Scholarships in Japan come from three main sources: the Japanese government, universities, and private foundations. The most popular option is the MEXT scholarship. It covers tuition, travel costs, and monthly living expenses. You can apply for it through a Japanese embassy or directly through a Japanese university.
You’ll also find other options like university-specific scholarships and private programs such as the ADB-Japan Scholarship and the Honjo International Scholarship Foundation. For exchange students, the JASSO Student Exchange Support Program offers financial help through partner universities.
Top Scholarships to Study in Japan in 2026
Japan offers a diverse range of scholarships for international students, funded by the government, universities, and global organizations. These programs cover tuition, living expenses, and sometimes travel, making Japan one of the most accessible destinations for higher education.
1. MEXT (Monbukagakusho) Scholarship
The Japanese Government Scholarship (MEXT scholarship) is administered by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT). It is the most comprehensive scholarship for international students, offering full financial support.
Overview:
Types of scholarships: Research Students, Teacher Training Students, Undergraduate Students, Japanese Studies Students, College of Technology Students, Specialized Training College Students, Young Leaders Program (YLP).
Application routes: Embassy recommendation or university recommendation.
Eligibility: Varies by program, but generally requires a strong academic record, age limits, and health certification.
Coverage: Tuition fees, monthly stipend, and round-trip airfare.
Application period: Typically opens in spring each year.
Key Features Table:
Aspect
Details
Coverage
Tuition, monthly stipend, airfare
Levels
Undergraduate, Master’s, Doctoral, Research, Teacher Training, Japanese Studies
Application Routes
Embassy recommendation / University recommendation
Eligibility
Academic excellence, age limits, and health certificate
The Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) administers scholarships to support international students studying in Japan. Official details are available on the JASSO website. These scholarships are primarily partial funding options, designed to ease living costs for students who are not covered by full government programs like MEXT.
Overview:
Monbukagakusho Honors Scholarship: Monthly stipend for privately financed international students enrolled in Japanese universities, graduate schools, or specialized training colleges.
Student Exchange Support Program (Scholarship for Short-term Study in Japan): Monthly stipend for students participating in short-term exchange programs under agreements between Japanese and overseas institutions.
Eligibility: Enrollment in a Japanese institution, good academic standing, and financial need.
Coverage: Monthly stipend (amount varies by program).
Key Features Table:
Aspect
Details
Coverage
Monthly stipend (partial funding)
Programs
Honors Scholarship, Exchange Support Program
Eligibility
International students enrolled in Japanese institutions
Duration
Varies by program (short-term or full academic year)
Application
Through host universities or exchange agreements
Why It Matters: JASSO scholarships are highly accessible and flexible. They are ideal for students who may not qualify for MEXT or who are joining Japan through shortterm exchange programs.
3. University-Specific Scholarships in Japan
Many leading Japanese universities offer their own scholarships to attract international students. These programs are administered directly by the universities and provide tuition waivers, stipends, or merit-based awards.
A. University of Tokyo Scholarships
The University of Tokyo provides scholarships for international graduate students, including tuition waivers and stipends.
Scholarship
Coverage
Eligibility
UTokyo MEXT Scholarship
Full tuition, monthly stipend, airfare
International graduate students
UTokyo Fellowship
Monthly stipend for doctoral students
High academic performance
UTokyo Foundation Scholarships
Partial tuition waivers, living allowance
Undergraduate/graduate international students
B. Kyoto University Scholarships
Kyoto University offers scholarships for international students, including tuition waivers and stipends.
Scholarship
Coverage
Eligibility
Kyoto MEXT Scholarship
Tuition, stipend, airfare
Graduate students
Kyoto International Student Scholarship
Partial tuition waiver, monthly allowance
International students
Private Donor Scholarships
Tuition support, living stipend
Selected international students
C. Waseda University Scholarships
Waseda University provides merit-based scholarships for international students, including tuition reductions and stipends.
Scholarship
Coverage
Eligibility
Waseda Partial Tuition Waiver
Tuition reduction
Undergraduate/graduate international students
Waseda Merit Scholarship
Tuition + monthly allowance
High-performing international students
Waseda JASSO Linked Scholarship
Monthly stipend
Exchange/degree students
D. Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU) Scholarships
APU offers merit-based scholarships to international students, often linked to academic performance and leadership.
Scholarship
Coverage
Eligibility
APU Tuition Reduction Scholarship
30–100% tuition reduction
Undergraduate/graduate international students
APU MEXT Scholarship
Tuition, stipend, airfare
Graduate students
APU JASSO Scholarship
Monthly stipend
Exchange students
4. Foundation and Global Scholarships
These scholarships are funded by international foundations and global organizations, supporting students from around the world to study in Japan.
A. Honjo International Scholarship Foundation
The Honjo Foundation supports graduate students conducting research in Japan with generous monthly stipends.
Scholarship
Coverage
Eligibility
Honjo International Scholarship
¥230,000/month (₹133,400)
Graduate students with a strong research focus
B. Rotary Peace Fellowships
Rotary provides fellowships for master’s students pursuing peace and conflict resolution studies, including programs hosted in Japan.
Scholarship
Coverage
Eligibility
Rotary Peace Fellowship
Tuition, living expenses, travel (₹15–20 lakh annually equivalent)
Master’s students in peace/conflict studies
C. ADB: Japan Scholarship Program
Jointly funded by the Asian Development Bank and the Government of Japan, this program supports postgraduate students from developing countries.
Scholarship
Coverage
Eligibility
ADB–Japan Scholarship
¥154,000/month (₹89,300), full tuition, airfare
Students from ADB member countries pursuing postgraduate study
D. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
This program funds graduate students from World Bank member countries to study developmentrelated fields in Japan.
