Abstract:
As competition for international students intensifies, various initiatives are being implemented in Japan. Since 2014, subcontracted Japanese universitreis from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) has established offices in countries with a high potential demand for studying abroad in Japan. These offices provide information on study abroad opportunities, hold study abroad fairs in Japan, and conduct mock classes. However, a significant challenge has been identified: it is extremely difficult to obtain admission-related information from Japanese university websites.

To address this challenge, this study compared the websites of foreign universities with a high proportion of international students with those of Japanese universities. It analysed the reasons why information is difficult to find. As a research method, the study investigated the number of clicks required to display the language requirements necessary for study abroad applications.

The results showed no significant difference in the number of clicks. However, it was found that at many Japanese universities, applicants must carefully read multiple pages of application guidelines to understand the admission requirements. Furthermore, it became clear that the website structure of Japanese universities, which is divided into vertical organisational structures between the international office and each faculty or graduate school, was particularly confusing.

Learning objectives:
1. Identify the characteristics of university websites that attract many international students.
2. Clarify the characteristics of university websites that deter international students from applying.
3. Propose university websites and recruitment methods that attract international students.

Target audience:
This report provides useful information for university faculty members involved in recruiting international students