Official English proficiency test scores (where applicable)*If you have received education mostly in English within the last five years, submission is NOT
required.
Proof of Japanese proficiency (where applicable)
Application form
Personal statements(Part A: Statement of Interest，Part B: Topic of Interest，Part C: Extracurricular Activities)
ID photo
Application fee

ー7ー▲ CON T EN T S

Application documents to submit by post
All application documents are available online athttps://discovery.okayama-u.ac.jp/en/prospective_students/admission/

1

Copy of graduation certificate
or statement certifying
expected graduation date
(REQUIRED)
Use online form for statement
certifying expected graduation
date.

・ Applicants who have already graduated from secondary
school should submit a photocopy of their graduation
certificate.
・ Applicants who have not yet graduated will be required tosubmit a copy of their certificate after arriving on campus.
・ Certificates in languages other than English or Japanese
should be accompanied by an English or Japanesetranslation.
・If you have already graduated from secondary school, submit
full transcripts of all courses taken in secondary school (mostrecent 2-3 years).
・If you are still in secondary school, submit transcripts of allclasses completed to date (most recent 2-3 years).

2

Official transcripts(REQUIRED)・If you have attended more than one secondary school, submit
transcripts from each school (most recent 2-3 years).
・If you are currently in a tertiary or post-secondary educational
institute, submit transcripts of all classes completed to date, as
well as transcripts of courses taken in secondary school.
・Transcripts may be photocopies, but they must be enclosed ina sealed envelope and signed across the flap by a school
official.
・Transcripts in languages other than English or Japanese mustbe accompanied by an English or Japanese translation.

3

4

School profile (REQUIRED)
Use online form.

Letter of academic evaluation(REQUIRED)
Use online form.

・Complete the online form, enclose in a sealed envelope andensure that it is signed across the flap by a school official.
・ The letter of academic evaluation must be written bysomeone at your secondary school such as a school
principal, counselor, or teacher, even if the evaluator does
not know or remember you well. Even if you are currently
attending a tertiary institution, please ask someone at yoursecondary school to submit the letter of academic
evaluation.
・ The evaluator should confirm your years of attendance andgraduation date, and provide information about youracademic performance while at the school.
・ The letter of academic evaluation must be in English or
Japanese.

ー8ー▲ CON T EN T S

5Letter of recommendation(REQUIRED)
Use online form.

・ The letter of recommendation should be written by someone
who knows you well and has interacted directly with you in asupervisory position at school, work, or through extracurricular
activities - a teacher, manager, boss, coach, or advisor.
・In addition to commenting on your ability to work
independently, think creatively, communicate effectively, andmaintain motivation, the recommender should also provide
information about your personal interests, abilities, andaccomplishments.
・ The letter of recommendation must be in English or Japanese.
・Applicants who have taken standardized exams typically used
for university admission in their country, such as the SAT or
ACT, please submit photocopies of official results.
・Applicants who have taken the Examination for Japanese
University Admission for International Students (EJU) by theJapan Student Services Organization (JASSO), please submit
photocopies of official scores.

6Standardized test results(OPTIONAL)

・Applicants who have an International Baccalaureate (IB)
Diploma may submit a photocopy of their diploma and an
official certificate of their IB exam results, issued by theInternational Baccalaureate Office.
・Applicants who have not yet received their IB Diploma may
send official transcripts of IB predicted scores, endorsed by theprincipal or a guidance counselor at their school. Please notethat once applicants are admitted, they will be asked to submit
a photocopy of their IB Diploma and an official certificate of their
IB exam results.

*If applicants are not able to take the English proficiency test or the JLPT as a result of unforeseeable
circumstances, please contact the Discovery Office by email at least one month before the application period
begins.
Applicants outside of Japan should send documents via registered airmail such as Speed Post, DHL, FedEx,
OCS, or EMS. Applicants in Japan should send documents via kakitome (書留).
For queries regarding information not included in this guide, please contact the Discovery Office:Discovery Program for Global Learners, Okayama University 2-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama
700-8530 JAPAN
Tel.+81-86-251-7912, 7915 Fax.+81-86-251-7201
Email: admission_discovery@adm.okayama-u.ac.jp

ー9ー▲ CON T EN T S

Application documents to submit online
Go to https://discovery.okayama-u.ac.jp/en/prospective_students/admission/
・ Scores must be from exams taken after September 2022.
Unofficial score reports or photocopies are acceptable for theapplication process although applicants may have to submit
the original certificates upon request.

1

2

Official English proficiency testscores*REQUIRED for applicants who
have not received their last
five years of formal education
in English.

