Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Recognition

While Kyoto International University (KIU) was recognized in 2003 by the Kyoto Prefecture Board of Education as a kakushu gakko (a ‘miscellaneous’ school category), it is not presently recognized by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology as a university.

Career Placement

Although public organizations and private corporations are not obligated to recognize our graduates as “university” graduates, organizations and corporations have demonstrated interest in KIU students. KIU has a proven career placement record.

Undergraduate Overseas Credit Transfer

As KIU is not accredited as a US university, KIU course credits are subject to individual institution review and not automatically transferable to overseas colleges and universities. KIU credits have been accepted at a wide variety of institutions based on the integrity of the course work and not the accreditation of the school. Therefore, syllabi and course by course application of transfer credit may be required. The final credit transfer decision resides with each individual institution.

Graduate Study in Japan

Graduate study in Japan is undergoing great change and there is no clear standard across Japanese graduate programs. At present, KIU graduates wishing to pursue graduate study in Japan have tested and enrolled in graduate programs. The acceptance of KIU students’ credentials is subject to the discretion of each graduate institution both inside and outside Japan.

Licensure Examinations

Presently, a KIU degree does not meet certain Japanese government licensure requirements such as teacher, librarian, nurse, and museum curator. Students who wish to advance in these areas should transfer to the US (third year) and earn their diploma from a US university. This will allow the student to sit for examinations in many fields. Please research in advance your field of interest.

Visa (International Applicants)

KIU operates with standards similar to American universities. As a kakushu gakko (a ‘miscellaneous’ school category), KIU is permitted to sponsor international students on a ‘shugaku’ visa (pre-college visa). ‘Shugaku’ visas are for a maximum of two years. Extensions beyond two years are subject to immigration office review and approval.