Seijo University
Seijo University, founded in 1917 by educator Masataro Sawayanagi as Seijo Elementary School and expanded to university status in 1950, is a distinguished private university in Tokyo's upscale Setagaya Ward. The university grew from Sawayanagi's progressive educational vision emphasizing independent thinking, character development, and individualized instruction. This founding philosophy, known as "Seijo Education," continues to distinguish the university through its emphasis on cultivating well-rounded individuals capable of contributing meaningfully to society. The university operates as part of Seijo Gakuen, an integrated educational institution spanning from kindergarten through graduate school, creating a unique educational community with strong traditions and alumni connections. Seijo University's relatively small size allows for personalized attention and close faculty-student relationships that embody the founder's educational ideals. The beautiful campus, integrated with lower schools in a peaceful residential neighborhood, provides an refined academic atmosphere. Seijo University has earned recognition for its strong programs in humanities, social sciences, and economics, producing graduates who have achieved success in business, media, and public service. The university's location in one of Tokyo's most desirable residential areas, combined with its emphasis on personal development and cultural refinement, attracts students seeking a thoughtful, quality-focused education distinct from larger, more anonymous institutions.
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.25
- Size
- N/A
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- N/A
- Setting
- N/A
- Graduation Rate
- N/A
- Retention Rate
- N/A
- Tuition (In-State)
- N/A
- Tuition (Int'l)
- N/A
Student Life & Environment
Campus life at Seijo has a different feel from the massive student populations at larger Tokyo universities. With around 6,000 students across all programs, you quickly recognize familiar faces and develop a sense of belonging. The Setagaya campus provides green spaces and older buildings that create atmosphere, a contrast to the glass and steel of newer institutions. Club activities form a significant part of student life, as they do at most Japanese universities. Options range from athletic clubs in sports like baseball, tennis, and soccer to cultural groups focused on music, drama, art, and traditional Japanese arts. These clubs meet regularly, often daily for athletic clubs, and participate in inter-university competitions and festivals. Many students consider their club experience as formative as their classroom learning. The university's annual festival brings together student groups for performances, exhibitions, and food stalls, drawing visitors from across the city. Day-to-day social life often centers on the cafeteria and common spaces between classes, with groups of friends heading to nearby cafes or the shopping areas around Seijogakuen-mae Station afterward. While no on-campus dormitories exist, students rent apartments in the surrounding area or commute from home.
Location & Surroundings
The Seijogakuen-mae area in Setagaya ward offers a pleasant residential environment that feels removed from Tokyo's intensity. Tree-lined streets, small shops, and cafes create a neighborhood atmosphere. The campus itself contributes to this character, with its mature trees and traditional architecture lending a sense of established academia. Transportation connects this quiet enclave to the rest of Tokyo via the Odakyu line, which runs directly from Seijogakuen-mae to Shinjuku in about 15 minutes. From Shinjuku, transfers provide access to anywhere in the metropolitan area. This balance of accessibility and calm makes the location attractive for students who want Tokyo opportunities without living in chaos. Setagaya ward is known as a desirable residential area, which means both pleasant surroundings and somewhat higher rents. Students living nearby can walk or bike to campus, while those from farther away have reasonable commutes. The area has restaurants, convenience stores, and daily necessities, though students often travel to larger commercial areas for shopping and entertainment. Nearby parks like Kinuta Park offer green space for jogging, picnics, or simply escaping concrete for a while.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Tuition at Seijo runs in line with other private universities in Tokyo, meaning costs are substantially higher than public universities. Annual fees including tuition, facilities charges, and other costs typically exceed one million yen, with variation between faculties. Students should budget additional amounts for textbooks, transportation, and living expenses if not living at home. Many students work part-time, particularly in service jobs, to help cover costs. Scholarship options exist for students with financial need or outstanding academic performance. The university offers its own scholarships, and external organizations provide additional options. Some students receive support from the Japan Student Services Organization. Financial planning is essential, as costs over four years accumulate significantly. Career outcomes for Seijo graduates span a wide range of industries, with many entering major Japanese corporations in fields matching their studies. Economics graduates head to banking, trading companies, and manufacturing firms. Arts and literature students find positions in media, publishing, education, and creative industries. Law graduates may pursue legal careers or enter government and corporate positions. The career center provides job hunting support, resume guidance, and employer connections. The university's alumni network, while not as extensive as elite institutions, provides useful connections within certain industries.
Campus Location
Explore More
See your match score for Seijo University
Find out how you compare to admitted students with a personalized admission assessment.
See your match score — Sign up free