Proof of Japanese proficiency*(for April admission ONLY)・ The Discovery Program does not have minimum requirementscores. English ability is evaluated comprehensively throughstandardized test scores, writing samples, and interviews etc.
・ Students must submit scores from one or more of the following
tests: Cambridge English/The EIKEN Test in Practical English
Proficiency (実用英語技能検定)/GTEC Advanced or GTEC
Basic or GTEC Core or GTEC CBT/IELTS/TEAP/ TEAP
CBT/ TOEFL iBT/ TOEIC Listening & Reading Test and TOEIC
Speaking & Writing Tests, IB English Score (Predicted Scores
included). Details are provided on pages 12-13.
・ Applicants for April Admission must submit photocopies of thecertificate of Japanese language proficiency (e.g., JLPT N1
score report) or documents demonstrating similar ability (e.g.,
Japanese teacher's language assessment report).
Photocopies are acceptable for the application process
although applicants may have to submit the original
certificates upon request.
・Applicants for October Admission who have taken the JLPT
are encouraged to submit their scores as optional material.

3

Okayama University
application form
(REQUIRED)

・Save a copy of the completed form for your records.
・Details about the required information for the online application
form can be seen following this list or are included on page 11.
・Download the file (Microsoft Word or PDF).

4

5

Personal statements(REQUIRED)ID photo (REQUIRED)・Complete the personal statements in English.
・For more information on the personal statements, see pages
14-15.
・Submit a 4 cm long x 3 cm wide color photo taken within thelast 3 months, showing a front view without head coverings(except for religious purposes) or sunglasses, above chestlevel, with a solid-color background.
・The photo will be used to identify the applicant at the interview.

ー 10 ー▲ CON T EN T S

・Pay the application fee of ¥17,000 via credit card using theonline application system. Payment can also be made using acredit card not registered under the applicant's name.
6

Application fee (REQUIRED)

・If payment by credit card is not possible, please contact the
Discovery Office atadmission_discovery@adm.okayama-u.ac.jp for other payment
options.
・The application fee cannot be waived and can only be
refunded under the following circumstances:incomplete and unaccepted applications.

Online application form
The required information is as follows:

・Name, current address, and phone number
・Emergency contact information
・Skype ID (Please create a free Skype account using your official name)・Intended area(s) of study within the Discovery Program. See our website for more details:
https://discovery.okayama-u.ac.jp/en/about_discovery/・Full educational background from primary through secondary school, including school names, locations, anddates attended
・English language proficiency test scores (where applicable), including date and location of test, scores, andregistration number
・List of other standardized tests taken (where applicable)
・Names of other universities you are applying to (where applicable, your response will not affect yourapplication)ー 11 ー▲ CON T EN T S

List of accepted English proficiency tests
Test Providers

Qualification/Certification

Notes

Cambridge
Assessment
English(Cambridge
University
Press &
Assessment)

Cambridge English (C2 Proficiency)
Cambridge English (C1 Advanced)
Cambridge English (B2 First for Schools)
Cambridge English (B2 First)
Cambridge English (B1 Preliminary for Schools)
Cambridge English (B1 Preliminary)Cambridge English (A2 Key for Schools)
Cambridge English (A2 Key)・For Cambridge English Language
Certificates, individual pass or failresults are not taken into
consideration. It will only be valid if
the score range for which thecertificate is issued can be used todemonstrate their English
proficiency.

EIKEN Test in Practical English Proficiency
EIKEN Grades: 1, Pre-1, 2, Pre-2, 3

・Okayama University reviews the
CSE scores for EIKEN tests (rather
than the pass/fail grade).

EikenFoundation of
Japan

・EIKEN S-Interview
・EIKEN S-CBT・Score certificates must display thetest scores for all 4 skills (listening,reading, writing, speaking) to be
accepted.

Benesse
Corporation

GTEC (CBT)GTEC (Advanced)
GTEC (Basic)
GTEC (Core)・Only scores recorded on the GTEC
4-skill official score certificate are
accepted.

IDP IELTS
Australia
British Council

International English Language Testing System(IELTS) Academic Module

Eiken
Foundation ofJapan

・Test of English for Academic Purposes (TEAP)
・Test of English for Academic Purposes
Computer Based Test (TEAP CBT)

Educational
TestingService

TOEIC

・Please submit the “TOEFL iBT® Test
Date” score, not the “My Best” score.

TOEFL iBT® Test

・TOEFL iBT Home Edition is not
accepted.

TOEIC® Listening & Reading Test and
TOEIC® Speaking & Writing Tests

・Both the results of the TOEIC®
Listening & Reading Test and theTOEIC® Speaking & Writing Tests
must be submitted.
・Results from the IP Test (groupexam) are not accepted.

