The MEXT Undergraduate Scholarship 2026 in Japan is offering fully funded scholarships for international students to study at top national universities in Japan. This scholarship, provided by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT), covers almost all expenses for selected students.
MEXT Undergraduate Scholarship 2026 in Japan
The MEXT Scholarship 2026 is one of the best scholarship programs in the world. Scholars will not only learn academic subjects but also develop important skills for their future careers. This international scholarship also helps build strong ties between Japan and students home countries. Students will have access to advanced research labs and experience Japanese culture, as well as interact with people from around the world.
All selected students will begin their scholarship with a one-year preparatory program at a school designated by MEXT. During this year, they will study Japanese language along with other key subjects Social Sciences and Humanities students will focus on Japanese affairs, mathematics, English, and social studies, while Natural Sciences students will take physics, chemistry, and biology. After completing this preparatory year, MEXT, the preparatory school, and the university will work together to assign each student to a Japanese national university. This placement will be based on their exam results, academic progress during the preparatory year, their chosen field of study, and the available openings at each university. This careful selection process ensures students are matched with the best possible program for their undergraduate studies in Japan.
Did you check – MEXT Scholarship in Japan 2026 | Fully Funded
- Host Country: Japan
- Host University: Best Universities of Japan
- Degree: Undergraduate Degree
- Financial Assistance: Fully Funded
Scholarship Value/ Inclusions for MEXT Undergraduate Scholarship 2026 in Japan
Applicants with strong Japanese language skills may skip the preparatory course and go directly to their university.
Scholarship benefits include:
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Monthly allowance: ¥117,000
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Extra regional support: ¥2,000–3,000 per month for students in certain areas
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Free tuition and waived exam fees
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Round-trip flight to Japan covered
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Possible university dormitory housing
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Eligibility Criteria
Who Can Apply?
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Current undergraduate students (any university)
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Students currently in a preparatory program (Japanese language and academic subjects) before starting their undergraduate studies in Japan
After Preparatory Education:
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Students who pass the entrance exam for MEXT Scholarship will enter a Japanese university
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Scholarship recipients cannot change their field of study after selection
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Transfers to other universities are not allowed during preparatory or undergraduate studies
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All required subjects must be taken, even if previously studied elsewhere
Nationality & Age Requirements:
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To be eligible, you must be a citizen of a country that has diplomatic ties with Japan.
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Japanese nationals cannot apply
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Must be born on or after April 2, 2001
Education Background (Must Meet One of These):
✔ Completed 12 years of schooling outside Japan
✔ Graduated from a school outside Japan
✔ Passed an exam
Additional Requirements:
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Student must be willing to learn Japanese and study in Japanese
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Must submit a health certificate (signed by a doctor) in the required format
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Must arrive in Japan between April 1–7, 2026
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Must obtain a new “Student” visa before entering Japan
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If entering Japan without this visa, the scholarship will be canceled
How to Apply?
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Submit all required documents to the Japanese Embassy/Consulate in your home country before the deadline.
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You can type or handwrite the application form.
Selection Process:
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First Screening: Based on your documents, written tests, and an interview.
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Second Screening: Successful candidates will be recommended to MEXT for final selection.
Required Documents:
For Everyone:
✔ Application Form for MEXT Scholarship (with photo) – 1 original + 1 copy
✔ Academic transcripts (all school years) – 1 copy (must be stamped by your school/exam board)
✔ Graduation certificate – 1 copy
✔ Recommendation letter – 1 original + 1 copy
✔ Medical certificate – 1 original + 1 copy
If Applicable:
- Direct Placement Form (if skipping prep school) – 1 original
- University enrollment proof – 1 original + 1 copy
- University qualification exam certificate – 1 original + 1 copy
- English/Japanese language certificate – 2 copies
Note: All documents must be complete and submitted on time. Missing items may disqualify your application.
Deadline
The application deadline for MEXT Undergraduate Scholarship 2026 in Japan varies so apply accordingly.
