How many classrooms do you have?

[Full-Time Intensive Program]
Ogori school is located in a 3-story building with 10 classrooms. New campus , Shiroz school (NILS Anex) is 6 class rooms.

How do I commute to school?

[Full-Time Intensive Program]
Our dormitory and student apartment are close to the school. Most of our students ride their bicycle to school.

[Short-Term Program]
It depends on your apartment or a private home (home-stay). Most of our Short-Term Program students take trains. The cost of transportation is 300 to 600 yen daily.

Can I buy the monthly train pass?

[Full-Time Intensive Program/Short-Term Program]
Unfortunately, you are not entitled to the student discount; you can receive the regular discount with the monthly pass.

How do you determine the class level for new students?

[Full-Time Intensive Program/Short-Term Program]
We administer a placement test to all new students in order to determine the best level for each student. The test is consisted of an interview and a written test. We have 3 levels – the advanced, the intermediate, and the beginner’s level. We take into consideration your educational goals, length of stay, etc. and this enables us to place you in the most appropriate class even if you have never learned the Japanese language.

I have never learned Japanese. How long does it take for me to understand the language?

[Full-Time Intensive Program]
It usually takes 3 months for a complete beginner to reach the N5 level in the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test. It takes about 6 months to reach the N4, and a year to reach the N3. Needless to say, you can achieve these results only if you attend all your classes and do your homework. It’s also important to try to speak Japanese in your daily life routine.

 

Do you have an extra study room?

You are welcome to study in any un-occupied classroom. Please inquire our staff.

Is smoking prohibited?

Our school is a smoke-free environment. Please go to a designated smoking area if you wish to smoke. Please be aware that some municipalities such as Fukuoka may fine you if you smoke in a public place.

What is the age bracket of your students?

[Full-Time Intensive Program]
Most students are in their 20’s and 30’s, but we have had students in their 40’s and 50’s in the past.

[Short-Term Program]
We have a wide variety of age groups from late teen’s to 60’s.

What is your average class size?

[Full-Time Intensive Program]
It differs depending on the class, but we have approximately 15 students in each class.

[Short-Term Program]
It depends on the level and the starting date of each session, but our class is small – between 3 and 8 students(Average is 4-5). We offer the perfect setting for students who wish to learn the Japanese language in a short period of time.

Are your teachers certified?

Yes, all of the NILS teachers are native speakers of Japanese and are certified to teach the Japanese language. We require our teachers to be native Japanese speakers.

Can you tell me my level if I email you my proficiency test results?

No.Our level placement is both a written test and a speaking test. A written test is available on line. Therefore you can take it prior to the starting date.

However, a speaking test will take place at the first day of your program. The school will determine your final level after checking the total score.

 

Can I take classes in English or another language other than Japanese?

We teach all our classes in Japanese. Even if you have never been exposed to Japanese, we can effectively teach you using our proprietary teaching method. Our experience shows that this teaching method greatly improves one’s ability to learn the Japanese language compared to using both Japanese and another language. You are welcome to ask questions in English.

Are all your textbooks written in Japanese?

Most of our textbooks are written in Japanese. For beginners’ grammar, we create booklets in various languages including English, French, German, Russian, Thai, and Portuguese.

I don’t know any Chinese characters. Is that OK?

We introduce Chinese characters from our beginners’ level. If you would like to study them more intensively, we provide 15 optional lessons (separate tuition) every semester.

Do I have opportunities to meet Japanese people except NILS teachers?

Yes, we conduct regular field trips to museums, shrines, etc. for you to use Japanese outside our classrooms. Our school also has established a partnership with the Ogori International Exchange Association, and we participate in a variety of cultural events as part of the regular activities. They include summer festivals, rice-cake making, friendship parties, etc. In addition, we host a joint Christmas party with our group high school, Hitotsuba High School. We believe NILS provides a lot more opportunities to meet outside Japanese residents than average Japanese language schools.

Can I talk to someone when I have problems?

Yes, please talk to your teachers if you need help with your classes. We also have a counselor who can help you with other issues. Please don’t hesitate to ask for help.

Do you have Wi-Fi on campus?

Yes, both Ogori and Fukuoka campuses have Wi-Fi, and it’s free of charge to our students. Please ask the staff for a password.

Do you have a cafeteria on campus?

No, we do not, but there are convenience stores, supermarkets, and family restaurants nearby. You can buy a lunchbox and heat it up at the school. We have microwave ovens and hot water dispensers.

Can I borrow books from the school library?

Yes, please ask your teacher or staff. We have graphic novels, test preparation books, etc. You are welcome to check them out.

How often do you have long breaks?

We have 4 long breaks annually. The spring break is about 2 weeks long, summer is 4 weeks, fall is 2 weeks and winter is 2 weeks. You are welcome to go home or take trips during these long breaks, but please leave us with your contact information.

How often do I move up the level?

We typically evaluate each student after completing a textbook or taking a final exam. Students typically move to the next level every 6 months. As a general rule, you are not allowed to move to the next level at other times, but if you have a pressing need, please talk to us.