(Note 1) English language certifications or qualifications for tests that were taken at home are not accepted.
(Note 2) Please refer to “Application Documents to submit by post” to confirm the validity period of the scores of the
English language certificates/qualifications accepted by Okayama University for admission to undergraduate
courses, regardless of the validity period specified by the organizations that administer the tests.
(Note 3) In addition to the above tests, certain faculties may accept other English proficiency test scores(measuring 4 skills).
(Note 4) Applicants who have taken English A or English B for IB Diploma qualification may submit your IB
exam results (Predicted Scores included) instead of English proficiency test scores.
ー 12 ー▲ CON T EN T S

Accepted English proficiency tests andtheir CEFR equivalent levels
CEFR Comparison
Type

Cambridge English (Note 1)

A1

A2

B1

B2

C1

C2

100-119120-139140-159

160-179180-199200-230

EIKEN Grade 1-3 (Note 2)

1400-1699 1700-1949 1950-2299 2300-2599 2600-3299

GTEC CBT, Advanced, Basic,
Core *Tests before March 2023

270-689690-959960-1189 1190-1349 1350-1400

GTEC CBT, Advanced, Basic,
Core *Tests after April 2023

260-679680-929930-1179 1180-1349 1350-1400

IELTS (Note 3)

4.0-5.0

5.5-6.5

7.0-8.0

TEAP (4 skills)

135-224225-308309-374375-400

TEAP CBT (4 skills)

235-415420-595

600-795

800

42-71

72-94

95-120TOEFL iBT Tests®

TOEIC® Listening & Reading Test
And TOEIC® Speaking & Writing
Tests (Note 4)

320-620

8.5-9.0625-1145 1150-1555 1560-1840 1845-1990(Note 1) Includes the following tests:C2 Proficiency, C1 Advanced, B2 First/B2 First for Schools,
B1 Preliminary/B1 Preliminary for Schools, A2 Key/A2 Key for Schools
The corresponding CEFR levels for each Cambridge English exam and the equivalent score ranges forwhich the certificate is issued are as follows:
Cambridge English examinations

Score ranges

Corresponding CEFR levels

C2 Proficiency

180-230

C1, C2C1 Advanced

160-210

B2, C1, C2

B2 First/B2 First for Schools

140-190

B1, B2, C1

B1 Preliminary/B1 Preliminary for Schools

120-170

A2, B1, B2

A2 Key/A2 Key for Schools

100-150

A1, A2, B1(Note 2) Includes the following tests: EIKEN, EIKEN S-Interview, EIKEN S-CBTThe corresponding CEFR levels for the Practical English Proficiency Test (Eiken) and the equivalentscore ranges for which the certificate is issued are as follows:
Grade of EIKEN

Score ranges

Corresponding CEFR levels

Eiken Grade 1

2,304-3,299

B2, C1Eiken Grade Pre-1

1,980-2,599

B1, B2Eiken Grade 2

1,728-2,299

A2, B1Eiken Grade Pre-2

1,400-1,949

A1, A2Eiken Grade 3

1,400-1,699

A1(Note 3) Includes the following tests: International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic Module(Note 4) For TOEIC, the TOEIC® Speaking & Writing Tests scores should be multiplied by 2.5 and added
together(Note 5) The CEFR equivalent levels for IB English A and English B exam results are below:
English B (Standard Level): (Exam results: CEFR equivalent levels) 7: C1, 5-6: B2, 4: B1
English A (Standard Level/Higher Level) or English B (Higher Level):(Exam results: CEFR equivalent levels) 7:C2, 6:C1, 5: B2, 4: B1

ー 13 ー▲ CON T EN T S

Application documents to submit online

Personal statements

The personal statements offers a precious chance for you to convince the Selection Committee of youroutstanding suitability for the Discovery Program. Thoroughly explore our website and additional materials toenrich your understanding of the program. Especially delve into the curriculum section, illustrating precisely
how our curriculum resonates with your goals. Allocate ample time for reflection and meticulous structuring.
Develop a clear and captivating personal statement. Polish it through multiple revisions to eliminate errors
before submission. Your statement will be assessed on its content, quality, and clarity.

Personal statements:

Please submit the following 3 Personal statements.
Part A

Statement of Interest

Part B

Topic of Interest

Part C

Extracurricular Activities

Part B: The format of the topic of interest differs depending on whether you have selected “Social Science &Humanities” as your first choice or the “Science & Applied Science” field as your first choice in "10.
Desired Area(s) of Study” in online application form.
Complete all sections in English. Respond to all questions. Part A and Part B should be written in essay format.
Although you may consult teachers, counselors, and friends, all final writing must be your own words. If we
detect plagiarism, including material copied from websites, your application will not be considered any further.
If you advance to the interview stage, you may be asked to answer questions or elaborate on your statement.
Part A

Statement of Interest

Write a short essay of 450 to 500 words answering all of the following questions and indicate the word countupon completion:
・What is/are your current interest(s) and goal(s)?
・What life experiences led you to your current interest(s) and goal(s)?
・What is your proposed study plan (e.g., “Track”/“Cluster” of the Discovery Program) ?
・How does your proposed course of study relate to your interest(s) and goal(s)?
Part B

Topic of Interest (if you have selected “Social Science & Humanities” as your first choice in “10. DesiredArea(s) of Study” in online application form)

Write a short essay of 450 to 500 words on the topic of your interest mentioned in Part A answering all of
the following questions and indicate the word count upon completion:
・What is the topic of your interest? How is it discussed in news, books, journals and other sources?
・Why are you interested in this topic? How does this topic relate to your "areas of interest" of the Discovery
Program?
・What questions would you like to explore further on this topic once you enter the university?
*You may use any citation style to provide references for the sources of information you use in the essay.

