Scholarships in Japan 2027 are now open for international students, and this is easily one of the best years to apply. Japan continues to invest heavily in attracting global talent, and thousands of students from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas head to universities in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and other cities every year — most of them on fully funded packages that cover everything from tuition to airfare.
If you’ve been dreaming of studying abroad without worrying about tuition, flight tickets, or monthly expenses, you’re in the right place. In this guide, I’ve put together a complete list of the most trusted fully funded scholarships offered by the Japanese government, top Japanese universities, and private foundations. Whether you’re applying for a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD program, there’s something on this list that fits your goals.
You’ll find out which scholarships are currently open, who can apply, what benefits you’ll receive, and how to put together a strong application. No fluff, no complicated jargon — just straight-to-the-point details to help you take the next step toward studying in Japan.
List of Scholarships in Japan 2027
UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
The UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026 in Japan is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for graduate students and young professionals. This paid internship program, hosted by the United Nations University in Tokyo, offers a six-month immersive experience with a monthly stipend, office space, and access to UNU facilities.
- Country: Japan
- Location: Shibuya, Tokyo
- Host: United Nations University
- Duration: 24 weeks
- Dates: September 2026 to February 2027
- Benefit: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 8 May 2026
Japan Youth Summit 2026 in Japan | Batch 2 | Fully Funded
The Japan Youth Summit 2026 is an international platform uniting youth to celebrate technology innovation and drive global change. Held in Osaka from October 19-22, 2026, it features an ideathon, workshops, and cultural exchange under the theme 'Beyond Limits: Youth Leading the Next Era of Innovation and Global Stability'.
- Country: Japan
- Host: Youth Break the Boundaries (YBB) Foundation
- Benefit: Fully Funded
- Deadline: May 31, 2026
IMF Japan Scholarship Program 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
The IMF Japan Scholarship Program (JISPA) 2026 is a fully funded opportunity for government officials from Asia-Pacific countries to pursue graduate studies in economics and public policy in Japan. This prestigious program, funded by the Government of Japan and administered by the International Monetary Fund, aims to develop future leaders in economic policymaking.
- Country: Japan
- Host: International Monetary Fund (IMF)
- Study Level: Master's, PhD
- Benefit: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 20 October 2026
Kyoto University CSEAS Fellowship 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
Kyoto University CSEAS Fellowship 2026 offers an excellent opportunity for international researchers to pursue advanced studies in Japan at one of Asia’s most respected academic institutions. Hosted by the Center for Southeast Asian Studies (CSEAS), this fellowship welcomes scholars from around the world to engage in impactful research within a globally recognized environment.
- Country: Japan
- Location: Kyoto
- Host: Kyoto University
- Duration: 3 to 6 months
- Dates: March to June 2027
- Benefit: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 30 April 2026
Kyushu University Scholarships 2026-2027 in Japan | Fully Funded
Kyushu University Scholarships 2026-2027 offer outstanding funding opportunities for international students aiming to pursue higher education in Japan. Through partnerships with respected Japanese foundations, Kyushu University carefully administers privately funded scholarship programs designed to ease financial burdens and support academic excellence across various disciplines.
- Country: Japan
- Host: Kyushu University
- Study Level: Bachelor's, Master's, PhD
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 20 April 2026
MEXT Scholarship 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
The MEXT Scholarship 2026 in Japan is a prestigious, fully funded program offered by the Japanese government to support international students. It covers various study levels, including research, undergraduate, and specialised training, providing comprehensive financial support for academic pursuits in Japan.
- Country: Japan
- Host: Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT)
- Study Level: Undergraduate, Research, Training
- Benefit: Fully Funded
- Deadline: Varies
ADB-JSP Japan Scholarship 2026 in Asia and the Pacific | Fully Funded
ADB-JSP Japan Scholarship 2026 is now open for international students who want to pursue a fully funded master’s degree in Asia and the Pacific region. This prestigious scholarship program supports talented students from developing countries and offers the opportunity to study at leading universities across several participating countries.
- Country: Japan
- Location: Worldwide
- Provider: Asian Development Scholarship
- Study Level: Masters
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: Varies
HENNGE Global Internship Program 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
HENNGE Global Internship Program 2026 in Japan is now open for applications from international students who want real experience in the tech industry. This internship invites bachelor’s, master’s, and graduate students from around the world to join a 4–6 week program at HENNGE’s headquarters in Shibuya, Tokyo. The program focuses on hands-on software engineering experience in a multicultural work environment where English is used as the main working language.
