WARNING Signs of Fraudulent Japanese Study Abroad Centers You Should Know

In addition to reputable study abroad centers, many fraudulent Japanese study abroad centers have appeared, causing significant financial and emotional damage to many people. In this article, HeyJapan will provide useful information to help you identify these fraudulent schemes and avoid being scammed!

Common Tricks of Fraudulent Japanese Study Abroad Centers

Providing Inaccurate Information

One common trick of fraudulent Japanese study abroad centers is to provide misleading information about schools, courses, costs, admission procedures, and living conditions in Japan. For instance, a center may introduce a low-quality school as a prestigious one or downplay tuition fees, living expenses, and the difficulty of finding a job post-graduation.

The tricks of Japanese study abroad consulting firms

Some fraudulent centers also use "hot spots" to attract customers, such as recruiting for schools with high acceptance rates but in reality, only a few lucky students get accepted. They might also introduce scholarship programs but later require students to take additional advanced courses to qualify for the scholarships, causing financial harm and reducing the credibility of other scholarship programs.

Lack of Focus on Language and Skill Training

Some fraudulent Japanese study abroad centers focus solely on attracting students without caring about preparing them adequately for their studies in Japan. To study in Japan, students need a good command of Japanese and the necessary skills to live and study there. 

However, many centers do not offer advanced Japanese language and skill training, leading to difficulties and failure in adapting to the new environment.

100% Visa Success Guarantee – A Deceptive Tactic

An "attractive" promise of fraudulent Japanese study abroad centers is a 100% visa success guarantee. However, visa approval depends on the Japanese consulate's decision. If students do not meet financial, documentation, or Japanese language requirements, no amount of guarantees can ensure visa approval.

Commitment to pass Visa 100% - trick to studying abroad in Japan 

 Additionally, centers might misuse personal information to create fake documents for the consulate, leading to visa rejection and legal issues for students.

Introducing Students to Unprofessional Schools

A notable characteristic of fraudulent Japanese study abroad centers is their disregard for educational quality in favor of financial gain. They are willing to introduce students to low-quality schools just to earn a consulting fee from the school. Consequently, students do not receive the education they expect, limiting their job opportunities after graduation.

Low Initial Fees with Subsequent Unnamed Costs

Fraudulent Japanese study abroad centers may attract students with low initial fees, but gradually introduce other unspecified fees unrelated to study abroad consulting. This results in students paying unnecessary costs, causing financial losses.

Initial fee collection is small, but unnamed money is increasingly generated

Using Fake Success Stories

These centers may use fake success stories to convince students to register for their services. For example, they might display lists of students accepted into Japanese schools through the center without any real proof. They could also pressure students by implying they will miss out on study abroad opportunities if they do not register.

Document Forgery

Document forgery is a common scam at non-reputable Japanese study abroad companies. These forged documents can include admission confirmations, income verification, visa-related papers, or any other documents to persuade students to trust and pay the center. This not only causes financial losses but also legal issues for students.

Use false papers for fraud 

Reasons and How to Handle Being Scammed by Japanese Study Abroad Consulting Companies

Many students fall prey to these scams due to their strong desire to study abroad and willingness to pay to achieve this dream. Fraudulent centers use clever tactics to convince students to trust and register for their services.

There are many reasons why students are vulnerable to fraud at the study abroad center

If you realize you have been scammed by a Japanese study abroad consulting company, follow these steps:

• Verify Company Information: Before registering for a consulting company's services, ensure the company is reputable and licensed by the Ministry of Education and Training.
• Consult Experts Directly: If possible, meet with experienced and knowledgeable individuals about studying abroad to get direct advice and updated information on Japanese study abroad programs.
• Seek Advice from Former Students: Those who have studied in Japan can provide valuable insights and accurate evaluations of consulting companies. They can share their experiences and offer helpful advice to avoid scams.
• Request Detailed Contracts: Before signing any contract with a consulting company, read and understand all terms, commitments, and related costs. If anything is unclear or raises suspicion, ask the company to clarify before agreeing.
• Report to Authorities: If you discover you have been scammed, report it immediately to authorities for support and legal action. This not only protects your rights but also prevents ongoing scams against other students.

Tips to Avoid Being Scammed by Japanese Study Abroad Consulting Companies

To avoid being scammed, students should adhere to these principles and precautions:

Research Thoroughly

Before choosing a consulting company, research its reputation, experience, and reviews. Consult former clients or check online forums and social media for an overall perspective.

Learn more about the company to avoid fraud

Beware of Superficial Promises

Be cautious of companies that guarantee 100% visa success. Visa approval depends on multiple factors. Always ask questions and request clear explanations before making a decision.

Compare Multiple Sources

Do not rush to choose a consulting company after the first meeting. Compare information, services, costs, and reputations of different companies before making a final decision.

Carefully Check Contracts

Read every term, commitment, and cost in the contract thoroughly. Do not hesitate to ask for further clarification if there is any doubt.

Keep Original Documents and Contracts

After signing a contract, carefully keep the original documents and related contracts. This provides proof and protects your rights in case of disputes.

Conclusion

The above are common tricks used by fraudulent Japanese study abroad consulting companies to scam students. To avoid being scammed, thoroughly research information, be wary of superficial promises, and carefully check before making any decisions. We hope that the information provided by HeyJapan will help you find a reputable Japanese study abroad center, protect your personal rights, avoid financial risks, and ensure a safe and effective study abroad experience in Japan.