Japan education costs drive focus on financial planning

Rising educational expenses in Japan are prompting discussions on financial planning and government support. Data indicates that cram school costs for third-year public junior high school students average approximately 341,220 yen per year.

According to the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, total education costs can reach roughly 8.57 million yen for students attending all public institutions and national universities. However, if a student attends a private university, costs can exceed 10 million yen. These figures primarily cover tuition and admission fees, excluding additional expenses such as living costs, moving fees, and household goods for students living independently.

To prepare for these costs, families are evaluating different savings methods. Options include traditional educational insurance and the upcoming ‘Kodomo NISA’ (Children's NISA) scheduled for January 2027. While insurance offers certainty, NISA is noted for its potential for higher capital efficiency, though the optimal choice depends on individual family circumstances and financial goals.