Exchange Agreement

Osaka, Japan

Who?

You must be a sophomore, junior or senior in good standing, with a GPA of at least 3.0.

You do NOT need to be a Chinese and Japanese Studies major to participate. Two semesters of college-level Japanese are recomended, but not required. Almost all Valpo students can study abroad in Japan without delaying graduation IF they plan carefully with their academic advisor.

What?

Valparaiso University has an exciting exchange opportunitiy with Kansai Gaidai University in Japan:

• A semester or full year at Kansai Gaidai University, located in the culturally rich area between Osaka and Kyoto. This program offers Japanese language instruction and a number of Asian studies courses taught in English, including topics in business, art, economics, and history. Students have the option of living with a Japanese host family or in dormitories located on campus. Students pay all fees, including room, meal plan and tuition, to Valparaiso University.
• Students are placed in Japanese language classes according to proficiency tests given during orientation in Japan. Students are required to study the language, but are free to choose among the courses offered as long as full time status is maintained.

Where?

Kansai Gaidai is located in the city of Hirakata (population 392,000), midway between Osaka, Japan's second largest city, and Kyoto, an ancient capital. This region is the cultural heart of Japan, with many historical sites easily accessible. The transportation system is so well developed in Japan that virtually the whole country is within hours on the express train.

How?

You must apply for the program through the International Studies Office. The ISO is located in Meier Hall 137, phone 464 - 5333.

You should consult with your academic advisor, Professor Fred Kavanagh, and the ISO as early as possible. Freshman year is not too early to begin your inquiries about study abroad. Careful planning will insure your classes taken in Japan will be used for graduation requirements.

How Much?

Air fare: Students can expect to spend $1000.00 - $1400.00 roundtrip between Chicago and Osaka. (Full-year students may pay a higher price) Many of the discount flights described in newspapers are not useful, because of the conditions attached. The ISO will help you find the most appropriate ticket for your needs.

Tuition and General Fee: Students pay the same tuition and fees they would pay in Valparaiso. All VU study abroad programs are considered "in-residence," so all financial aid (except work-study and some “on-campus” aid) applies.

Room and Board: Students pay VU's room and board charge for the Kansai program, even if they are in homestay with a Japanese family. Students living in dormitories receive a stipend for food expenses.

Spending Money: Japan can be a very expensive country in which to live, depending on the exchange rate between the yen and the dollar. Consult former students and the financial section of your newspaper to estimate your relative costs.

Scholarships: Many independent organizations offer scholarships for study in Japan. Contact the International Studies Office for details.

Contacts:

Prof. Frederick Kavanagh Assistant Professor of Japanese Meier 121 x5311
Dr. Hugh McGuigan Director, International Studies Meier 137 x5333

VU International Studies Office: studyabroad@valpo.edu

Kansai Gaidai University

Web site: http://www.kansaigaidai.ac.jp/asp

Apply now!

Download an application in Adobe PDF or Microsoft Word format. Fill out and return to the International Studies Office. It's that simple!