Job Hunting in Japan: What to do in your 1st Year of University

Click here for Job Hunting in Japan: Timeline for Second Years
Click here for Job Hunting in Japan: Timeline for Third Years 
Click here for Job Hunting in Japan: Timeline for Fourth Years Part 1
Click here for Job Hunting in Japan: Timeline for Fourth Years Part 2

What Should 1st Year University Students Do for Job Hunting in Japan?

For the first years, your focus should be trying out extracurricular activities, student organizations, and programs offered at the university! Only a few percent of students have shukatsu in mind, and that is totally okay. It's your time to enjoy your university experience! 

With that being said, shukatsu––job hunting––can creep up on you fast. In Japan, hunting for a job is a highly structured, competitive process. Even though the big part of job-hunting starts at the end of the 2nd or 3rd year of university, it is great to understand the basics beforehand! Get the overview here!

The bulk of the post-graduation job hunting process starts during your 3rd year (or two years before your graduation). It is not just about directly applying for positions. It involves:
• Doing [internships]; getting experiences & seeing if the company matches you
• Attending [company seminars] and [career forums]; getting ideas & researching
• Studying for [Web Aptitude Tests and Exams]; qualifying for positions

Click on the bracketed words to learn more in our Shukatsu Dictionary!

Timeline (If you look to get a job in April 2023)

To know more about the schedule in detail, read through our deep-dive article on the shukatsu schedule for each year!

Click here for the 2nd years
Click here for the 3rd years
Click here for the 4th years Part 1
Click here for the 4th years Part 2