Great news for aspiring international students — applications for the MEXT Scholarship 2025–2026 are now open! This fully funded scholarship, offered by Japan’s Ministry of Education (MEXT), supports undergraduate, master’s, PhD, and training programs at top Japanese universities.
The scholarship covers full tuition, accommodation, a monthly living allowance, and round-trip airfare from your home country to Japan. It’s a fantastic opportunity for high-achieving students who want to study in Japan and engage in academic and cultural exchange.
This is the Embassy-recommended MEXT Scholarship, which means you must apply through the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in your country. No prior knowledge of Japanese or English language test scores (like IELTS/TOEFL) is required, though they may strengthen your application.
The application process usually starts in April, so be sure to check your local embassy’s website for details and deadlines. Don’t miss this chance to study in Japan on a fully funded scholarship!
MEXT Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: Undergraduate / Masters / PhD / Training
- Institution(s): Japanese Universities
- Study in: Japan
- Program Period: Undergraduate: 4-5 Years, Masters: 2-3 Years, PhD: 3-4 Years
- Courses Offered: All types of courses are offered in all Japanese Universities from Social Science to Engineering, Medical to Health, Arts, Humanities, etc. There are no academic field restrictions.
- MEXT Scholarship Deadline: Varies from Embassy to Embassy
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility for the MEXT Scholarship is stringent to ensure recipients are outstanding candidates capable of thriving in Japan’s rigorous academic setting. General requirements apply across categories, with specific variations based on the program.
Applicants must hold nationality from a country maintaining diplomatic relations with Japan and cannot possess Japanese citizenship at the time of application. Military personnel are ineligible, as are those already receiving another Japanese government scholarship. Good health is mandatory, verified through a medical certificate during the process.
For Research Students (graduate level), candidates need a bachelor’s degree or equivalent with at least 16 years of education and must be under 35 years old. They should demonstrate strong academic performance, often with a minimum GPA equivalent to 2.30 on Japan’s 3.00 scale. Prior research experience or publications strengthen applications.
Undergraduate Students must have completed 12 years of schooling (high school equivalent) and be aged 17 to 25. They are expected to have excellent grades and may need to pass entrance exams in subjects like mathematics, science, or English.
College of Technology Students target those aged 17 to 25 with 12 years of education, focusing on engineering fields. Specialized Training College Students, also 17 to 25, pursue vocational programs in areas like technology, business, or fashion after high school.
Japanese Studies Students, aged 18 to 30, must be current undergraduates majoring in Japanese language or culture at non-Japanese institutions, committing to return post-study.
University recommendation slots are often limited to partner institutions or designated regions, while embassy paths are open broader but highly competitive. Language proficiency is not required initially, as preparatory Japanese courses are provided, though English-taught programs exist for graduate research.
How to Apply for the MEXT Scholarship: Step-by-Step Application Instructions
If you are interested in studying in Japan through the prestigious MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology) Scholarship, please follow the detailed application process outlined below:
1. Locate the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in Your Country
Begin by identifying the Japanese Embassy or Consulate responsible for your region.
You can find the official list of Japanese Embassies and Consulates around the world by visiting the following link: Japanese Embassies & Consulates
2. Visit the Embassy’s Official Website
Once you have located the appropriate embassy or consulate, visit its official website.
Look for the “Education” or “Scholarship” section, where you will find specific details about the MEXT Scholarship program offered in your country.
Each embassy may have its own deadlines, eligibility criteria, and document submission procedures, so it’s important to carefully read all the information provided on your local embassy’s site.
3. Download and Complete the MEXT Scholarship Application Form
From the embassy’s website, download the latest version of the MEXT Scholarship application form.
Fill out the form accurately and completely, following the instructions provided. Ensure that all the required information is filled in, and double-check for any errors or missing fields before submission.
4. Prepare and Submit the Required Documents
Along with the completed application form, you will need to submit a set of supporting documents to the Japanese Embassy in your country. These typically include, but are not limited to:
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Academic transcripts
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Certificates of graduation or expected graduation
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A recommendation letter from a teacher or academic advisor
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A medical certificate
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A passport copy or identification documents
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A research or study plan (for postgraduate applicants)
Please refer to the embassy’s website for the exact list of required documents, as it may vary by country and application level (undergraduate, master’s, doctoral).
All documents must be submitted by the deadline stated on your embassy’s website.
5. Take the Written Examination
After reviewing the submitted documents, the Japanese Embassy will invite eligible applicants to take a written test.
This test is designed to evaluate your academic ability and knowledge in relevant subjects. The subjects may vary depending on the scholarship type (e.g., mathematics, science, English, or Japanese).
You can prepare in advance by reviewing sample written tests with answers, which are often available on the embassy’s or MEXT’s official website.
6. Attend an Interview
Candidates who perform well in the written examination will be shortlisted for an interview.
The interview will be conducted by embassy officials or representatives and will assess your academic interests, motivation, and suitability for studying in Japan.
7. Await Notification of Results
After the interview process, successful candidates will be selected and notified.
Notifications may be sent via email or announced through the embassy’s official website, so make sure to check both regularly.
If selected, you will receive further instructions regarding university placement and visa procedures.
Benefits
The MEXT Scholarship’s allure lies in its comprehensive coverage, alleviating all major study abroad costs. Monthly stipends vary by category and location: undergraduates receive about 117,000 yen (roughly 800 USD), while research students get 143,000 to 145,000 yen, plus potential increases for those in designated regions.
Tuition at national universities is fully exempted, covering enrollment and annual fees. Round-trip economy airfare from the home country to Japan is provided, along with travel insurance. Accommodation is not directly funded but supported through stipends, with many universities offering affordable dorms.
A standout feature is the six-month preparatory Japanese course, easing transition for non-speakers and including cultural orientation. Extensions are possible for degree progression, subject to academic performance reviews. Upon completion, scholars gain a globally recognized credential, enhanced networks, and skills in Japan’s collaborative research culture.
Beyond finances, the program promotes holistic development, from language mastery to intercultural competence, positioning recipients for leadership roles worldwide.
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FAQs
Can family members accompany MEXT scholars? A
No, the scholarship does not cover spousal or dependent allowances. Scholars may bring family at personal expense but must secure their own visas and housing.
Is Japanese language proficiency required at application?
Not initially. Most recipients start with the preparatory language program. However, English proficiency may be needed for certain graduate fields.
What if I fail to secure university placement?
Embassy-recommended candidates are matched by MEXT with suitable institutions. University applicants must obtain provisional acceptance beforehand; failure may disqualify them.
Are there age exceptions or extensions?
Strict age limits apply, with rare waivers. Scholarship extensions for degree changes require university and MEXT approval based on performance.
Does the scholarship cover books or research costs?
Stipends are for living expenses, including materials. Additional grants may be available through universities for specific projects.
How competitive is the MEXT Scholarship?
Highly so, with acceptance rates under 10 percent in many countries due to limited slots and global applicants.
Can I defer or withdraw after acceptance?
Deferrals are not allowed. Withdrawal forfeits benefits and may bar future applications.
What happens after scholarship completion?
Scholars return home or continue independently. Many leverage experiences for careers in academia, industry, or diplomacy.