International Students

Online Language buddy Project

Online Language buddy Project with students who live in Japan

Hosei University offers Online Language Buddy Project between students at overseas partner universities and students who live in Japan.

Description

You will be paired with a student living in Japan to enjoy conversations in both English and Japanese for six weeks or more. Feel free to arrange your own meeting schedule and decide how you want to interact—there are no staff members monitoring your sessions, giving you the freedom to chat naturally. This is a collaborative experience, where you and your buddy support each other in learning both Japanese and English.
In addition to improving your language skills, you can casually exchange ideas about real student life, local trends, and culture.
Through this language exchange program, participants engage in deep communication, and every term, some of them continue to stay in touch even after the program ends, building meaningful, lasting friendships.

Program Overview & Application Guidelines for Fall 2026

Program Period October 19 - November 27, 2026 (6 weeks)
Open to Undergraduate and graduate students at partner universities of Hosei University
Venue Online
Any platform of your choice (Zoom, LINE, SNS, etc.) as agreed with your buddy
※Video calls preferred
Language Japanese and English
Language requirement All Japanese levels welcome
・N4 or higher recommended
・Language proficiency test scores / certificates not required
Meeting Frequency At least 4 times during the program
(around 60 minutes per meeting)
Participation Fee Free
Others A certificate of participation will be issued upon request

How to apply

  • Click HERE to submit an application.

    Application deadline(for Fall 2026) : Wednesday, September 23

    *When we are oversubscribed, there will be a lottery.
    *In the case of a large number of applications, application may be closed before the deadline.

Terms and Conditions

  1. Refrain from canceling after submitting an application.
  2. We cannot accept any requests or preferences regarding your buddy.
  3. You may be paired up with 2 or more students who live in Japan / other international students depending on the number of applicants.
  4. Please maintain active communication and stay in touch with your buddy once you are paired.
  5. Use English and Japanese for the same amount of time during the exchange meetings.
  6. Keep in mind that your buddy is not your “teacher” and that this is a peer exchange. Cooperate and try to have fun with them.
  7. Make sure that you have a stable internet connection before you start video/audio exchange meetings with your buddy.
  8. Information above is subject to change.
  9. Please note that the information you provided in the application form will be shared with your buddy(s) and staff members at your university upon their request.

Handling of Personal Information

Contact information

International Office, Global Education Center, Hosei University

  • Mail：esop@ml.hosei.ac.jp
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