This reciprocal exchange program between the University of Iowa and Nagoya University of Foreign Studies (NUFS) allows up to four UI students to undertake a year of study at NUFS’ Japanese Language Institute. Semester study may be an option. Participating students will be invited to apply for a position as monitor in the English language Lounge.

The program fee for study on Reciprocal exchange is based on 12 s.h. of your regular UI tuition. UI students earn transfer credit on this option of direct enrollment in the program of a Japanese university.

The exchange is suitable for students of any major interested in developing fluency in Japanese language.

Academic Program

Students remain registered at the University of Iowa while enrolling in the Japanese Language and Japanese Studies Program (JLJSP) at NUFS. The schedule includes 12 sh of intensive Japanese language study each semester; students are required to take one additional Japanese culture class during their first semester there, and may add supplementary 2 sh area studies classes taught in English, as desired. Students carry between 14 sh and 18 sh of credit per semester.

Prior Japanese language study is required. Information about how language credit earned at NUFS integrates with the UI curriculum is available from the exchange program adviser in the UI Study Abroad office.

Program Dates

JLJSP runs on the Japanese academic calendar. Year study beginning in September ends in mid-July with an eight week "summer break" in February and March. Year study to coincide with the local calendar runs mid-March through December. Semester only study may be an option.

For More Information

Program details are found at our partner institution’s webpage. Students must meet with the program adviser in the UI Study Abroad office to discuss the procedures for Reciprocal exchange. Additional information and binders with comments from prior participants can also be consulted in our Resource Room.

The Japanese Language Institute

The Japanese Language Institute was established to bring visiting international students to campus while providing them a course of studies in Japanese language at various levels and/or Japan area studies taught in English. The area studies classes are also attended by NUFS students as part of their General Education program. Numerous planned activities, including language lounges and cultural and social gatherings, promote interaction with NUFS undergraduates.

Nagoya

The city of Nagoya, completely rebuilt after the war, is noted for its comprehensive city planning projects. It is Japan's fourth largest city, home to industrial powerhouse Toyota, and capital of Aichi prefecture, located in the central Honshu region. Excellent air, road and rail services provide convenient access to all points. Its history dates back to the 17th century, when Tokugawa Ieyasu, the general who unified Japan, built a castle in Nagoya.

Living Arrangements

Living options include single rooms at International House, NUFS' on campus dormitory where international and Japanese students mix. Housing in studio apartments in a private apartment house within walking distance from campus may also be available.

Travel Arrangements

Students make their own travel arrangements to arrive in Nagoya by the required date. Information for arrival will be provided by the host university’s International Office.

Eligibility

Students must have a minimum grade point average of 2.8 and have completed at least one semester in residence at the University of Iowa. Preference will be given to students with a strong record in Japanese. The number of participants is limited by reciprocity by the numbers to be exchanged, and meeting the minimum requirement for eligibility does not guarantee acceptance into the program.

Costs

On this one-for-one exchange, cost is based on your regular UI tuition.
Added expenses include airfare, local housing and living expenses, visa fees, and a UI administrative fee. Tuition and UI administrative fee are charged on your semester U Bill.

For an overall estimate consult with the Japan adviser in the Study Abroad office.

The Iowa Regents mandatory International CISI insurance is also collected on the U Bill.

How to Apply

Students are encouraged to discuss their interest with the study abroad adviser for Japan as early as possible.

To be considered for placement on reciprocal exchange, students complete the Preliminary Application for Japan Exchange due in December of the year prior to the fall or spring semester that they wish to study abroad. This prioritizes students to be considered for the exchange slots available any given cycle.
Beyond the December deadline, applications will continue to be reviewed as received, until spaces are filled.

The program application will be provided by the study abroad adviser once final placement is determined, and will include forms from our partner institution to be completed according to their specifications.

The final decision on admissions rests with NUFS.

Upon acceptance, students will receive Pre-departure information directly from the host university.

Prior to departure, students also attend a general TIPS orientation for UI Students Studying Abroad. In addition, the exchange program adviser provides cultural notes and individualized information about billing and credit procedures at Iowa.