Like any other graduate school program, the application process can be long and would require some self-reflection. When we apply for programs overseas, there is an added layer of questions to answer as an aspiring international student. In this guide, we will explain the MBA application process in Japan and the best way to approach your future academic goals. Whether you’re fresh out of undergrad, already working, or a non-traditional student, we have you covered.
So, what is an MBA in the first place? It’s a degree that you can earn in graduate school, and it stands for “Masters in Business Administration.” At times, the MBA could be perceived as a certification, but it is actually a degree. As the title of this degree suggests, the key foundation of the MBA is “business administration.” Simply put, earning this degree shows that you have fundamental knowledge in managing a business through interdisciplinary theory and practice. People enroll in MBA programs with a variety of goals, from creating start-ups to regular full-time company employees. MBAs operate as catalysts for learning about management, especially if you have not worked in a managerial position yet.
An MBA can be earned in Japan or any other university in the world, and it is universally recognized as a standard degree in the business world. However, your MBA program can vary depending on the institution. Japanese MBA degrees can be a useful asset if you plan to conduct business in Japan or with Japanese clients. You will work with students and faculty from different cultural backgrounds.
Here are a few notable qualities of Japanese MBA programs.
While some Japanese programs can slightly vary, most of them follow a standard application timeline for MBA programs, which usually last for 2 years. Most programs start in April since it is the beginning of the Japanese fiscal year. Some universities with international systems also offer matriculation later in the summer and fall. There are differences in the content in the entrance exam, admission fees, and annual fees between national and public universities, private universities, and graduate schools that offer MBA programs. There are many choices, and it is necessary to carefully look at the guidelines and choose a business school that fulfills your needs.
Thinking of what to write for your statement of purpose and research plan will take the most time. However, you may already have a solid idea of what you are interested in researching for your MBA. The best way to overcome writer’s block is to create a solid outline of ideas to map out your essay.
You can make a diagram like this and create a list of ideas for your statement of purpose.
Accomplishments
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What do you want the admissions committee to know about you?
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Why are you a good fit for the school? |
Why Japan? |
For your research plan, it is important to include the following elements to have a strong application.
Note that while this is integral to your application, it would not be set in stone once you enter the program. You will probably change parts of your dissertation over the term of your course.
Also, ethics protocols for publication work differently in Japan. If you would like to publish your paper in an academic journal, you should check the international IRB protocols and keep track of deadlines throughout the year, as you have to have ethics approval before collecting data. You can also do an internal “simple screening” with your university during your first year in the program.
Regardless of where you go for your MBA, earning one can significantly increase your overall income. As an international student, earning a Japanese MBA alone can give you a more competitive edge against other job applicants. Earning an international MBA degree demonstrates that you are aware of the business practices of different cultures, intercultural communication, and the trends in other regions in the world.