MEXT scholarship student

[Taro]

Hi! I'm new to the forum but I have been keeping an eye on the site for a long time. I have been tormenting myself over the past weeks over a serious decision I need to take within here and 2-3 months.

I passed the local tests for the Mext Scholarship and in January I will know for sure whether or not I can go. In the mean time I got a letter of accepentance from the university of my choice, so no problem there. I have some questions of a practical nature and I would hope you guys can help me out.

Here's the situation in a nutshell:
> My current language ability is JLPT3-kyuu, well on my way for 2-kyuu
> I would start studying in April 2006
> the program suggested at the univ is as follows:
- 6 months intensive Japanese language study
- 6 months studying as a research student
- 2 years to complete a Master's Degree in Economics/Languages
> I will be staying at the home of a Japanese friend, so no worries there.

The things that keep boggling my mind:

1. How about health insurrance in Japan for foreign students? Don't want to drain my bank account if I end up at the hospital (God forbid!)

2. Drivers Licence: I can get an international one for 1 year, after that I need to get a Japanese one: hard to get? How long is it valid?

3. the scholarship is for 2 years, but my studies take up 3 years. The Japanese embassy said I could apply for an extension of 1 year or more (if I also do Doctoral thesis). Is this feasible? Somebody know whether or not they easily accept extensions?

4. I currently have a rather good job and don't want to lose it. I can apply for an interruption of my contract for one year, after that all is uncertain. Worth the risk?

5. Is it feasible to achieve JLPT1-kyuu level in 6 months?

6. How much is such a degree worth on the job market in Japan and in Europe? I currently have a BA in languages and Economics from an European univ. The Japanese univ I would study at is a recognized public university.

Thank you for your time.

[Spaztick]

I'm not totally sure about all of it, but the Japanese government does have a health insurance plan, however it's somewhat expensive and doesn't cover births, dental work, checkups, perscriptions, or anything viably useful for health insurance. It's good for accidents and injuries only, in other words. They might tell you that you can't cancel it if you try to cancel it, but I assure you you can (it says you can, but most people just believe the teller and end up with a bill they don't want).

I've gotten that second-hand, though, from one of the useful links I believe. Hope that helps some! At least you won't have to worry about draining your pocket book.