1. Do I need to pay the non-refundable deposit at the time of application?

You are welcome to pay upon official acceptance into the program, but do not need to pay the deposit until the deadline. If you are paying from overseas, there might be an advantage to paying early depending on the exchange rate. 

In short, please begin the application process by submitting the online application. If you are accepted, we will send an invoice by email. Your spot becomes official once the deposit is paid by the deadline stated in your invoice.

2. Are there discounts for couples or family members joining together?

Yes. Participants staying in university housing receive a 20,000 JPY discount on their tuition. For housing, each unit is a private studio apartment charged per room, not per person so there would be a savings there. For couples sharing a unit, we simply will arrange a larger bed (note that these are Japanese sizes). 

3. Are Japanese language classes included? Should I study beforehand?

The program includes two basic survival Japanese workshops after your arrival. Pre-arrival study is optional, but helpful if you enjoy preparing beforehand. 

Separately, we will offer an introductory 6-hour Japanese course prior to arrival through our Continuing Education department at an additional cost. Stay tuned for details. 

4. What meals are included in the program fee?

All meals are on your own so you can explore Japan’s vibrant and diverse food culture. The program will include at least one group meal per week (lunch or dinner), however.

5. Can I arrive early or stay longer in student housing?

Housing check-in and check-out dates are fixed due to other programs and room cleaning. Extensions may be possible at an additional charge, depending on availability, but cannot be confirmed until closer to the program period.

6. Is there a selection process, or is it first-come, first-served?

Admissions are conducted through a fair selection process following the designated application period. If the program reaches capacity, you may join the waitlist. We will contact you as soon as a space opens.

7. Are Friday or weekend trips included?

Fridays and weekends are generally free time for your own travel. We will provide recommendations in coordination with a customized travel guide or agency and share guidance for popular destinations in and outside Japan’s major cities.

8. Can I participate even if I have no prior affiliation with Temple University?

Absolutely! 

9. Is an undergraduate degree required to participate?

No. The program welcomes adult learners with diverse educational and professional backgrounds.

10. Is there a minimum age to join Adult Study Abroad?

Yes. Participants must be 25 years old or older. Younger learners should consider Temple University’s undergraduate study abroad programs instead.

11. How can I find out about future program dates?

Please sign up for our mailing list (Subscribe to UpdatesNew Tab). As soon as the next cohort’s information is finalized, we will send updates by email.

12. How much classroom time is included in the program?

Core academic hours are Monday–Thursday, 9:30–11:30 a.m. approximately two hours per day, with minor adjustments depending on the module. Afternoon sessions on Monday-Thursday starting around 1:00 pm will include in-class workshops or field trips.