As of May 2023, Japan hosted approximately 279,274 international students, marking a 20.8% increase from the previous year. These students are enrolled across various educational institutions, including universities, junior colleges, professional training colleges, and Japanese language institutes.
Regarding higher education, Japan had 810 universities in operation as of May 2023, with private institutions accounting for the largest share. In the academic year 2024, Tokyo Prefecture alone was home to 145 universities, the highest number among all 47 prefectures.
Japan continues to be a popular study destination for international students, offering a range of scholarships to make education more accessible. The government's initiatives aim to further increase the number of foreign students, with a target of 400,000 by 2033.
For the most current information on scholarships available to international students in Japan for 2025, it is advisable to consult official resources such as the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) and individual university websites.
Scholarships are a means to provide financial assistance to students and attract the best human resource or talent to the country. Whether you're a graduate or an undergraduate student pursuing Japanese language/culture studies, postgraduate research, or any other area, Scholarship in Japan offsets your tuition fees and associated costs, such as accommodation or travel expenses.
Read this detailed article to learn more about scholarships for studying in Japan.
If you're interested in studying in Japan, you'll be content to know that there are many fully-funded scholarships available. Here are the ten best fully funded scholarships in Japan.
1. MEXT Scholarship
Overview
The MEXT Scholarship (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology) is a prestigious grant the Japanese government offers. This scholarship aims to foster international academic exchange and promote mutual understanding between Japan and other countries.
Eligibility
Must be a native of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan
Must be willing to learn the Japanese language and receive education in Japanese
Must be of good health both physically and mentally
Must meet specific age and academic requirements depending on the level of study
Scholarship Benefits
Full tuition fee coverage
Monthly stipend
Travel expenses to and from Japan
Accommodation allowance
Criteria
Description
Level of Study
Undergraduate,
Masters, and PhD
Japanese studies students
Teacher training students
Young Leaders Program
Nationality
Japan scholarship for Indian students
Application Deadline
May
2. JASSO Scholarship
Overview
The Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) offers scholarships for international students who wish to study in Japan. These scholarships aim to promote international exchange and enhance mutual understanding between Japan and other countries.
Eligibility
Must be a native of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan
Must be enrolled in an accredited Japanese institution
Must have a good academic record and strong motivation to study in Japan
Must not have other scholarship for Japan or financial aid
Scholarship Benefits
Monthly stipend
Partial tuition fee waiver
Criteria
Description
Level of Study
Undergraduate, Masters, and PhD
Nationality
International students
Application Deadline
November 30th
Award
JPY 80,000
3. Rotary Yoneyama Scholarship
Overview
The Rotary Yoneyama Scholarship for Japan is offered by the Rotary Yoneyama Memorial Foundation to support international students' higher education in Japan. The scholarship aims to foster global understanding and contribute to international friendship.
Eligibility
Must be a native of a country with no Rotary Club or lack of financial resources
Must be enrolled in an accredited Japanese institution
Must have a robust academic record and demonstrate leadership potential
Scholarship Benefits
The monthly award for undergraduate students, postgraduate and doctoral students is JPY 100,000, 140,000 and 140,000 respectively.
Criteria
Description
Level of Study
Undergraduate, Masters, and PhD
Field of Study
All courses offered by college in Japan
Nationality
All students from overseas fulfilling the eligibility criteria
Application Deadline
October 31
4. ADB Scholarship
Overview
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) Scholarship is a prestigious grant offered in collaboration with the Japanese government. The scholarship for Japan aims to provide opportunities for students from developing countries to pursue higher education in Japan and contribute to their countries' development.
Eligibility
Must be a native of an ADB borrowing member country
Must have a bachelor's degree or its equivalent with a superior academic record
Must have at least two years of work experience in a related field
Scholarship Benefits
Full tuition fee coverage
Monthly stipend
Housing allowance
Travel expenses to and from Japan
Health insurance coverage
Criteria
Description
Level of Study
Masters and PhD scholarship in Japan
Field of Study
Science and Technology
Economics, Business, and Management
Development- related Studies
Law and Public Policy
No of scholarships
135
Nationality
International students
Application Deadline
Varies depending on the host institution
5. JFUNU PhD Scholarship in Japan
The Japan Foundation for UNU (JFUNU) Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship for doctoral students in the field of Sustainability Science. The scholarship aims to support students from developing countries who face financial challenges in pursuing their studies.
