Study in Japan - Application are now open for the fully funded University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship 2026

Applications are now open for the highly prestigious University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship 2026 in Japan. Funded by the Japanese Government (MEXT), this fully funded scholarship offers international students the chance to pursue their Master’s or PhD studies at one of the world’s top universities — completely tuition-free.

For those unfamiliar, MEXT stands for the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan. Each year, this ministry offers full scholarships to attract talented students from across the globe. The University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship covers tuition fees, provides travel allowances, and offers a generous monthly stipend — ensuring that recipients can focus solely on their academic and personal growth in Japan.

If you are an international student dreaming of studying in Japan, this could be the perfect opportunity for you. However, certain conditions apply: you must not be living in Japan or currently enrolled in a Japanese university, and you must not be receiving any other scholarship at the same time.

Why Choose the University of Tokyo?

Founded in 1877, the University of Tokyo (UTokyo) is one of the most prestigious universities in Asia and consistently ranks among the world’s top 25 universities (QS Global University Rankings). Currently, it hosts around 30,000 students, including over 2,000 international students representing diverse cultures and backgrounds.

Japan itself is a highly educated nation — approximately 70% of its youth pursue higher education. With over 783 universities across the country, Japan is known for delivering world-class education with strong government support. The MEXT Scholarship is one of Japan’s premier funding programs, providing outstanding students with the opportunity to study in this dynamic country — for free!

Moreover, UTokyo’s thriving research environment and its beautiful urban campuses provide the ideal setting for academic and personal development. Importantly, MEXT scholarships are also offered at other institutions, such as APU (Asia Pacific University) and Tokyo Institute of Technology. However, the University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship is particularly coveted due to the university’s global reputation and strong alumni network.

MEXT Japan Scholarship Duration

• Master’s Program: 2 years

• Doctoral Program (PhD): 3 years

Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, carefully review the eligibility requirements:

• The Graduate School of Science at the University of Tokyo will nominate a set number of applicants.

• Applicants must have achieved a GPA of 2.30 or higher (on a 3.00 scale) in their previous studies.

• Current undergraduate students must maintain a GPA of 2.30 or higher in their most recent coursework to remain eligible.

• Applicants must have an excellent academic track record.

• You must be a citizen of one of the MEXT-eligible countries (listed on the official website).

• You must be born on or after April 2, 1991.

• The applicant should have completed all required education to enter a Master’s or PhD program in the desired field (or a closely related one).

• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English or Japanese is required. Specific language requirements can be found on UTokyo’s official site.

• Applicants must enter Japan with a “Student” residence status and must obtain the appropriate visa prior to travel.

• You must be physically and mentally fit to undertake your studies in Japan.

• You must arrive in Japan on the date specified by the University of Tokyo.

• Former holders of any University Recommendation MEXT Scholarship are not eligible to apply again.

What the Scholarship Covers

The University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship 2026 is fully funded, meaning students are not required to pay tuition or bear any major costs. Specifically, the scholarship includes:

• Full tuition waiver.

• Monthly stipend (varies depending on the program and academic year).

• Round-trip airfare between your home country and Japan.

• Coverage of additional living costs through the provided stipend.

In short, you can study at the University of Tokyo without financial stress — allowing you to fully focus on your academics and life in Japan.

How to Apply

Ready to apply? Here’s a simple guide to follow:

1. Click on the “Apply Now” button provided on the official University of Tokyo website.

2. First, complete the admission application for your chosen graduate program (Master’s or PhD) at the Graduate School of Science.

3. Once you have submitted your admission application, prepare and submit the required documents for the University of Tokyo Recommendation MEXT Scholarship.

4. All documents must be submitted in either English or Japanese.

5. Applicants must also provide a tracking receipt for their submitted documents.

6. For a complete and detailed guide, refer to the official application guidelines on the UTokyo website.

Required Documents

Applicants are required to submit a complete application package that typically includes:

• Application form (downloaded from the UTokyo website).

• Academic transcripts and certificates.

• Proof of language proficiency.

• Statement of purpose.

• Letters of recommendation.

• Any additional documents as outlined in the official guidelines.

Important Dates

• Application Portal Opens: October 15, 2025

• Application Deadline: October 31, 2025

Please note that the portal closes at midnight (Japan time) on the deadline date — late applications will not be considered.

Visit here to apply