Thinking about studying in Japan but worried about the cost? Don’t stress — there’s a solid option that might work for you. The MEXT Japanese Scholarship is a fully funded program that helps international students (like you and me) study in Japan without paying out of pocket for tuition or living expenses. Whether you’re planning for a Master’s or PhD, this scholarship can seriously ease the financial burden. People from all over the world apply each year — and many actually get in.
MEXT is short for Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. Sounds like a mouthful, but all you need to know is — they offer scholarships that cover pretty much everything you’ll need while you’re studying in Japan.
They offer a fully paid scholarship for international students. That means no tuition fees, no stress about monthly expenses — they even give you a monthly stipend to help with food, transport, and other living costs. You can apply if you’re planning to do your Master’s or PhD in Japan, and the best part is, you don’t necessarily need to take IELTS or GRE.
Benefits of MEXT Scholarship
- Timeline: August to January (Apply during this period)
- Seats Available: 100+ every year
- Stipend: 144,000 to 147,000 Japanese Yen per month
- Programs: MS (Master’s) & PhD
- Part-Time Jobs: Allowed up to 28 hours per week
- Attestation: Not required for documents
- Permanent Residency: Possible after graduation
- Contact: Directly with university professors
Eligibility Criteria of MEXT Scholarship
- Education: Must have a BS or MS degree (Final-year students can also apply)
- CGPA: Minimum 2.3 out of 3
- Age Limit: Maximum 35 years
- IELTS/GRE: Not required (But some universities may ask for IELTS 6.5)
- Work Experience: Not required, but having it is a plus
Required Documents for MEXT Scholarship
To apply, you’ll need the following documents:
- CV (Resume)
- Application Form
- Research Achievements (if any)
- Research/Study Plan (very important!)
- University Transcript (copy + original attestation)
- Degree Certificate (copy + original attestation)
- English Proficiency Certificate (issued by your university)
- Recommendation Letter from your university
- Medical Certificate
- Abstract of Thesis (optional for Master’s, useful for PhD)
- Recommendation Letter from your employer (optional)
Application Process of MEXT Scholarship
Here’s the full process you need to follow:
- Confirm which Japanese universities offer the MEXT University Scholarship.
- Contact professors in your relevant field for consent or acceptance.
- Attend an interview (usually online) with the professor.
- Submit your documents to the university.
- Give the written test or interview (depending on the university).
- Wait for MEXT selection results from the university or embassy.
Tips for Securing MEXT Scholarship
- Start contacting professors early.
- Write a strong research or study plan – this is the heart of your application.
- Be clear, polite, and professional in your emails to professors.
- Prepare documents in advance, especially attested degrees and transcripts.
- Even if IELTS is not required, having it adds to your strength.
Also read this: How to Get Permanent Residency in Qatar: Easy Guide for 2025