Eligibility for PhD Scholarship in Japan
Must be from a developing country
Must be enrolled in a PhD program in Sustainability Science at United Nations University (UNU)
Must not be pursuing a second PhD in the same institution
Scholarship Benefits
Full tuition fee waiver
Monthly stipend of up to JPY 120,000 (for 36 months)
Criteria
Description
Level of Study
PhD
Field of Study
Sustainability Science
Nationality
International students from developing countries
Application Deadline
February 2023
6. JENESYS Program
The Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths (JENESYS) Program is a cultural exchange program that offers scholarships for youth from East Asia to study in Japan. The program promotes mutual understanding and friendship between Japan and other East Asian countries.
Eligibility
Must be a native of an East Asian country
Must be enrolled in a university or high school in the participating country
Must have a strong interest in Japanese culture and society
Scholarship Benefits
Round trip airfare to and from Japan
Accommodation and transportation in Japan
Participation in cultural exchange programs and activities
Criteria
Description
Level of Study
High school and university students
Field of Study
Multiple domains
Nationality
International students from East Asia
Application Deadline
Varies depending on the participating country
7. Japan Foundation Scholarship
The Japan Foundation Scholarship is a prestigious grant offered by the Japan Foundation to support international students who wish to study the Japanese language and culture in Japan. The scholarship aims to promote international exchange and enhance mutual understanding between Japan and other countries.
Eligibility
Must be a native of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan
Must have a strong interest in Japanese language and culture
Must be enrolled in a university or high school in the participating country
Scholarship Benefits
Round trip airfare to and from Japan
Monthly stipend
Tuition fee waiver
Criteria
Description
Level of Study
High school, undergraduate, and graduate
Field of Study
Japanese language and culture
Nationality
International students
Application Deadline
1st Round: April / May 2023 2nd Round: September / October 2023
8. Toyota Foundation Scholarship
The Toyota Foundation Scholarship is a prestigious grant offered by the Toyota Foundation to support international students' education. The scholarship promotes international exchange and enhances mutual understanding between Japan and other countries.
Eligibility
Must be a native of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan
Must have a strong academic record and demonstrate leadership potential
Must be enrolled in a university or high school program
Undergraduate, Masters, and PhD scholarship in Japan
Field of Study
Related to sustainable development and social transformation
Nationality
International students
Application Deadline
June
9. JSPS Summer Program
The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) Summer Program offers short-term research opportunities for young researchers from the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Canada, and Sweden. The program provides a platform for research collaboration between these countries and Japan.
Eligibility for PhD scholarship in Japan
Must be a native of the participating country
Must be enrolled in a doctoral program or hold a PhD degree
Must have a strong interest in research collaboration with Japanese researchers
Scholarship Benefits
Round trip airfare to and from Japan
Monthly stipend: JPY 534,000
Research support
Criteria
Description
Level of Study
PhD students and Postdoctoral Researchers
Field of Study
Humanities, Social sciences, and Natural Sciences
Nationality
International students from participating countries
Application Deadline
Varies depending on the JSPS liaison office
10. Japan ICU Foundation Scholarship
The Japan ICU Foundation Scholarship is a scholarship provided by the Japan ICU Foundation to overseas students studying at the International Christian University (ICU) in Japan.
Eligibility
Must be a native of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan
Must have a strong academic record and demonstrate leadership potential
Must be enrolled in a university or high school
Scholarship Benefits
Full tuition fee coverage
The minimum amount an applicant may request is JPY 50,000, and the maximum is JPY 1,500,000.