ー 14 ー▲ CON T EN T S

Part B

Topics of Interest (if you have selected “Science & Applied Science” as your first choice in “10. DesiredArea(s) of Study” in online application form)

Explain any two of the following topics in one A4 sheet or within the specified frame:
・A 60-kg person stands on a scale inside an elevator. When the elevator starts to move upward, the readingon the scale increases uniformly from 60 kg to a maximum of 66 kg, then decreases uniformly to aminimum of 54 kg, and returns uniformly to 60 kg at the end. Draw the acceleration-time graph andindicate the maximum and minimum values of acceleration and the time that the speed reaches the
maximum. Explain your results together with necessary equations and force diagrams.
・We live on the surface of the Earth surrounded by air. Devise a method to experimentally measure thedensity of the air near the Earth's surface and explain its principles involved.
・In the periodic table, elements are arranged in increasing atomic number into 7 horizontal rows called
periods and 18 vertical columns called groups. Explain one of the physical properties that represent therepeating periodicity observed in the horizontal row of elements. Next, pick one of the 18 groups anddescribe the similarities shared by the group you chose.
・What are the uses of green chemistry in agriculture, transportation, construction, pharmaceuticals andpackaging? Give some examples of the application of green chemistry in day to day life.
・Animal homeostasis is regulated by the coordination of the autonomic nervous system and the endocrine
system. Explain an example of homeostasis regulated by these two systems.
Note: Set and specify the detailed conditions necessary to explain the problem. Also, explain otherphenomena that occur by the same principle.
Part C

Extracurricular Activities

List up to five extracurricular activities in descending chronological order with the most recent one first.
Extracurricular activities may be events, committees, clubs, sports, conventions, communities, internships,
jobs, study abroad, CAS (Creativity, Action, Service) activities, or volunteer work you have been involved in.
Mention your assigned responsibilities and/or leadership roles. Mention any awards, qualifications, or
certificates you may have earned.

ー 15 ー▲ CON T EN T S

Fields of study
Subjects taught in English

Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship

The world we live in today faces diverse issues - poverty, unemployment, discrimination, environmental
degradation, and many more. The Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship Cluster aims at working out
sustainable and scalable solutions to persistent social issues.

Management

This module offers courses that introduce the tools and principles to improve and enhance management
skills, expertise, and knowledge that facilitate career development.

Economics

This module provides students with a foundation in economics to prepare them to work for a business,government, or nonprofit organization. In addition to learning basic economic principles in
microeconomics and macroeconomics, students explore poverty, inequality, and development fromdifferent perspectives.

Nonprofit Management and Social EntrepreneurshipThis module provides students with opportunities to learn how to change society for the better as visionary
leaders or social entrepreneurs. Students explore the social, political, and economic roles of nonprofits
while learning professional and management skills through an interdisciplinary approach that utilizes
hands-on group projects in collaboration with local nonprofits and practical step-by-step exercises.

Cultural Diversity and Communities

Anthropology, political science, and sociology offer us tools to understand beliefs and practices around theworld, and question our own values. In this cluster, students learn how to examine mundane matters suchas work and family life, as well as extraordinary situations such as disasters and displacements, andanalyze them from various vantage points, incorporating ethnicity, gender, sexuality, identity, social
networks, and structural inequality.

Japan and Beyond

Through critical analysis and dialogue, students gain insight into the lived experiences of marginalized
communities and learn to recognize and challenge issues at the intersection of race, ethnicity, andgender. Feminist Ethnic Studies empowers students to advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Migration and Communities

Migration opens doors to new encounters, opportunities, and risks. In this module, students learn why
migrants and refugees leave their homes, and how migration affects their lives, communities of origin, andhost societies.

Environment and HealthIn this module, students explore how beliefs about health and environment in different cultures are rooted
in different ideas about “humans,” “personhood,” and “nature.”

Governance

Politics exists wherever people live together. Courses in this module explore how politics works in different
communities, the reasons for these differences, and our own roles in politics.

ー 16 ー▲ CON T EN T S

Transdisciplinary Sciences

The environmental problems we face today increasingly require scientists to cross disciplinary boundaries
and think across scales from local to global, and even to cosmic space. Knowledge and skills gained inenvironmental engineering, physical chemistry, solid state physics, and agricultural science are allnecessary for pursuing a sustainable future of our planet.

