7 Ways to Verify a Japanese Language School Before Paying

You're probably dreaming about studying in Japan right now. But before you make any decision, a question keeps nagging at you — is this school actually legit? I see students every day who've paid money to fake schools, only to have their visa rejected and their dreams shattered.

Today, I'll share 7 practical ways you can verify a Japanese language school — and you can do these this week itself. Trust me, these few steps can save you from a huge mess later.

1. Search the JASSO Website

The Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) operates under Japan's Ministry of Education. Any legitimate language school must be registered with them. You can visit their website and search for the school's name to find its address, the director's name, and even student numbers.

I often tell students — “Don't just trust the name; verify with your own eyes.” If you can't find the school on JASSO's list, that's a red flag.

How to search?

• Go to JASSO's official website
• Click on the “Japanese Language Education” section
• Type the school's name and hit search

If you can't find the school, assume it's fake. Don't pay any money in that case.

2. Check the School's Website and Address

Legitimate schools usually have a .ac.jp domain — that's reserved for Japanese educational institutions. If you see a .com or .org, be cautious — it's more likely to be fake.

Also, check the school's address on Google Maps. Popular areas like Shibuya, Shinjuku, Osaka, and Kyoto have many schools. But if a school's address is in a residential building, it's probably fake.

I once saw a student who was given the address of a shopping mall as the school's address. Imagine that! So always verify the address.

3. Ask the Japanese Embassy or Consulate

You can directly contact the Japanese Embassy in Bangladesh to verify a school's legitimacy. They're usually helpful. Check their website for the visa section's email or phone number.

Ask something like:

“Can I enroll in this school? Is it on your list?”

I know calling the embassy might feel intimidating. But don't be scared — just ask straightforwardly. It's your right.

4. Check JASSO's Approved School List

JASSO publishes a list of approved schools every year. This list includes the school's name, address, number of students, and even the number of foreign students. Check the list to confirm the school actually exists.

Many students don't want to look at the list because they think it's complicated. But it's actually quite simple. Just match the name.

5. Talk to Current or Former Students

Search on social media for current or former students of the school. Facebook groups, LinkedIn, even YouTube — many students share their experiences.

Ask them: How are the classes? How are the teachers? What's the school environment like? If two or three people say the same thing, you'll know the school is legit. If you can't find anyone or the reviews are negative, stay away.

I believe this is the most reliable method — because those who are there know the real picture.

6. Check the Refund Policy Before Paying

Legitimate schools usually refund your money if your visa is rejected. But fake schools keep 100% of your money. So read the refund policy carefully before enrolling.

If the school says “no refund even if visa is rejected” — that's definitely fake. Because real Japanese schools know that getting a visa isn't always possible, so they're obligated to offer refunds.

7. Get Help from a Reputable Agency

If you can't verify on your own, take help from an experienced agency like Inochi Global Education Institute. We deal with Japanese schools every day, verify their legitimacy, and provide students with accurate information.

Talk to us — we'll guide you. Visit our contact page and fill out the form.

A Small Note

I know this whole process might seem difficult to you. But taking a little time to verify will save you from a lot of trouble later. Remember, studying in Japan isn't just a dream — it's a big decision. So verify properly before you move forward.

Start following these steps today. And if you have any questions, check out our eligibility page. We're here for you.