In this article, we sincerely attempt to educate interested students about the types of scholarships, their eligibility criteria, required documents etc. to study in Japan and more.
MEXT Scholarships 2025 – Key Highlights
| Scholarship Name | MEXT Scholarships 2025 |
| Study Destination | Japan |
| Academic Year | 2025-26 |
| Beneficiaries | Students qualified to pursue higher studies in Japan |
| Application Process | Online |
| Original Website | www.mext.go.jp www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/ |
MEXT Scholarships 2025 – Types of Scholarships
Major types of MEXT Scholarships are as follows:
- Undergraduate Scholarships
- Research Graduate Scholarships
- Specialised Training Scholarships
- Japanese Studies Scholarships
- Teacher Training Scholarships
- College of Technology Scholarships
Also Read: List of Top Japanese Scholarships for Indian Students
MEXT Scholarships 2025 – Eligibility Criteria
Students willing to pursue the MEXT scholarship must fulfil the following eligibility criteria:
Nationality
Age
The applicant must be above 18 years of age at the time of admission. Also, students must have completed the schooling till Class 12 to pursue a UG degree, and undergraduation for pursuing other courses at PG or Research level.
Academic Requirements
Students must have completed 12 years of schooling, which is equivalent to a Japanese upper secondary school. Additionally, applicants must have scored at least 80% marks in Classes 10, 11, 12 and 70% in UG or PG degrees.
Students must be fluent in the English language (writing and speaking) and interested in learning the Japanese language. Also, applicants must be keen to know the different cultural and social aspects of Japan.
Health Certificate
It is mandatory for all selected candidates to submit a health certificate signed by an authorised doctor/hospital.
Student Visa
Applicants must have an issued student visa at the time of application for the MEXT scholarships.
MEXT Scholarships 2025 – Required Documents
The students willing to fill the MEXT scholarship application form must have the following documents as mentioned below.
- Application Form
- Direct Placement Preference Form
- Academic transcripts for all school years of school/university attended
- Graduation certificate
- Recommendation letter (from the class teacher or principal of the last school)
- Medical certificate
- Certificate of enrollment (if applicable)
- Certificate of university enrollment (mandatory)
- Language proficiency certificate
MEXT Scholarship 2025 – Important Guidelines for MEXT Scholars
After getting selected for the MEXT scholarship, the applicants must follow the guidelines of the scholarship provider. Important details that must be adhered to are as under:
- Familiarising and learning the Japanese language before departing for Japan, and acquiring information about Japanese weather, climate, customs, university education, and differences between the Japanese legal system and that of his/her home country.
- The scholarship’s first instalment will be granted after one to one and half months after the grantee arrives in Japan. Carrying a sufficient amount for covering necessary expenses in Japan is important.
- The payment of the scholarship will be transferred to the bank account of Japan Post Bank (JP Bank) opened by each grantee after their arrival in Japan. Also, note the MEXT will not be transferring the amount to the other account.
- If a scholar has tested positive for infectious diseases (such as tuberculosis), then they need to be treated before arrival in Japan. Arrival in Japan can’t be approved if a scholar is not fully recovered.
- A scholar must enrol in National Health Insurance (Kokumin Kenko Hoken) upon arrival in Japan.
- A scholar must acquire an ‘Individual Number Card (My Number Card)’ in Japan.
- Information regarding the MEXT Scholarship Students (name, gender, date of birth, nationality, accepting university/graduate school/undergraduate school, email, phone number, etc.) may be shared with relevant government organisations in Japan.
- Receiving another scholarship from an organisation other than the Japanese government (MEXT or another Japanese government) is permitted.
- If an applicant does not meet the conditions for landing in Japan, the scholarship will be rejected.
- The accommodation expenses will be covered by the scholar during the period of preparatory education, however, students can reside in the residential accommodations of the preparatory educational institution (if available).
MEXT Scholarships 2025 – Unavoidable Circumstances and Policy Changes
If any of the unavoidable circumstances arise, MEXT might cancel or adjust the arrival of the selected scholars for their well-being. Some of the unavoidable circumstances that may lead to a change in policy follows hereafter:
Public Health Emergencies – Travel bans or immigration restrictions (infectious disease outbreaks).
Government Actions – Policies or restrictions imposed by national or local governments.
Natural Disasters – Earthquakes, floods, heavy storms, or other extreme weather conditions.
Political or Social Instability – Wars (declared or undeclared), revolutions, or other civil conflicts.
Legal or Regulatory Compliance – Changes in laws, regulations, or official directives.
Labour Disruptions – Strikes, lockdowns, or large-scale protests affecting regular operations.
MEXT Scholarship 2025 – Important Links
MEXT Scholarships 2025 – FAQs
What does MEXT stand for?
MEXT stands for the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Japan.
What is the nature of the MEXT Scholarship?
MEXT is a fully funded scholarship offered by the Japanese government to international students for pursuing their studies in Japan.
Can MEXT change or cancel my scholarship after selection?
Yes, in cases of unavoidable circumstances, MEXT reserves the right to modify or cancel the scholarship, arrival date, or application guideline for that matter.
Who can apply for the MEXT Scholarship?
Students willing to pursue undergraduation, Master’s, PhD, teacher training, or specialised studies can apply.
Do I need to know Japanese to apply?
Yes, however, this is not mandatory and the scholars are advised to learn the Japanese language and familiarise themselves with Japan’s climate, customs, education system, and legal differences before departure.
When will the first installment of the MEXT scholarship be provided?
The first installment will be granted approximately one to one and a half months after the scholar arrives in Japan, so it is essential to carry sufficient funds for initial expenses.
Is it mandatory for MEXT scholars to enroll in health insurance in Japan?
Yes, scholars must enroll in the National Health Insurance (Kokumin Kenko Hoken) upon their arrival in Japan.
Can the MEXT scholars receive another scholarship from a different organisation?
Yes, scholars can receive scholarships from organizations other than the Japanese government (MEXT or another Japanese government entity).