Criteria
Description
Level of Study
Undergraduate, Masters, and PhD
Field of Study
History and Vision for the Future
Nationality
International students
Application Deadline
May 9
Role of Scholarships in Japan for International Students
Scholarships play a crucial role in enabling students to study in Japan. Here are the reasons why scholarships in Japan for Indian students are important:
The cost of tuition fees and living is fairly high. Scholarships help students offset the high cost of living in Japan.
Students can concentrate on their studies without worrying about financial constraints. Scholarship in Japan for Indian students maximizes their learning experience and helps them achieve their academic goals.
Students can explore the unique cultural experiences in Japan. From traditional tea ceremonies to modern anime culture, Japan has so much to offer, and scholarships help students fully immerse in these experiences.
Scholarships promote academic excellence by attracting the best and brightest students to study in Japan. It leads to a more vibrant academic community and helps raise education standards.
Scholarships assist students in achieving their objectives and goals. Scholarships enable students to study in Japan, opening up a world of prospects and chances that otherwise would not have been feasible.
Types of Scholarships in Japan for Indian Students
1. Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarships
The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT) offers a scholarship for Indian students who wish to study in Japan. MEXT scholarships are highly competitive and prestigious awards covering tuition fees, living expenses, and round trip airfare.
There are two ways to apply for MEXT scholarships:
Embassy Recommendation
University Recommendation
Embassy Recommendation
Indian students can apply for MEXT scholarships through the Japanese consulate or embassy in their home country.
Embassy-recommended MEXT scholarships are available for the following categories:
Undergraduate students
Research students (Masters, Doctoral, and non-degree students)
Japanese studies students
Teacher training students
Young Leaders Program
University Recommendation
Some Japanese universities recommend international students for MEXT scholarships.
University-recommended MEXT scholarships are available for the following categories:
Research students (Masters, Doctoral, and non-degree students)
Undergraduate students
Japanese studies students
NOTE: the application period for the Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship for 2025 is closed for most programs
2. JASSO Scholarships
The Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) offers scholarships for international students studying in Japan. JASSO scholarships are available for undergraduate, graduate, and Japanese language programs.
JASSO offers the following scholarships:
International Student Scholarship Program (Monbukagakusho Scholarship for International Students)
Student Exchange Support Program (Scholarship for Study in Japan under Agreement)
3. Local Government and International Exchange Organization Scholarships
Local governments in Japan and international exchange organizations offer Japan scholarships for Indian students and other international students to support their education and financial needs.
Doctoral Program
Masters Program
Professional Degree Program
Graduate-level Research Students
Undergraduate Universities
Auditing Undergraduate Students
Junior Colleges
Colleges of Technology
Specialized training colleges
Private University and Junior College Programs for International Students
Japanese Language Institutions Other than Programs for International Students
4. University Scholarships and Tuition Fee Reductions
Many Japanese universities offer scholarships and tuition fee reductions for international students. These financial aid options are typically based on academic merit, financial need, or both factors.
5. Private Foundations
There are scholarships in Japan for Indian students offered by private foundations. Private foundation scholarships are generally limited to graduate candidates. If you are pursuing any one of these streams, research the masters and PhD scholarships in Japan properly.
How to Apply for a Scholarship in Japan: Step-by-Step Process
Japan offers numerous scholarships to international students, provided by the government, universities, and private organizations. Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for scholarships in Japan:
Step 1: Research Available Scholarships
Explore scholarship options from sources like the Japanese Government (MEXT Scholarship), JASSO, university-specific scholarships, and private foundations.
Check the eligibility criteria, coverage (tuition fees, living expenses, airfare, etc.), and deadlines.
Step 2: Choose the Right Scholarship
Shortlist scholarships based on your academic qualifications, language proficiency (Japanese/English), and financial needs.
Some scholarships require an entrance exam or interview, so prepare accordingly.
Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents
Common documents include:
Academic transcripts
Recommendation letters
Statement of purpose (SOP)
Research proposal (for graduate programs)
Proof of language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, JLPT)
Passport copy
Financial statements (if required)
Step 4: Apply Through the Right Channel
Government Scholarships (MEXT, JASSO, etc.): Apply via the Japanese Embassy in your country or directly through your chosen university.
