Based specifically on the cost estimates provided by the Embassy of Japan in New Delhi, Japan does not appear to be cheap for students, particularly Indian students.
Understanding the cost of living is crucial when planning to study abroad. While "cheap" is subjective and depends on individual financial situations and lifestyle choices, the figures presented in the reference indicate significant expenses.
Monthly and Initial Costs for Students in Japan
According to the Embassy of Japan in New Delhi:
- Monthly Expenses (Excluding Rent & Travel): An Indian student is estimated to need YEN 89,000, which is approximately INR 50,000, per month. This figure covers daily living expenses like food, utilities, mobile phone, and miscellaneous items, but explicitly excludes accommodation and transportation.
- Initial Settling Costs: For the first three months, especially for students arriving for the first time, it is recommended to budget around YEN 700,000, equivalent to about INR 393,260. This larger sum is needed to cover initial expenses such as setting up housing, purchasing necessary items, initial travel, and other unforeseen costs during the settling-in period.
What These Costs Indicate
Let's break down what these figures mean in practical terms:
- Significant Monthly Outlay: YEN 89,000 per month for basic needs alone is a substantial amount for a student budget. When you factor in the additional costs of rent and transportation – which can vary greatly depending on the city and type of accommodation but are typically major expenses – the total monthly expenditure will be considerably higher.
- High Upfront Investment: The recommendation to have YEN 700,000 available for the first three months highlights the significant initial financial burden. This amount is needed even before regular monthly expenses are fully established and does not include the first few months' rent or tuition fees.
Considering these points, especially the exclusion of rent and travel from the monthly estimate and the large sum required for settling in, the financial commitment required to study in Japan, as suggested by the Embassy of Japan in New Delhi's figures, indicates that it is not a cheap destination for students when viewed from a cost perspective.
