MEXT Research Student Scholarship
A research route to graduate study in Japan through embassy or university recommendation.
Eligibility requirements
Use this checklist as a first review. The provider’s current rules make the final decision.
- Check the annual research-student rules for nationality, age and academic qualifications.
- Your proposed field must meet MEXT and host university conditions.
How to apply, step by step
- Confirm the current application cycle
Open the official sources, then verify the intake, eligible degree, citizenship or residence rules, and every deadline.
- Choose the correct route
Read the current research guidelines and contact the Japanese embassy for your country’s deadline.
- Prepare and submit
Submit the required forms and attend screening; follow embassy instructions before seeking provisional acceptance.
- Complete selection and admission
Complete university placement and graduate admission requirements; research-student status is not automatically degree admission.
- Check the final submission
Confirm every attachment and referee submission was received. Save the application receipt and monitor the official portal and your email.
- Review the written offer
Confirm tuition, stipend, insurance, travel, duration, renewal rules and any conditions before accepting.
Documents to prepare
Exact formats, certification, translations and due dates vary. Follow the current provider instructions.
- MEXT application form
- Academic transcripts and graduation certificate
- Field of study and research plan
- Recommendation letter
- Certificate of health
- Language certificates if applicable
Official sources
Source review: 6 September 2026. Always confirm later updates on the provider website.