MEXT Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded Study in Japan

Begin your academic journey in Japan!
Great news — applications for the prestigious MEXT Scholarship 2026 are now open. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the scholarship’s benefits, eligibility requirements, and detailed application process.

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What is the MEXT Scholarship?

The MEXT Scholarship 2026–2027 is a fully funded scholarship offered by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) of Japan. It supports international students at all academic levels — undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and training programs — at leading Japanese universities.

This Embassy-recommended scholarship aims to promote international exchange and foster global academic cooperation.

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Scholarship Summary

• Level of Study: Undergraduate / Master’s / PhD / Teacher Training / Japanese Studies

• Institutions: All Japanese universities

• Location: Japan

• Field of Study: All fields including Social Sciences, Engineering, Health, Arts, Humanities, and more

• Duration:

  • Undergraduate: 4–5 years

  • Master’s: 2–3 years

  • PhD: 3–4 years

• Application Deadline: Varies by country (Check with the Japanese Embassy in your home country)

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Scholarship Coverage

The MEXT Scholarship is fully funded, providing recipients with:

• Monthly Stipend: Includes living allowance and preparatory allowance (as per 2026 rates)

• Education Fees: Covers entrance examination and full tuition fees

• Airfare: Round-trip economy-class ticket from your home country to Japan

• Accommodation: Access to university residence halls for international students

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Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following general requirements:

• Language: English (Japanese language proficiency is not mandatory)

• Nationality: Must be a citizen of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan

• Japanese Nationals: Not eligible

• Age & Academic Requirements:

  • Undergraduate: 17–24 years old; completed 12 years of school education or equivalent

  • Master’s / PhD: Under 35 years old; must hold or be completing a bachelor’s/master’s degree

  • Teacher Training: Under 35; at least 5 years of teaching experience

  • Japanese Studies: 18–30 years old; must be enrolled in a Japanese language or culture course outside Japan

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Application Process

To apply for the MEXT Scholarship 2026, follow these steps:

1. Find the Japanese Embassy/Consulate in your country Click here to search

2. Visit the official embassy website and locate the Education / Scholarship section

3. Download and complete the MEXT Scholarship Application Form

4. Prepare and submit all required documents to the Japanese Embassy by their specified deadline

5. Written Examination: Conducted by the Embassy (sample questions are available online)

6. Interview Stage: Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview

7. Final selection will be communicated via email or official embassy announcements

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Required Documents

Prepare and submit the following documents:

1. MEXT Application Form

2. Academic Degree Certificate (officially stamped)

   • Undergraduate applicants: High school diploma (12 years of education)

   • Master’s applicants: Bachelor’s degree

   • PhD applicants: Master’s degree

   • Note: If not in English or Japanese, provide a notarized English translation

3. Academic Transcripts (with grading system)

4. Two Recommendation Letters (preferably from professors, advisors, or employers)

5. Passport Copy (if available)

6. Curriculum Vitae (CV) (for graduate/research applicants)

7. Photographs (passport-size)

8. Study Plan / Statement of Purpose (in English; max 2 pages outlining your motivation, academic background, and research goals)

9. Proof of English Proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or letter of instruction in English from home university)

10. Research Thesis or Publications (if applicable)

11. Any Additional Supporting Documents (if required)

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Why Choose Japan?

Studying in Japan offers more than academic excellence — it provides cultural immersion, advanced technology exposure, and world-class research facilities. Through MEXT, you’ll gain access to one of the most innovative education systems in the world while forming lifelong international connections.

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📢 Tip: Apply as early as possible and follow your local Japanese Embassy guidelines closely. Each country has its own deadline and selection process.