Comprehensive Guide to the Japanese Government Paid MEXT Scholarship 2024

There are so many opportunities for international students in 2024. Learn more on the “Comprehensive Guide to the Japanese Government Paid MEXT Scholarship.”

The Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) operates under the aegis of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology in Japan. As a premier entity dedicated to student services, JASSO efficiently manages scholarship and loan initiatives, support programs tailored for international students, and various student life assistance programs. Its mission is to cultivate innovative individuals who will lead future generations while fostering global understanding and collaboration.

JASSO offers scholarship funding and loans to driven students who face financial challenges in continuing their education. The scholarship initiatives are continuously refined to cater to the varied needs of students, with enhancements in application processes and improved dissemination of scholarship information.

Additionally, JASSO extends scholarships to international students, organizes global exchange programs, and streamlines admission procedures through the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students. It also gathers and shares valuable information related to studying abroad.

Click to apply

Comprehensive Guide to the Japanese Government Paid MEXT Scholarship

JASSO compiles, evaluates, and distributes information regarding numerous facets of student support services to enhance various student support activities within universities. Furthermore, it aids institutions in enhancing their student support services through diverse training programs.

Location: Japan

Benefits:

• World-Class Science and Technology: Gain insights into advanced fields such as science, technology, and medicine.
• Rich Cultural Experience: Explore Japan’s cultural heritage, including iconic landmarks like Mt. Fuji, traditional cuisine, and the art of “Omotenashi” hospitality.
• Safe Living Environment: Enjoy a conducive and secure living environment with reliable infrastructure.
• Diverse International Community: Interact with international students from over 170 countries and regions globally.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Applicants must be under 35 years of age and possess a college degree (or be prospective graduates) or have completed 16 years of education.
• Candidates must also be under 35 years old and hold a degree from a college or teacher training institution. They should have a minimum of five years of active teaching experience at primary, secondary, or teacher training colleges in their home country (please note that current university instructors are not eligible for this scholarship).
• Students aged between 17 and 25 who have finished 12 years of education or equivalent coursework comparable to a high school diploma (including prospective graduates) are eligible.
• Applicants aged 18 to 30 must be enrolled in undergraduate programs focusing on the Japanese language or culture at a university outside Japan at the time of arrival and while returning to their home countries.
• Students aged 17 to 25 who have completed a minimum of 11 years of primary school education (including prospective graduates) are also eligible.
• Candidates aged 17 to 25 must have completed 12 years of education or equivalent studies comparable to a Japanese high school diploma (includes prospective graduates).

Eligible Regions: Open to all countries.

Application Process:

Embassy Recommendation:
In this scholarship category, candidates are recruited and initially screened by a Japanese embassy (or consulate general, depending on the country). Since the application procedure varies by country, it is advisable to contact the Japanese embassy or consulate general in your area for specific details.

• For research students, undergraduate students, college of technology students, and specialized training college students: Recruitment for those planning to arrive in Japan the following April occurs between April and May. Initial screening (which includes document examination, written tests, and interviews) takes place at the embassy between June and July. By the end of August, the embassy will have forwarded the recommendations of the shortlisted individuals to the Japanese Department of Culture, Sports, Science, and Education (MEXT) via the Department of Foreign Affairs.
• For Teacher Training and Japanese Studies Students: Recruitment for those set to arrive in Japan in September or October is conducted between December of the previous year and February of the following year. Screening takes place between February and March, with successful candidates recommended to MEXT through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs by early April.

University Recommendation:
Research students and Japanese studies candidates studying in Japan as exchange students under inter-university agreements can be nominated through the relevant national, public, or private Japanese university. These universities directly recommend their chosen candidates to MEXT. Research students who receive university recommendations typically arrive in Japan in September or October.

Note on Application Procedures for Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarships:
There are no application fees associated with these scholarships. Be cautious of organizations or individuals requesting application fees or deposits, as they are not affiliated with the Japanese Government.