- Country: Japan
- Host: HENNGE
- Study Level: Bachelor's, Masters
- Duration: 4 to 6 Weeks
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: Open
RIKEN IMS Internship 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
RIKEN IMS Internship 2026 applications are now open for international students who want to gain hands-on research experience in Japan. This fully funded internship welcomes applicants from around the world and offers a duration of 1 to 3 months. Master’s students, PhD candidates, and young postdoctoral researchers are all eligible to apply. There is no application fee, and IELTS is not required, making this opportunity more accessible to talented researchers globally.
- Country: Japan
- Location: RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama
- Host: RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences (IMS)
- Duration: 1 to 3 Months
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: September 2026
Asia-Pacific Regional Conference 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
Asia-Pacific Regional Conference 2026 is a premier international event highlighting the vital role of cultural heritage in tackling climate change. This conference brings together researchers, policymakers, heritage practitioners, and climate experts to explore innovative ways that culture and traditional knowledge can drive climate resilience and sustainable development across the Asia-Pacific region.
- Country: Japan
- Location: Kyoto
- Host: UNESCO
- Duration: 3 Days
- Dates: 7 to 9 March 2026
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: Open
Asian Future Leaders Scholarship Program 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
Applications are now open for the Asian Future Leaders Scholarship Program 2026 at Kyoto University. This prestigious scholarship targets students planning to enroll in a master’s, professional, or the first year of a five-year doctoral program at Kyoto University in October 2026.
- Country: Japan
- Host: Kyoto University
- Duration: 2 to 5 Years (Depending on the program)
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 10 April 2026
Tokyo Institute of Technology ADB Scholarship 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
Tokyo Institute of Technology ADB Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded master’s scholarship in Japan designed for outstanding international students from ADB member countries. Offered under the ADB-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP), this prestigious award is supported by the Asian Development Bank and the Government of Japan to nurture future leaders committed to sustainable development and economic progress in their home nations.
- Country: Japan
- Host: Tokyo Institute of Technology
- Funded by: Asian Development Bank (ADB)
- Study Level: Master’s
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: Varies
GRIPS Scholarships 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
The GRIPS Scholarships 2026 offer a fully funded opportunity for international students to pursue master’s and doctoral programs at the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS) in Japan. These scholarships target exceptional candidates passionate about public policy, economics, governance, and global development.
- Country: Japan
- Host: National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS)
- Study Level: Master’s, PhD
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: Varies
Woven Toyota Internship 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
Applications are now open for the Woven Toyota Internship 2026, a fully funded international internship opportunity in Japan. This program welcomes Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students from all over the world to gain hands-on experience at Woven Toyota Nihonbashi in Tokyo.
- Country: Japan
- Location: Tokyo
- Host: Woven by Toyota
- Duration: 3 Months
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: Varies
International University of Japan Scholarships 2026 | Fully Funded
International University of Japan Scholarships 2026 offer an excellent opportunity for international students aiming to pursue Master’s and PhD programs in Japan with strong financial support. These scholarships are designed for the 2026 intake and focus on reducing the financial burden by covering tuition fees while also providing monthly stipends to support students’ living expenses during their studies.
- Country: Japan
- Host: International University of Japan
- Study Level: Master , PhD
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: Varies
Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Scholarship 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Scholarship 2026 is a prestigious fully funded opportunity in Japan for international students who want to pursue advanced research in science and technology. Offered by the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST), this PhD scholarship covers full tuition, a generous monthly living allowance, and comprehensive research support, allowing students to focus entirely on innovation and academic excellence.
- Country: Japan
- Host: Okinawa Institute of Science & Technology (OIST)
- Study Level: Master’s, PhD
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 31 March 2026
United Nations University Scholarships 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
United Nations University Scholarships 2026 are now open for international students eager to pursue a Master’s in Sustainability in Japan. These scholarships offer a competitive opportunity for students from around the world, especially those from underdeveloped and qualifying nations, to gain full or partial financial support while advancing their academic and professional goals. The UNU MSc Scholarships are integrated into the UNU-IAS admission process, meaning applicants are automatically considered for funding when they submit their MSc application. Ideal candidates are those with strong academic performance, leadership potential, and a commitment to global sustainability and policy initiatives.
- Country: Japan
- Host: United Nations University
- Study Level: Master’s
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: Not Specified
Konan University MEXT Scholarships 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
Konan University MEXT Scholarships 2026 are now open for applications, offering international students an exceptional opportunity to pursue master’s or PhD programs in Japan. This prestigious scholarship not only provides full financial support but also enables students to gain world-class research experience, global exposure, and professional development. As part of Japan’s renowned MEXT (Monbukagakusho) initiative, Konan University’s 2026 scholarship program is ideal for ambitious scholars looking to enhance their academic profile while living in the vibrant city of Kobe. With guidance from top-tier faculty and access to cutting-edge resources, applicants can take a significant step toward establishing an international career and expanding their research horizons.
