When I first met Hana, a high school senior from Malaysia, she told me that her dream was to study in Japan, but she didn’t speak Japanese. She had fallen in love with the culture, the precision of engineering, and the global reach of Asia’s top universities. When I mentioned the University of Tokyo’s English-language programs, her eyes lit up. “Wait, I can actually apply there in English?” she asked. Yes—yes, you can.
The University of Tokyo, or Todai, is one of the most prestigious institutions in Asia and the world. For international students who don’t speak Japanese fluently, its English-language degree programs offer a rare and powerful opportunity to access cutting-edge education, research, and global networks right in the heart of Tokyo.
Whether you’re passionate about sustainability, international studies, or advanced science, Todai’s English programs are designed to attract the brightest minds from around the globe. But getting in? That part takes strategy, persistence, and a clear understanding of what the admissions committee is really looking for.
How to Get Into the University of Tokyo: English Programs Guide
Let’s break down how to apply to the University of Tokyo’s English-language undergraduate programs—also known as PEAK (Programs in English at Komaba). These programs are competitive, but with the right preparation, they’re absolutely within reach for ambitious international students.
What is PEAK?
PEAK stands for “Programs in English at Komaba.” It offers two undergraduate degree options taught entirely in English:
- International Program on Japan in East Asia (JEA): Focuses on the historical, political, and cultural role of Japan in the region.
- International Program on Environmental Sciences (ES): A science-based curriculum emphasizing sustainability, climate, and environmental policy.
Both programs are full four-year degrees and do not require any Japanese language ability at the time of application. That said, you’ll take Japanese language classes during your studies, and living in Tokyo will immerse you in the culture daily.
Admissions Timeline
The PEAK application cycle typically runs from early September through early October for the following academic year. Results are announced in February or March.
This early deadline means you need to start preparing well in advance—ideally by the end of your junior year of high school. I’ve seen too many students miss the window simply because they assumed the timeline would match U.S. or European universities.
Eligibility Requirements
You’re eligible to apply if:
- You have completed or will complete 12 years of formal education outside Japan.
- You have not spent more than six years of your education in Japan since elementary school.
- Your primary language of instruction was not Japanese.
These requirements are designed to ensure that PEAK remains a program for international students. If you’re a dual citizen or have lived in Japan, you’ll want to check the fine print on the official PEAK admissions page.
Required Materials
Here’s what you’ll need to submit:
- Application form (online)
- Personal statement (around 500 words)
- Official transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation
- Standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, IB, A-Levels, or equivalent)
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL iBT or IELTS Academic)
Unlike many Western universities, the University of Tokyo doesn’t require an interview or extracurricular resume for PEAK. They focus heavily on academic ability and clarity of purpose.
How Competitive Is It?
Each PEAK program admits around 15–30 students per year. While the acceptance rate isn’t publicly listed, I can tell you it’s quite competitive. You’re applying alongside top students from across the globe who have stellar grades, strong test scores, and compelling reasons for wanting to study at Todai.
But don’t let that intimidate you. I’ve worked with students whose applications weren’t perfect—but their personal stories, academic focus, and clarity of purpose set them apart. That’s where your essay and recommendations really matter.
Application Strategies That Work
Over the years, I’ve helped students from Turkey, Colombia, Kenya, and the U.S. get into PEAK. While their backgrounds were wildly different, they shared a few common strategies that made their applications stand out.
1. Make Your Personal Statement Count
This isn’t just a space to say, “I like Japan.” You need to explain:
- Why the specific PEAK program matches your academic interests
- How your previous experiences prepared you for university-level study
- What you hope to do after graduation
I often tell students: this is your opportunity to connect the dots between your past, present, and future. One of my students, Sofia from Argentina, talked about how severe flooding in her hometown inspired her to study environmental science. That story stayed with the admissions team.
2. Choose the Right Test Scores
PEAK accepts a range of test types. If you’re submitting the SAT, aim for at least a 1400. For ACT, you’ll want 30 or higher. IB students should target a 38+ total score.
If you’re unsure which test path to follow, check out our comparison on ACT vs SAT to see which one better fits your strengths.
3. Meet the English Proficiency Requirements
Even if you’ve studied in English-speaking schools, you’ll still need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. Aim for at least:
- TOEFL iBT: 100+
- IELTS Academic: 7.0+
Make sure to take these tests early—ideally by the summer before your senior year—so you have time to retake them if needed.
4. Ask for Strong, Specific Recommendations
Generic letters won’t help you here. Choose teachers who know your academic character well and can speak to your independence, curiosity, and international mindset.
For tips on how to guide your recommenders, I suggest reading our piece on securing effective college recommendation letters.
Living and Studying in Tokyo
Getting into PEAK is one thing. Thriving in Tokyo is another. But here’s the good news: the University of Tokyo offers dedicated support for international students, including housing, visa assistance, and Japanese language classes.
Students live in Komaba International Lodge or other university-arranged dorms. And while the cost of living in Tokyo is high, PEAK students can apply for generous scholarships like the University of Tokyo Fellowship or the JASSO Honors Scholarship.
One student I worked with, Daniel from Canada, said the adjustment was intense—but transformative. “I’ve never felt so immersed in a culture while still being able to study in English. I’m learning Japanese faster than I expected, just from daily life.”
For many PEAK students, Tokyo becomes more than just a backdrop. It’s a classroom in itself.
FAQ: University of Tokyo English Programs
Can I transfer into PEAK from another university?
No. PEAK does not accept transfer students. You must apply as a first-year applicant, even if you’ve completed university coursework elsewhere.
Do I need to know Japanese to apply?
No. Japanese proficiency is not required for admission. However, you will take Japanese language courses during your degree.
Are scholarships available?
Yes. PEAK students are eligible for several competitive scholarships, including full-tuition fellowships and monthly living stipends through the University of Tokyo and external programs like MEXT.
How does PEAK compare to other global universities?
PEAK offers a unique blend of elite academics, small cohorts, and cultural immersion. If you’re also considering institutions like Cambridge or NYU, PEAK is a compelling alternative—especially if you want to study Asia from within Asia.
Final Thoughts
Applying to the University of Tokyo’s English programs is not for the faint of heart. It requires early planning, academic strength, and a genuine desire to engage with Japan’s culture and society. But for the right student, it’s a life-changing opportunity.
If you’re looking for a globally respected degree, in a vibrant international city, surrounded by brilliant peers from all over the world—PEAK might just be your place.
And if you’re still mapping your options, remember that your dream school might not be where everyone else is applying. I’ve helped students gain admission to places as diverse as McGill, Imperial College London, and UCLA—each with their own unique paths and admissions challenges.
If Todai is calling you, listen closely. And prepare well. You’ve got this.