Scholarship guide
Scholarships to Study in Japan
Japan's scholarship landscape includes a national government program and many university-level awards. See how they differ, how language shapes your options, and what to verify before applying.
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✓ Scholarships and total cost
✓ Requirements and deadlines
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Last verified 10/01/2026. Admission, tuition, scholarship, and visa information can change. Use this guide to compare options, then confirm current details with the university and official sources such as Japan Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO), Japanese embassies and consulates, The international office of the university you apply to before applying.
MEXT and other funding sources
The Japanese government's scholarship is administered through the Ministry of Education, known as MEXT. Besides this national program, individual universities and other organisations may offer awards for international students. These routes can use different application channels. MEXT may involve an embassy or a university recommendation, while university awards are often connected to the school's own application.
Pathways into a Japanese degree
Some students enter degree programs directly, while others begin with a Japanese-language course or a preparatory year. Which pathway is available depends on the program and the scholarship category. If you plan to start with language study, ask whether the funding covers that period and what level you must reach to progress into the degree.
English-taught and Japanese-taught options
A number of programs are taught in English, while many others are taught in Japanese and ask for Japanese-language evidence. Choose based on the language you can realistically meet, and check the accepted tests and validity on the current program page.
- Which language is the program taught in?
- Which test or evidence does the university accept?
- Is a language-preparation period included?
- Does the scholarship category limit eligible programs?
Planning for the real cost of living
Costs differ widely between large cities and smaller regions. Compare housing, transport, and daily costs for each location, and use the cost calculator to model the full year rather than relying on tuition alone. Check whether a scholarship allows part-time work, and what the immigration rules say about it, since limits apply in many cases.
Verify details with official sources
Eligibility, deadlines, and coverage are updated by the providers. Always read the current guidelines from MEXT, the relevant embassy, and the university, and keep copies of the terms you applied under. No outcome is guaranteed, so plan with a mix of scholarship and non-scholarship options.
Frequently asked questions
What is MEXT?
MEXT is Japan's Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, which runs the Japanese government scholarship for international students. Categories, eligibility, and application channels are set by the ministry, so read the current official guidance before you plan your application.
Do I need Japanese to get a scholarship?
Not always. Some programs are taught in English, and some scholarship categories include a language-preparation stage. Requirements differ by program and provider, so confirm the language rule for the specific award and course you are considering. Confirm the current details with the university or provider before you decide.
Can I work part-time on a scholarship?
Rules depend on the scholarship terms and on the immigration regulations in force. Some awards restrict outside work and visa rules set their own limits. Check both the provider's conditions and the official immigration guidance before assuming you can rely on part-time income.