The Japanese Government (MEXT) Undergraduate Scholarship 2026 offers an outstanding opportunity for international students to study in Japan on a fully funded scholarship.
Funded by Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), this prestigious scholarship supports students from around the world who aim to complete a Bachelor’s degree at leading Japanese national universities.
It’s more than just financial support, it’s a chance to access top-tier education, explore a unique culture, and build lifelong international connections.
What is the MEXT Undergraduate Scholarship?
MEXT, short for the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan, sponsors various scholarship programs for international students, and the undergraduate category is one of the most competitive. The goal is to nurture future global leaders, promote mutual understanding, and encourage cooperation between Japan and other nations.
For the 2026 intake, the Japanese Government (MEXT) Undergraduate Scholarship 2026 will fully sponsor selected students through the entire duration of their studies, typically five years, which includes one year of intensive Japanese language and preparatory education followed by four years of undergraduate study.
Key Features of the MEXT Undergraduate Scholarship 2026
Here’s a breakdown of what the scholarship includes:
- Tuition Fees: 100% covered by MEXT. No entrance or admission fees.
- Monthly Stipend: 117,000 JPY (with a possible additional allowance of 2,000–3,000 JPY depending on placement region).
- Airfare: Round-trip economy-class airfare from your home country to Japan.
- Language Training: One-year intensive Japanese language and preparatory education before beginning undergraduate coursework.
- Health Coverage: Comprehensive medical insurance for the duration of the scholarship.
This support ensures students can focus on their education without the burden of financial stress.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
The scholarship is open to students from all countries that have diplomatic relations with Japan. Here’s what you need to qualify:
- Nationality: Must be from a country that has formal diplomatic ties with Japan.
- Age: Applicants must have been born on or after April 2, 2001.
- Education: Should have completed 12 years of education (or be expected to by March or August 2026).
- Language Requirement: While not mandatory upfront, willingness to study in Japanese is essential. Some universities may offer programs in English, but basic Japanese will still be needed.
- Health: Candidates must be physically and mentally capable of studying abroad.
- Arrival in Japan: Must be able to travel to Japan in early April 2026 or later in the fall (if applying via direct university placement).
Fields of Study Available
Students can choose from a wide range of fields. These are divided into two main categories:
Social Sciences and Humanities:
- Law
- Politics
- Sociology
- History
- Literature
- Economics
- Business Administration
- Pedagogy
- Japanese Language
Natural Sciences:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical & Information Engineering
- Civil Engineering & Architecture
- Agriculture & Environmental Sciences
- Medicine
- Dentistry
- Pharmacy
- Veterinary Medicine
- Biology
Applicants can select a major based on their interests and academic background.
Required Documents
All application materials must be either in English or Japanese or accompanied by an official translation. The key documents include:
- Completed Application Form (available on embassy websites)
- High School Transcripts
- Graduation Certificate or Proof of Expected Graduation
- Recommendation Letter from a Principal or Teacher
- Medical Certificate (in MEXT’s prescribed format)
- Language Proficiency Proof (if available)
- Certificate of Enrollment (if still in school)
- University Entrance Qualification (if applicable)
Make sure to double-check your local Japanese embassy’s website for additional country-specific requirements.
Application Process: Step-by-Step
- Check Embassy Website: Go to the Japanese Embassy or Consulate’s official website in your country.
- Download Forms: Get the official MEXT 2026 application forms and instructions.
- Prepare Documents: Collect, complete, and organize the necessary documents.
- Submit Application: Deliver your complete application package to the Japanese Embassy/Consulate before the deadline (set by each country).
- Written Exams: You will take tests in mathematics, English, Japanese, and possibly Science (depending on your major).
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview.
- Selection Results: After two screening rounds, successful candidates will be notified of their acceptance.
Why Study in Japan?
Japan offers a high standard of education, a unique cultural environment, and some of the most advanced research institutions in the world. Studying in Japan is not just about earning a degree; it’s about gaining international exposure, learning a new language, and being part of a global academic community. MEXT scholars often go on to hold influential positions in business, academia, or public service.
Application link
https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/smap-stopj-applications-undergraduate.html
When Is the Deadline?
The application deadline varies by country and is set by the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in each region. Most applications are accepted between April and May 2025 for the 2026 intake. Make sure to check early and start preparing well in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the MEXT Undergraduate Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. It covers tuition, monthly living allowance, round-trip airfare, and health insurance. No personal financial contribution is required.
Do I need to speak Japanese to apply?
Not necessarily. However, students are expected to learn Japanese, and most courses will eventually be taught in Japanese after the preparatory year. Some universities may offer programs in English.
How competitive is this scholarship?
It is highly competitive. Each embassy receives hundreds of applications, but only a handful are selected through rigorous written exams and interviews.
Can I apply if I haven’t graduated from high school yet?
Yes, as long as you will graduate by March or August 2026, you are eligible to apply.
Can I choose any university in Japan?
You can indicate your preferences, but MEXT and the universities will ultimately decide placements based on your scores, major, and availability.
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