MEXT Scholarship: Comprehensive Guide

Latest Update: The application window for the 2025 MEXT Scholarship is now open. Deadlines vary by country, with some embassies accepting applications until May 23, 2025.

Planning to study in Japan in 2025? The MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology) Scholarship offers fully funded opportunities for international students to pursue undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs at top Japanese universities. In 2025, the scholarship provides monthly stipends ranging from ¥143,000 to ¥145,000 (approx. INR 78,000 to 79,000), along with full tuition coverage and round-trip airfare.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the MEXT Scholarship 2025; eligibility, benefits, documents required, and the complete application process.

Key Highlights:

• Fully funded scholarship covering tuition, airfare, and living expenses.
• Open to students worldwide for undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs.
• Provides a chance to study in top Japanese universities with global recognition.

Check out this helpful guide on studying in Japan and discover what makes it a top destination for students.

MEXT Scholarship 2025: Overview

• Scholarship Type: Undergraduate, Master’s, Doctorate, Research, Teacher Training, College of Technology, and Specialized Training.
• Funding Coverage: Fully funded, including tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
• Eligibility: Open to students from countries with diplomatic ties to Japan.
• Field of Study: Humanities, Science, Engineering, Medicine, Technology, and Cultural Studies.
• Duration: Varies based on the study program and category.

Parameter	Description
Type of Scholarship	Undergraduate Master’s Doctorate Research Teacher Training College of Technology
Duration of Study	Varies:  4-5 years (Undergraduate) 2-3 years (Master’s) 3-4 years (Doctorate) 1-2 years (Research/Teacher Training) 3-4 years (College of Technology/Specialized Training)
Funding	Fully funded:  ¥117,000 (INR 63,500) – Undergrad ¥143,000–145,000 (INR 77,500–78,700) – Graduate/Research ¥242,000 (INR 1,31,000) – YLP Scholars ¥2,000–3,000 (INR 1,080–1,620) – Regional allowance
Funding Source	Ministry of Education Culture Science and Technology (MEXT)
Place of Study	Universities and institutions in Japan
Eligible Countries	Countries with diplomatic relations with Japan (e.g., India, Egypt, UAE, USA)
Fields of Study	Humanities (e.g., Literature, Law) Sciences (e.g., Physics, Biology) Engineering Medicine (limited) etc.

Types of MEXT Scholarships Available

The MEXT Scholarship offers a variety of options for international students, depending on your level of study and field of interest. Each category has specific eligibility criteria and benefits, so it’s important to understand which one suits your academic goals. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of MEXT Scholarships:

Scholarship Categories:

• Undergraduate Students: For those pursuing a full-time bachelor's degree in Japan.
• Research Students (Master’s & PhD): For postgraduate students seeking research opportunities or advanced degrees.
• Teacher Training Students: For in-service teachers seeking specialized short-term training.
• College of Technology Students: For students pursuing diplomas in engineering and technical fields.
• Specialized Training College Students: For students enrolling in professional courses like fashion, business, and design.

Scholarship Type	Duration	Eligibility Criteria
Undergraduate Students	5 years (1-year prep + 4 years)	High school graduates with strong academic performance
Research Students (Master’s & PhD)	2 years for Master’s, extendable for PhD	Bachelor’s degree holders with research plans
Teacher Training Students	1.5 years	In-service teachers with 5+ years of experience
College of Technology Students	4 years (1-year prep + 3 years)	High school graduates with interest in technical studies
Specialized Training College Students	3 years (1-year prep + 2 years)	High school graduates interested in specialized fields

Looking for top engineering programs in Japan? Explore the leading engineering universities in Japan and find the right fit for your academic goals.

Benefits and Coverage of the MEXT Scholarship

The MEXT Scholarship provides strong financial support to help students focus fully on their education in Japan. 

Key Benefits:

• Full Tuition Fees: Covers entrance exam, admission, and university tuition costs.
• Monthly Stipend: Offers financial aid for daily living expenses.
• Accommodation Support: Helps with housing expenses, either directly or through a monthly allowance.
• Travel Allowance (Flight Tickets): Provides round-trip airfare between the student's home country and Japan.

