Number of university students Japan 2014-2023
In 2023, there were approximately 2.95 million students enrolled at Japanese universities, up from about 2.85 million students in 2014. Of the total, nearly 46 percent were female students in 2023.
The 6-3-3-4 education System
Japan’s education system is often specified to have a 6-3-3-4–system, referring to the norm of six years in elementary school, three years in middle and high school respectively, and four years in university. Even though mandatory education ends after middle school, the majority of students follow this path before entering employment. While social studies is the most popular major among undergraduates, most students coming back to university for a master's degree matriculate into engineering courses. However, it is more common in Japan to find employment straight after graduation from undergraduate programs. Accordingly, the number of students who visit graduate courses is significantly lower than those who visit undergraduate courses.
Entrance examinations and preparation
Every year, Japanese universities hold entrance exams to select new students for the following academic year from a large number of applicants. The entrance exams are notably difficult, forcing students in their last year of high school to cram and visit supplementary tutoring schools to prepare. The number of students visiting tutorial schools, and subsequently the sales value of these schools, continued to grow in the past years. Due to the declining birthrate, however, the overall number of students is expected to ultimately decrease, presenting financial challenges for the education business in Japan.