- Country: Japan
- Host: Konan University
- Study Level: Masters, PhD
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: Opened now
Hasegawa International Scholarship Foundation Scholarship 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
Hasegawa International Scholarship Foundation Scholarship 2026 is a highly competitive award designed to support outstanding Asian students studying at universities in Tokyo, Japan. Known for its generous monthly stipend and two-year financial coverage, this scholarship allows students to focus fully on their academic development without financial pressure. As one of Tokyo’s most respected opportunities for privately funded international students, it requires university endorsement, ensuring only the most committed candidates are nominated.
- Country: Japan
- Host: Hasegawa International Scholarship Foundation
- Study Level: Bachelor's, Master's, PhD
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 15 November 2026
Japan Government JASSO Scholarships 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
Japan Government JASSO Scholarships 2026 provide a range of fully funded opportunities for international students aiming to pursue higher education in Japan. These prestigious scholarships, including the Monbukagakusho Honors Scholarship for Privately Financed International Students and the Student Exchange Support Program, are designed to support talented students from around the world.
- Country: Japan
- Host: Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO)
- Study Level: Bachelors, Masters, PhD
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: Varies
Japan Youth Summit 2026 in Osaka | Fully Funded
Japan Youth Summit 2026 is a flagship international program organized by the Youth Break the Boundaries (YBB) Foundation, bringing together young innovators and future leaders from around the world. This global summit challenges participants to explore groundbreaking ideas under the theme “Innovation Beyond Borders: Building the Future through Collaboration.” Through workshops, innovation challenges, and networking sessions, the event empowers youth to step outside their comfort zones, elevate their leadership skills, and work collectively toward real-world solutions.
- Host Country: Japan
- Location: Osaka
- Organiser: Youth Break the Boundaries (YBB)
- Summit Dates: 11-14 May 2026
- Deadline: 10 February 2026 (Fully Funded), 11 April 2026 (Self Funded)
Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship 2026 is a highly sought-after, fully funded opportunity designed for talented professionals from developing countries who aspire to pursue a master’s degree in development-focused fields. As application windows for 2026 are officially confirmed, interested candidates can begin preparing strong profiles to compete for this globally recognized scholarship.
- Country: USA, Europe, Africa, Oceania, Japan
- Funded by: World Bank Group
- Study Level: Masters
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 29 May 2026
NIMS International Cooperative Graduate Program Scholarship 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
The NIMS International Cooperative Graduate Program Scholarship 2026 offers exceptional PhD students a prestigious pathway to advance their research at the National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS) in Japan. Through this renowned international initiative, scholars gain the chance to work directly with leading NIMS researchers while conducting a significant portion of their doctoral thesis in a world-class scientific environment.
- Country: Japan
- Host: National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS)
- Study Level: PhD
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 9 January 2026
KYOTO University Amgen Scholars Internship 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
KYOTO University Amgen Scholars Internship 2026 is now accepting applications for its Fully Funded 8-week summer research program in Japan. Hosted by Kyoto University, this prestigious internship welcomes students from all academic backgrounds—no minimum GPA or IELTS is required for those studying in English-medium institutions. The program will be held from June 5 to August 6, 2026, offering participants a generous stipend, round-trip airfare, and free on-campus accommodation.
- Country: Japan
- Host: KYOTO University
- Duration: 8 Weeks
- Dates: 6 June 2026 to 6 August 2026
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 1 February 2026
UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2026 offers an incredible opportunity for undergraduate students worldwide to engage in cutting-edge scientific research at the prestigious University of Tokyo. This fully funded summer research internship allows students to work under the mentorship of top professors and researchers, gaining hands-on experience in the fields of biomedical and life sciences. Since its establishment in Japan in 2015, the Amgen Scholars Program has continued to nurture future scientists through world-class research opportunities and international collaboration.
- Country: Japan
- Host: Amgen Foundation
- University: University of Tokyo
- Duration: 8 Weeks
- Dates: 4 June 2026 to 6 August 2026
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 1 February 2026
Hanjo Foundation Scholarship 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
Hanjo Foundation Scholarship 2026 offers a prestigious opportunity for international students to study in Japan through fully funded Master’s and PhD programs. Supported by the Honjo International Scholarship Foundation, this program empowers talented scholars to advance their academic goals at top-ranked Japanese universities while experiencing one of the most innovative education systems in the world.
- Country: Japan
- Host: Honjo International Scholarship Foundation
- Study Level: Master’s, PhD
- Benefit: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 31 October 2025
MEXT Young Leaders Program Scholarship 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
MEXT Young Leaders Program Scholarship 2026 is a prestigious fully funded initiative by the Japanese Government aimed at shaping the next generation of global leaders. Offered by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT), this program is tailored for outstanding individuals in fields such as public administration, law, business management, and healthcare. It provides an exceptional opportunity to pursue advanced studies in Japan while building strong leadership skills for future career growth.
