Scholarships in Japan: How To Apply, Eligibility and Benefits

Japan offers a wide range of scholarships to support international students pursuing education at undergraduate, postgraduate, and research levels. These scholarships are provided by the Japanese government, universities, or private organizations, and many of them cover tuition fees, monthly living expenses, and even travel allowances. 

For students planning to study at some of the top colleges in Japan, securing a scholarship can significantly reduce the financial burden while providing access to globally recognized academic programs.  

Knowing the types of scholarships available, their benefits, and eligibility requirements helps students make informed choices and prepare stronger applications. 

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting a scholarship to study in Japan: eligibility requirements, scholarship programs, step-by-step application processes, deadlines, and tips to improve your chances. 

Which government scholarships are offered in Japan? 

The Japanese government, through the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), provides several scholarship programs for international students. These scholarships are designed to promote international exchange and foster goodwill between Japan and other countries. 

Scholarship Type	Description
Research Student	For graduates or students with 16 years of prior education. Covers tuition, monthly stipend, and round-trip airfare.
Undergraduate Student	For students who have completed 12 years of schooling. Includes tuition, monthly allowance, and airfare.
Teacher Training Student	Supports teachers aiming to enhance skills in their field. Covers tuition, monthly allowance, and airfare.
Japanese Studies Student	or students focusing on Japanese language and culture. Includes tuition, stipend, and airfare.
College of Technology Student	For students attending Japan’s specialized training colleges. Covers tuition, stipend, and airfare.
Specialized Training College Student	For vocational training students. Includes tuition, monthly allowance, and airfare.
Young Leaders Program (YLP)	Focuses on developing future leaders across fields. Provides tuition, stipend, and airfare.

What are the MEXT scholarships and how do they work? 

The MEXT scholarships are Japan's flagship government scholarships, offering comprehensive support to international students. These scholarships typically cover: 

• Tuition fees: Provides full coverage for the entire course. 
• Monthly stipend: To support living expenses. 
• Airfare: Round-trip tickets between Japan and your home country. 
• Japanese language training: If necessary, prior to starting the main program. 

The application process usually involves document submission, an interview, and sometimes entrance exams. 

What JASSO scholarships can international students apply for? 

The Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) provides financial aid to international students in Japan. Unlike MEXT, JASSO scholarships are usually partial and support students already admitted to a university in Japan. 

1. Monbukagakusho Honors Scholarship for Privately Financed International students 

This scholarship supports self-financed international students enrolled in various educational institutions in Japan, including universities, graduate schools, junior colleges, colleges of technology, specialized training colleges, university preparatory courses, and Japanese language institutes. It aims to alleviate financial burdens and encourage academic excellence.  

Eligibility: 

• Must be a full-time student enrolled in a recognized educational institution in Japan. 
• Must have a GPA of 2.30 or higher in the previous academic year. 
• Must have Japanese language proficiency, demonstrated by: 
• Passing JLPT N2 or higher. 
• Scoring 200 points or more in the Japanese as a Foreign Language section of the EJU. 
• Meeting other language proficiency standards recognized by JASSO. 
• Must not receive other scholarships exceeding ¥90,000 per month. 
• If having a financial supporter in Japan, their annual income must be less than ¥5 million. 

Duration: 12 months (April to March) or 6 months (October to March), depending on the enrolment period.  

Monthly Stipend: ¥48,000 (Rs. 28,595) for students in graduate/undergraduate programs and ¥30,000 (Rs. 17,870) for students in Japanese language institutes.  

Application Process: Applications must be submitted through the educational institution. Institutions nominate eligible students to JASSO for consideration.  

Note:  The amount mentioned above are approximate and may vary due to fluctuating exchange rates. 

2. Student Exchange Support Program (Scholarship for Study in Japan under Agreement) 

This program provides financial assistance to international students participating in short-term exchange programs between their home institutions and Japanese universities. It aims to promote international exchange and foster mutual understanding.  

Eligibility: 

• Must be accepted by a Japanese university under a student exchange agreement or other student exchange arrangement with their home institution. 
• Must be a full-time student at their home institution. 
• Must have a student visa for the duration of the stay in Japan. 
• Must not receive other scholarships exceeding ¥80,000 per month. 
• Must demonstrate excellent academic and personal records at their home institution. 

Duration: 8 days to 12 months, depending on the exchange agreement.  

Monthly Stipend: ¥80,000 (Rs. 47,638) 

Note:  The amount mentioned above is approximate and may vary due to fluctuating exchange rates.    

Which university-specific scholarships are available in Japan? 

Many universities in Japan offer scholarships for international students, often based on merit, need, or field of study. 

University	Scholarship Name	Description
University of Tokyo	University of Tokyo Fellowship	Full tuition and monthly stipend for outstanding international students.
Kyoto University	Kyoto University International Scholarship Program	Financial support for students based on merit and need.
Keio University	Keio University International Student Scholarship	Partial or full tuition coverage for international students.

Are there private or foundation scholarships for students in Japan? 

