Hokusei Gakuen University is dedicated to providing education that promotes individual humanity, social awareness, and internationalism. To support the third goal, for more than 50 years, Hokusei has actively developed international study programs for its own students and for students from overseas. At present, Hokusei has study exchange agreements with 16 universities and colleges in 9 different countries throughout Asia, North America, and Europe. In Hokkaido, Hokusei is recognized as one of the leaders of international study and exchange.

The International Education & Language Center of Hokusei Gakuen University coordinates the programs for sending Hokusei students to universities and colleges overseas. It provides information about all the partner schools to help students choose the best place to study; helps students prepare for their study abroad; and working with the staff at the partner schools, supports the students while they are abroad.

The International Education & Language Center also administers the program for overseas students who study at Hokusei. The core of this program is the International Exchange Curriculum. This curriculum offers a full range of Japanese language courses, providing suitable options for students from absolute beginners to highly advanced learners. This curriculum also offers a variety of content courses taught in English and other languages that allow students to explore Japanese culture, society, economics and history, and topics of international concern. Because these content courses are open to both international students and Hokusei students, they provide excellent chances for international exchange. All class sizes are small enough that teachers can give individual attention to each student.

In addition to formal classroom study, international exchange students can participate in a variety of extra-curricular activities while studying at Hokusei. These activities include chances for students to try traditional Japanese cultural activities such as flower arrangement and calligraphy, visits to local places of interest, and informal social events organized jointly by international students and Hokusei student groups.

Hokusei also has excellent facilities to promote international communication, especially the International Lounge and Student Café, located near the center of campus, where international students and Hokusei students can study or talk in a causal atmosphere. The International Lounge is also fully equipped to hold formal presentations, meetings, and other events.

Studying a language in the country where it is spoken is one of the most valuable and enriching experiences that students can have. The International Education & Language Center of Hokusei Gakuen University encourages and welcomes all students who are eager to study new languages, experience new cultures, and meet other internationally-minded people.