The Tokyo Regional Immigration Services Bureau has recently announced a revision to the screening criteria for students who will enroll under the Student residence status from October 2026 onward.

Previously, a certificate showing completion of 150 hours of Japanese language study was accepted as proof of Japanese language proficiency for a student visa application. Going forward, applicants must satisfy one of the following requirements at the time of application. (Notification dated April 10, 2026)
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/applications/resources/nyuukokukanri07_00159.html
Immigration Services Agency of Japan Website: “For Those Considering Enrollment in a Japanese Language Education Institution: Japanese Language Proficiency Required for Admission to a Japanese Language Education Institution”
Please note that details such as available countries/regions, examination schedules, and examination fees vary depending on each test. For further details, please refer to the official website of each test.
Please note that this policy does not apply to applicants who hold nationality from a (country or region listed in the attached table)* and have graduated from a foreign higher education institution (such as a university), provided that a graduation certificate or equivalent document is submitted.
*https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/content/001363332.pdf