Quick Summary
Since 1949, International Christian University has been one of Japan's prominent private liberal arts universitys, based in Mitaka, Tokyo. Ranked #951-1000 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 3200 students including 15% from outside Japan. Known for strengths in Arts and Humanities, Modern Languages, Linguistics, it maintains an acceptance rate of 25%.
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Institutional Profile
Who they are
ICU offers a unique bilingual liberal arts education in Japan with a strong focus on global citizenship and critical thinking.
Subject Strengths
Arts and HumanitiesModern LanguagesLinguisticsPolitics & International Studies
Founded1949
TypePrivate Liberal Arts University
Total Students3200
Intl Students15%
Faculty Ratio18
CampusSuburban
Campus Size153 acres
Affiliated HospitalsNot Available
AccreditationJapan University Accreditation Association (JUAA)
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Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#951-1000
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#801-1000
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
Not Available
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Bachelor of Arts, Master of Arts, PhD in Arts and Sciences
Programs
Arts and Sciences
PhD Programs
Not Available
Online Programs
Institute for Educational Research and Service, Social Science Research Institute, Institute for the Study of Christianity and Culture
Research Centers
High
Research Output
Japan University Accreditation Association (JUAA)
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate25%
IELTS6.5
TOEFL79
Min GPA3
GRENot Available
GMATNot Available
SAT1300
ACT28
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · January 24
SPRINGApplication Deadline · October 15
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Focus on the personal statement regarding how the liberal arts philosophy aligns with your goals. Strong SAT/ACT scores and English proficiency are vital for the English Language Program (ELP) stream.
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Cost Ledger
Amounts in Japanese Yen
UG Tuition
¥1,077,000/yr
per year · JPY
Living Cost
¥1,740,000/yr
per year · JPY
PG Tuition
¥810,000/yr
per year · JPY
Application Fee
$240
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
¥2,852,000/yr
tuition + living + essentials · JPY
Scholarships AvailableICU Peace Bell Scholarship, ICU Torch Relay Scholarship, JICUF Scholarships
Avg Scholarship$5,000
Financial AidAvailable for international students based on need and merit
Work-StudyAvailable
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Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Bachelor of Arts, Master of Arts, PhD in Arts and Sciences programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| International Relations | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Linguistics | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Psychology | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Business | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| Liberal Arts | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
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Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$42,000
Average Salary After Graduation
95%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementStrong connections with multinational corporations and NGOs in Tokyo
Industry Connections
MitsubishiSonyGoogle JapanUN AgenciesForeign Embassies
Notable Alumni
Princess Mako of Akishino, Princess Kako of Akishino, Hirotaka Takeuchi, Kazuo Hirai
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Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
Gymnasium, Tennis Courts, Archery Range, Soccer Field
Student Clubs
Over 100 clubs including Tea Ceremony, Kendo, Debate, and Music
Library Resources
Mildred Topp Othmer Library, extensive English and Japanese collection
Exchange Programs
Over 75 partner universities in 25+ countries
Summer Programs
ICU Summer Courses in Japanese Language