Japan Scholarships 2026: Study in Japan With Financial Support
Overview
International students can draw on several sources of financial support for study in Japan. These include the Japanese Government MEXT Scholarship, JASSO scholarships, local governments, international associations, private foundations and universities. Support varies by programme and deadlines differ for each scholarship.
What you get
The MEXT Scholarship is the main government-funded route, with international students hosted at state expense since 1954. It has seven categories: research students, teacher training students, undergraduate students, Japanese studies students, college of technology students, specialized training college students, and Young Leaders Program students.
JASSO offers the Monbukagakusho Honors Scholarship for Privately-Financed International Students, usually applied for through the student's school, and the Student Exchange Support Program for students on approved exchange arrangements between overseas institutions and Japanese host universities. Local governments and international associations award scholarships to students living or studying in particular districts. Private foundations may target specific nationalities, subjects, regions or schools, and universities may offer their own scholarships and tuition exemption or reduction schemes, some available before enrollment and others after arrival.
Scholarships generally provide partial support for living costs, tuition and other expenses rather than complete funding, so students should plan for accommodation, food, transport, insurance, study materials, travel and visa costs.
Who can apply
Eligibility depends on the scholarship and can involve school level, age, nationality, academic major and host institution. Most scholarships become available after students arrive in Japan, while MEXT is an important route for applicants applying from overseas.
How to apply
Applications go through Japanese embassies or consulate-generals abroad, through universities, or through the student's school or the scholarship provider. Typical documents include a CV, student registration certificate, transcript, recommendation from an academic supervisor, health certificate and photographs. Screening can involve document review, written examinations, Japanese-language or subject tests and interviews, with results sent by the foundation or the host school. Admission to a university does not automatically mean a student qualifies for financial assistance.