Atmospheric, Astronomical and Biomedical Physical Chemistry

Many puzzles of the universe and many environmental or health problems can be tackled byunderstanding the processes of physical chemistry with molecular science. In particular, we use laser
spectroscopy and quantum chemistry to study atmospheric molecules, interstellar molecules, andconstituent molecules in human exhalation.

Magnetism

All substances are composed of particles with magnetic properties. The magnetic property of materials
can be investigated with microwave spectroscopy, which may play a role in solving environmental
problems.

Energy, Environmental and Sustainable Chemistry

Energy, environmental and sustainable chemistry focuses on new materials to tackle the challenges ofrenewable energy generation and recycling and develop sustainable methods to improve existingprocesses and make use of renewable resources. (Note: Students enrolling in 2023 or after may not beable to pursue certain research themes from this module for their senior project.)Subjects taught in English and in Japanese (advanced courses)

Agricultural Science (English-Japanese hybrid program)

The agricultural science program offered by the Discovery Program for Global Learners (GDP) benefits fromthe vast educational and research resources available at the School of Agriculture. For the first two years of
this program, GDP students study basic science and agricultural science courses in English while studying
Japanese intensively. From the second year, students start taking agricultural science courses taught inJapanese at the School of Agriculture with the aid of a personalized academic Japanese training program.
Students may also do independent studies with faculty members to supplement their studies. From the thirdyear on, GDP students study together with School of Agriculture students. GDP students interested in thisprogram with minimal or no Japanese proficiency at the time of admission are encouraged to study
Japanese on their own before enrollment. Students with higher Japanese proficiency may take higher-level
Japanese courses to further improve their language skills or select elective courses instead of Japanese.

Study Model:First Year

Introductory Science
Courses (in English)
GDP Common Courses

Japanese Language
CoursesSecond Year

Third Year

Agricultural Science
Courses (in English)

Elective
CoursesAcademic
JapaneseTrainingー 17 ー

Fourth Year

Advanced
Laboratory inAgricultural
ScienceCommonAgricultural Science
Courses (in Japanese)

Senior Project Researchand Seminars

Common▲ CON T EN T S

Subjects taught in Japanese

Schools and faculty outside the Discovery Program open to
students with advanced Japanese proficiency

Students with advanced Japanese proficiency (level N2 Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) or
above at the time of enrollment) may be able to study in other schools and faculty at Okayama University ifthey have the prerequisite level of knowledge in their intended field of study.
・School of Letters
・School of Education
・Faculty of Law
・School of Economics
・School of Science
・Medical School (Faculty of Health Sciences only)
・School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Department of Pharmaceutical Technology only)
・School of Engineering
・School of Agriculture
For more details on the program curriculum, visit our website at https://discovery.okayama-u.ac.jp/en/about_discovery/.

Japanese language courses at Okayama
University
The Department of Japanese Language at Okayama University offers a variety of Japanese courses to help
students develop their language skills. Courses range from level 1 (beginner) to level 7 (advanced). Students
take a placement test during orientation to determine the most appropriate level and then select Japaneseclasses that suit their goals (e.g., integrated classes, skill-based classes, topic-based classes).
Academic Japanese courses are also available to Discovery students who take coursework in Japanese.

Example: Japanese courses offered in term 3 and term 4, 2024 (subject to change)
Term 3 and Term 4Integrated
Classes
Skill-based and Topic-based Classes (classes per week)(classes per week)

Level
Elementary1Japanese 1 (8)25Japanese 2 (8) Basic
Kanji and
Vocabulary
Japanese 3 (8)(2)
Intermediate
Japanese 4 (8)Kanji and
Vocabulary
Japanese 5 (8) (2)6Japanese 6 (8)3Intermediate 4

Advanced

7

ReadingandWriting 1(4)

Applied Japanese(Reading B)(2)Applied Japanese(Listening B)(2)Applied Japanese(Writing A)(2)
Applied Japanese(Speaking A)(2)

ReadingandWriting 2(4)Media
Literacy 1 (2)Study of
OkayamaMedia(2)
Literacy 2 (2)ー 18 ーJapanese Intermediate
Grammar 1
Extensive throughReading 1 Films 1 (2) (2)(2)

Extensive
Reading 2(2)

Japanese IntermediatethroughGrammar 2
Films 2 (2) (2)▲ CON T EN T S

Interview guidelines
・The Discovery Program conducts interviews in English in lieu of a written entrance examination.
・Interviews will be conducted online via Skype or a similar application.
・Interviews will take approximately 20-30 minutes.
・Applicants may be asked questions about their interest in their proposed area(s) of study, and courseworktaken to date to prepare for college-level study in these area(s). Please have one or two piece(s) of blank
paper(s) and a pen or a pencil with you in case your interviewers ask you to draw diagrams during theinterview.
・Students who wish to pursue their studies in other schools or faculties at Okayama University will be asked
questions in Japanese about their intended field of study.
・The Admissions staff will conduct pre-interview checks via Skype a few days before the online interview totroubleshoot connection problems. Applicants will be informed of the date and time of their pre-interview
check and interview time via email. Please print out your examination ticket and note the date and time of theinterview before participating in the Skype test.
・Applicants who do not complete the pre-interview check will not be allowed to participate in the interview.
・Applicants are expected to check their email regularly for updates throughout the application process, butparticularly prior to the interview process. Failure to respond to emails in a timely manner may result in an
applicant being dropped from the selection process.

