Are you dreaming of studying in Japan with a fully funded scholarship? The Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship for Research Students (2026) is now open for applications! This prestigious scholarship offers monthly stipends, tuition fee waivers, and round-trip airfare for international students pursuing Master’s or Ph.D. programs in Japan.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✅ Eligibility criteria (age, academic requirements)
✅ Scholarship benefits (stipend, travel allowance)
✅ Fields of study (Engineering, Science, Humanities, etc.)
✅ How to apply (step-by-step process)
✅ Selection schedule (exam & interview dates)
📅 Deadline: May 13, 2025 – Don’t miss this chance!
🔍 What is the MEXT Scholarship 2026 for Research Students?
The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) Japan offers scholarships to international students for graduate-level studies (Master’s/Ph.D.) at Japanese universities. Selected candidates receive:
- Monthly stipend (up to 145,000 JPY ≈ Rs. 85,300)
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Round-trip airfare to Japan
- Research opportunities at top Japanese universities
Eligibility Criteria for MEXT Scholarship 2026
| Category | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | Under 35 years (born on/after April 2, 1991) |
| Academic Qualifications | – Master’s/Ph.D. (First Phase): Bachelor’s degree (min 70% marks, 65% for Humanities/Social sciences) – Ph.D. (Second Phase): Master’s degree (min 70% marks) |
| Fields of Study | Science, Engineering, Humanities, Social Sciences, Medicine, Agriculture, and more (see full list above) |
| Language Proficiency | English or Japanese (depending on university requirements) |
MEXT Scholarship Benefits
Monthly Stipend:
- 143,000 JPY (Preparatory education)
- 144,000 JPY (Master’s course)
- 145,000 JPY (Ph.D. course)
Full Tuition Coverage
Round-trip Airfare (Economy class)
Research & Academic Support
How to Apply for MEXT Scholarship 2026?
Step 1: Submit Preliminary Application (Deadline: May 13, 2025)
- Fill the Microsoft Word form (max 1 MB)
- Email to: scholarship-india@nd.mofa.go.jp
- No documents required at this stage
Step 2: Screening & Shortlisting (June 2025)
- Only shortlisted candidates will proceed
Step 3: Written Exam (June 22, 2025)
- Subjects: English, Japanese, and field-related questions
Step 4: Interview (July 8-13, 2025 – Online)
- Assess academic goals & research proposal
Step 5: Final Selection & University Placement
Important Dates & Deadlines
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Preliminary Application Deadline | May 13, 2025 |
| Screening Results | 1st week of June 2025 |
| Written Exam | June 22, 2025 |
| Interview (Online) | July 8-13, 2025 |
| Scholarship Start | April/October 2026 |
Useful Links & Resources
- Official MEXT Scholarship Guidelines: Download Here
- Past Exam Questions: Check Here
- Contact: Embassy of Japan, New Delhi (scholarship-india@nd.mofa.go.jp)
Tips to Strengthen Your MEXT Scholarship Application
- Strong Academic Record (70%+ in relevant field)
- Clear Research Proposal (align with Japan’s research priorities)
- Language Proficiency (IELTS/JLPT if required)
- Prepare for Written Test (practice past papers)
Why Study in Japan with MEXT Scholarship?
- World-Class Universities (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, etc.)
- Cutting-Edge Research Facilities
- Cultural Experience & Global Networking
- Career Opportunities in Japan & Beyond
Don’t Miss This Opportunity! Apply Before May 13, 2025!
For more details, visit the official MEXT website or contact the Embassy of Japan in India.
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