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Kyoto University

A red torii gate stands in the foreground overlooking a city surrounded by mountains.

Talk to a representative for this program at the Study Abroad Fair.

Japan, Kyoto

Limited Capacity Program: This program can accept a limited number of students each term, and in the past we have received more qualified applicants than available spots. To determine selection for a limited capacity program, reviewers consider a variety of criteria. You may only have one open application per term, but should have an alternate program in mind in the event that you are not accepted to this program.

Study abroad in beautiful Kyoto! Kinkaku-ji, the Imperial Palace, and many other historical sites are just waiting for you to visit.

Kyoto University International Education Program (KUINEP) provides undergraduate-level lectures in English to international students as well as Kyoto University students. Students will also be able to select from a number of different Japanese language courses. In addition to courses offered through KUINEP, students with appropriate Japanese language proficiency may be able to take one regular class in Japanese from their faculty with the lecturer's permission.

Learning Objectives

We have overall Goals and Expectations for Study Abroad Participants, covering the personal, academic and professional aspects of study abroad. Additionally on this program, you can:

  • Strengthen language skills
  • Navigate new educational systems, as well as new learning and teaching styles
  • Observe Japanese perspectives on academic disciplines

Diversity & Inclusion

We are committed to providing quality study abroad and domestic study away programs for every UW-Madison student. We work strategically to identify, address, and remove barriers that may prevent participation and to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for students. Our staff actively engages with students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds and prioritizes the continuous development of our knowledge and cultural competence. We also recognize the importance of increasing access to study abroad for historically underrepresented student populations. We are committed to diversity and inclusion so that every student can engage with and understand their identity through a new lens and continue to develop and make progress on their personal, professional, and academic goals.

Sustainability

We recognize that the future of study abroad, domestic study away, and international internship programming requires a Commitment to Sustainability. We are devoted to examining, developing, and improving sustainability in all our endeavors, aligning with campus priorities and following through with UW-Madison's climate action and Resilience Commitment. Join our efforts and learn more about how to study abroad sustainably.

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Eligibility

  • 3.0 cumulative GPA
  • Preference will be given to students who have taken Japanese language coursework.
  • Sophomore, Junior, Senior
  • Open to UW-Madison degree-seeking students only
  • Good academic and disciplinary standing
  • At the time of application and the semester prior to participation, UW-Madison students must be currently enrolled. Transfer Students to UW-Madison need to be currently enrolled at their home institution

Advising Location

Program Structure

Exchange & Direct Enroll

Subjects

Japanese language, humanities, social sciences, business

Classroom Language

English, Japanese

Housing

Residence Hall

Program Duration

Academic Year: Late September-Early August

Spring: Early April-Early August

Application Deadline(s)

Spring 2026-27 8/7/2026 Cost Details
Year 2027-28 12/4/2026 Cost Details

Future durations will be posted at a later date.

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There are a number of different course areas available to you on this program.

Japanese Language Courses – You will take a Japanese placement test upon arrival that will allow the KUINEP staff to place you into language courses appropriate to your level.

English Courses - KUINEP and the Institute for Liberal Arts and Science (ILAS) offers over 100 different courses taught in English.

General Kyoto University Courses – Students who test highly enough into Japanese may be able to take general undergraduate courses taught in Japanese. General coursework can be substituted for regular English-taught coursework.

No prior experience with the Japanese language is required to apply for this program. If you will be starting to learn the Japanese language on this program, we strongly recommend that you learn how to read Japanese hiragana and katakana before leaving for Japan, in order to be able to keep up with the pace of the language courses. 

Affiliate Institution(s)

Kyoto University

Program Web Pages

KUINEP Exchange Page

Foreign Courses

Courses Available to Exchange Students

Course Equivalents

Use the links below to see a list of courses that past students have taken on this program and the UW equivalents. Note: This list only includes pre-approved courses for your program and may not be an exhaustive list of courses, departments or equivalents. Courses may not be available the semester you are abroad. You will receive instructions on the course equivalent process after acceptance. View Course Equivalents