Scholarship
Coverage
Eligibility
JJ/WBGSP
Tuition, monthly stipend (₹1.2–1.5 lakh), travel
Graduate students from World Bank member countries
E. Japan Foundation for UNU (JFUNU) Scholarship
The JFUNU Scholarship supports students admitted to the United Nations University in Tokyo, focusing on sustainability and global issues.
Scholarship
Coverage
Eligibility
JFUNU Scholarship
¥120,000/month (₹69,600), full tuition
Students admitted to UNU master’s programs
F. Japan Educational Exchange and Services (JEES) Scholarships
JEES administers scholarships funded by private donations, supporting international students enrolled in Japanese universities.
Applying for scholarships in Japan depends on the type of program. Government scholarships like MEXT, university-specific awards, and foundation scholarships each have their own process. Indian students are eligible for all these routes.
1. Application via Embassy Recommendation
This is the most common route for the MEXT Scholarship.
Applications are submitted to the Embassy of Japan in India.
International students, including those from India, must meet specific eligibility requirements to apply for scholarships in Japan. While criteria vary by program, most scholarships share common standards.
1. Academic Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate strong academic performance.
MEXT and university scholarships require excellent grades in previous studies.
Foundation scholarships (Honjo, ADB, World Bank) often ask for research potential or leadership qualities.
2. Language Proficiency
Language requirements depend on the program.
Many scholarships require proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS).
Some programs, especially undergraduate or Japanese Studies, may require Japanese proficiency (JLPT).
3. Age Limits
Certain scholarships have age restrictions.
MEXT typically requires applicants to be under 35 for graduate programs.
Teacher Training and Undergraduate programs may have lower age limits.
4. Nationality
Applicants must be non-Japanese citizens.
MEXT, JASSO, and foundation scholarships are open to Indian students.
Some global programs (ADB, World Bank) require applicants to be from member countries; India qualifies.
5. Health Requirements
Government scholarships like MEXT require a medical certificate proving the applicant is in good health.
6. Enrollment Status
Applicants must be enrolled or accepted at a Japanese university.
JASSO requires enrollment in a recognized institution.
University scholarships are tied to admission offers.
Conclusion
Japan scholarships for Indian students make higher education abroad more affordable. With programs like MEXT, JASSO, university scholarships, and foundation support, students can get help with tuition, living costs, and even travel. These opportunities reduce financial stress and make studying in Japan possible for many.
For Indian students, these scholarships are not just about money. They also give a chance to learn in Japan’s respected universities, experience a new culture, and build future career paths. With good preparation and timely applications, studying in Japan can become a rewarding journey.
Still overwhelmed about the application process or choosing the right scholarship? upGrad experts can guide you at every step. Book your free 1:1 counselling session today and get personalized support for your journey to study in Japan.
FAQs
How can I get a full scholarship in Japan?
To secure a full scholarship in Japan, focus on strong academics, clear research goals, and timely applications. Government programs like MEXT and foundation scholarships often require exams, interviews, and recommendation letters. Preparing early and aligning your study plan with Japan’s academic strengths increases your chances.
Is the MEXT scholarship open for 2026?
Yes, MEXT scholarships are announced annually, and Indian students can apply through the Embassy of Japan in India. The application cycle usually begins in spring, with written exams and interviews following. Always check the official embassy website for the latest updates and deadlines.
Which country provides 100% scholarships?
Several countries offer fully funded scholarships, including Japan, Germany, and South Korea. These programs cover tuition, living costs, and sometimes airfare. Japan’s MEXT is one of the most recognized, while Germany’s DAAD and South Korea’s GKS are equally popular among Indian students.
Is Japan costly for Indian students?
Japan can feel expensive compared to India, especially in cities like Tokyo. However, scholarships often cover tuition and living expenses, making it affordable. With careful budgeting and student discounts, Indian students can manage costs comfortably while enjoying Japan’s high quality of life.
Do I need Japanese language skills for scholarships?
Not always. Many scholarships accept English proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS scores. However, programs like Japanese Studies or undergraduate courses may require JLPT certification. Learning basic Japanese is still helpful for daily life and cultural integration.
Can Indian students apply for multiple scholarships in Japan?
Yes, Indian students can apply for more than one scholarship, but usually only hold one at a time. For example, you may apply for MEXT and a university scholarship simultaneously. If selected for both, you’ll need to choose one funding source.
What is the acceptance rate for scholarships in Japan?
Acceptance rates vary widely depending on the scholarship. MEXT is highly competitive, with thousands of applicants worldwide. University and foundation scholarships may have better odds if your academic profile is strong. Preparing thoroughly improves your chances.
Are scholarships in Japan only for postgraduate students?
No, scholarships in Japan are available for undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and even teacher training programs. MEXT offers multiple categories, while universities and foundations also support bachelor’s students. Opportunities exist at every academic level.
Do scholarships in Japan cover airfare?
Most government and foundation scholarships include airfare to and from Japan. University scholarships may not always cover travel, focusing instead on tuition and stipends. Always check the scholarship details before applying to know exactly what’s included.
How long do scholarships in Japan last?
Scholarship duration depends on the program. MEXT can fund up to 5 years for undergraduates and 2–3 years for graduate students. Foundation scholarships usually last 1–2 years, with possible extensions. Duration is tied to your study program length.
Can I work parttime while on a scholarship in Japan?
Yes, international students can work parttime with a valid work permit, even while on scholarships. Most scholarships allow this as long as it doesn’t interfere with studies. It’s a good way to gain experience and supplement living costs.
upGrad Abroad Editorial Team |4245 articles published
We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education ...
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