Benefit	Amount Covered	Applicable Student Category
Full Tuition Fees	100% covered, including entrance and tuition fees	All categories
Monthly Stipend	¥117,000/month (INR 69,000)	Undergraduate, Teacher Training, College, Specialized Training
Monthly Stipend for Research Students	¥143,000-¥145,000/month( INR 84,000-85,000)	Master’s and Doctoral (Research Students)
Monthly Stipend for Young Leaders Program	¥242,000/month(INR 143,000)	Young Leaders Program Students
Supplemental Regional Allowance	¥2,000-¥3,000/month (INR 1,200-1,800) in designated areas	All categories (in high-cost regions)
Accommodation Support	Covered via stipend. University dormitories typically cost ¥15,000–¥50,000/month (approx. INR 8,100–27,000).	All categories
Travel Allowance (Flight Tickets)	Round-trip airfare from home country	All categories

Costs in INR are as per the current conversion rate and may vary.

Eligibility Criteria for the MEXT Scholarship

To apply for the MEXT Scholarship 2025, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria, which vary depending on the category of study. 

General Eligibility Requirements:

• Nationality: Applicants must belong to a country that has diplomatic relations with Japan. Japanese citizens are not eligible.
• Age: Candidates must meet the age requirements specified for each scholarship category.
• Academic Requirements: Applicants should have completed high school or meet the educational criteria for their chosen scholarship.
• Language Proficiency: English proficiency is required, and candidates should be open to learning Japanese.
• Health and Character: Applicants must be in good health and have a clean record with no criminal history.
• Special Requirements: Some categories, like research and teacher training, may have additional criteria related to experience and qualifications.

Below is a breakdown of the eligibility criteria for each student category:

Student Category	Eligibility Criteria
Research Students (Master’s & PhD)	Must be below 35 years of age. Must be a college graduate (or prospective graduate) and have completed 16 years of formal education.
Teacher Training Students	Must be below 35 years of age. Must be a college or teacher training college graduate with at least five years of active teaching experience.
Undergraduate Students	Must be between 17 and 25 years old. Must have completed 12 years of school education or an equivalent high school program.
Japanese Studies Students	Must be between 18 and 30 years old. Must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate program focused on Japanese language or culture at a university outside Japan.
College of Technology Students	Must be between 17 and 25 years old. Must have completed school education comparable to a Japanese high school, with at least 11 years of formal education.
Specialized Training College Students	Must be between 17 and 25 years old. Must have completed school education comparable to a Japanese high school, with at least 11 years of formal education.

Searching for the best universities to apply for the MEXT scholarship? Discover the best universities in Japan for international students.

How to Apply for the MEXT Scholarship?

Applying for the MEXT Scholarship involves a step-by-step process that requires attention to detail and proper document submission. There are two main ways to apply:

• Embassy Recommendation: Apply through your local Japanese embassy or consulate, where candidates are screened and recommended for the scholarship.
• University Recommendation: Apply directly through a Japanese university, usually under an exchange agreement with your current institution.

Steps to Apply:

Step 1: Identify the Correct Scholarship Category
Decide which MEXT scholarship type you qualify for (e.g., Undergraduate, Research, Teacher Training). Visit the official Japanese embassy website for your country to confirm the available categories.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Prepare the necessary documents based on your chosen scholarship type. Common documents include:

• Completed MEXT application form.
• Academic transcripts and certificates.
• Recommendation letters.
• Statement of purpose or research plan (for research students).
• Proof of language proficiency (if required).
• Passport copy and recent photographs.

Step 3: Apply Through the Japanese Embassy/Consulate or University Recommendation

• Embassy Application: Submit your completed application to your local Japanese embassy or consulate. Visit their official website and follow the steps under the “Education” section for MEXT Scholarship details.
• University Application: If applying through a university, submit the documents directly to the Japanese institution.

