Sapporo, Japan

FAQ about Sapporo

Do I need to know Japanese to participate in the program?

No previous experience with Japanese is necessary.  Upon arrival, you will take a language placement exam and enroll in Japanese language classes accordingly. Courses are taught in English and Japanese, and students with advanced levels of Japanese may enroll in upper-level classes taught in Japanese.

Where is BCA Sapporo study center located?

BCA Sapporo is located at the Hokusei Gakuen University. Hokusei Gakuen University has worked with BCA since 1988 to provide the best cultural immersion experience for students interested in learning more about Japanese language and culture. The university has a student population of more than 6,000 students.

What can I study at BCA Sapporo?

Most BCA students enroll in intensive Japanese language courses. Also, BCA has arrangements with Hokusei Gakuen University to offer a variety of courses during certain semesters to students through an interpreter or through a native English speaker. The BCA resident director also teaches a few courses that you can choose from.

Where will I live?

While in Sapporo, you will live with a Japanese host family. This will help you improve your proficiency in Japanese, learn about Japanese culture and create a network of friends. BCA places one student per family to facilitate cultural integration. You will have your own bedroom.

Will my school accept credit from BCA Sapporo?

Each university has its own policy for transferring credits, so you will want to check you are your university registration and records office to determine whether BCA credits are accepted. Upon completion, BCA sends transcripts from the Hokusei Gakuen University and BCA course reports to you and your college or university. If your school requires a transcript from a U.S. institution, BCA will provide you with a transcript from Elizabethtown College, which is BCA’s school of record.

Will my financial aid transfer?

Most federal aid is transferable; some state aid is transferable. Aid from individual schools is transferred at the school’s discretion. Students are advised to consult their financial aid advisor for further information and advice.

Why study with BCA? What sets BCA apart?

BCA is one of the nation's oldest independent organizations committed to promoting international understanding and academic excellence through college study abroad programs for U.S. students and adult seminars for faculty and administrators. Rooted in the values of peace and justice, BCA promotes international understanding, awareness of global citizenship and academic scholarship through educational exchange. Among the special qualities of BCA's programs: unique opportunities to study peace and justice issues in places where conflict has profoundly affected culture, history and daily life; cultural immersion - which we believe offers the richest possible experience; and a lot of academic and administrative support, which helps both students and their home colleges and universities.

What are the application deadlines?

BCA encourages interested students to apply as soon as possible to get the process in motion. Applications for the spring semester are due by October 15. Fall semester applications are due by April 1. Students should expect an answer from BCA within three weeks after submitting a complete application.

Do I need a visa to study in Japan?

Yes. A student visa is needed to study in Japan. BCA will help you acquire the paperwork needed to obtain a visa.

Can I study abroad as a freshman? Will studying abroad delay my graduation?

To study abroad with BCA Sapporo, a student must have at least one year of undergraduate study. However, BCA encourages students to start planning in their first year and investigate which program is a good fit for their individual needs.

E-mail us with your questions

inquiry@bcaabroad.org

Questions? Please call:

1-866-222-6188