Half of Japanese College Students Struggle with Living Costs, Survey Reveals
Date: 03-apr-2025
On April 3, 2025, the National Federation of University Cooperative Associations released a revealing survey showing that nearly half of Japan’s college students are struggling with their living expenses. Rising costs of basic necessities, tuition pressures, and limited income options have left students increasingly anxious about their financial stability.
Key Findings from the Survey
The survey, conducted between October and November 2024, received responses from over 11,500 students across public and private universities. Nearly 50% of them reported worrying regularly about affording rent, food, transportation, and other basic expenses.
Why Are Students Struggling Financially?
- Rising Inflation: Food, energy, and housing costs have risen significantly across Japan, putting pressure on student budgets.
- Part-time Work Limitations: Many students rely on part-time jobs, but work-hour restrictions and academic demands limit income.
- Student Loan Burden: Increasing reliance on education loans adds long-term stress to financial planning and future stability.
Impact Beyond Campus Life
Financial concerns are also influencing long-term life choices. A related national study found that nearly 20% of college students in Japan are hesitant to have children in the future, citing economic uncertainty as a primary reason. This reflects broader demographic shifts and deep-rooted financial anxieties among Japan’s younger population.
Government and Institutional Responses
Some universities are introducing financial literacy programs and offering increased counseling and aid services to students in distress. The Japanese government has also recently lifted income caps for certain high school student allowances in an attempt to ease household financial pressure.
Also Read
The Road Ahead
With living costs showing no sign of slowing, experts are calling for urgent reform in student welfare, including affordable housing options, restructured tuition support, and stronger employment protection for part-time student workers.
As Japan faces both an aging population and shrinking birthrate, supporting student well-being could be vital for sustaining its future workforce and economy.
🔄 Read More
⬅ Previous: Trump Imposes New 2025 Import Tariffs: How India, China, and EU Will Be Affected
Date: 03-Apr-2025
U.S. President Donald Trump has announced sweeping new import tariffs in April 2025, setting a 10% base on all goods and increasing duties for India, China, and the EU. This move targets trade deficits but raises fears of a global trade war.
Next: A.R. White & Son Announces Closure After 95 Years in Bilston ➡
Date: 03-Apr-2025
After nearly a century of serving the Bilston community, A.R. White & Son, a cherished family-owned menswear retailer, has announced its decision to close by September 2025. A closing down sale is currently underway.
📌 Latest Trending
US media: Elon Musk to soon leave US administration 🎥
04 Apr 2025