This article discusses the impact of the full transition to distance learning, during spread of coronavirus infection COVID-19. The advantages and disadvantages of distance learning under the conditions of self-isolation have been identified. A comparative analysis of two groups students from Russian (18 students) and Japan (31 students) were analyzed based on survey data, which revealed qualitative differences in the psychological condition of students during the self-isolation, and after the transition to the full-time education system. Special attention was paid to such aspects as: the level of psychological (mental) condition, efficiency, productivity, and overall assessment of the form of education. We have found that after the transition to full distance learning, both groups of students observed a decrease in the positive average level of psychological (mental) state, indicating that the mental states were similar regardless of territorial belonging. However, after a partial return to the full-time education system, the average positive level of psychological (mental) state increased, which indicates the importance of full-time education as the only one that creates conditions for emotional, energetic and positive influence between communicators.