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.

I am worried about living abroad.

At NILS, we make sure each and every one of you has a successful experience both personally and academically. Our guidance covers wide areas of potential concerns for you. For example, we invite a police offer to talk about basic laws and regulations in Japan. We also go to a bank and the municipal hall with you to complete necessary procedures. Additionally, we conduct student orientations during the initial 3 months in order to make sure you are satisfied with your routine.

Can I establish a bank account in Japan?

You can open a bank account either at a post office or a bank. A Postal Bank is very convenient since you can use its ATMs anywhere in Japan. In order to open an account, you need to show your passport, the Residency Card, and your own Hanko (seal). We help you with all the steps.

What is the weather in Japan?

We have distinct seasons in Japan, and as such, the temperatures and precipitation vary greatly depending on the season. We have a rainy season during the months of June and July. In Fukuoka, the summer temperature can reach between 30 degrees and 35 degrees (Celsius). In winter, the low temperature can dip to 0 degrees and 5 degrees (Celsius).

How can I make friends with Japanese people?

We hold a variety of events throughout the year so that you can meet and make friends with Japanese people. You can also be friends with your neighbors and co-workers.

Can I withdraw cash from my bank account that I opened in my home country?

If you have a credit card (VISA, MasterCard, American Express, or JCB) or a debit card with these affiliations, you can withdraw cash from an ATM in Seven Eleven stores. You can also use ATMs at Postal Bank branches. Please check with your bank in advance.

Can I easily find part-time employment? What types of jobs are available?

It depends on how well you can speak Japanese. If you don’t speak Japanese at all, it is not easy to find work. We collect help-wanted information in our areas and help our students find work. Currently, our students work in distributions centers, bento (lunchbox) assembly plants, meat packing plants, convenience stores, restaurants, and English language schools.

Can you be a co-signer if I wanted to rent my own apartment?

No, we cannot be a co-signer if you decide to rent your own place. You need to find your own co-signer. However, there are some apartments that do not require co-signers. Please ask your realtor.

Please describe all the NILS’s student housing options and amenities.

[NILS Student Dormitory]Room features:

  • Bed
  • Blankets
  • Desk
  • 3-shelf bookcase
  • Air-conditioning
  • You need to share the kitchen and the bathroom with other students.
  • The shared space has a refrigerator, a washing machine, a microwave oven, and a large hot water thermos. Please use your own cookware and dishes, etc. For Internet service, you need to have your own contract with a provider.

[Leo Palace]Room features:

  • Bed
  • Futon
  • Table
  • Chair(s)
  • Closet
  • Air-conditioning system
  • TV
  • Washing machine
  • Refrigerator
  • Microwave oven
  • Internet ready
  • Please your own cookware and dishes, etc.

[Shared housing]Room features:

  • Bed
  • Futon
  • Desk
  • Chair(s)
  • Closet
  • Air-conditioning system
  • Refrigerator
  • Bathroom
  • Internet ready
  • Shared Kitchen
  • You can use the cookware provided
  • You can use the washing machine and dryer

[Home-stay]Room features:

  • Bed
  • Futon
  • Desk
  • Chair
  • Closet
  • Internet Usage

Can I have a pet?

Pets are not permitted either in the NILS dormitory, Leo Palace, shared housing, or in the home stay option. If you would like to bring your pet, please contact us. We can put you in touch with an apartment owner that allows pets. However, there are not many properties that allow pets, and it may take you 30 minutes to an hour to commute to school. In addition, pet friendly apartments usually cost $6,500 to $9,000 annually excluding utilities.

Can I rent a Leo Palace apartment with a friend?

Yes, the maximum occupancy at Leo Palace is 2. If you share a Leo Palace apartment with another person, you need to pay an additional $130 if you are staying for one month, $160 for 2 months, and $190 for 3 months. We can provide you an extra set of futon but not a bed. Either you use the extra futon on the floor or take advantage of a loft apartment if such a unit is available.

Can I stay with a host family with my friend?

Yes, you may. Please note  that we do not guarantee to find a host family willing to have 2 students, though we try to follow your request. If you and your friend wish to stay with a host family, please contact us at least 2 months before the start of your classes. We will check for availability. By the way, even if you “share” a host family with your friend, you pay the same rent. (There is no discount.)

How expensive are the utilities?

The NILS dormitory, Leo Palace, shared housing or the home-stay option all include utilities. However, Leo Palace may charge you for extra if you use more than what is considered the ordinary amount. Please try to save energy. When you have your own apartment and pay utilities separately, you will end up paying approximately, 10,000 yen to 15,000 per month.

Do you have a curfew?

No, we do not. However, if you come home after 22:00, please be considerate of your neighbors and try to be very quiet. Otherwise, your neighbors may complain to the school or the apartment management companies. If a resident continues to create noise even after repeated warnings, he/she may be asked to leave.

What can I do if I have trouble with my neighbor?

Please talk to us first. We will try to help you with your situation. In any case, we ask you to be a good neighbor by greeting your neighbors and being generally considerate.

Do you provide meals?

No, we don’t provide meal services at either our dormitory, Leo Palace (an apartment for our students), or the shared housing. You need to prepare your own meals. You can buy groceries and cook, purchase take-home items, or eat out. Around our housing options, there are a number of supermarkets, fast food restaurants, and convenience stores. You can save a lot of money by cooking your own meals.

[Home-Stay Students]
If you are a Short-Term student staying with a family, you can select one of the two options: breakfast only, or breakfast and dinner.