Are you dreaming of studying in Japan for free? Good news! The MEXT Scholarship 2026 could be your golden opportunity! This is a prestigious and fully funded scholarship opportunity for students who want to pursue their higher education in Japan.
The application process for the MEXT scholarship has now opened to international students. Whether you’re aiming for an undergraduate, master’s, or PhD program, this scholarship can help you to study in top Japanese universities.
This scholarship is created by the Government of Japan for talented and high-achieving students who want to pursue their careers in Japan. This scholarship will cover the tuition fees, accommodation fees, travel expenses, and airfare from Home to Japan.
In this article, we will guide you thoroughly about the MEXT scholarship 2026.
Why Scholarships Like MEXT Matter
Education can be expensive, but scholarships make world-class education accessible. The MEXT Scholarship is a wonderful scholarship offered by the Japanese government to support international students passionate about academic excellence and cultural exchange.
Apart from the scholarship, all the students will get the opportunity to create an Alumni Network and Global Connections with professionals, academics, and industry experts.
Lets see some important points about the MEXT scholarship 2026:
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded |
| Offered By | Japanese Government (MEXT) |
| Programs Covered | Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD, Teacher Training, Japanese Studies |
| Fields of Study | All academic fields (no restrictions) |
| Tuition Fees | Fully covered |
| Monthly Stipend | Provided for living expenses |
| Language Requirement | Through the Japanese Embassy in your country |
| Application Mode | Through Japanese Embassy in your country |
| Deadline | Varies by country (typically starts April 2025) |
| Official website | https://www.mofa.go.jp/ |
MEXT scholarship 2026 Deadline
The deadline for the MEXT scholarship 2025 depends on the Embassy to Embassy. Keep checking the details from the official website, CLICK HERE
Eligibility Criteria for MEXT Scholarship 2026
To qualify for this fully funded scholarship in Japan, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Nationality: candidates must belong to a country with diplomatic relations with Japan.
- Age Limit:
- Undergraduate: 17–25 years old
- Master’s/PhD: Under 35 years old
- Teacher Training: Under 35 with 5+ years of teaching experience
- Japanese Studies: 18–30 years old
- Education Requirements:
- For Undergraduate level: Completed 12 years of schooling
- For Master’s level: Bachelor’s degree
- For PhD: Master’s degree required
- Language: English proficiency required (IELTS/TOEFL not mandatory)
- Other: Applicants with Japanese nationality are not eligible
- For Teacher Training Applicants: Candidates must be under 35 years old and hold a degree from a college or teacher training institution. Additionally, they must have a minimum of five years of active teaching experience at a primary, secondary, or teacher training college in your home country.
MEXT Scholarship Coverage – What You’ll Receive
The MEXT Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded opportunity that enables international students to pursue their studies in Japan at no cost. Selected candidates will receive comprehensive support, including:
- A regular living allowance will be provided each month, along with a preparatory allowance as per the 2026 rate.
- MEXT covers all academic expenses, including entrance exam fees and full tuition fees at Japanese universities.
- Round-trip airfare from your home country to Japan is fully funded. The flight will be in economy class.
- International students will be offered housing in university-managed residence halls or similar facilities.
How to Apply for MEXT Scholarship 2026: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to apply for one of the top scholarship opportunities in 2025:
- Firstly, find the embassy of Japan in your country.
- Visit to the respective embassy website and look under the “Education/Scholarship” section.
- Download the application form and fill it out carefully with accurate information.
- Attach all the required documents to the Japanese embassy of your country/city.
- Submit the application form along with the required documents to the embassy before the deadline.
- A written test will be conducted by the embassy (sample tests available online)
- After that, the shortlisted candidates will be called for an interview conducted by the authority
- Final decisions will be communicated via email or the embassy website.
Required Documents
Here is the list of documents that are requied for the application of Mext scholarship 2026:
- Application Form
- Verified Degree Certificate
- Bachelor applicants: 12 years of education
- Master: Bachelor’s degree
- Ph.D.: Master’s degree
(With English translation if not in English)
- Verified Academic Transcripts
(With grading system & English translation if needed) - 2 Recommendation Letters (for research students)
- Passport Copy (if available)
- CV (for research students)
- Photographs
- Study Plan / Statement of Purpose (for research students)
- English Proficiency Proof
- Academic Thesis/Publications (for research students)
- Other Supporting Documents (if any)
Important links
| Japanese Embassy Website | CLICK HERE |
| Apply Online | CLICK HERE |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Japanese language proficiency required?
No, it’s not mandatory. Most programs are in English.
Do I need IELTS/TOEFL?
Not required if your education was in English. You can submit a university-issued certificate.
Can I apply while still completing my current degree?
Yes, prospective graduates are eligible.
Is the scholarship available to all countries?
Yes, as long as your country has diplomatic relations with Japan.
Where can I find sample tests or more details?
Check your local Japanese embassy website or the Official Japanese Embassy website