Beyond government and university scholarships, numerous private foundations and organizations in Japan offer financial support to international students. Here's an expanded list of notable private scholarships: 

Scholarship Name	Eligibility	Duration
Honjo International Scholarship Foundation	Graduate students with excellent academic records	1–2 years (depends on program)
NEC C&C Foundation	Students specializing in computer science or telecommunications	1–2 years (depends on program)
NGK Foundation	Privately financed international students residing in Aichi	1 year (renewable)
Rotary Yoneyama Memorial Foundation	Graduate students with excellent academic records	1–3 years (depending on degree)
Heiwa Nakajima Foundation	Graduate students with excellent academic records	1–2 years (depending on degree)

Eligibility to apply for scholarships in Japan 

Understanding eligibility requirements is essential before applying for scholarships in Japan. Most scholarships consider academic background, level of study, age, nationality, and sometimes professional experience. Meeting these criteria improves your chances of success and ensures a smoother application process. 

Here is the common eligibility criteria to apply for scholarships in Japan:  

Criteria	Details
Academic	Undergraduates need 12 years of schooling postgraduates need a bachelor’s degree
Age Limit	For UG: Typically, under 25 years  For PG/Reasearch: Under 35 years (varies by program)
Health	A valid medical certificate confirming physical and mental fitness is required for application
Language Proficiency:	Proficiency in English (TOEFL/IELTS) or Japanese (JLPT) is often required for internation students depending on the course language of instruction.
GPA	A GPA equivalent to 2.3/3.0 or high school percentage (60–70%) is required but is not always mandatory.

How can I apply for a scholarship in Japan? 

Applying for scholarships in Japan requires careful planning, proper documentation, and adherence to deadlines. Each scholarship has its own application process, which may include interviews and examinations.  

H3: What Is the Step-by-Step Process to Apply for MEXT Scholarships? 

Applying for the MEXT scholarship in Japan can feel overwhelming, but following the step-by-step process makes it much easier. Each stage is important as MEXT scholarships are highly competitive. 

• Step 1: Research Eligibility 
• Check MEXT requirements on official embassy/university websites. 
• Confirm GPA, age, language proficiency, and health criteria. 
• Step 2: Submit Application 
• Apply through the Japanese embassy/consulate or directly via university recommendation. 
• Fill out forms carefully and meet deadlines. 
• Step 3: Written Test & Interview 
• Embassy applicants usually sit for English, Japanese, and subject tests. 
• Shortlisted students attend interviews. 
• Step 4: Document Screening 
• Academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and study plans are evaluated. 
• Step 5: Final Selection 
• Applications are reviewed by MEXT in Japan. 
• Results are announced through embassies/universities. 

What documents are required for scholarship applications in Japan? 

Having the right documents ready is essential when applying for scholarships in Japan. Missing or incomplete paperwork is one of the most common reasons for rejection. 

The required documents usually include: 

• A completed Application Form 
• Academic Transcripts  
• Degree Certificates/Diplomas  
• Letters of Recommendation  
• Research Plan or Statement of Purpose (SOP) (mandatory for postgraduate applicants.) 
• Language Proficiency Certificates - IELTS/TOEFL for English programs, JLPT for Japanese programs. 
• Passport Copy/ID Proof  
• Medical Certificate (if required) 

How do I apply for JASSO scholarships? 

The Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) offers various scholarships to international students, typically after they secure admission into a Japanese university. The application process is comparatively simpler than MEXT but still requires careful preparation. 

Steps to Apply for JASSO Scholarships: 

1. Get Admission to a Japanese University – You must secure an admission in a university in Japan as only enrolled or admitted students are eligible. 
2. Consult the University’s International Office – JASSO applications are submitted via the institution and not directly by students, so you must contact the university for the application. 
3. Prepare Documents – Make sure you have all your required documents like academic transcripts, recommendation letters, financial proof, and admission letters. 
4. Submit Application Through University – The universities then forward the selected applications to JASSO for review. 
5. Selection & Notification – After selection, selected students are informed by the university and receive their monthly scholarship stipend.  

When should I apply for scholarships in Japan?  

Applying for scholarships in Japan requires careful planning, as deadlines can vary depending on the type of scholarship. Most scholarship applications open months before the academic year begins, and missing these deadlines can cost you valuable opportunities. Make sure that you have a strong application and all the required documents to increase your chances of success.  

What are the deadlines for MEXT scholarships? 

MEXT scholarship deadlines are strict, and missing them means waiting another year. You should always apply early and keep regular track of embassy/university announcements. 

• Embassy-recommended applications: April–June for the following academic year 
• University-recommended applications: May–August for the following academic year 

What is the application period for JASSO scholarships? 

JASSO scholarships for international students don’t usually have a universal fixed deadline because they are tied to exchange programs. The application periods are mostly aligned with academic semesters (April or October).  

Students must make sure to check on the university websites.  

Mostly, each Japanese university sets its own scholarship deadlines, depending on the program.  

