The announcement of the 2026 Japanese Government MEXT Scholarships reveals that the applications are accessible now or very soon for overseas learners who desire to obtain fully funded undergraduate, master’s, or Ph.D. programmes at the top Japanese universities, such as the University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, and Osaka University. Supported by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT), the programme declares to cover all tuition fees, a monthly allowance, and a single trip airfare. Endowed with all these benefits, the only persons who can apply are those who are citizens of countries that have consular relations with Japan.
Overview of MEXT Scholarships 2026
- Degree Levels: Undergraduate, Master’s, Ph.D.
- Host Universities: Various top-tier Japanese institutions comprising national, public, and private universities
- Financial Benefits:
- Full tuition waiver
- Monthly allowance (e.g., ¥117,000 for undergraduates, higher for graduate students)
- Round-trip international airfare
- Preparatory education (for undergraduate scholars)
- Eligible Nationalities: Citizens of countries having diplomatic relations with Japan
Application Deadlines and Procedures
Undergraduate Scholarship
- Application Period: April–May 2025 (dates vary by country)
- Example Deadline: June 6, 2025 (as listed by the Embassy of Japan in Brunei)
- Arrival in Japan: April 1–7, 2026
- Duration: 5 years (1 year of preparatory education + 4 years undergraduate)
- Eligibility:
- Born on or after April 2, 2001
- Completion of 12 years of education or equivalent by March/August 2026
- Willingness to learn and study in Japanese
- Good physical and mental health
Research (Graduate) Scholarship
- Application Period: April–May 2025
- Example Deadline: May 30, 2025 (per the Japanese Embassy in the USA)
- Arrival in Japan: April or September/October 2026
- Duration: 2 years (extendable depending on degree)
- Eligibility:
- Under 35 years of age as of April 1, 2026
- Bachelor’s degree or higher
- Study area must be related to previous academic background.
- Strong motivation and capacity to adapt to life and study in Japan
Note: The dates and demands may change a bit according to which country the candidate is from. It is recommended to contact the Japanese embassy or consular office near where the person lives.
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Fields of Study Covered
MEXT Scholarships are available for a broad range of disciplines:
- Humanities & Social Sciences: Law, Literature, Sociology, Economics, Japanese Studies
- Natural Sciences: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, Architecture
- Agricultural Studies: Forestry, Fisheries, Animal Science, Food Technology
- Medical and Health Sciences: Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Dental Sciences
Application Process
- Verify Eligibility: Review age, education, and health criteria.
- Obtain Application Forms: From the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country.
- Prepare Documents: Including academic transcripts, graduation certificates, recommendation letters, and health forms.
- Submit Application: By the deadline to your local Japanese mission.
- Embassy Screening: Written exams and interviews.
- MEXT Selection: Final review and confirmation by the Ministry.
- University Placement: MEXT arranges placement based on your preferences and academic background.
Official Information Source
To get the latest and most accurate information, you should always consult the official Japanese government’s website.
Study in Japan – MEXT Scholarships Official Website
Students from overseas who apply for the MEXT Scholarship 2026 are, in effect, given a unique chance of studying at a high-level educational facility in Japan absolutely for free and, at the same time, enjoying the diverse Japanese culture. Have you made up your mind to be a part of it?