- Country: Japan
- Scholarship Provider: Japanese Government
- Program Type: Fully Funded
- Study level: Masters
- Deadline: Varies
Sophia University Scholarship 2026 in Japan
Sophia University Scholarship 2026 in Japan is now open for international students who dream of pursuing higher education in Tokyo. The scholarship offers opportunities to study undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs while easing the financial burden for talented students with proven academic excellence and genuine financial need. With options like the New Student Scholarship and the Adachi Scholarship, applicants can receive partial to full tuition support in their first year, helping them focus on academic growth and career advancement.
- Country: Tokyo, Japan
- Host: Sophia University
- Study Level: Bachelors, Masters, PhD
- Benefits: Partially funded
- Deadline: Varies
APU MEXT UR Scholarship 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
APU MEXT UR Scholarship 2026 presents an exceptional opportunity for international students aiming to pursue higher education in Japan. Offered by Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University and funded by the Japanese Government through MEXT, this fully funded scholarship supports outstanding candidates committed to academic excellence and cultural exchange. Students from diverse backgrounds can benefit from comprehensive financial coverage, including tuition, living expenses, and other essential costs, making it easier than ever to study at one of Japan’s leading universities.
- Country: Japan
- Host: Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU)
- Funded by: Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, Japan (MEXT)
- Study Level: Bachelor, Masters, Doctoral (PhD)
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 12 November 2025
University of Tsukuba MEXT Scholarship 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded
University of Tsukuba MEXT Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded opportunity for international students aiming to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral degrees in Japan. Sponsored by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), this prestigious scholarship is accessible through both Embassy and University Recommendation pathways. It covers tuition fees, monthly stipends, and travel expenses—making it one of the most generous scholarship programs for students aspiring to study in Japan’s top-tier institutions.
- Host Country: Japan
- Host Institution: University of Tsukuba
- Funded By: Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT)
- Study Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, and Doctoral Degrees
- Eligibility: Students of all nationalities
- Deadline: Varies
Japanese Government Undergraduate Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded
Japanese Government Undergraduate Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded opportunity for international students to pursue their Bachelor's degree at top-tier universities in Japan. Offered by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), this prestigious scholarship supports students from around the world who are eager to study in Japan and contribute to global understanding and cooperation. The program aims to cultivate future leaders by offering access to Japan’s world-class education, innovative research, and rich cultural heritage. Check also: Round 2 Joint Japan World Bank Scholarship 2025 | Fully Funded
- Host Country: Japan
- Study Level: Undergraduate
- Funded By: Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT)
- Eligibility: All International students
- Deadline: Varies
MEXT Scholarship 2026 in Japan | Application Process
The MEXT Scholarship 2026 is a well-known, fully funded chance for international students. It is for those who want to study undergraduate, master's, PhD, or training programs in Japan. This scholarship pays for tuition, housing, a monthly living allowance, and round-trip airfare. It helps make your education more affordable.
- Scholarship in: Japan
- Study for: Undergraduate, Masters, PhD, Training
- Scholarship Provider: Government of Japan
- Deadline: Varies
Matsumae Research Fellowship 2027 in Japan | Fully Funded
The Matsumae Research Fellowship 2027 offers a fully funded opportunity for international researchers to conduct advanced studies in Japan. This prestigious program supports scholars in natural science, engineering, medicine, and agriculture fields, providing financial support and cultural immersion during a six-month research period.
- Country: Japan
- Host: The Matsumae International Foundation
- Study Level: PhD
- Benefit: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 30 June 2026
Rotary Peace Fellowship 2027- 28 | Fully Funded
Rotary Peace Fellowship applications are now open for the 2027/28 academic year, offering a fully funded opportunity for professionals committed to peacebuilding and global development. Open to applicants from all countries, this prestigious program awards around 170 fellowships for master’s degrees and professional certificate studies focused on peace, conflict resolution, and sustainable development.
Studying in Japan on a fully funded scholarship isn’t just a dream — it’s completely doable if you plan ahead and apply on time. The scholarships in Japan 2027 listed above cover almost every field of study and every degree level, so take your time, shortlist the ones you qualify for, and start preparing your documents early. Deadlines always arrive sooner than students expect, and missing one by a day can cost you a whole year.
If this article helped you, bookmark it and check back often — I update the list whenever new opportunities open up. And if you know a friend or classmate who’s also searching for scholarships abroad, share it with them too. Good luck with your applications, and hopefully your next message will be from somewhere in Japan.
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