• Undergraduate/Graduate Admissions: 
• Deadlines usually align with university application dates. 
• Some scholarships must be applied for before admission. 
• Internal Scholarships: 
• Apply after enrolling. 
• Deadlines may vary each semester so make sure to check the university website for latest updates. 

Can I work while studying on a scholarship in Japan?  

Many international students wonder if they can balance part-time work while studying on a scholarship in Japan. The good news is that most scholarships, including MEXT and JASSO, allow students to take up part-time jobs.  

However, it is also important to ensure that work does not interfere with your academic performance, as poor grades can affect scholarship eligibility. Understanding the rules and restrictions beforehand helps students manage both financial needs and academic commitments effectively. 

You should keep in my mind the following:  

• Work Permission: Students must apply for a “Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted” from immigration. 
• Work Limitations: Up to 28 hours per week during semesters and 40 hours per week during vacations. 
• Job Types: Students commonly work in restaurants, convenience stores, tutoring, or English language schools. 

Note: Working does not directly affect scholarship benefits, provided students maintain their academic performance. 

Does working affect scholarship eligibility in Japan? 

Part-time work generally does not affect scholarship eligibility, but there are important conditions to follow. 

• Conditions to Maintain Scholarships: 
• Maintain a good academic record. 
• Do not exceed legal work-hour limits. 
• Avoid jobs considered “inappropriate” for students (e.g., nightclubs, gambling). 

Note: If a student’s work interferes with studies and academic performance drops, the scholarship may be revoked. 

What are the benefits of studying in Japan with a scholarship? 

Studying in Japan  offers scholarship students a chance to improve their skills and learn from the top global institutions. Scholarships not only reduce the financial burden but also provide access to globally recognized universities, innovative research facilities, and a multicultural environment.  

For international students, many scholarship programs like MEXT and JASSO offer living allowances, travel coverage, and networking opportunities, making studying in Japan with a scholarship even more rewarding. 

Benefits	Description
Reduced Financial Burden	A scholarship in Japan covers tuition fees, monthly stipends, and sometimes travel costs, allowing students to focus on academics without worrying about major expenses.
Access to Top Universities	Popular scholarships like MEXT and JASSO open doors to Japan’s leading universities, giving international students exposure to advanced research and globally recognized programs.
Cultural & Global Exposure	Studying in Japan with scholarship support helps students immerse themselves in a unique culture while building international networks that benefit future academic and career growth.
Career Advancement	Securing a degree in Japan through a scholarship adds significant weight to a CV, offering global recognition and better career prospects across industries.
Part-time Work Opportunities	Many scholarships in Japan allow students to work part-time, providing professional exposure and additional income alongside their studies.

How can international students increase their chances of getting a scholarship in Japan? 

Securing a scholarship in Japan can feel competitive, but with the right approach and preparation, Indian and international students can stand out with their applications. 

What tips help with writing a strong scholarship application in Japan? 

Here are some useful tips that can help you write a strong scholarship application: 

• Maintain a high GPA throughout your studies. 
• Write a compelling SOP or research plan tailored to Japan’s education system. 
• Obtain strong recommendation letters from professors or employers. 
• Apply early to avoid missing deadlines. 
• Demonstrate leadership, extracurriculars, and community involvement. 
• Learn basic Japanese to show cultural adaptability. 
• Avoid errors in documents, essays, or forms.  

Common mistakes students make when applying for scholarships in Japan 

Applying for scholarships in Japan can be competitive, and even small mistakes can impact your chances of success. Many international students overlook some important details such as missing documents, late submissions, or weak statements of purpose. 

While some students fail to research eligibility requirements properly, which can often lead to rejection of the application. Understanding common errors helps applicants avoid unnecessary pitfalls and present stronger applications. 

What errors should I avoid in my scholarship essay or SOP? 

A strong SOP/essay can make or break your application. Avoiding common errors is the key to write a strong SOP and can help in strengthening your application, making it stand out from others. 

Here are some errors that you should avoid while making your SOP: 

• Writing vague goals instead of specific, measurable ones. 
• Copy-pasting generic templates found online. 
• Poor grammar, structure, or lack of clarity. 
• Failing to connect your future goals with Japan’s educational system. 
• Exceeding or falling short of word limits. 

Do missed deadlines affect future scholarship chances in Japan? 

Yes, missed deadlines can affect your chances of getting a scholarship in the future. Japanese scholarship providers value discipline and punctuality. 

• Once a deadline passes, your application is invalid for that year. 
• Repeated missed deadlines may reflect poorly in embassy/university records. 

You must make sure to always plan months in advance to gather documents and submit early and avoid skipping any deadlines to get a scholarship in Japan. 

Conclusion 

Securing a scholarship in Japan opens up endless possibilities in world-class universities, innovative research and a new experience. The right preparation and strategy can help international students to increase their chances of studying in Japan while easing the financial burden of higher education. 

It is essential to plan ahead, understand the eligibility requirements, prepare strong documents like SOPs and recommendations, and keep track of application deadlines. Whether you’re applying for MEXT, JASSO, or a university-specific scholarship, staying organized and showcasing your potential 

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.