The MEXT Scholarship is a prestigious fully funded program provided by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT). It is designed to support international students in pursuing undergraduate, master’s, PhD, or training studies at Japanese universities. This scholarship covers tuition fees, accommodation, monthly living allowances, and round-trip airfare from the recipient’s home country to Japan.
The scholarship is offered across various Japanese universities in disciplines such as Social Sciences, Engineering, Medical fields, Health, Arts, and Humanities. Applicants can choose any field of study, as there are no restrictions.
Program Duration
The duration of the MEXT Scholarship varies depending on the program:
- Undergraduate studies last 4-5 years.
- Master’s programs are 2-3 years.
- PhD programs span 3-4 years.
Scholarship Benefits
The MEXT Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support, including:
- A monthly stipend and preparatory allowance.
- Full coverage of tuition fees, including entrance examination fees.
- Round-trip economy-class airfare between the recipient’s home country and Japan.
- Access to university-provided residence halls for accommodation.
Eligibility Criteria
The MEXT Scholarship has specific eligibility requirements: Applicants must be from countries that maintain diplomatic relations with Japan. Japanese nationals are not eligible; Age Requirements: For undergraduate applicants, candidates must be between 17 and 25 years old and have completed 12 years of schooling equivalent to a Japanese high school education and; For master’s and PhD applicants, candidates must be under 35 years old and hold a college degree or equivalent, with 16-18 years of completed education. Lastly, while knowledge of Japanese is an advantage, it is not mandatory for the scholarship. Similarly, IELTS or TOEFL scores are not required.
How To Apply
The application process for the MEXT Scholarship involves multiple steps:
- Application Period: The scholarship is usually announced in April, with deadlines varying by country.
- Submission: Applications must be submitted through the Japanese embassy or consulate in the applicant’s home country.
- Selection Process: The selection process includes document screening, written tests, and interviews.
Important to note is that applicants must apply through the Japanese embassy or consulate in their respective countries. Deadlines and specific application requirements may vary by location, so it is essential to check with the local Japanese embassy for accurate details.
The MEXT Scholarship offers an extraordinary opportunity for international students to immerse themselves in Japan’s advanced educational system while experiencing its rich culture. This program is ideal for academically talented individuals seeking to further their studies in a world-class environment.