Step 4: Prepare for Interview and Written Exams
Shortlisted candidates may need to attend an interview and written exams conducted by the embassy or university. These tests help assess academic skills, language proficiency, and overall readiness.

Step 5: Receive the Final Selection Result and Start Visa Procedures
Once selected, you will receive a confirmation letter from MEXT. Begin your student visa application process with assistance from the embassy or university.

Curious why Japan stands out as a study destination? Explore the top reasons to study in Japan and see how it can shape your academic journey.

MEXT Scholarship 2026: Application Timeline

The MEXT Scholarship 2026 follows a multi-stage selection process: Embassy Screening and Final Selection by MEXT. Below is an overview of key dates for the Embassy Recommendation process, which may vary by country and category.

Screening Phases:

1. First Screening by the Embassy:
   • Document Review, Written Exams, Interviews
   • Document Screening Results: Late May–June 2025
   • Written Exams: June–July 2025
   • Interviews: June–July 2025
   • Embassy Screening Results: July–August 2025
2. Letter of Provisional Acceptance:
   • By August 9, 2025 (August 30 for Chinese applicants)
      Required for all applicants passing Embassy Screening
3. Second Screening by MEXT:
   • Final Selection Results: January–February 2026 (Includes University Placement)

MEXT 2026 Application Schedule Overview:

Event	Date (Approximate)	Scholarship Category
Application Opening	April 2025	All Categories (Research, Undergraduate, College of Technology, Specialized Training)
Application Deadline	May–June 2025	All Categories
Document Screening Results	Late May–June 2025	All Categories
Written Exams	June–July 2025	All Categories
Interviews	June–July 2025	All Categories
Embassy Screening Results	July–August 2025	All Categories
Letter of Provisional Acceptance	By August 9, 2025	All Categories
Final Screening by MEXT	January–February 2026	All Categories
Program Start Date	April 2026 (Most Categories) / September/October 2026 (Japanese Studies, some Research)	All Categories

Required Documents for the MEXT Scholarship Application

Applicants need to prepare and submit several important documents when applying for the MEXT Scholarship.

Essential Documents for Application:

• Completed Application Form: Download from the official website of your local Japanese embassy.
• Academic Transcripts: Submit verified copies of your latest academic records with official stamps.
  • Undergraduate applicants: 12 years of education certificates.
  • Master’s applicants: Bachelor's degree transcripts.
  • PhD applicants: Master's degree transcripts.
• Verified Degree Certificate: Provide the highest degree certificate with official stamps.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): Explain your academic goals, reasons for applying, and future plans.
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Submit at least two letters from teachers, academic advisors, or employers who can evaluate your academic performance and potential.
• Language Proficiency Certificate: Provide proof of English or Japanese language proficiency. This could be a certificate from your university or a language test score.
• Health Certificate: Submit a completed health form, ensuring you meet the medical fitness criteria for studying in Japan.
• Passport Copy: If available, include a scanned copy of your passport for identification purposes.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Required for research students.
• Photographs: Submit recent passport-sized photographs as per the specified dimensions.

Important Note on Document Translation:

• If any document is not in English or Japanese, submit a notarized translation along with the original copy.
• Ensure all documents are clear, complete, and properly certified before submission.

Looking for more funding options beyond MEXT? Check out this list of scholarships in Japan to explore additional financial aid opportunities.

Selection Process and Timeline for MEXT Scholarship

The MEXT Scholarship selection goes through four main stages. 

Step 1: Document Screening

You’ll need to submit the required documents to the Japanese embassy or a recommending university. These papers help the officials check your qualifications and eligibility.

• Download the application form, health certificate, and recommendation letter template from the official Japanese embassy website.
• Submit verified copies of your academic records, certificates, and recommendation letters.
• Make sure all documents are clear, complete, and correctly certified.

Step 2: Written Examination

If your documents pass the initial screening, you may need to take a written exam. The subjects vary depending on your field of study.

• Arts and Social Sciences: English, Japanese, and Mathematics.
• Science Fields: English, Japanese, Mathematics, and two science subjects related to your major.

