Tama Art University (Tamabi)

Tama Art University, or Tamabi, is a private art university located in Tokyo, Japan – a city where history, tradition and culture are in magnificent harmony with world-leading economic and technological development. It is known as one of the top art schools in Japan.

Tama is known for its progressive, hands-on classes taught by some of Japan's top artists and designers; extensive facilities for artistic production, including the Hachioji Library, one of the world's most beautiful libraries; and an extremely creative and gifted student body.

At-A-Glance

What

Global Exchange School

Where

Tokyo, Japan

When

Final dates announced on exchange school's website.

Spring Semester

April — August

Fall Semester

September — March

Who

Open to RISD students

Juniors + Seniors. Minimum 3.0+ GPA required.

Eligible RISD Departments

Film/Animation/Video
Graphic Design
Illustration

Links

Fact Sheet
Exchange Website
University Website
Tama's Application Documents
Academic Calendar

Academic Credits

Minimum 12 RISD credit equivalency

Instruction Language

Japanese
English

Some English instruction

About Tamabi

Program and Course Information

More information is available on their Japanese-language website

You will select your courses upon arrival.

Language

Almost all classes are taught in Japanese. Though there is no formal language requirement, Tamabi strongly recommends that accepted students learn basic skills of Japanese before coming to Tamabi. English instruction is very limited.

Housing Information

Tamabi’s on-campus accommodation is not available for exchange students. However, Tamabi will provide information for two real estate agencies to successful applicants. The companies will support you in finding appropriate off-campus housing.

National College of Art and Design (NCAD)

Apply for Global Exchange & AICAD

The entire application process will be completed using an online application portal. Apply the semester before you plan to attend.

View details

1:1 Advising Session

Have questions? The RISD Global team is available to meet for a 1:1 advising session. We can give you more information about your study options, help you figure out which program makes sense for you, and assist you with the application process.

Schedule an Appointment