University Scholarships: Submit applications directly through the university’s scholarship office.
Private/Foundation Scholarships: Apply through their official websites or through university recommendations.
Step 5: Attend Interviews (If Required)
Some scholarships require an interview (online or in-person) to assess your academic potential and motivation.
Be prepared to discuss your study plans, research interests, and career goals.
Step 6: Await the Results and Acceptance Letter
Scholarship selection may take weeks or months depending on the funding source.
If selected, you will receive an official acceptance letter outlining scholarship benefits and conditions.
Step 7: Apply for a Student Visa
Once you have the scholarship confirmation and admission letter, apply for a student visa at the Japanese Embassy in your country.
Step 8: Prepare for Departure to Japan
Book flights and arrange accommodation.
Attend any pre-departure orientations (if required by the scholarship provider).
Conclusion
Scholarships are a great way to make studying in Japan accessible to all students. With the right knowledge and guidance, you can unlock numerous opportunities and fulfill your dream of studying in Japan. Conduct meticulous research and apply for the scholarship for Japan that aligns with your academic goals and interests.
Here are some detailed articles on Fully Funded Scholarships for top Study Abroad Destination:
It depends on the program you're interested in. Some programs are taught in English, while others require Japanese proficiency. Check the website for language requirements for the specific program.
Can I apply for scholarships after I've started my program in Japan?
Most scholarships direct you to apply before you begin your studies. However, there are scholarships available for present students. Check with your university's scholarship office or the scholarship provider's website for more information.
How can I get a full scholarship in Japan?
To get a full scholarship in Japan, apply for government-funded programs like the MEXT Scholarship, university-specific scholarships, or private foundation grants. A strong academic record, research proposal (for graduates), and proficiency in English or Japanese increase your chances.
What is the 100% scholarship in Japan?
The MEXT (Monbukagakusho) Scholarship is a fully funded Japanese government scholarship that covers tuition fees, monthly stipend, and airfare. Other full scholarships include:
JASSO Honors Scholarship
Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
University-specific full scholarships (e.g., APU Tuition Reduction, University of Tokyo PEAK Scholarship)
Does Japan accept Indian students?
Yes, Japan welcomes Indian students for undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. Many universities offer English-taught courses, and MEXT, JASSO, and university scholarships are available for Indian students.
Can I study in Japan for free?
Yes! You can study in Japan for free if you receive a full-ride scholarship like the MEXT Scholarship or university-funded grants. Some universities also offer tuition waivers based on merit or financial need.
Is the MEXT exam difficult?
The MEXT exam varies by program but generally includes:
Subject-based tests (Math, Science, Japanese, or English) for undergraduates
Research proposal assessment & interviews for graduate students
Basic Japanese knowledge is preferred but not always mandatory Preparation is key, but with a strong academic background, you can qualify!
How much CGPA is required for the MEXT scholarship?
The minimum CGPA required is 2.30 on a 3.00 scale (approximately 7.6+ on a 10-point scale). However, competitive applicants usually have a higher CGPA and strong academic records.
Which scholarship is fully funded in Japan?
The MEXT Scholarship is the most well-known fully funded option. Other fully-funded scholarships include:
ADB-Japan Scholarship Program
World Bank-Japan Graduate Scholarships
University of Tokyo Special Scholarship for International Students
Is IELTS required for the MEXT scholarship?
For English-taught programs, IELTS or TOEFL is often required, but some universities may accept other proof of English proficiency (such as medium-of-instruction certificates). For Japanese-taught programs, the JLPT exam may be needed instead.
With over a decade of expertise in international education, Jyotsna has held impactful roles at the British Council, Unilodgers, a prominent UK university, and IDP Education, empowering countless students by not only enhancing their educational experiences but also by offering them guidance in securing essential scholarships and financial aid. She is dedicated to helping students achieve their academic goals through tailored guidance and financial support.
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