Requesting a different interview time・The Admissions staff makes every effort to ensure that candidates are assigned a reasonable interview
time during daytime or early evening hours in their local time zone.
・We recognize that assigned times may sometimes require applicants to reschedule their regular daily
activities. However, requests for time changes will be considered only in extreme cases such as illness,
unavoidable emergencies, or other conflicts that would cause unreasonable inconvenience to theapplicant.
・The Selection Committee will make the final determination on such requests, and may require
documentation before granting approval.
・Applicants who wish to request a change in their pre-interview check or interview time should contact the
Discovery Office promptly at admission_discovery@adm.okayama-u.ac.jp.

ー 19 ー▲ CON T EN T S

Accepting an offer of admission
A detailed admissions guide will be sent to successful applicants along with the announcement of application
results.
Students who wish to accept their offer of admission must submit the following documents by post,ensuring they arrive by the deadlines listed below.
・Receipt for payment of admission fee (see page 21)*If the admission fee is revised prior to admission, the new fee will apply.
・Photocopy of IB Diploma and official certificate of IB exam results (where applicable)
・Other documents as designated or requested by the university

Deadlines for receipt of all documents
Application Period 1

January 24, 2025 (17:00 JST*)

Application Period 2

April 30, 2025 (17:00 JST*)・Please note that accepting an offer of admission requires paying the admission fee AND submitting all
documents stated above by the relevant deadline.
・If an applicant fails to complete all admission procedures by the deadline, he or she will be considered tohave declined the offer of admission.
・In rare cases, admission fee exemption or postponement may be granted. Details are provided in theadmissions guide sent to successful applicants.
・Applicants who complete the admissions process but wish to decline admission later must first contact
the Discovery Office by email, and then submit a letter of request to decline admission to the President of
Okayama University by post. The letter must reach our office by March 31, 2025 for April admission, andby September 30, 2025 for October admission. The letter must include the following information:
application number
name of the program to which the applicant was accepted
date the letter was written
reason for declining admission
applicant’s signature*An applicant will be permitted to decline admission only after his/her request to decline is approved.

Disclosure of exam information
Entrance exam information will be posted online between May 1 and May 31, 2025. If you would like access tothe information, please contact the Discovery Office.

ー 20 ー▲ CON T EN T S

Student visas
In order to study in Japan as an international student, foreign nationals must obtain a student visa. Students
must possess a valid passport to begin the visa process. The university will contact students approximately
two to three months prior to the start of their first term to provide information on how to begin the visa
application process.
*Students who have a Japanese passport or foreign nationals whose current status of residence in Japan iseither "Dependent" or "(Special) Permanent Resident" and who do not wish to change to a student visa need
not apply for a student visa.
*The visa application schedule and travel restrictions are subject to change based on the Pandemic situationin Japan and students' home countries.

Fees

Admission Fee

・There is a one-time fee of ¥282,000 (2025 estimate) to be paid shortly after the offer of admission is made.
・The university does not offer scholarships to cover the admission fee.
・Students who have trouble meeting the deadline due to financial difficulty may apply for a postponement. If
granted a postponement, the student is still responsible to cover the admission fee after arriving on campus.
・If the admission fee is revised prior to admission, the new fee will apply.

Tuition・The annual tuition fee of ¥535,800 (2025 estimate) is paid in two installments of ¥267,900 (2025 estimate).
・The first tuition payment is not due until after arrival on campus.
・If the tuition fee is revised prior to admission or while the student is enrolled, the new fee will apply.
For more information about fees, visit the website below:
https://www.okayama-u.ac.jp/eng/international_admissions/Tuition.html
It is important that new students arrive on campus prepared to cover all tuition fees and living expenses.
Students are highly encouraged to apply for financial aid from government or private funding organizations.

ー 21 ー▲ CON T EN T S

Scholarships
For the latest scholarship information, please refer to the following website.
https://discovery.okayama-u.ac.jp/en/

Past Scholarship Awards
Japanese Government (MEXT) Full Scholarship for Students from ASEAN countries

・Four outstanding candidates from ASEAN countries who were successfully accepted through international
admissions for October 2024 were nominated for a Japanese Government Full Scholarship for Student Priority
Placement by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT).
・This scholarship covers the following:
one-time admission fee
tuition fees
monthly living allowance (117,000 yen/month) for four years of study (with excellent academic standing) airfare
to and from Japan (only at the beginning and the end of the 4-year undergraduate program).
*This 4-year full scholarship is dependent on excellent academic standing. Scholarship recipients’ academic
standing is re-evaluated each year to confirm continued eligibility.

