Times Of TIU

Writer: Syoh C.

Editor: Hibiki K.

Translator: Kelsey C.

Introduction

At universities, Japanese students study alongside international students from many different countries and regions. Although they attend the same classes every day, their living situations can vary drastically. Since it is rarely discussed, many students may not realize if there is a difference in monthly expenses between Japanese and foreign students.

For this article, we found the average monthly living expenses and spending habits and compared how different lifestyles lead to different spending patterns, even among students at the same university.

Categories Compared

This comparison covers the following seven categories:

• Rent
• Food
• Transportation
• Entertainment
• Communication (phone and internet)
• School supplies
• Other expenses

Results

The survey found that international students spend approximately ¥120,000 per month, while Japanese students living with their families spend around ¥45,000 per month, showing a considerable difference.

The biggest difference is rent. Many Japanese students commute from their family homes and therefore do not have to pay rent. In contrast, international students often live alone or in student dormitories, so they must pay rent every month.

Food expenses also differ. Many international students reduce costs by cooking for themselves, while Japanese students are more likely to eat out or visit cafés, increasing both their food and entertainment expenses.

Financial Burdens Unique to International Students

International students usually face expenses that Japanese students may not.

Rent

Living alone or in a student dormitory results in higher fixed costs.

Restrictions on Part-Time Work

Because of visa regulations, international students are limited in the number of hours they can work, making it difficult to earn enough money to cover living expenses.

Cost of Returning Home

During long vacations, many international students travel back to their home countries. Airfare alone can cost anywhere from tens of thousands to even hundreds of thousands of yen.

Characteristics of Japanese Students

Japanese students who live with their families generally have lower housing costs. This allows them to spend more money on hobbies, dining out with friends, or shopping.

They may also save money by bringing homemade lunches or buying only daily necessities.

What We Learned

This comparison shows that housing costs are the largest factor behind the difference in monthly expenses. Even among university students, monthly spending varies greatly depending on where and how they live.

In addition, international students face various challenges such as housing, travel costs, and restrictions on working hours that Japanese students generally do not need to worry about. At the same time, Japanese students also have their own expenses, such as commuting expenses and lifestyle expenses.

Conclusion

This comparison demonstrates that even though Japanese and international students share the same university experience, their monthly expenses and spending habits can be quite different.

Understanding these differences in living situations can help build greater mutual understanding and respect in regards to each individual’s circumstances. It is important to recognize each perspective and continue supporting one another as we go through university life.

References

• YOLO JAPAN「留学生のお金事情」
  https://www.yolo-japan.com/ja/information/details/474