Tokyo Metropolitan University (TMU) in Japan is offering SMU students a chance to participate in a 3-week Summer Program in Japanese Language and Japan Studies
Program Venue
Tokyo Metropolitan University (TMU), Minami-Osawa Campus 1-1 Minami-Osawa, Hachioji-shi, Tokyo, Japan
Theme
“TMU Summer Program on Japanese & Japan Studies in 2026 – Tokyo Creative Journey”
Program objectives
This summer program helps you to:
explore both the historical and contemporary sides of Tokyo and visit traditional landmarks and modern marvels
deepen your understanding of the beauty and spirit of Japanese culture
experience an inspiring cultural journey in the heart of one of the world’s most exciting cities, Tokyo
take Japanese language courses tailored to learners of different proficiency levels
make international friends and create unforgettable memories
Eligibility/Language Requirements
This program is designed for undergraduate or graduate students in good standing who will have completed 1 year of Bachelor studies by the end of Winter 2026 and is open to those who have never studied Japanese or are at a beginner level.
Language of instruction
The program is delivered in English.
Program website
Check out https://www.ic.tmu.ac.jp/english/study_abroad/short_program_report.html to see past program photos and videos.
Dates:
June 22 – July 8, 2026 (3 weeks)
Program Fee
150,000JPY (approx. CAD$1400)
The program fee includes accommodation, textbooks, admission fees for field studies and workshop materials.
Students are additionally responsible for meals, airfare, insurance, local transportation between the university and accommodation, and daily expenses. A $100 SMU Study abroad admin fee will be charged on banner
If academic credits are earned, students pay SMU tuition at SMU for the transfer credit hours.
Canadian passport holders typically do not need a visa to enter Japan for a 3-week program. If a visa is necessary (depending on your citizenship), consider costs of applying for a visa. It may be necessary to travel to Montreal to visit the Consulate General of Japan in Montreal and apply in person. Please see the Immigration section below.
Transfer credits:
Students may be able to earn credits to the extent that those credits are applicable to the program requirements of your SMU degree. Please meet with your academic advisor of your program (visit https://www.smu.ca/academics/academic-advising.html) to see if any of your remaining degree requirements can be completed at another university. If your advisor confirms that there is room for credits from another institution in your degree requirements, you will request approval to take courses for transfer credits by submitting a Letter of Permission Request Form (found at https://www.smu.ca/academics/student-forms.html) and course descriptions to the SMU Records Office as soon as your acceptance is confirmed.
Alternatively, if not transferring credits, you may receive recognition for extra-curricular experiences through the Co-Curricular Record (see here).
Funding
Limited funding ($500 on average) may be available. Students who are accepted to the program will be invited to request funding.
Immigration:
Citizens of certain countries are required to apply for a short-term visa before entering Japan, while visas are waived for others. Normally, Canadian citizens are not required to obtain a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Questions related to immigration should be directed to the Consulate General of Japan in Montreal at https://www.montreal.ca.emb-japan.go.jp/en/consular/visa_menu_en.html.
Number of SMU students accepted: 3
How to apply:
Interested students should submit the SMU Exchange Program application* by February 27 2026 to the Global Learning Office.
*To complete your application, you will:
1. fill out your Study Abroad Application (https://studio.smu.ca/s/StudyAbroadApplication2021.pdf)
2. write a one-page letter of intent. (Tip: book an appointment with The Writing Centre once you have a draft https://studio.smu.ca/wc-student-tutoring)
3. print (in pdf) your unofficial transcript from banner
4. prepare your resume, and
5. secure two references (one must be from a SMU professor of one of your courses) – referees can email their letters directly to Global@smu.ca. Inquiries can be sent to Miyuki.arai@smu.ca.
Once you have all four pieces of application documents (except for references), upload them at the application link here https://smuniversity.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_55UpfboKu5sImUe.
What happens after you apply?
Once your application package is received, the Global Learning Office will be in touch to schedule a short interview. If you are selected, 1) you will be nominated to the host university by the SMU Global Learning Office and 2) you will be instructed to complete a set of applications for the host university by early April. Once the host university accepts you into the program, they will provide all program-related information as well as instruction for the payment of the program fee (due in early May). You will also be expected to attend our pre-departure orientation meetings. You will arrange your own international travel.
Questions?
Email the Global Learning Office (Global@smu.ca or Miyuki.arai@smu.ca).