Example Subjects Tested:

• Social Sciences & Humanities: Law, Sociology, Literature.
• Science Fields: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Engineering.

Step 3: Interview Round

The interview helps the panel learn more about your academic goals, motivation, and personality.

• Be on time and arrive at least 15 minutes early.
• Dress formally and speak clearly.
• Prepare for questions like:
  • Why do you want to study in Japan?
  • What are your future career goals?

Step 4: Final Decision and Scholarship Award

If you pass the exam and interview, MEXT will do a final review. They will check your documents, health certificate, and overall performance.

• If selected, you’ll get an official confirmation from MEXT.
• After this, you can start your student visa process with help from the embassy or university.

MEXT Scholarship Selection Timeline Overview:

Stage	What Happens?	When?
Document Screening	Submit your documents for review.	April – May
Written Exam	Subject tests based on your major.	June
Interview	Personal interview with embassy officials.	June
Final Selection & Award	Final approval from MEXT.	Jan – Feb (next year)

Tips to Improve Your Chances of Winning the MEXT Scholarship

A strong, well-prepared application reflects your passion, preparation, and academic commitment. Here are some practical tips to help you increase your chances:

1. Write a Clear and Personal Statement of Purpose (SOP)

Your SOP is where you explain why you’re applying and what makes you a good fit.

• Talk about your academic goals and why you want to study in Japan.
• Explain how this scholarship fits into your career plans.
• Share achievements or projects that relate to your chosen field.
• Keep it honest, personal, and easy to understand.

2. Get Strong Recommendation Letters (LORs)

Good recommendation letters can make a big impact.

• Ask professors, mentors, or employers who know your work well.
• Let them know why you're applying and what makes you a strong candidate.
  • Give them enough time to write a thoughtful letter.
• Ensure the letter is properly signed and stamped as required.

3. Maintain Good Grades and Stay Active

Strong academics matter, but it’s not the only thing.

• Keep your grades up, especially in subjects related to your course.
• Join clubs, participate in projects, or take part in activities that show leadership or community involvement.
• Consistency matters, so stay focused throughout your education.

4. Work on Language Skills

Knowing Japanese isn’t always required, but it helps.

• If possible, learn basic Japanese—it shows respect and effort.
• Prepare for language tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or JLPT if needed.
• Highlight any language certificates or courses you've completed.

5. Start Early and Stay Organized

Rushing your application can lead to mistakes. Plan ahead.

• Check the deadlines carefully for your scholarship category.
• Collect documents like transcripts, SOP, and LORs early.
• Review everything carefully before submitting.
• Apply a few days before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.

Universities in Japan That Accept MEXT Scholarship Holders

Several top universities in Japan accept students under the MEXT Scholarship program. These institutions are known for their academic excellence, advanced research facilities, and global reputation.

• University of Tokyo
• Kyoto University
• Osaka University
• Hokkaido University
• Nagoya University

Learn how to navigate the student visa process for Japan to ensure a smooth application experience.

Fees Associated with the MEXT Scholarship Application

The MEXT Scholarship does not charge any application or exam fees. It is fully funded to help students study in Japan without financial stress. However, there may be a few small costs during the application process that you should be aware of.

No Charges for:

• Application Fee: Applying for the MEXT Scholarship is free.
• Examination Fee: Written tests and interviews are conducted without any cost.
• Tuition Fees: Once selected, MEXT covers all tuition and admission fees.

Possible Personal Expenses:

Though the scholarship itself is free, you might need to pay for:

• Medical Checkup: A health certificate is required. The cost depends on the hospital you choose.
• Document Translation: If your documents are not in English or Japanese, you may need to get them translated by a certified translator.
• Travel to Embassy: If the embassy requires in-person tests or interviews, you may need to cover your travel expenses.

Important Note:

MEXT does not charge any fees for the application process. If someone asks for payment in the name of MEXT, it could be a scam. Always check the official Japanese embassy website in your country for reliable information.