FAQ for English-based Undergraduate Program AO Admission for September Entry

I want to know what I can learn in each Major.

The School of Fundamental Science and Engineering focuses on mathematics and computer science. In the mathematical sciences major, you will study algebra, geometry, analysis, and statistics numerical analysis. In the computer science and communications major, you will study programming, logic circuits, and computer architecture, etc..
The School of Creative Science and Engineering concentrates on mechanical engineering and civil engineering. In the mechanical engineering major, you will study both traditional mechanical engineering, such as manufacturing, and modern mechanical engineering, such as robotics. In the civil engineering major, you will learn how to create a better and more sustainable human society through the construction of infrastructures.

For more details, please see below.

・Handbook
https://www.waseda.jp/fsci/en/students/syllabus/

I have read the application guide, but am not sure if I am eligible to apply for the program.

If you have some doubt about your eligibility, please contact the International Admissions Office via the following inquiry form.(https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=clGGs4eYOkuJ_5WjW5L0w9Q2T5c4tCVEo8bqwLArhtdUMDlBTTZDNzNSMlZZMkRUSzczNkhKSTcxMCQlQCN0PWcu&route=shorturl).

Applicant’s eligibility will be reviewed based on the submission of designated documents and inquiries regarding application eligibility will not be addressed over the phone or in person.

Is there an admission for April entry?

Regarding the English-based undergraduate program, only September entry is available. April entry is for the Japanese-based undergraduate program only.

Are there minimum score/grade requirements for the standardized test, English proficiency test and GPA? What is the passing score for each test?

No, there are no minimum requirements for the standardized test score, English proficiency test score, nor GPA that applicants must meet. Document screening decisions are based on a holistic screening of application documents.

【Reference: Average standardized test scores of those who passed the document screening】https://www.waseda.jp/fsci/assets/uploads/2024/09/Average-standardized-test-scores-of-passing-the-document-screening-1.pdf

I took the same standardized test twice. Can I submit the higher score?

If you have taken the test multiple times, choose your best score (the sitting with the highest total score) and enter said information. Waseda Univesrity does not accept a superscore result. Please note that you cannot resubmit your scores after completing your application on TAO.

I have scores in Mathematics and Physics (Chemistry) but do not have the one in Chemistry (Physics) on the standardized test. Can I apply?

You can apply but it is recommended that you take the ACT. Otherwise, you will be at a disadvantage in the application process due to a lack of one required subject. If you do not have two or more subjects that we require, your chances of acceptance are slim to none.

For the ACT test, do I have to take “Science” section even though it is optional?

Yes. You are required to take “Science” section. While you may still apply without it, we strongly recommend taking the “Science” section.  Otherwise, you will be at a disadvantage in the application process due to the lack of a required subject.

I have arranged to have my test score directly sent from the test center to Waseda University by the deadline. If my test score reached Waseda University after the deadline, is my score still valid?

Test scores, including those directly sent by the testing organization, must reach us by the deadline. Scores received after the application deadline will be considered invalid.

Which document will be evaluated the most?

Our document screening is based on a holistic evaluation. We evaluate all the documents that you submit.

I have some Japanese proficiency. How can I use that to my advantage in my application?

Since we do not require Japanese proficiency at the time of application, proof of Japanese proficiency is not included among required application documents. That being said, if you wish to promote your ability/skills, we do not prohibit you from mentioning it on the application documents or during your interview.

Do I need to have application documents translated?

Certificates issued in English are accepted. If they are originally issued in any other language, attach an English translation to the original. The translation must be prepared either by the issuing institution (e.g., your high school), a translation agency, or another appropriate office officially approved by the government. Notarization of the translation is not required. Certificates in Japanese can be accepted when the original documents can only be issued in Japanese.

Is it possible to apply to other universities or other Schools (such as the School of International Liberal Studies) at Waseda University at the same time?

Since our admission is non-binding admission, you are able to apply for other universities or other Schools at Waseda University. However, please note that you are allowed to apply to only one of the majors within the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Waseda University.

I am currently a freshman in another college/university. Can I transfer the credits acquired at my current college/university to Waseda University?

Credits that you have acquired at your current college/university cannot be transferred to Waseda University.

What percentage of undergraduates advance to graduate schools after graduation?

Approximately 70% of students go on to graduate school. Approximately 50% of students enroll in our graduate schools and approximately 20% of 2023 and 2024 graduates enrolled in graduate schools other than Waseda.

What kind of career can I expect in Japan or abroad after graduation?

Faculty of Science and Engineering alumni are working in various fields. These include information services, professional services, construction, transportation machinery and equipment manufacturing, automobile and bicycle retailing, electrical machinery and equipment manufacturing, general machinery and equipment manufacturing, and broadcasting. (Some graduates are employed by foreign companies.)

Major Employers:
Accenture Japan Ltd., Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd., Yanmar Holdings Co., Ltd., and Japan Broadcasting Corporation etc.

For more details, please directly contact our Career Center. [email protected]

The Waseda University Career Center offers job hunting assistance for international students.

Are there any scholarships available before enrollment?

There are a few scholarships that we can offer before enrollment but they are very competitive. Applications are not required because the selection is automatically made based on academic performance.

Waseda has a variety of scholarships for privately funded international students and most students receive some kind of scholarship.Even if you apply for scholarships, you are required to pay the admission fee and the tuition for the first semester within the designated period as a part of enrollment procedures.
As for the Scholarships, please refer to the link below for your reference:
*Applications are available only after entrance.
•Center for International Education (Tuition and Aid)
https://www.waseda.jp/inst/cie/en/life/aid
•Scholarships and Financial Assistance Section
https://www.waseda.jp/inst/scholarship/en/

If you would like to know the details , please email Scholarships and Financial Assistance Section at [email protected]

I want to know about campus tours.

The Faculty of Science and Engineering is located on the Nishiwaseda Campus. Unfortunately, campus tours with student guides in English are currently not available at the Nishiwaseda campus.

If you would like to come visit the Nishiwaseda Campus, please refer to the following websites.
<Nishiwaseda Campus Visiting Information> https://www.waseda.jp/fsci/en/access/
<Nishi-Waseda Campus Tour> https://www.waseda.jp/fsci/en/about/campus-tour/

FAQ about Grades
FAQ for International Students