International College of Liberal Arts at Yamanashi Gakuin University
The International College of Liberal Arts (iCLA) at Yamanashi Gakuin University offers a four-year English-taught undergraduate program leading to a Bachelor of International Liberal Arts. Students can major in Data Science, Global Business and Economics, Interdisciplinary Arts, Japan Studies, Political Science, or Psychology while also having the opportunity to study Japanese to advanced levels in credit-bearing courses.
Situated just 90 minutes from Tokyo, iCLA combines contemporary, cross-cultural education in a Japanese setting near Mount Fuji. The campus features modern facilities within a culturally rich surrounding, allowing students to experience authentic Japanese culture while receiving a globally relevant education in a multicultural environment.
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Life at International College of Liberal Arts at Yamanashi Gakuin University
Student Life at International College of Liberal Arts at Yamanashi Gakuin University
Student life at iCLA is very vibrant. Yamanashi Gakuin University has over 90 sporting teams, clubs, and societies that students can join. The university hosts two large-scale festivals each year, and in addition, iCLA holds summer and winter galas, nights of musical performances and artistic exhibitions.
Music forms a big part of student life at iCLA, with regular acoustic and electronic nights being held throughout the year, and students performing off campus at local venues often. iCLA has student lounges and study spaces with views of Mt Fuji where students can collaborate, relax and network. Students can immerse themselves in Japanese culture both on and off campus, with local festivals, events and activities, and of course exceptional Japanese cuisine.
Careers at International College of Liberal Arts at Yamanashi Gakuin University
iCLA equips its students with essential skills for success in the global workforce. Through its interdisciplinary curriculum, students develop critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving abilities highly valued by employers. With a strong emphasis on cultural diversity, iCLA fosters adaptability and cross-cultural competence. Hands-on opportunities, including internships, research projects, and optional study abroad programs, provide real-world experience.
ICLA’s small class sizes encourage collaboration, and personalised guidance is provided to each student by professors, helping students define their career goals. The university offers a structured career support program throughout the four-year degree, including regular sessions with alumni and HR professionals, career forums and job fairs, and career counselling to prepare students for the Japanese job-hunting process that typically begins in 3rd year. By combining academic knowledge with practical skills, iCLA ensures graduates are well-prepared to thrive in diverse professional environments.
City Life at International College of Liberal Arts at Yamanashi Gakuin University
iCLA is in the city of Kofu, the capital of Yamanashi Prefecture. Surrounded by mountains and nature, the picturesque landscapes of Yamanashi are a perfect location to enjoy the varied beauty of Japan’s four seasons.
The area around Kofu is home to sizable jewellery and robotics industries, whilst also being a major agricultural hub known for its high-quality fruit farms and vineyards. Yamanashi is Japan’s top producer of grapes, peaches, plums and wine.
To the south of Kofu lies Mt Fuji and its Five Lakes area. A popular tourist destination, it is also home to Fuji Q Highlands, a mecca for rollercoaster enthusiasts.
Living in Kofu provides students with all the convenience of living in a modern Japanese city at a greatly reduced cost of living compared with Tokyo. Kofu has great access to Tokyo, with Shinjuku station in the heart of Tokyo reachable by train in 90 minutes.
Student Support at International College of Liberal Arts at Yamanashi Gakuin University
At iCLA, student support is a top priority, ensuring that every student feels empowered to succeed both academically and personally. iCLA provides a wide range of services designed to assist students throughout their university journey. Academic advisors offer personalised guidance to help students plan their pathway through iCLA’s majors and stay on track for graduation. Faculty members are approachable and available to provide extra support through small, interactive classes.
For international students, iCLA offers comprehensive support, including assistance with visas, housing, and adjusting to life in Japan. The dedicated Student Affairs Team can assist with general daily support, and counselling services are also available. Career Support advisors offer resources for resume building and finding internships and job placements.
Clubs, events, and cultural exchange programs also create opportunities for students to build friendships and feel part of a vibrant, inclusive community. Whether through one-on-one mentoring, academic workshops, or social activities, iCLA ensures students have the support they need to thrive in all aspects of university life.
Student Accommodation at International College of Liberal Arts at Yamanashi Gakuin University
In iCLA’s affordable on-campus housing, international and Japanese students live together, creating natural opportunities for global friendships.
Residence halls feature a thoughtful balance of private and shared spaces. Dormitories are divided by gender, with each floor containing three units, and each unit housing a maximum of eight students in private rooms that share common facilities including a mini kitchen, shower rooms, and toilets. Residents have 24-hour access to laundry facilities.
This living arrangement is specifically designed to provide students flexibility in managing their privacy and social interactions according to their personal preferences and lifestyle needs. Living in dormitories and being enrolled in iCLA’s meal plan, which provides 3 meals a day on class days, is mandatory for all first-year students, giving them the smoothest landing possible into Japan.
Facilities at International College of Liberal Arts at Yamanashi Gakuin University
Yamanashi Gakuin University offers a wide range of modern, high-quality facilities designed to support student life, learning, and wellbeing. The iCLA building itself features bright, open spaces, group study areas, and comfortable lounges that encourage collaboration and creativity. Students also have access to a well-stocked library with both English and Japanese resources, as well as a music studio, art studio, and a traditional Japanese dojo and tea room for cultural activities.
As part of Yamanashi Gakuin University, iCLA students can also use the wider campus facilities, including a the on-campus gym and various sporting grounds. On-campus dormitories provide a safe and convenient living environment, designed to foster a strong sense of community among students from around the world. Dining halls, cafés, and convenience stores are also available on and around the campus, making daily life easy and comfortable.
Sports & Clubs at International College of Liberal Arts at Yamanashi Gakuin University
Sustainability at International College of Liberal Arts at Yamanashi Gakuin University
Scholarships
Scholarship Options
iCLA offers a partial tuition waiver scholarship designed to support talented and motivated students from around the world, making a world-class liberal arts education more accessible. iCLA’s scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, extracurricular achievement and financial need, with the goal of recognising students who show strong potential and dedication to their studies. iCLA’s scholarship program is open to both domestic and international students and covers a fee waiver of our enrollment and tuition fees, with awards at the following levels:- 10%
- 25%
- 50%
- 75%
- 100%
Applicants are considered for scholarships during the admissions process, with a holistic review of all application documents, scholarship supporting essay, and online interview forming the assessment method.
By offering financial support, iCLA aims to help reduce the burden of tuition costs so that students can focus on their academic and personal growth. These scholarships reflect iCLA’s commitment to attracting diverse, high-achieving students and fostering an inclusive, global learning community.