MEXT Scholarship with University Recommendation
More details :
The MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology) Scholarship with University Recommendation allows Japanese universities to recommend exceptional international students for graduate studies in Japan. The application period for this scholarship generally begins in November and ends in December each year. During this period, applicants must contact prospective supervisors at their desired universities, obtain informal acceptance, and submit all required documentation, such as academic transcripts, research plans, and recommendation letters. Successful candidates are then recommended by the universities to MEXT for the final selection process, with results typically announced early the following year.
Once awarded, the scholarship recipients begin their studies in April of the following year. This scholarship covers tuition fees, provides a monthly stipend, and includes a round-trip airfare. Participating universities, such as the University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, Ritsumeikan University, University of Tsukuba, and Waseda University, offer various support programs to help international students adapt and succeed in their studies. The scholarship aims to foster international collaboration and academic excellence by attracting talented individuals from around the world to pursue advanced research and education in Japan.
Eligibility :
Eligibility Criteria for MEXT Scholarship with University Recommendation
Nationality: Applicants must hold the nationality of a country that has diplomatic relations with Japan. Japanese nationals are not eligible, but those with dual nationality who plan on renouncing their Japanese citizenship may apply.
Age: Generally, applicants should have been born on or after April 2, 1989. This age limit can vary slightly depending on the specific program or university.
Academic Background: Applicants must have a strong academic record. For master’s programs, a bachelor’s degree or equivalent is required. For doctoral programs, a master’s degree or equivalent is needed. Typically, a GPA of 2.30 or higher out of 3.00 is required, calculated using MEXT's formula.
Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English or Japanese is necessary, depending on the language of instruction for the chosen program. This can be demonstrated through standardized tests (such as TOEFL, IELTS, or JLPT) or proof of prior education in the respective language.
Health: Applicants must be in good physical and mental health, as verified by a qualified physician.
Arrival in Japan: Applicants must be able to arrive in Japan on a date specified by the university, typically in the middle of September or early April of the following academic year.
Visa Requirements: Applicants must be willing to obtain a "Student" visa to enter Japan for the purpose of study. Those already residing in Japan under different visa statuses may not be eligible.
These general eligibility requirements ensure that applicants are capable of succeeding in their academic endeavors and contributing positively to the Japanese educational environment. Specific universities may have additional requirements, so applicants should review the detailed guidelines provided by their prospective institutions.
Required documents :
Documents to be Submitted for MEXT Scholarship Application
Application Form: Complete with a photograph.
Recommendation Letter: From the Dean or Head of your current institution, addressed to the university president.
Passport Copy: Page showing your photograph.
Academic Transcripts: Include all attended universities with grading system explanations if needed.
Certificate of Graduation/Expected Graduation: Official documentation.
Thesis Abstract: Summary of previous academic thesis.
Language Proficiency Certificate: TOEFL, IELTS, TOEIC, or JLPT scores, or proof of education in English/Japanese.
Note: Document requirements may vary slightly between universities.
For more details, visit the specific university's scholarship page.
How to apply :
How to Apply for the MEXT Scholarship with University Recommendation
Research and Select a University: Identify Japanese universities that offer the MEXT Scholarship with University Recommendation. Then, contact potential academic advisors or professors in your field of study to discuss your research interests and obtain informal acceptance.
Prepare Required Documents: Gather all necessary documents, such as application form, academic transcripts, degree certificates, recommendation letters, research plan, language proficiency proof, health certificate, and passport copy.
Submit Application to the University: Complete the university-specific MEXT scholarship application form. Then, submit the application package to the international office or the specific department handling MEXT applications at your chosen university. Some universities may require both online and physical submissions.
University Review and Recommendation: The university reviews applications and selects candidates to recommend to MEXT. If selected, the university forwards your application to MEXT for the final selection process.
Final Selection by MEXT: MEXT reviews recommended applications and makes the final decision on scholarship awards. Successful applicants are notified by the university or MEXT.
Post-Acceptance Procedures: Follow instructions provided by the university for visa application, travel arrangements, and enrollment procedures. Arrive in Japan by the specified date, typically in April or September of the following academic year.
Examples of Universities Offering MEXT Scholarships with University Recommendation
- Offers scholarships for both research students and degree-seeking students.
- Applicants must contact a faculty member for a preliminary acceptance.
- Provides scholarships for both non-degree research and degree programs.
- Requires contacting potential academic advisors and obtaining provisional acceptance.
- Offers specific eligibility requirements and application procedures for its graduate programs.
- Applicants must meet academic and language proficiency standards.
- Provides MEXT scholarships with detailed application guidelines and support programs for international students.
- Offers a structured process for obtaining a Letter of Acceptance after the primary screening by a Japanese embassy.
- Requires specific documents and strict submission guidelines.
Note:
Most universities offer the MEXT Scholarship with university recommendation. We advise you to find a university that offers a program matching your interests and apply there. You can search for universities by their name and "MEXT Scholarship with university recommendation." Additionally, applying to multiple universities can increase your chances of receiving the scholarship.
By following these steps and carefully preparing your application, you can increase your chances of being awarded a MEXT Scholarship with University Recommendation. Ensure you review each university’s specific requirements and deadlines for the most accurate information.
The Scholarship Benefits:
Scholarship Benefits
Monthly Stipend: Non-degree students: 143,000 yen, Master's students: 144,000 yen, Doctoral students: 145,000 yen.
Travel Expenses: One round-trip airfare to Japan.
Tuition Fees: Covers examination, admission, and tuition fees.
Additional Payments: Extra 3,000 yen per month for students in designated regions like Kyoto City.
These benefits provide comprehensive financial support for living expenses, travel, and tuition. For detailed information, visit the specific university's scholarship page.