MEXT Scholarship (Japanese Government)

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) of Japan awards scholarships through Embassy Recommendation and University Recommendation routes. Research students (often leading to master’s or doctoral enrolment) are the most common international track. Benefits typically include exemption from tuition, a monthly stipend, and round-trip airfare. Embassy timelines, exams, and document rules differ by country. Use Study in Japan and your local Japanese embassy as the only sources of truth for the current call.

Applications open

No single opening date

Deadline

Dates vary by call

Results

Jan 31, 2027

Programme start

Apr 1, 2027

Duration

Research: ~18–24 months initially; degree programmes longer

Last verified on Scholra

Aug 20, 2026

Open to applicants from any field of study (as stated by the funder).

Rules as listed by the funder. Sign in to see how this listing fits your profile.

Nationalities

Any (embassy nominations follow bilateral quotas)

Required degree

Bachelor's

Departments

All fields of study

Minimum CGPA

2.3

Age

Up to 35

Language

Japanese and/or English depending on the host programme; embassy exams may include language and subject tests.

IELTS

Not listed

TOEFL

Not listed

GRE

Not required

GMAT

Not required

Work experience

Not required

Financial proof

Not listed

Gender requirement

Open

• Apply via Embassy Recommendation in your country or University Recommendation through a Japanese university
• Age and academic rules differ by category (research, undergraduate, specialised training, teacher training)
• Research applicants usually need a field of study and preferably a prospective academic advisor
• Must be able to arrive in Japan for the designated intake (April or October)

¥143,000–¥145,000 / month typical research-student rate (confirm current MEXT notice)

1. 1Decide between Embassy Recommendation and University Recommendation
2. 2Download the current application guidelines from Study in Japan or your embassy
3. 3Prepare research plan and academic documents
4. 4Submit to the embassy or university by the local deadline
5. 5Sit written exams and/or interview if required
6. 6Await nomination and final MEXT placement

• Application form for the relevant MEXT category
• Field of study and research plan (research students)
• Academic transcripts and graduation certificate
• Recommendation letter(s)
• Medical certificate (embassy format)
• Passport copy
• Photographs
• Language certificates if available