Japan Scholarships 2025–26: Fully Funded Opportunities for Undergraduate and Master’s Students (Deadlines September–December 2025)

 Why Study in Japan?

Japan has become one of the top global destinations for international students seeking **high-quality education, world-class research, and generous funding opportunities**. With a perfect blend of cutting-edge technology, strong cultural traditions, and globally ranked universities, studying in Japan is a life-changing opportunity. The Japanese Government, through the MEXT Scholarship Program, has been funding thousands of students every year, offering them full financial coverage.

 

If you are an aspiring scholar looking for undergraduate or Master’s scholarships in Japan with deadlines in September or later in 2025, this guide highlights two of the best opportunities: Osaka University MEXT Scholarship and Tokyo Tech (Institute of Science Tokyo) MEXT Scholarship.

 

1. Osaka University MEXT Scholarship 2026

 

Overview

Osaka University is among Japan’s top universities and a hub for international research collaboration. Each year, it offers **MEXT Scholarships** through university recommendation and embassy nominations.

 

Level of Study: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD

Deadline: 1 September 2025 (JST)

 

Funding Coverage:

·       Full tuition waiver

·       Monthly stipend

·       Round-trip airfare

·       Health insurance (depending on category)

 

 Eligibility

·       Applicants must be non-Japanese citizens.

·       Must demonstrate academic excellence (usually GPA 2.3/3.0 or higher).

·       Age: Typically under 35 years for Master’s/PhD and under 25 for Undergraduate.

·       Good health (medical certificate required).

 

 Application Process

1. Check Eligibility: Confirm program and field of study.

2. Prepare Documents:

·       Application form

·       Research/study plan

·       Academic transcripts

·       Recommendation letters

·       Passport copy

3. Submit to Osaka University before the deadline.

4. Shortlisted candidates will be recommended to MEXT for final approval.

 

 2. Tokyo Tech (Institute of Science Tokyo) MEXT Scholarship 2026

Overview

Tokyo Tech, now known as the Institute of Science Tokyo after its merger with Tokyo Medical and Dental University in 2024, is Japan’s leading science and technology university. It offers the prestigious MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship for international students.

 

Level of Study: Master’s (and PhD in some cases)

Deadline: December 2025 (exact date varies by department)

Funding Coverage:

  - Full tuition waiver

  - Monthly stipend

  - Airfare to and from Japan

 

Eligibility

- Must be a citizen of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan.

- Undergraduate degree with strong academic record (for Master’s applicants).

- Under 35 years of age at the time of application.

- English or Japanese language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS or JLPT).

 

Application Process

1. Apply through Tokyo Tech’s online application system.

2. Submit required documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of language proficiency.

3. Faculty recommendation and departmental review.

4. Nominated candidates are submitted to MEXT for final approval.

 Related Scholarships You May Like:

• University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship 2026 – Your Complete Guide to Studying in South Africa for Free
• Chevening Scholarship 2026 – Your Fully Funded Launchpad to a UK Master’s (& Beyond)
• Fully Funded Oman Government Scholarships

3. University of Tokyo (UTokyo) – Alternative Pathway

 

Although not a direct MEXT scholarship post, UTokyo offers an admission track (T-cens) that leads to MEXT University Recommendation.

 

Deadline for October 2026 Intake:

·       Online Application: 6 November 2025

·       Document Submission: 19 December 2025

·       Students admitted under this track can later be nominated for MEXT funding.

 

 

Comparison of Key Scholarships

 

| University           | Level of Study       | Deadline             | Funding Coverage       |

|----------------------|----------------------|----------------------|------------------------|

| Osaka University     | UG, Master’s, PhD    | **1 Sept 2025**      | Tuition, stipend, airfare |

| Tokyo Tech (Science Tokyo) | Master’s (some PhD) | **Dec 2025**         | Tuition, stipend, airfare |

| UTokyo (via T-cens)  | Master’s/PhD         | **Nov–Dec 2025**     | Possible MEXT nomination |

 

 

How to Increase Your Chances of Winning

 

1. Start Early – Gather documents months before deadlines.

2. Craft a Strong Research/Study Plan – Tailor it to Japan’s academic strengths.

3. Get Strong Recommendations – From professors who know your academic ability.

4. Language Proficiency– Even if not required, JLPT or English scores strengthen your profile.

5. Engage with Faculty – Contact professors at your target university to align your research interests.

 

✨ Final Thoughts – Don’t Miss Your Shot!

Studying in Japan under a MEXT Scholarship is a life-changing opportunity. With deadlines in September–December 2025, students still have time to prepare. Whether you aim for Osaka University, Tokyo Tech, or even UTokyo, the key is to prepare early, stay organized, and submit a compelling application.

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