Prerequisites

Academic Background

Applicants should be enrolled at an institution of higher education in an undergraduate, graduate or postgraduate course. Professionals or graduates with at least a bachelor's degree are invited to apply.

Japanese Proficiency Level

Applicants should have studied at least the elementary level of Japanese (e.g., completed the textbooks "Genki 1" AND "Genki 2") at any appropriate institutions, and have attained a proficiency of Intermediate-Low or higher as outlined in the ACTFL proficiency guidelines.

Non-academic Requirements

Applicants should have willingness to abide by the program's regulations. Also they should be able or willing to adapt to new situations with social and cross-cultural sensitivity.

Commitment

Applicants should be able to participate in the program for the full duration and be committed to an intensive Japanese language and Japanese culture study program.

*Please note that the above conditions are negotiable only in exceptional cases.

Name:

Laila Burke-Graves

University:

University of Michigan

Be comfortable with being uncomfortable. Studying abroad in a different country can no doubt be an intimidating experience, however ...
Name:

Alan Hoang

University:

University of
Washington

I came to HIF with the goal of improving my Japanese while learning about Japanese culture, and I certainly achieved that and so much more ...
Name:

Darwin Restrepo De La Cruz

University:

Yale University

I walked away from HIF with confidence in my Japanese speaking ability, but more than that, love for the city of Hakodate. Spend time learning ...
Name:

Justin Su

University:

University of
North Carolina at
Chapel Hill

If you're considering between HIF and another study abroad programs, wonder no longer. Between the staff, teachers, community, and ...