MERIC's primary mission is to help international students build a solid foundation in academic Japanese, enabling them to confidently gain admission to universities, graduate schools, and leading vocational colleges throughout Japan.
1. Development Journey and Core Values
Established in 1989, MERIC Japanese Language School has grown into one of the largest and most respected Japanese language institutions in the Osaka region. The school embraces an educational philosophy that extends far beyond language instruction, aiming to cultivate global perspectives while fostering a deep understanding of Japanese culture and society.
MERIC's experienced teaching staff are highly qualified in Japanese language education and remain closely involved in each student's academic progress. In addition to classroom instruction, they provide practical advice and continuous support in both academic and daily life, helping students adapt smoothly to studying and living in Japan.
Today, all educational activities are centred at the school's main campus in Osaka, creating a dynamic and unified learning environment for thousands of international students.
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Main Campus: 1-10-6 Nipponbashi-higashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka 556-0006, Japan (Approximately a 10-minute walk from Nipponbashi Station.)
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Official Website: http://www.meric.co.jp
2. Courses and Tuition Fees
MERIC offers flexible long-term Japanese language programmes ranging from one year to two years, allowing students to choose the course that best suits their academic progression plans.
Classes are scheduled in either the morning or afternoon according to students' Japanese proficiency as determined by the placement test upon admission. The curriculum not only prepares students for the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) and the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU), but also incorporates lessons on current affairs and traditional Japanese culture to broaden students' understanding of contemporary Japan.
The following table outlines the tuition and related fees for students applying under a long-term Student Visa.
| Fee Item | 1-Year Course (JPY) | 1 Year 3 Months (JPY) | 1 Year 6 Months (JPY) | 1 Year 9 Months (JPY) | 2-Year Course (JPY) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | 30,000 | 30,000 | 30,000 | 30,000 | 30,000 |
| Admission Fee | 60,000 | 60,000 | 60,000 | 60,000 | 60,000 |
| Tuition Fee | 696,000 | 870,000 | 1,044,000 | 1,218,000 | 1,392,000 |
| Facilities & Maintenance Fee | 20,000 | 25,000 | 30,000 | 35,000 | 40,000 |
| Total Programme Cost | 806,000 | 985,000 | 1,164,000 | 1,343,000 | 1,522,000 |
Note: Textbooks and learning materials are charged separately based on the actual requirements of each class level.
3. Learning Environment and Student Accommodation
MERIC's campus is equipped with modern educational facilities designed to support effective learning. Spacious classrooms, multimedia projectors, and high-speed internet provide students with an excellent academic environment. The school library offers an extensive collection of reference materials and a quiet atmosphere, making it an ideal place for self-study and examination preparation.
To help newly arrived international students settle into life in Japan, the school operates a network of affiliated student residences located close to the campus, reducing both commuting time and transportation costs.
Accommodation highlights include:
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Average monthly rent of approximately JPY 30,000, making it an affordable option for international students.
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Rooms are furnished with essential household appliances, including a refrigerator, washing machine, air conditioner, and cooking facilities.
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Students moving into school-arranged accommodation are generally required to pay an initial room registration fee of approximately JPY 10,000 together with a JPY 10,000 security deposit.
4. Student Support and Daily Life Assistance
One of MERIC's greatest strengths is the comprehensive care it provides for students' everyday lives.
Upon arrival in Japan, school staff assist students with essential administrative procedures, including residence registration, opening a bank account, and enrolling in Japan's National Health Insurance programme.
Beyond these practical services, the school regularly offers individual counselling sessions to understand each student's needs, provide academic and career guidance, and introduce suitable part-time employment opportunities based on their Japanese language proficiency.
Student life is further enriched through a wide range of extracurricular activities organised throughout the year, including Japanese speech contests, excursions, and traditional cultural experiences such as tea ceremony and flower arrangement.
5. Why Choose MERIC Japanese Language School?
For students considering studying in Osaka, MERIC offers a number of practical advantages that make it an excellent investment in their future.
Prime Location
The school is located in the heart of Osaka. To the east lies the peaceful historic Shitadera district, while to the west is the lively Nipponbashi electronics and shopping area. This convenient location provides excellent opportunities for study, leisure, and part-time employment.
Wide Range of Scholarship Opportunities
MERIC offers various scholarship programmes funded by educational foundations and partner organisations. Students with excellent academic performance and outstanding attendance records may receive financial support, helping to reduce the overall cost of studying in Japan.
Practical Academic Environment
The curriculum integrates presentation skills, discussion-based learning, and analysis of contemporary social issues alongside Japanese language study. This approach enables students to develop natural communication skills, critical thinking abilities, and the confidence needed to succeed in higher education in Japan.