Discovery Scholarships

・Four full-tuition scholarships were awarded to outstanding applicants accepted through international admissions
for April 2024/October 2024.
・Scholarship recipients are announced in conjunction with the announcement of application results.
・Applicants who apply via international admissions during the first application period have priority. If scholarships
are not awarded during the first period, applicants who apply during the second period are considered.
・The scholarship may be renewed for up to four years provided the recipient maintains excellent academic
standing.
・Scholarship recipients must be non-Japanese citizens or Japanese citizens with dual nationality, and may not bereceiving full scholarships for undergraduate studies in Japan from other government or private organizations.

JASSO Scholarships

・JASSO (Japan Student Services Organization) also offers scholarships for international students who areresiding outside of Japan at the time of admission to a Japanese university.
・Okayama University applies for this scholarship on behalf of eligible students. Successful applicants receivea monthly stipend of ¥48,000 for the first twelve months after arrival for April admission, and for the first six
months after arrival for October admission.
・All applications for eligible international students in 2023 were successful.

Other Scholarships for International Students

・Other scholarships and financial aid schemes which international students may apply for are listed on thewebsite: https://intl.okayama-u.ac.jp/support/scholarships/list/

Scholarships for Students with Japanese citizenship or Japanese (special) permanent residency

・Students with Japanese citizenship or Japanese (special) permanent residency can view available
scholarships and financial aid programs on the following website (in Japanese):
http://www.okayama-u.ac.jp/tp/student/seikatu_a2.html

ー 22 ー▲ CON T EN T S

Partial or Full Exemption of Admission Fees/Tuition Fees
Partial or Full Exemption of Admission Fees/Tuition Fees (Students with Japanese citizenshipor Japanese (special) permanent residency)

・In accordance with new laws regarding financial aid at tertiary institutions, students with Japanese citizenship or(special) permanent residency enrolling in the Discovery Program will be eligible to apply for financial aid (partial
or full exemption of admission fees and tuition fees).
・For further details, please refer to the following websites:
Okayama University https://www.okayama-u.ac.jp/tp/student/syugakushien.html
MEXT https://www.mext.go.jp/kyufu/index.htm
JASSO https://www.jasso.go.jp/shogakukin/kyufu/index.html

University policy on the use of personal
information
Personal information provided in the application documents will be used only for the selection process,university administrative procedures, or as data for the purpose of evaluating and improving the university
selection process and educational system. When personal information is used in a publication, it must bepresented in such a manner that individuals cannot be identified. In addition to the selection process, personal
information may be used for the following purposes:
・Information required by the University Students Affairs System, including the names, birth dates, and genderof successful applicants.
・Assessment results required to determine the academic qualifications of successful applicants who apply foradmission fee exemption or postponement or tuition waivers.
・Information required by the University Management System to process university tuition fees and tuition
waivers, including the names, birth dates, and gender of successful applicants.

Applicants with disabilities
Applicants with disabilities should submit documents explaining their individual circumstances by thedeadlines below so that the university can make appropriate arrangements regarding accommodation forcoursework, etc.
Deadline

Applicants for Application Period 1: September 13, 2024
Applicants for Application Period 2: November 8, 2024

ProceduresComplete the online Preliminary Consultation Form and submit it along with a doctor’s noteand a copy of your disability certificate (if issued).
Download: https://discovery.okayama-u.ac.jp/en/prospective_students/admission/

Submission

Email: admission_discovery@adm.okayama-u.ac.jp

ー 23 ー▲ CON T EN T S

Frequently asked questions (by topic)
International Admissions:
Is there any difference in the selection methods between the first and second periods ofinternational admissions?

No. The selection methods for the first and second periods of international admissions are the same. However,
if you wish to enroll in April, you must apply during the first period, however, you can apply during both the firstand second periods for October enrollment.

Eligibility:
I am a Japanese citizen, but I am currently going to school in a foreign country. Can I apply
through International Admissions?
Yes. International Admissions are open to applicants of all nationalities, including Japanese nationals.

Application Documents:

Is it okay to submit documents that need to be sent by mail first, and then submit documentsthat need to be submitted online afterward?

Yes. You can submit either set of documents first. There is no preference for the order of submission.

What is the difference between the Letter of Academic Evaluation and the Letter ofRecommendation?

The Letter of Academic Evaluation must be written by someone at your secondary school such as a school
principal, counselor, or teacher, even if the evaluator does not know or remember you well.
The Letter of Recommendation should be written by someone who knows you well and has interacted directlywith you in a supervisory position at school, work, or through extracurricular activities – a teacher, manager,
boss, coach, or advisor.

