LABO Japanese Language Institute

School Overview & Philosophy

LABO Japanese Language Institute is located in the charming and historically rich Sendagi neighborhood of Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo. Sendagi offers a peaceful and intellectually stimulating environment, known for its traditional houses, art galleries, and proximity to Tokyo University. The area provides a unique blend of old Tokyo charm and modern convenience, making it an ideal location for international students seeking an immersive cultural experience alongside their language studies.

While specific details about the school's history are limited, LABO Japanese Language Institute is committed to providing comprehensive Japanese language education with a focus on preparing students for higher education in Japan, particularly in the fields of fine arts and design. The school's philosophy emphasizes practical language skills and cultural understanding, equipping students with the tools they need to succeed academically and integrate into Japanese society. They appear to tailor their courses and curriculum to the specific needs of students aspiring to enter universities and vocational schools, particularly those with interests in creative fields.

LABO Japanese Language Institute likely aims to foster a supportive and collaborative learning environment where students from diverse backgrounds can learn from each other and develop their language proficiency. The institute’s smaller size (capacity of 100 students) allows for more personalized attention and close interaction between teachers and students. The emphasis on higher education preparation suggests that the school prioritizes rigorous academic standards and individualized guidance.

Courses, Curriculum & Teaching Style

General 2-Year Course: This course provides a well-rounded Japanese language education over two years. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, from basic grammar and vocabulary to advanced reading comprehension and writing skills. Teaching methods likely involve a combination of classroom instruction, group activities, and individual assignments. The goal is to develop students' overall language proficiency and enable them to communicate effectively in various situations.

Higher Education 1.3-Year Course: Designed for students who already possess a basic understanding of Japanese, this intensive course focuses on preparing them for the challenges of higher education in Japan. The curriculum emphasizes academic Japanese, including specialized vocabulary and grammar used in university lectures and textbooks. A significant portion of the course is dedicated to EJU preparation, with practice tests and strategies for maximizing scores. Teaching methods likely involve a more lecture-based approach, with opportunities for students to ask questions and participate in discussions. The goal is to equip students with the necessary language skills and test-taking strategies to succeed in university entrance exams.

Higher Education 1.6-Year Course: Similar to the 1.3-year course, the 1.6-year course offers a slightly extended timeframe for students to build their academic Japanese skills and prepare for university entrance exams. This allows for a more gradual learning pace and more opportunities for personalized support. The curriculum and teaching methods are likely similar to the 1.3-year course, with a focus on academic Japanese, EJU preparation, and test-taking strategies.

Higher Education 1.9-Year Course: Designed as a bridge between general Japanese proficiency and the demands of academic study, the 1.9-year course provides a balanced approach to language learning and university preparation. It likely incorporates elements of both the General and Higher Education courses, allowing students to develop a strong foundation in Japanese while also honing their skills for the EJU and other entrance exams. Teaching methods may involve a mix of classroom instruction, group projects, and individual tutoring.

Higher Education 2-Year Course: This comprehensive course is designed for students with little to no prior knowledge of Japanese and aims to prepare them for higher education in Japan within two years. The curriculum covers all aspects of the Japanese language, from basic grammar and vocabulary to advanced reading and writing skills. A significant portion of the course is dedicated to EJU preparation, with practice tests and strategies for maximizing scores. Teaching methods likely involve a combination of classroom instruction, group activities, and individual assignments.

Student Body & Campus Life

Unfortunately, detailed statistics on the nationality mix of the student body are not available. However, given the school's focus on higher education preparation for international students, it is likely that the student body represents a diverse range of nationalities from across Asia and other parts of the world.

Information regarding campus facilities and extracurricular activities is limited. However, it can be assumed that the school provides basic facilities such as classrooms, a library or study area, and possibly a student lounge. Given the school's location in Sendagi, students likely have access to a variety of cultural and recreational activities in the surrounding neighborhood, such as visiting art galleries, exploring traditional temples and shrines, and enjoying local restaurants and shops. The school may also organize extracurricular activities such as field trips, cultural events, and language exchange programs to enhance students' learning experience and promote cultural understanding. Further investigation into student testimonials and online reviews would give a clearer picture of these areas.

University & Career Pathways

Unfortunately, specific data on past university admission records is not available. However, given the school's focus on higher education preparation, it can be inferred that many graduates go on to pursue undergraduate or graduate studies at universities and vocational schools in Japan. The "Fine Arts" and "Design" tags suggest that a significant number of students may be interested in pursuing careers in these creative fields.

The school likely provides support systems for both higher education and job-seeking students. This may include:

• Academic Advising: Guidance on choosing the right university or vocational school based on students' interests, academic abilities, and career goals.
• EJU Preparation: Intensive training and practice tests to help students achieve high scores on the EJU.
• Application Assistance: Support with completing application forms, writing personal statements, and preparing for interviews.
• Career Counseling: Guidance on career options and job-seeking strategies.
• Internship Opportunities: Assistance with finding internships to gain practical experience in their chosen field.
• Job Placement Support: Connections with potential employers and assistance with resume writing and interview skills.

Accommodation & Living Support

Detailed information regarding specific dormitory options is unavailable. However, it is likely that LABO Japanese Language Institute can provide assistance with finding suitable accommodation for international students. This may include:

• Dormitory Referral: Referrals to nearby dormitories or shared apartments that cater to international students. These options typically offer furnished rooms, shared kitchen and bathroom facilities, and a sense of community.
• Apartment Hunting Assistance: Assistance with finding and securing apartments in the Sendagi area or other parts of Tokyo. This may involve providing information on rental agencies, translating documents, and explaining Japanese housing customs.
• Homestay Programs: Possible arrangement of homestays with local Japanese families, offering a unique opportunity to experience Japanese culture and improve language skills.

The school likely provides support with initial setup in Japan, such as:

• Airport Pickup: Assistance with transportation from the airport to their accommodation.
• Registration Assistance: Help with registering at the local city hall and obtaining necessary documents, such as a residence card.
• Bank Account Setup: Assistance with opening a bank account in Japan.
• Mobile Phone Setup: Guidance on obtaining a mobile phone plan.
• Orientation: Information about Japanese culture, customs, and daily life.

Tuition, Fees & Scholarships

The following table provides a breakdown of the first-year costs for each course, based on the total fees provided:

Please note: These are estimated first-year fees based on the provided total fees. Actual fees may vary and should be confirmed directly with the school. These fees typically cover tuition, textbooks, and other learning materials. Additional costs such as accommodation, living expenses, and health insurance are not included.

Information on available internal and external scholarships is limited. However, it is common for Japanese language schools to offer scholarships to outstanding students or those in financial need.

• Internal Scholarships: Contact the school directly to inquire about any internal scholarship programs they offer. These scholarships may be based on academic performance, financial need, or other criteria.

• External Scholarships: Explore external scholarship opportunities offered by organizations such as the Japanese government (MEXT), private foundations, and international organizations. Some common scholarships include:

  • MEXT Scholarship: A prestigious scholarship offered by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.
  • JASSO Scholarship: Scholarships offered by the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) to international students studying in Japan.
  • Rotary Club Scholarships: Some Rotary Clubs offer scholarships to international students.

It is recommended to research and apply for scholarships well in advance of starting your studies in Japan. Contact LABO Japanese Language Institute directly for the most up-to-date information on tuition, fees, and scholarship opportunities.