MEXT Scholarship in Japan 2026

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) in Japan is providing fully funded scholarships for international students. These scholarships are for those who want to pursue master’s or PhD degrees. Students selected for the MEXT Scholarship 2026 will study as research students at various universities in Japan. Japan is known for its advanced education system and leadership in science, technology, and medicine. The country has turned many new ideas into useful and creative products. In addition to academic learning, Japanese universities also help students develop personal and practical skills.

The goal of the 2026 MEXT Scholarship (Embassy Recommendation) is to support the development of talented individuals who can help build strong ties between their home country and Japan. Japanese universities offer a learning environment that encourages creative thinking and problem-solving. Through this research scholarship, students will experience Japanese culture along with other global cultures, broadening their perspectives. They will gain international experience, build new connections, and create lasting memories and valuable life lessons.

In addition to earning a degree, students will gain valuable skills and knowledge that can help them in their future careers. They will have the chance to improve their Japanese language abilities and develop a global outlook. The MEXT Scholarship for master’s and doctoral students offers a great opportunity to carry out research in a well-equipped and supportive environment. After finishing their studies, students may also have the option to work and study in Japan. The scholarship covers full tuition fees and provides monthly allowances to help with living expenses, depending on the level of study.

Did you check – University Of Groningen Eric Bleumink Fund Netherlands Scholarships 2026 – Fully Funded

Host Country: Japan

Host University: Best Universities of Japan

Financial Assistance: Fully Funded

Degree: Masters | PHD

Scholarship Value/ Inclusions for MEXT Scholarship in Japan 2026

Monthly allowance depends on the student’s course and enrollment status (regular or non-regular).
Additional regional allowance of:
- 2,000 yen or
- 3,000 yen per month
  is provided to students studying or conducting research in specially designated areas.
Monthly scholarship amounts:
- - 143,000 yen for preparatory education students and non-regular students.
  - 144,000 yen for regular students in master’s or professional degree programs.
  - 145,000 yen for regular students in doctoral programs.
No entrance examination or tuition fees for selected candidates.
MEXT covers travel expenses (to and from Japan).
Accommodation in university residence halls will be provided.

Check this – OUC Chinese Government Scholarship 2025 in China | Fully Funded

Eligibility Criteria

Research students can be:
- Enrolled in a master’s, doctoral, or professional graduate course.
- Students doing research in a specific field at an undergraduate department.
- Students taking preparatory Japanese language and other required courses before entering a university.
Non-regular students:
- Students arriving in Japan in either April or October who are not yet in a degree program.
Regular students:
- Students who start with preparatory education and then move into their chosen program.
Field of Study:
- Applicants must apply for a field related to what they have already studied.
- The specific fields allowed are listed by the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in the applicant’s country.
- Courses requiring hands-on practical training are not part of this scholarship.
Nationality Requirements:
- From a country that has diplomatic ties with Japan.
- Japanese nationals are not eligible.
Age Limit:
- Applicants must be born on or after 1991.
Education Requirements:
- Must meet one of the following to apply for a master’s or first-phase doctoral program:
  - Completed 16 years of school outside Japan.
  - Finished a program equal to a bachelor’s degree.
  - Eligible for admission to a Japanese graduate school.
- For second-phase doctoral programs:
  - Must have a degree equal to a master’s or professional degree.
  - Or, must have graduated and done at least two years of research in a related field.
Language and Cultural Adaptation:
- Applicants must be willing to learn Japanese and adjust to life in Japan.
Health Requirement:
- A health certificate signed by a doctor must be submitted in the required format.
Arrival Period:
- Applicants must choose either the April or October term when filling out the application.
Visa Requirement:
- Selected students must get a new “Student” visa from the Japanese embassy or consulate in their country.
Scholarship Duration:
- The scholarship may be extended if the student meets the necessary conditions.

How to Apply?

Applicants must submit all required documents before the deadline.
Deadlines can be checked on the official website of the relevant Japanese embassy or consulate.
Number each document from 1 to 11 in the top right corner.
First screening will take place between early May and late July 2025.
Those who pass the first screening must contact the universities in Japan where they wish to study and request a provisional acceptance letter.
After receiving acceptance, applicants must fill out the Placement Preference Application Form and submit it to the Japanese diplomatic mission between mid-September and early October 2025.
Second screening and university placement will happen from November 2025.
Applicants who pass the second screening and receive a university acceptance will be officially selected as MEXT Scholarship candidates in March 2026.

Documents Required

MEXT Scholarship Application Form – 1 original + 2 copies
Placement Preference Application Form – 1 original
Field of Study and Research Plan – 1 original + 2 copies
Academic Transcripts for all years of university – 2 copies of each
Certificate of Graduation or Degree Certificate – 2 copies of each
Letter of Recommendation from your university’s president, dean, or academic advisor – 1 original + 2 copies
Medical Certificate – 1 original + 2 copies