Scholarship in Japan: Requirements and how to apply

Konnichiwa! Have you ever dreamed of studying in Japan? With the latest scholarship opportunities, this could be your chance to make it happen. Beyond advancing your education, you’ll get to experience Japan’s rich traditions, warm hospitality, world-famous anime and manga culture, and breathtaking temples. Plus, you’ll be studying in one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world.

Getting a scholarship can make a huge difference for students, covering tuition costs and even providing support for living expenses, transportation, housing, and health insurance, depending on the program.

In 2025, the Japanese government plans to expand its scholarship programs to welcome more international students into its education system. The goal is to offer high-quality academic opportunities in fields like technology, science, and humanities. Here’s a look at some of the top scholarships available, along with their key requirements and benefits.

Top 5 scholarships to study in Japan

Studying in Japan is an incredible and rewarding experience that adds prestige to your academic journey, especially if you attend one of the country’s top universities. We’ve put together a travel guide to Japan so you can make the most of your time there!

Here are the top five scholarships for studying in Japan. Some are government-funded, while others come from private institutions, giving you a range of options to find the one that best fits your academic and career goals.

1. MEXT scholarships, Ministry of Education

The MEXT scholarships, offered by Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology, have been supporting international students since 1954. This program aims to promote cultural exchange and attract talented students from around the world. It’s one of the most prestigious and sought-after scholarships for studying in Japan. Here’s what you need to know about it:

• General requirements: Must be between 18 and 35, depending on the academic year, have been accepted to a Japanese institution and have an outstanding academic record.
• Coverage and benefits: Full tuition, monthly allowance of $780 to $967 to cover living expenses, accommodation in university residences and airfare.
• Type of studies offered: Undergraduate, master’s and doctoral programs. Also specialized research in various areas.
• Aimed at: International students of all nationalities and outstanding academic performance.
• Form: Interested applicants should apply through the Embassy of Japan in their country or directly to the participating Japanese universities. More information at www.studyinjapan.go.jp
• Opening date: Calls open in April.
• Closing date: Usually ends in May or June, depending on the country and program.

2. JASSO Scholarships, Japan Student Services Organization

Founded in 2004, JASSO is a well-respected organization in Japan that supports international students applying for scholarships. To qualify, you must have an outstanding academic record and be able to prove your achievements from the previous year. If selected, you’ll have the opportunity to study at some of Japan’s top universities. Here’s what you need to know about the requirements:

• General requirements: You must be accepted to a university or educational institution in Japan, prove academic achievement at the previous level of study and meet certain financial requirements.
• Coverage and benefits: Monthly allowance of $533 to cover living expenses and the possibility of combining this scholarship with other financial support.
• Type of studies offered: Japanese language courses and undergraduate, master’s and doctoral programs.
• Aimed at: International students of all nationalities.
• Form: You can fill it in at the official website www.jasso.go.jp
• Opening date: Calls usually open in January.
• Closing date: Generally in March, depending on the institution.

3. Japan Foundation Scholarships

Since 1972, the Japan Foundation has been promoting cultural exchange with countries around the world. Their scholarships for studying in Japan are tailored for students interested in the Japanese language, culture, and the arts. If you’re looking to focus your studies in the arts, this could be an excellent opportunity for you. Here’s more information about the program:

• General requirements: Previous knowledge of the Japanese language (in case of specific programs). Have been accepted to a participating Japanese institution and have an outstanding academic record.
• Coverage and benefits: Monthly allowance of $1,013 for living expenses, partial or full tuition coverage, and housing in Japan Foundation facilities or partner residences.
• Type of studies offered: Intensive Japanese language courses and cultural and research programs.
• Aimed at: Students of all nationalities and all ages interested in Japanese language and culture.
• Form: You can find more information on the website www.jpf.go.jp.
• Opening date: Calls usually open in September.
• Closing date: December.

4. ADB-JSP Scholarships (Asian Development Bank-Japan Scholarship Program)

The Asian Development Bank’s Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP), established in 1988 in collaboration with the Japanese government, aims to promote economic and social development in the Asia-Pacific region. These scholarships support students from developing countries who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in Japan, focusing on fields such as economics, technology, and sustainability. If you’re interested in these areas, here’s how you can apply:

• General requirements: Must be a citizen of a developing member country of the Asian Development Bank. Have work experience in relevant fields and hold a bachelor’s degree. In addition, you must be willing to return to your home country after completing your studies.
• Coverage and benefits: Full tuition payment, monthly allowance of $980 for living and accommodation. Also includes medical insurance and airfare.
• Type of study offered: Master’s degree programs.
• Aimed at: Students from developing countries in Asia-Pacific with an interest in contributing to the advancement of their country.
• Form: Application is submitted through the program’s Japanese partner universities. More information at www.adb.org.
• Opening date: August.
• Closing date: November.

5. Rotary Yoneyama Scholarships

The Rotary Yoneyama scholarships were established in 1952 by the Rotary Club of Japan to promote global understanding and develop committed leaders. Supported by a broad international network, this program provides financial assistance to international students interested in pursuing higher education in Japan.

• General requirements: Have applied to or been accepted by a Japanese university. Prove outstanding academic achievement and submit recommendation letters from a Rotary club in your home country.
• Coverage and benefits: Monthly allowance of $667-933, depending on the course chosen, to cover living expenses, counseling, and support from the Rotary network during your stay.
• Type of studies offered: Undergraduate, master’s and doctoral programs.
• Aimed at: International students of any nationality interested in leadership and social service.
• Form: Through local Rotary clubs or on the program’s official website at www.rotary -yoneyama.or.jp.
• Opening date: Calls usually open in March.
• Closing date: June.

Tips on how to get a scholarship in Japan

To get into Japan’s education system, you can apply for a student visa or, preferably, one of the scholarships available for studying in Japan. While the scholarship route is more beneficial, it’s also highly competitive, so you’ll need to know how to navigate the process successfully. If you want to stay on top of every step, we recommend Holafly’s eSIM, which will keep you connected securely and without limits, no matter where you are in the country. Want to know how to secure your scholarship?

1. Learn the basics of the Japanese language: Enroll in a beginner-level course and provide a certificate of your basic Japanese skills (like the JLPT N5). This will help you stand out from other applicants by showing your dedication and genuine interest in Japanese culture.
2. Research Japan’s priority fields: Japan places a strong emphasis on fields like technology, engineering, renewable energy, and social sciences. If you’re interested in any of these areas, your chances of success will be higher.
3. Tailor your cover letter to the Japanese environment: Highlight qualities like perseverance, discipline, and humbleness. Explain how you plan to contribute to strengthening the relationship between your country and Japan.
4. Establish contact with Japanese professors: If you’re applying for research or postgraduate scholarships, reaching out to professors in the country for a recommendation can greatly increase your chances of being accepted into the institution.
5. Adhere to strict deadlines and formats: Being punctual and respectful of rules is paramount to the selection committee
6. Participate in Japan-related events in your country: Get in touch with the Japanese embassy in your country and attend events that interest you—it’s a great way to network.

Outstanding universities to study in Japan

If you’re looking to apply for a scholarship to study in Japan, we recommend aiming for the top universities in the country. We’ve put together a summary of some of the best ones, highlighting their most popular programs and what makes them stand out. Take a look and pick your favorite:

Frequently asked questions about scholarships to study in Japan

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