Can you become a doctor in Japan? It is possible, but extremely difficult. We explain the language requirements and the National Medical License exam.

Many students ask: "Can I study medicine in Japan in English?" The short answer: No.

The Reality

To practice medicine in Japan, you must pass the National Medical Practitioners Examination.

• Language: The exam is 100% in Japanese. It requires native-level fluency (far beyond N1).
• Degree: You must graduate from a Japanese medical school (6 years).

The Exception: Research (PhD)

• You CAN do a PhD in Medical Science in English.
• Career: You will be a researcher, NOT a medical doctor treating patients.
• Universities: Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Osaka University.

The Path for Doctors

1. Reach N1 level Japanese.
2. Pass the EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission) with high scores in Science/Math.
3. Enter a Japanese Medical School (6 years).
4. Pass the National Exam.

Conclusion

Unless you are willing to spend 2-3 years just learning Japanese before starting med school, consider studying medicine in an English-speaking country.