The process: (1) Apply to a Japanese university, (2) Your institution applies for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) on your behalf — takes 1-3 months, (3) Apply for your student visa at the Japanese Embassy in India using the COE, (4) Visa issued within 5-10 business days. Fee: ~₹2,100. Apply to your university at least 6-8 months before your intended start date.