Schools for Foreign Students to be A Caregiver (Kaigo) in Japan
- Arzaqia Luthfi Yani
- 1 day ago
- 5 min read
As the demand for caregivers in Japan keeps growing, more schools and training facilities are opening their doors to foreign students. Japan is no longer just relying on trained caregivers from abroad—it's also welcoming those who want to begin their journey as students. Of course, foreign caregivers who come to Japan through programs like the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) are trained after arrival, but they often need time to adapt to the language and culture. By hiring caregivers who graduate from Japanese schools, employers can benefit from workers who already understand the basics of Japanese society, language, and workplace expectations—making them more prepared and ready to work from day one.
If you're interested in becoming a caregiver in Japan, attending a school there can be your first step. Here's everything you need to know to choose the right course and school.
Caregiving Courses by Period of Study
Based on the length of study, you can become a certified caregiver in Japan after completing at least 2 years of education. However, there are also 3-year and 4-year programs, each with their own advantages. You can choose the path that best fits your needs, learning pace, and future goals.
2-Year Course
Focus: Preparing for the National Certified Care Worker (Kaigo Fukushishi) exam
This is the most common course for foreign students who want to build a long-term caregiving career in Japan. This 2-year program combines classroom lessons with on-the-job training. Topics include elderly care techniques, communication, safety, and basic medical knowledge. Students with JLPT N3 or higher can join. After graduation, students are eligible to take the national exam and work in Japan with a stable visa status.
3-Year Course
Focus: More practical learning + flexible schedule
This program is designed for students who want extra time to strengthen their caregiving skills through hands-on training. One of its advantages is the option for part-time study, such as attending classes three days a week. This flexibility allows students to work part-time while studying, gain real-life experience, and better adjust to life in Japan. The course includes all the content of the 2-year program but provides longer internships, deeper learning, and better preparation for the national exam. With more time to practice in real caregiving settings, students can build confidence, improve communication skills, and smoothly transition into the workforce.
4-Year Course
Focus: Academic and professional caregiver education for leadership roles
This is the most advanced course, usually offered by universities or welfare colleges. It covers caregiving, psychology, healthcare, and welfare policy. Students also learn critical thinking, communication, and management skills. This course is best for those who plan to work in higher positions, such as team leaders or facility managers in the future. Graduates can take the national exam and often have more job opportunities in both public and private care institutions.
Caregiving Courses by Types of School
Based on the type of school, you can choose to study at a vocational school, junior college, or university. Here are the advantages of each type:
Vocational School (専門学校 / Senmon Gakkou)
Vocational schools offer 2- to 3-year caregiving programs designed to prepare students for real work in care facilities. The curriculum focuses on hands-on training, caregiving techniques, safety, communication, and includes internships. Many of these schools prepare students for the Kaigo Fukushishi (national certified care worker) exam. They are a popular choice for international students because the requirements are more accessible—usually JLPT N3 or higher—and the programs are more job-oriented.
Junior College (短期大学 / Tanki Daigaku)
Junior colleges also offer 2- to 3-year programs, but with a balance of practical caregiving skills and general academic subjects like communication, psychology, and social studies. Some junior colleges offer caregiving or welfare courses, although not as many as vocational schools. These programs are suitable for students who want both training and a broader educational experience. Graduates earn an associate degree, and can sometimes continue to a university if they want a higher qualification.
University (大学 / Daigaku)
Universities offer 4-year programs in fields like social welfare, nursing care, or health sciences. These programs cover caregiving, but with a stronger focus on theory, research, policy, and leadership. They’re ideal for students who want to take on more responsibility in the future—such as managing a care facility, developing care programs, or working in public welfare. University courses require higher Japanese proficiency (usually JLPT N2 or above) and may have entrance exams.
Caregiving Schools for Foreign Students
Japan offers over 150 caregiving schools that welcome international students, providing diverse programs across vocational schools, junior colleges, and universities. These institutions offer 2-year, 3-year, and 4-year courses tailored to equip students with the necessary skills and certifications for a career in caregiving. Here are seven notable examples:
1. Tokyo YMCA Medical and Welfare College (Tokyo)
This college offers a 2-year Nursing Care & Welfare program with strong student support, abundant hands-on training, and additional classes such as sign language and meal preparation.
Provides a 2-year Nursing and Welfare program featuring thorough case studies and preparation for the National Care Worker Examination, with a 100% pass rate for seven consecutive years. Graduates also have the option to transfer to a university’s Social Welfare program to earn a degree.
3. International University of Health and Welfare (Narita)
Offers a 2-year Special Course in Nursing Care and Welfare, focusing on safe, hands-on caregiving methods. The school provides a 50% tuition reduction for international students.
4. Nishikyushu University Junior College (Saga)
The Department of Living and Welfare allows students to obtain national certifications for care and preventive care workers, with a 100% employment rate after graduation.
5. Osaka Community Worker College (Osaka)
The only 3-year caregiving course currently open to international students. It offers flexible tuition payment options, strong student support, affordable fees, and well-equipped facilities.
6. Higashi Nippon International University (Tohoku)
Offers a 4-year Care and Welfare program under the Faculty of Health and Welfare. Students receive broad education not only in caregiving and welfare, but also in social welfare, medicine, economics, and management. Scholarships are also available for international students.
7. Tokyo University of Social Welfare (Tokyo/Isesaki Campus)
Offers a 4-year program in the Nursing Care Welfare Course under the Faculty of Social Welfare. The program provides comprehensive education in social welfare and caregiving practices. The main campus for this course is located in Isesaki, a city in Gunma Prefecture known for its relaxed living environment and lower cost of living compared to central Tokyo. Graduates will receive a Bachelor of Social Work degree and will also be eligible to take the national exam for certified care workers.
Attending a school in Japan can be a great first step if you're dreaming of becoming a caregiver there. With many programs to choose from—whether it's a 2-year vocational course or a 4-year university degree—you'll gain the skills, experience, and cultural understanding needed to work in Japan's growing caregiving field. If you want to know what it’s like to work in Japan, check out Tokhimo Reviews. You can read real experiences from other employees, learn about different companies, and get useful insights before starting your journey.
