When planning to study Japanese in Japan, most students immediately think of the April or October intakes. However, the July intake is an often-overlooked option that offers unique academic, cultural, and lifestyle advantages—especially for students who want a smoother transition into life in Japan.
If you’re considering studying Japanese for 1 year and 6 months, with the possibility of extending to 2 years depending on the school, July could be the perfect starting point.
What Is the July Intake?
The July intake allows international students to begin their Japanese language studies in early summer. Most language schools offering this intake structure programs for:
- 1 year and 6 months, or
- Up to 2 years, depending on the school and visa extension eligibility
This intake is ideal for students aiming to reach higher Japanese proficiency levels (JLPT N2 or N1) while also experiencing Japan across multiple seasons.
Learn more about Japanese language schools in Japan here.
A Gentler Start to Life in Japan
Starting your studies in July means arriving when Japan is vibrant and active. Summer offers:
- Outdoor festivals (matsuri)
- Fireworks events (hanabi taikai)
- Seasonal foods and cultural celebrations
Language schools often organize summer cultural activities, such as:
- Yukata experiences
- Japanese cooking classes
- Local excursions and festivals
- Conversation practice with Japanese students
These activities help students break the ice quickly, make friends, and gain confidence using Japanese in real-life situations.
Explore how studying abroad in Japan supports cultural immersion on our blog.
Settled by Fall, Just in Time for Autumn Leaves
One of the biggest advantages of the July intake is timing.
By the time autumn arrives, students are already:
- Comfortable with daily life in Japan
- Familiar with commuting, school routines, and basic Japanese
- Socially connected with classmates and locals
This means you can truly enjoy momiji (autumn leaves) season without the stress of first arrival. Fall is also one of Japan’s most beautiful and culturally rich periods, making it an ideal time to travel and deepen your experience.
Academic Advantages of the July Intake
From a learning perspective, July intake students benefit from:
- Smaller intake cohorts at many schools
- Faster adaptation before peak enrollment seasons
- More focused classroom environments
With 1.5 to 2 years of study, students have ample time to:
- Progress steadily through Japanese levels
- Prepare for JLPT exams
- Plan for next steps such as vocational schools, universities, or careers in Japan
Read about study pathways after Japanese language school here.
How DEOW Japan Supports Your July Intake Journey
Applying for a July intake requires early preparation, and this is where DEOW Japan plays a key role.
We support you with:
- School selection based on your goals and level
- Application and document preparation
- Visa guidance and timelines
- Communication with schools in Japan
- Ongoing support before and after arrival
Applying early with DEOW Japan helps ensure the process goes smoothly and reduces unnecessary stress.
Get personalized guidance from DEOW Japan study advisors here.
Important: July Intake Application Deadline
The application deadline for July intake is February, and spots are limited.
Starting early is strongly recommended to:
- Secure your preferred school
- Avoid last-minute document issues
- Increase your chances of a smooth visa process
Apply Now and Start Your Japan Journey This July
If studying Japanese in Japan has been part of your plan, July intake is a smart, strategic choice—academically, culturally, and personally.
📌 Don’t wait until the deadline approaches.
📌 Apply early with DEOW Japan to make your study abroad journey stress-free and successful.
