在学

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 在学 is a noun and irregular intransitive verb read ざいがく, meaning being enrolled at and attending a school.
• Basic usage: Use 在学している間 for the period of enrollment and 在学証明書 for a certificate proving that status.
  • 大学に在学している間に二度留学しました。 describes studying abroad twice while enrolled at university; 在学証明書が必要なので、窓口で申請しました。 describes applying at the counter because proof of enrollment was required.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• 大学に在学する
  • に marks the institution at which the person is enrolled.
• 在学している間に
  • 間に places the two study-abroad experiences within the enrollment period.
• 在学証明書
  • This compound means a document certifying current enrollment.