Program Overview
The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) offers a highly regarded, fully funded scholarship program for international students seeking to pursue graduate studies in Japan. The MEXT Scholarship 2027, under the Research Student category, enables candidates to enroll in leading Japanese universities as research students, with progression to master’s or doctoral degree programs.
This program is designed to foster global talent and strengthen international cooperation and mutual understanding between Japan and partner countries.
- Host Country: Japan
- Administered by: MEXT
- Program Type: Research Student (leading to Master’s or PhD)
- Host Institutions: Universities across Japan
- Study Duration:
- Master’s: 2–3 years
- Doctoral: 3–4 years
Scholarship Benefits
The MEXT Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support, including:
- Monthly Stipend:
- ¥143,000 (research/non-regular students)
- ¥144,000 (master’s students)
- ¥145,000 (doctoral students)
- Supplementary Regional Allowance: ¥2,000–¥3,000 per month (where applicable)
- Full Tuition Coverage: Including matriculation and tuition fees
- Travel Expenses: Round-trip airfare in accordance with MEXT regulations
- Accommodation: University residence halls may be available (subject to conditions; costs are typically borne by the student)
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Hold nationality of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan
- Be born on or after April 2, 1992
- Meet academic requirements:
- Minimum 16 years of education or equivalent bachelor’s degree (for master’s entry)
- Equivalent of a master’s degree (for doctoral entry)
- Apply in a field related to prior academic studies
- Be willing to learn Japanese and adapt to life in Japan
- Fulfill health and visa requirements
Ineligible Applicants
The following are not eligible:
- Military personnel or civilian employees of military organizations
- Previous recipients of MEXT scholarships
- Applicants currently enrolled in Japanese universities under a student visa
- Candidates applying to multiple MEXT programs simultaneously
- Individuals intending to receive other scholarships during the same period
Application Procedure
- Review the application announcement via the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in your country
- Prepare and complete all required documents
- Submit your application before the deadline
- Complete the first screening:
- Document evaluation
- Written examinations (English and/or Japanese)
- Interview
- Request Letters of Provisional Acceptance from up to two Japanese universities
- Submit the Placement Preference Application Form
- Proceed to the final selection stage conducted by MEXT
- Successful candidates are notified (typically January–March 2027)
Required Documentation
Mandatory:
- Application form
- Placement preference form
- Research plan
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificate
- Recommendation letter
- Medical certificate
If applicable:
- Thesis abstract
- Language proficiency certificates
- Employer recommendation
- Portfolio (arts/music applicants)
Note: Do not submit original documents unless specifically requested.
Official Resources
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan : This official directory helps you locate the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in your country, which is the primary authority responsible for announcing the MEXT scholarship, issuing application instructions, and handling the first stage of the selection process. Checking your local embassy’s page is essential for accurate deadlines and country-specific requirements.
- Application forms and guidelines :This is the official study portal managed by the Japanese government. It provides authentic application forms, detailed guidelines, and up-to-date instructions for the MEXT Scholarship.
Important Note on Deadlines
Application deadlines vary depending on the country and the respective Japanese diplomatic mission. Applicants are strongly advised to consult their local embassy or consulate for accurate timelines and submission requirements.
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