Japan offers a variety of scholarships for international students, each with specific eligibility criteria and benefits. Here's a comprehensive list of notable scholarships available as of 2025:
MEXT Scholarship (Monbukagakusho Scholarship)
Provider: Japanese Government (MEXT)
Eligibility: International students pursuing undergraduate, master's, Ph.D., or training studies. Applicants must be from countries with diplomatic relations with Japan and meet age and academic requirements.
Coverage: Tuition fees, monthly stipend, travel expenses.
Application Process: Apply through Japanese embassies or directly to Japanese universities.
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JASSO Scholarship
Provider: Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO)
Eligibility: Privately financed international students with excellent academic records and financial need.
Coverage: Monthly stipend (approximately ¥48,000).
Application Process: Apply through Japanese educational institutions.
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ADB-Japan Scholarship Program
Provider: Asian Development Bank (ADB) in partnership with the Japanese government
Eligibility: Students from ADB's developing member countries pursuing postgraduate studies in economics, management, science and technology, and other development-related fields.
Coverage: Tuition fees, monthly stipend, travel expenses, medical insurance.
Application Process: Apply through designated institutions in Japan.
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Rotary Yoneyama Memorial Foundation Scholarship
Provider: Rotary Yoneyama Memorial Foundation
Eligibility: International students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies in Japan. Applicants should demonstrate academic excellence and Japanese language proficiency.
Coverage: Monthly stipend (¥100,000 for undergraduates; ¥140,000 for graduates).
Application Process: Direct application to the Rotary Yoneyama Memorial Foundation.
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Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
Provider: World Bank and Japanese Government
Eligibility: Students from World Bank member countries pursuing master's degrees in development-related fields. Applicants must have professional experience and a commitment to contributing to their country's development.
Coverage: Tuition fees, monthly living stipend, round-trip airfare, health insurance.
Application Process: Apply through participating universities in Japan.
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Honjo International Scholarship Foundation
Provider: Honjo International Scholarship Foundation
Eligibility: International students pursuing graduate studies (master's or Ph.D.) in Japan. Applicants should have a strong academic record and a clear research plan.
Coverage: Monthly stipend (¥200,000 to ¥300,000) and travel expenses.
Application Process: Direct application to the Honjo International Scholarship Foundation.
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University-specific Scholarships
Provider: Various Japanese universities
Eligibility: International students enrolled in specific universities. Eligibility criteria vary by institution.
Coverage: Tuition waivers, monthly stipends, accommodation allowances.
Application Process: Apply directly through the university's international student office.
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General Eligibility Criteria for Scholarships in Japan:
Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of countries that have diplomatic relations with Japan.
Age: Specific age requirements vary by scholarship; generally, applicants should be under 35 years old for graduate programs.
Academic Background: Applicants must have completed the required education level for the intended program (e.g., a bachelor's degree for master's programs).
Language Proficiency: Depending on the program, proficiency in Japanese or English may be required.
Health: Applicants should be in good physical and mental health.
Application Tips:
Research Early: Start researching scholarships and their requirements well in advance of application deadlines.
Prepare Documents: Gather necessary documents such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, language proficiency test scores, and research proposals.
Contact Institutions: Reach out to Japanese universities or embassies for specific application guidelines and support.
Adhere to Deadlines: Ensure all application materials are submitted before the specified deadlines.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official websites of the scholarship providers or contact the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country.