Embassy of Japan MEXT Scholarship (Research Students)
A fully funded Japanese government scholarship for international students to pursue graduate-level research or degree programs at Japanese universities. This program covers tuition, living stipends, and round-trip airfare for successful applicants.
Quick Facts
Status
Funding
Fully FundedDeadline
Varies by country; confirm with local Japanese Embassy or Consulate
Country
JapanAbout the Embassy of Japan MEXT Scholarship
The Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship for Research Students is a prestigious program offered by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) of Japan. It aims to foster human resources who will act as bridges between Japan and the grantee's home country, contributing to the development of both nations through academic research.
The scholarship is open to international students who wish to study as research students (either regular or non-regular) in Master's, doctoral, or professional graduate courses. It also provides an initial 6-month preparatory education in the Japanese language for those who require it, ensuring students can adapt to the academic and living environment in Japan.
The application process is conducted through Japanese diplomatic missions (Embassies or Consulates General) in the applicant's home country. Applicants must pass a first screening involving document review, language exams, and interviews, followed by a second screening conducted by MEXT in Japan.
Successful candidates receive a comprehensive financial package, including a full waiver of entrance examination, matriculation, and tuition fees. The scholarship also provides a monthly living allowance and round-trip economy-class airfare between the applicant's home country and Japan.
Applicants must be nationals of countries that have diplomatic relations with Japan and must meet specific age and academic requirements. The program emphasizes the importance of the applicant's research plan and their commitment to promoting mutual understanding between Japan and their home country.
Eligible Levels
Eligible Fields
Why Choose This Scholarship?
Full coverage of tuition and entrance fees at Japanese universities
Monthly living stipend provided for the duration of the study
Opportunity to conduct research at world-class Japanese graduate schools
Support for Japanese language learning prior to degree studies
Networking opportunities with international and Japanese students
What the Scholarship Covers
Eligibility Requirements
7 requirements
Documents Checklist
11 documents required
How to Apply - Step by Step
Submit application documents to the Japanese diplomatic mission in your home country by the local deadline.
Undergo the First Screening (document review, written language exams, and interview) at the diplomatic mission.
Contact Japanese universities to request a letter of provisional acceptance after passing the First Screening.
Submit the Placement Preference Application Form to the diplomatic mission.
MEXT conducts the Second Screening and final university placement.
Notification of final selection results and university placement.
Application Timeline
Mid-April
Call for applications
May to July
First screening
Until September 1
Request for provisional acceptance
Mid-September to early October
Submission of Placement Preference Form
From November
Second screening and placement
January to March
Notification of results
Insider Tips & Pro Tips
Start preparing your research plan early as it is a critical document for university placement.
Contact the international student affairs division of your target universities, not individual professors, for provisional acceptance.
Ensure your academic transcripts clearly show the grading scale used by your university.
Check the specific deadline for your country, as it varies significantly between different embassies.
Bring at least 2,000 USD in cash upon arrival to cover initial expenses before the first stipend payment.
If you are currently employed, ensure your employer's recommendation letter is ready well in advance.
Important Links & Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions - click any to expand
Generally, no. Applicants must be outside Japan at the time of application, unless they are privately-financed students who will complete their studies before the scholarship payment begins.
This specific program is for Research Students (Master's, PhD, or professional graduate courses). Other MEXT programs exist for undergraduate students.
While you must be willing to learn, the application does not strictly require fluency. However, some research fields may require advanced proficiency, which will be assessed during the interview.
You can list up to three preferred universities. MEXT will consult with these universities for your placement, but final placement depends on university approval.
Check the Official Website
This scholarship typically opens around April. Confirm the current cycle and deadline on the official portal.
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