MEXT Scholarships
More details :
The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT) in Japan offers fully funded scholarships to international students pursuing undergraduate, master's, or doctoral degrees. The scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, and round-trip airfare. There are two application routes: embassy recommendation and university recommendation. Embassy recommendation requires applying through a Japanese embassy or consulate in your country. University recommendation involves applying through a Japanese university that nominates the candidate directly to MEXT.
Each route has slightly different procedures and timelines. Applicants should review requirements carefully based on their chosen path. Regardless of the method, all selected candidates must obtain a Student residence status to qualify. MEXT scholarships are competitive and prioritize strong academic records, well-defined study plans, and international collaboration potential. The program helps Japan build academic ties globally while giving students access to its advanced education and research environment.
Eligibility :
Must be a non-Japanese citizen
Must hold citizenship of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan
Age:
Under 25 for undergraduate applicants
Under 35 for master’s or doctoral applicants
Academic qualifications:
12 years of schooling for undergraduate studies
Bachelor’s degree for master’s programs
Master’s degree for doctoral programs
Language requirements:
Japanese or English proficiency depending on the program and university
Health: Must be physically and mentally fit
Important
Each country may have additional or different criteria set by the local Japanese embassy or consulate. Always check the specific requirements in your country before applying.
For example, Yemeni students can find the details here
Required documents :
Passport copy
Degree certificates from all universities attended
High school certificate or equivalent
Checklist (confirming all documents are included)
Applicant Information Sheet
Application Form
Application Guidelines (read carefully, not submitted)
Placement Preference Application Form (FY2023)
Certificate of Health (completed by a physician)
Field of Study and Research Plan
Recommendation Form (from a university professor or academic advisor)
Tip
Prepare all documents in the specified format. Check the embassy or university website for templates and submission instructions.
How to apply :
You can apply in two ways:
Embassy Recommendation
Apply through the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country
Submit required documents, take written exams, and attend interviews
If selected, you will be nominated to MEXT for final approval
University Recommendation
Apply directly to a Japanese university offering MEXT scholarships
The university screens and recommends candidates to MEXT
Most often used for graduate-level programs
Steps to Apply
Check availability and requirements on the embassy or university website
Prepare all documents
Submit your application before the deadline
Attend exams and interviews if required
Wait for nomination and final selection by MEXT
Reminder
Application timeline, fields of study, and procedures may differ by country and institution. Always follow the official guidelines provided by the embassy or university.
The Scholarship Benefits:
Full tuition coverage – no fees for admission or enrollment
Monthly stipend
¥143,000 for master’s students
¥145,000 for doctoral students
Additional ¥2,000–3,000 for students in designated regions
Round-trip airfare – economy-class tickets to and from Japan
Preparatory education (if needed): 6month Japanese language course or academic prep
University placement support: through embassy or university recommendation route