I am currently attending a Japanese language school/university. Can I submit the Letter of
Academic Evaluation, the Letter of Recommendation, and School Profile prepared bysomeone from the Japanese language school/university?
Please have the Letter of Academic and School Profile prepared by someone from secondary school (highschool), not from the Japanese language school/ university.

The Letter of Recommendation may be prepared by a person from the Japanese language school/ university.

I attended two different high schools because I changed schools in the middle of the school
year. For which school should I submit the evaluation form and School Profile?
Please submit the Letter of Academic Evaluation and School Profile from the school you attended for the
longest period of time.

Should I submit SAT, ACT, EJU, or other standardized test scores?

If available, please submit your test scores as supplementary material. However, these standardized testscores are not required.

Can I have documents that need to be sealed, such as transcripts and School Profile, put inthe same envelope and sealed?
Yes. You may place both documents in the same sealed envelope.

ー 24 ー▲ CON T EN T S

Frequently asked questions (continued)
Language Proficiency:
Is Japanese ability required?

For admission in April, applicants must have Japanese language proficiency equivalent to JLPT N1 or higher.
Please see page 4 for application eligibility. For admission in October, no Japanese language proficiency isrequired at the time of application.

Is it necessary to submit English Language Proficiency Test scores for April enrollment?

Yes, you are required to submit the score of an English Language Proficiency Test even if you enroll in April.
However, those who have received their education mostly in English for the last five years do not need tosubmit test scores.

Why is JLPT N1 or equivalent required for April admission?

For April admission, all guidance and other information will be provided in Japanese. In addition, most
students enrolling in April are from Japan.

What are the minimum English Proficiency test scores necessary for admission?

There are no set minimum score requirements. English language proficiency test scores will be considered inconjunction with other application material, including short essays and an interview.

Is the Duolingo English Test score accepted as an English proficiency test?
No. The Duolingo English Test score is not accepted as an English proficiency test.
Please refer to pages 12-13 for the list of accepted English proficiency tests.

Online Application:
There is an error message when completing the online application. What should I do?
Here are some tips:

1.Enter the information using a computer instead of a smartphone.
2.Try using different web browsers.
3.If you've bookmarked the input screen or have been logged in for an extended period, you might encounter
difficulties inputting the information. In such cases:
Close all browsers.
Log in again.
Restart or change the computer.
If the error persists despite these steps, please reach out to the Discovery Office for further assistance.

Payment of Application Fee:
I do not have my own credit card. Is there any other payment method?
Yes. You may pay the application fee by credit card in your guardian's name.
Payment can also be made at convenience stores in Japan.

ー 25 ー▲ CON T EN T S

Frequently asked questions about Discovery Program
What kind of degree will I earn?

Students who complete the four-year program earn a Bachelor of Arts and Sciences degree. The diploma
states that the recipient is a graduate of the Discovery Program, regardless of the department or faculty underwhich the student completes their senior project.

Who can apply?

The program welcomes applicants of all nationalities from both Japan and abroad. Current Discovery students
include international students from around the globe, returnees to Japan, and graduates of high schools inJapan. The program accepts about 35 students through international admission, and 25 through domestic
admission each year.

English is not my first language. Can I take classes to improve my English?

Yes, students who wish to improve their English proficiency may enroll in English classes offered through the
Discovery Program or the Center for Liberal Arts and Language Education.

What is an interdisciplinary approach?

An interdisciplinary approach means students can cross traditional department boundaries by creating apersonalized curriculum that reflects their interests and career goals. Students can combine courses from a
range of disciplines.

What can I study?

All students work closely with an academic advisor to develop an individual study program leading to a seniorproject on a topic of their choice (see pages 16-18). Students must demonstrate both academic knowledge
and strong critical thinking skills by gathering, analyzing, and interpreting information, practicing, andpresenting their findings to their faculty and peers. A full list of courses offered by the Discovery Program isavailable on our website.
Your four-year schedule might look like this:First year

Second year

Third year

Fourth year

Coursework in arts and sciences (e.g., core requirements, electives)
Languages (e.g., Japanese, English, etc.)
Practicums (e.g., fieldwork, internships, study abroad, laboratory work)
Research seminar
Senior project

What kind of job can I find after graduation?

We have produced graduates who have gone on to various fields, including domestic and international
graduate schools, the public sector including national government positions, media, manufacturing
companies, IT business, finance, trading firms, and staffing agencies to name a few. For more details, pleaserefer to our website, the Okayama University Guide, and the Discovery Program Guide.

Home Page

University Guide

Program Guideー 26 ー▲ CON T EN T S

ー 27 ー

Discovery Progr am for Global Learners
2-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama 700-8530 JAPAN
Tel.+81-86-251-7912, 7915 Fax.+81-86-251-7201
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/discovery.at.ou/
Email: admission_discovery@adm.okayama-u.ac.jp
https://discovery.okayama-u.ac.jp/en

Discovery Program for Global Learners