WHY SOKA FILA?
1. Broaden Your Horizons for Only 305,000 Yen/year*
SOKA University provide a wide range of scholarships for international students, offering up to an 80% reduction in Academic Fees*, making it possible to study at FILA for just 305,000 yen per year*.
*This amount applies when combining the "Soka University Academic Fee Exemption Scholarship for International Students" and the "Soka University Grant for Undergraduate International Students from Designated Countries." Please click here for detailed information on financial aid program.
2. A Global Campus Ranked 2nd in Tokyo*
Soka University has been highly rated in the “Environment” category, ranking second in the Tokyo metropolitan area.* The score in this category is based on indicators such as the proportion of international students, the number of foreign faculty members, the number of courses conducted in foreign languages other than Japanese, and the proportion of Japanese students who study abroad.
One in three students who matriculated in the Faculty of International Liberal Arts (FILA) in 2024 are international students.
*Times Higher Education Japan University Rankings 2023 (Environment)
*Quacquarelli Symonds World University Rankings: Eastern Asia 2025 (Outbound)
3. All Courses Conducted in English & Practical Japanese Language Education
100% of the courses offered at FILA are conducted in English.
In the first and second years, students take introductory courses across a wide range of subjects including Business, Economics, History, Culture, Sociology, Politics, and International Relations. This approach caters to students who would like to explore various fields before deciding on their areas of interest. However, the learning at FILA is by no means shallow. Starting in the third year, students choose areas that align with their interests and engage in deeper research through Seminar classes.
Both Various Fields of Courses and Practical Japanese Language Skills in one Program
You will study various subjects in English while simultaneously learning practical Japanese language skills. The FILA program offers both aspects as a 2-in-1 program.
Soka University offers Japanese language courses at a wide range of levels for international students. Whether they are complete beginners or have prior learning experience, students can start at a level that suits them and progress at their own pace.
4. Interactive Learning Delivered with Individualized Attention
FILA is places a strong emphasis on small-class education, highlighting group work, active learning, and close interaction between faculty and students. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 18:1, FILA ensures a personalized learning experience. Seminars offered from the third year onward are conducted in small groups of approximately five students per faculty member, allowing professors with specialized expertise to provide individualized guidance on student research.
5. Start Your Journey in April or September – The Choice is Yours!
SOKA FILA offers both April and September enrollment, allowing students to choose their start date based on their country's academic schedule.
6. A Student Life Always Surrounded by Japanese Culture
Live and Learn in Tokyo: A Full Immersion into Japanese Culture!
Our campus is located in Hachioji, in Western Tokyo, offering easy access to sightseeing spots across Japan.
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Experience Cultural Exchange in International Dormitories
First-year students at FILA can live in international dormitories, where Japanese and international students share a community. Students from around the world live together, exchanging and sharing their unique cultures. Those who apply and are selected as Resident Assistants (RAs) have the opportunity to stay in the dormitory until graduation.
Your First Friend in Japan: The FILA Buddy System
The FILA Buddy System pairs first-year international students with second-year or higher Japanese students, forming pairs or small groups of about three. The goal is to foster lasting friendships and enrich student life through mutual support. Managed by the FILA Student Council, this system helps international students ease the challenges of adjusting to life in Japan and provides an opportunity to make Japanese friends.
Over 100 Extracurricular Organizations
At Soka University, there are a wide variety of clubs and circles, ranging from sports and academics to the arts. These organizations include long-established groups as well as newly formed ones that reflect modern trends, ensuring that every student can find a group that matches their interests.
Since its founding, Soka University has upheld a “student-first” philosophy, emphasizing student leadership in faculty operations and event planning. One of the most popular events on campus is the annual Soudaisai (Soka University Festival) in the fall, where international student groups showcase performances in the auditorium and set up food stalls featuring cuisine from various countries, creating a vibrant and multicultural atmosphere.
7. Diverse Study Abroad Programs
Soka University has academic exchange agreements with 267 universities in 69 countries and regions worldwide and actively promotes student and faculty exchanges, as well as research collaborations, including student exchange programs (as of the end of January 2025). Students who wish to participate can take the exchange program exam and challenge themselves with long-term study abroad opportunities.
Additionally, FILA organizes an International Fieldwork, a two-week short-term study program in Malaysia, once a year. By offering both short-term and long-term overseas programs, FILA meets the diverse needs of the students.
8. Global Careers After Graduation
Since its establishment in 2014, the Faculty of International Liberal Arts has produced graduates from all over the world who have gone on to contribute to society through diverse career paths. With an employment rate of 96%*, many graduates have also gained admission to prestigious international graduate schools.
*Among graduates seeking job placement in AY 2022.
Student Voices: WHY SOKA FILA
Learn More About FILA
For those interested in FILA, we offer a variety of events such as Online Consultation Sessions, Campus Tours, and Open Days. We look forward to your participation!