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.

Offered by Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), the program supports students aiming to study at top Japanese universities under the Japanese Government Scholarship scheme.

The MEXT Scholarship 2026 application process typically begins in April. Surprisingly, knowing Japanese or having IELTS/TOEFL scores is not a strict requirement. This makes it easier for more students to apply. This is an embassy-recommended scholarship, meaning applications are processed through the Japanese embassy in your home country.

1 Summary of MEXT Scholarship 2026

• Scholarship in: Japan
• Study for: Undergraduate, Masters, PhD, Training
• Scholarship Provider: Government of Japan
• Deadline: Varies

2 Scholarship Coverage of MEXT Scholarship 2026

MEXT Scholarship is a Fully Funded Scholarship for International Students to Study in Japan For Free. This scholarship will provide the recipient with the following benefits:

• Allowances: Monthly Stipend Allowance, Preparatory Allowance (2026 Rate)
• Education Fees: Fees for the Entrance Examination, and Tuition Fee at Universities will be paid by MEXT.
• Travelling Expenses: Transportation to Japan: MEXT will cover your Round Airfare Travel Expenses from your Country to Japan. The Airline ticket will be an Economy-class ticket for the flight.
• Accommodations: Residence halls for international students provided by universities.

3 Eligibility Criteria for MEXT Scholarship 2026

To qualify for the MEXT Scholarship 2026, the candidate must fulfil all of the following requirements below:

• Required Language: English
• Eligible Countries: All world countries
• Applicants must have the nationality of a country that has diplomatic relations with Japan.
• An applicant who has Japanese nationality at the time of application is not eligible.
• For Undergraduate Students: You must be at least 17 years old and under 25. You also need to have completed 12 years of school. Alternatively, you can have finished courses in a school similar to high school. This includes students who will graduate soon
• For Masters / PhD Students: You must be under 35 years of age and a college graduate (including prospective graduates). Or you must have completed 16 years / 18 years of education.
• For Teacher training students: You must be under 35 years of age and a graduate of a college or teacher training college. You need at least five years of teaching experience. This can be in a primary school, secondary school, or teacher training college in your country.
• For Japanese Study Students: Applicants must be from 18 to 30 years old. Applicants must be undergraduate students in programs that focus on Japanese language or culture. They must study at a university outside Japan when they come to Japan. They also need to be enrolled at their home institution when they return to their home countries.

4 How to Apply for the MEXT Scholarship 2026

Follow these step-by-step instructions to apply for the MEXT Scholarship 2026:

1. Locate the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in Your Country
   Use this link to find the Japanese Embassy or Consulate nearest to you.
2. Visit the Embassy’s Official Website
   Navigate to the website of the Japanese Embassy in your country. Look for the Education or Scholarship section, where details about the MEXT Scholarship 2026 are provided.
3. Download and Complete the Application Form
   Download the official MEXT Scholarship application form from the website. Fill out the form carefully with accurate information.
4. Prepare and Submit Required Documents
   Gather all the necessary documents (refer to the list below) and submit them to the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in your country as per their instructions.
5. Take the Written Test
   The Japanese Embassy will conduct a written examination as part of the selection process. You can prepare for this by reviewing sample written tests with answers.
6. Attend the Interview
   Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, which is typically held after the written test.
7. Wait for the Results
   Successful applicants will be notified via email or through announcements on the Embassy’s website. Be sure to regularly check your inbox and the Embassy page for updates.

By carefully following these steps, you can ensure a smooth application process for the MEXT Scholarship 2026. Good luck!

5 Required Documents for MEXT Scholarship Application

To successfully apply for the MEXT Scholarship 2026, applicants must prepare the following documents:

1. MEXT Scholarship Application Form
   Ensure the form is fully completed and signed where necessary.
2. Verified Highest Degree Certificate
   • Undergraduate Applicants: Must provide proof of 12 years of education.
   • Master’s Applicants: Submit a bachelor’s degree certificate.
   • Ph.D. Applicants: Submit a master’s degree certificate.
     Note: If the certificate is not in English, a notarized English translation must be provided.
3. Verified Academic Transcripts (with Official Stamps)
   • Undergraduate Applicants: Submit academic records showing completion of 12 years of education.
   • Master’s Applicants: Provide transcripts of your bachelor’s degree.
   • Ph.D. Applicants: Submit transcripts for your master’s degree.
     Note: If the transcripts are not in English, a notarized English translation is required.
4. Two Recommendation Letters
   Letters should be written by teachers, academic advisors, or employers who can evaluate your academic and research capabilities. Recommendations must be in English and highlight your potential for success in your chosen field of study. (Applicable to research students)
5. Passport Copy
   A scanned copy of your passport is required if available during the application process.
6. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
   Your CV must detail your academic and professional achievements. (Applicable to research students)
7. Recent Photographs
   Provide recent, clear photographs as per the specified size requirements.
8. Study Plan or Statement of Purpose
   • Write in English and include the following:
     • Your motivation for applying for the scholarship.
     • A summary of your academic or research background.
     • Details of your intended studies or research at APU.
       (Applicable to research students)
9. Proof of English Language Proficiency
   Applicants who studied in English-medium institutions can submit an English Proficiency Certificate from their university. Such applicants are exempted from taking additional language tests.
10. Academic Thesis or Publications
    Submit any research papers, theses, or publications that are relevant to your field. (Applicable to research students)
11. Additional Supporting Documents (If Applicable)
    Include any other documents that support your application, such as certificates, awards, or proof of extracurricular achievements.

6 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)