QUICK ANSWER
The biggest cultural difference between applying to Japanese and U.S. art schools is where the assessment happens. Tama Art University and Musashino Art University test international applicants in person in Tokyo, in Japanese, with a written essay, a practical or specialised exam and an interview. U.S. schools review a portfolio and essays online, in English.
For 2027 entry both Japanese schools require Japanese proficiency (Tama: EJU Japanese 220 or JLPT N2; Musashino: EJU Japanese 200 or JLPT N2), and both hold exams in December 2026. A Korean student can prepare for Japan and the U.S. in the same year, but the work is different.
TOKYO ROUTE · 1
Tama and Musashino, 2027 International Entry
| Tama Art University | Musashino Art University | |
|---|---|---|
| Japanese requirement | EJU Japanese 220+ or JLPT N2 | EJU Japanese 200+ or JLPT N2 |
| Application | Nov 1–10, 2026; ¥50,000 fee; one department only | Oct 29 – Nov 5, 2026 |
| Exams | Dec 17–18, 2026 (Dec 19 reserve) | Dec 21–23, 2026 |
| Results | Dec 24–31, 2026 | Dec 25, 2026 |
| What is tested | Japanese essay (no dictionary), department exam such as oil painting, sculpture, pencil drawing or design, interview; some departments require a portfolio | Subject exams, portfolio/artwork review and interview |
| First-year cost | About ¥1.95–2.06 million in 2026 depending on department (2027 not yet set) | Tuition ¥1,210,000 plus about ¥0.8 million in other fees and a ¥300,000 admission fee |
From Tama Art University’s 2027 international student entrance guide and Musashino Art University’s 2027 international admission information, checked October 2026.
Musashino reported 628 international applicants and 108 admissions in 2025. Tama’s specialised exams are practical tests taken on the day, so a portfolio built at home is only part of the preparation.
TOKYO ROUTE · 2
How This Differs From a U.S. Application
| Japanese art universities (international) | U.S. art schools | |
|---|---|---|
| Language | Japanese (EJU or JLPT) | English (e.g. TOEFL) |
| Where | In person in Tokyo | Online |
| Drawing | Timed practical or specialised exam in many departments | Portfolio made over time |
| Writing | Japanese essay on the day | Statements or essays submitted in advance |
| Calendar | Apply early November; exams mid–late December | Deadlines from November to January |
Summary of the two schools above and the application pages of RISD, Parsons, Pratt and SVA.
FOR KOREAN STUDENTS
A Korean student trained in timed drawing may find the Japanese practical exam familiar, but the Japanese essay and interview need real language preparation. Applying to both countries in one year means Japanese-language study and a U.S. portfolio in parallel, with Tokyo exams in December when U.S. applications are also due. See Musashino vs Parsons and from exam to portfolio.
TOKYO ROUTE · 3
Frequently Asked Questions
What Japanese level does Tama Art University require?
For 2027 entry, EJU Japanese 220 or higher, or JLPT N2 or above.
When are Tama’s 2027 international exams?
December 17–18, 2026, with December 19 as a reserve day; results December 24–31.
Can I apply to more than one department at Tama?
No. International applicants may apply to only one department, major or course.
How much does Musashino cost?
Tuition is ¥1,210,000 a year, plus about ¥0.8 million in other fees and a ¥300,000 admission fee.
Can I apply to Japanese and U.S. art schools in the same year?
Yes, but you need Japanese for the Tokyo exams and English and a portfolio for the U.S., with both falling in November–December.
ROYAL BLUE ART & DESIGN
For 19 years we have prepared Korean students for U.S. and international art schools from our studio in Apgujeong, Seoul. Our public record lists 1,099 acceptances confirmed directly with students at 95 schools. Call 02-3446-5929 or book a consultation.
Tama Art University 2027 international student entrance guide; Musashino Art University 2027 international admission information; U.S. requirements from RISD, Parsons, Pratt and SVA. Checked October 2026. If something here has changed, tell us and we will correct it.
Related reading: Musashino vs Parsons · From Exam to Portfolio · 입시 Skills: Keep or Leave · K-Arts vs U.S. Art Schools · Royal Blue Results