Wow, it's been a full year now since I returned from my time at KCP. I apologize to those who came here looking for more insight on KCP and studying in Tokyo. I will be updating this blog with information based on my own experiences studying at KCP. Seeing as a more than a year has passed since my time at KCP, please understand that some information may be outdated.
Also, keep in mind that this is specifically for US applicants and may not apply to everyone.
The Application Process
Applying to study at KCP is pretty straight forward. the program directors will hold your hand through the majority of it, guiding you step by step through the application process. If you are applying through an abroad program at your home school, they are there to assist you as well.
When you initially apply, you will only need the following:
- Student Application Form
- Personal Essay
- $350 Application Fee (that is deducted from your total program cost)
You can apply online, and it takes approximately 15 minutes. If you are applying through one of the three sponsor schools, you will need to apply via snail-mail.
Required with your application is a 500-word essay about why you want to participate in the KCP program. They also want you to include expectations you have for your stay in Japan, future academic and professional goals, and if you have any previous travel or study in Japan.
When I wrote mine, I talked about how long I have been passionate about Japanese culture. I took the time to explain why I would be going into KCP as level 1, despite having 6 years of formal study from 2004-2010. (Not studying for 5 years will make you mighty rusty, let me tell you.) My expectations were an immersive environment with peers who would speak Japanese with me. At the time, my future plans were to either secure work in Japan, or return to work in the US in order to save money for a master's degree in Tokyo. Finally, I talked about my previous study abroad program in 2010, when I attended Temple University Japan for part of my B.F.A..
It will seem cumbersome, but don't be intimidated. Be honest about your passions and what interests you in Japan. You won't be turned away for studying Japanese just because you want to listen to Anime without subtitles.
I hope this post, while short, was informative to someone out there. Since I've finished my program at KCP, I will soon be talking about more personal experiences with KCP International. First, I'd like to finish breaking down the application process for those who do get accepted to KCP. I'll talk about that in the next post!
またね！
