Quick Summary
Since 1902, Kobe University has been one of Japan's prominent nationals, based in Kobe. Ranked #372 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 16120 students including 8.5% from outside Japan. Known for strengths in Economics, Law, Business Administration, it maintains an acceptance rate of 18%.
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Institutional Profile
Who they are
Kobe University is one of Japan's oldest and most prestigious national universities, offering a unique blend of heritage and modern research expertise in a scenic port city.
Subject Strengths
EconomicsLawBusiness AdministrationCivil EngineeringMedicine
Founded1902
TypeNational
Total Students16120
Intl Students8.5%
Faculty Ratio11.8
CampusUrban/Hillside
Campus Size1.58 km2
Affiliated HospitalsKobe University Hospital
AccreditationMinistry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), Japan
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Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#372
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#601-800
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#401-500
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral, Professional Degrees
Programs
Available
PhD Programs
Limited
Online Programs
Research Institute for Economics and Business Administration (RIEB), Biosignal Research Center
Research Centers
Very High
Research Output
Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), Japan
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate18%
IELTS6
TOEFL80
Min GPA3
GREOptional/Required for specific graduate programs
GMATRequired for some Business tracks
SATAccepted for English-taught programs
ACTNot Available
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · December 15
SPRINGApplication Deadline · June 30
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
A strong performance in the EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission) is critical for local programs. For international graduate students, matching with a research supervisor beforehand is essential.
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Cost Ledger
Amounts in Japanese Yen
UG Tuition
¥535,800/yr
per year · JPY
Living Cost
¥1,600,000/yr
per year · JPY
PG Tuition
¥535,800/yr
per year · JPY
Application Fee
$120
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
¥2,152,800/yr
tuition + living + essentials · JPY
Scholarships AvailableMEXT Scholarship, JASSO, Kobe University Fund, Private Foundation Scholarships
Avg Scholarship$10,000
Financial AidTuition exemption and deferment available for high-achieving students in financial need
Work-StudyAvailable (Teaching Assistantships, Research Assistantships, Library work)
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Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral, Professional Degrees programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Economics | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Business Administration | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Law | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Maritime Sciences | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| Engineering | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
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Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$48,000
Average Salary After Graduation
96%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementStrong connections with Kansai-region corporations and global maritime firms
Industry Connections
MitsubishiSumitomoPanasonicKawasaki Heavy Industries
Notable Alumni
Shinya Yamanaka (Nobel Laureate), Sosuke Uno (Former PM), Sanae Takaichi
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Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
Kobe University Gymnasium, Swimming Pool, Tennis Courts, Martial Arts Dojo
Student Clubs
Over 100 clubs including Tea Ceremony, Kendo, Yachting, and Orchestra
Library Resources
9 Faculty Libraries, over 3.7 million volumes
Exchange Programs
Over 350 partner institutions worldwide
Summer Programs
Available (Intensive Japanese Language, Summer Program in Business)