MEXT Excellence Scholarships 2026–2028 in Japan

Call for Applications – MEXT Scholarship Program 2026–2028

The Government of Japan, through its Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), invites international students to apply for its prestigious scholarship program for the academic years 2026 to 2028. This distinguished initiative is designed to attract outstanding academic profiles from around the world wishing to begin or continue a university degree at a Japanese institution.

This scholarship program offers an exceptional opportunity to enter the Japanese higher education system, known for its academic rigor, innovative pedagogy, and multicultural environment, while ensuring comprehensive financial support.

Comprehensive Support through the MEXT Scholarship

The MEXT scholarship fully covers the needs of selected students, including:

• University fees: Registration, tuition, and examination fees are entirely funded

• Monthly stipend: Ranges from 117,000 to 145,000 yen (approximately USD 800 to 1,000) depending on the level of study

• International travel: Round-trip economy-class airfare between the student’s home country and Japan

• Health insurance: Full medical coverage throughout the duration of the studies

• Accommodation: Housing in university dormitories designated for international students

In addition, students lacking proficiency in Japanese are offered an intensive preparatory program in both language and academics before the official start of their studies.

MEXT Scholarship Categories

The MEXT program offers several scholarship types to accommodate diverse academic paths:

• Undergraduate Scholarship

• Graduate Scholarship (Master’s and Doctoral programs)

• Research Scholarship

• Japanese Language and Culture Studies Scholarship

• Specialized Training College Scholarship

• College of Technology Scholarship

• Teacher Training Scholarship

Note: The availability of each scholarship type may vary by country. Applicants are encouraged to check with the local Japanese Embassy or Consulate for country-specific opportunities.

Monthly Allowance and Benefits by Scholarship Type

Each scholarship includes a monthly allowance, adjusted by the type of training program:

• 117,000 yen: Technical or professional training

• 143,000 yen: Research students

• 144,000 yen: Undergraduate and Master’s students

• 145,000 yen: Doctoral students and teacher trainees

An additional allowance of 2,000 to 3,000 yen per month may be granted to students studying in designated regions.

Fields of Study and Language Options

MEXT scholarships are open to all disciplines offered by Japanese higher education institutions. No academic field is excluded.

Programs are available:

• In English

• In Japanese, with a preparatory year if required

Eligibility Criteria for the MEXT Scholarship

To qualify for a MEXT scholarship, applicants must meet the following basic criteria:

• Nationality: Must be a citizen of a country that maintains diplomatic relations with Japan

• Language: Demonstrate an interest in the Japanese language

• Health: Provide a medical certificate proving physical and mental fitness

Level-specific requirements include:

Undergraduate (Bachelor’s):

• Age: Between 17 and 25 years

• Education: Completion of 12 years of primary and secondary education

Master’s/Doctorate:

• Age: Under 35 years

• Education: Must hold (or be in the process of obtaining) a university degree

• Previous education duration: Minimum of 16 years for Master’s, 18 years for Doctorate

Language & Culture Studies:

• Age: Between 18 and 30 years

• Status: Enrolled in a university program related to Japanese language or culture

MEXT Scholarship Selection Process

The selection process for MEXT scholarships consists of several stages:

1. Document review: Evaluation of submitted materials

2. Written examinations: Japanese, English, mathematics, and/or sciences depending on the program

3. Interview: With an evaluation panel

4. Final approval: By the Japanese Ministry of Education

Selection criteria include:

• Quality and feasibility of the study project

• Academic background

• Exam results

• Interview performance

For undergraduate applicants, selection is global, with no quota limitation by country.

Application File Contents

To apply for a MEXT scholarship, candidates must submit the following:

• Official application form (for undergraduate, master’s/PhD, college of technology, or specialized training)

• Recent medical certificate

• Enrollment certificate (if applicable)

• Direct placement form (optional)

• All academic transcripts

• Diplomas already obtained

• Letter of recommendation

• Language proficiency certificates (if available)

Deadlines for Francophone Countries

Application deadlines vary by country. Below are a few examples:

• Algeria: June 1, 2025 (Master/Doctorate), June 10, 2025 (other categories)

• Burkina Faso: June 20, 2025

• Cape Verde: May 30, 2025

• Gabon & Equatorial Guinea: May 14, 2025

• Guinea: June 13, 2025

• Madagascar & Mauritania: May 23, 2025

• Mali & Senegal: May 30, 2025

• Mauritius: June 13, 2025

• Seychelles: May 28, 2025

For other countries, please consult the official website of the Japanese Embassy in your country.

Resources and Guidance for Applicants

Prospective applicants can refer to official guides tailored to their profile:

• Guide for undergraduate scholarships

• Guide for Master’s and Doctoral scholarships

• Guide for College of Technology scholarships

• Guide for Specialized Training scholarships

Sample past exam questions are also available [online here].

More Information on MEXT Scholarships

For additional information or personalized support with your application, contact the Japanese diplomatic mission in your country of residence.

Up-to-date details are also available on the official MEXT program website [here].

Official Page

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