University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded

University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship 2026 offers a fully funded opportunity for outstanding international students to pursue Master’s or Doctoral programs at the Graduate School of Science, the University of Tokyo. This prestigious award is part of Japan’s efforts to foster international leaders who will act as bridges of friendship between Japan and their home countries, contributing to global development and mutual understanding.

Unlike the embassy recommendation track, this scheme is based on university nomination, meaning applicants must first apply directly to their chosen Japanese university. The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Science will conduct preliminary screening and recommend selected candidates to MEXT for final approval.

The University of Tokyo is one of Japan’s leading academic institutions, globally recognized for cutting-edge research, innovation, and its contribution to scientific advancement. Studying here not only provides access to world-class education but also fosters meaningful cultural exchange and international networking opportunities.

The MEXT Scholarship is one of the most generous fully funded scholarships in the world, covering tuition fees, travel costs, and providing a monthly stipend to support living expenses in Japan. For international students, it eliminates the financial burden of pursuing higher education abroad.

scholarship summary

Key Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following qualifications:

1. Academic Excellence – Applicants must have a grade point of 2.30 or higher (on the MEXT scale) and maintain strong academic performance throughout the program.
2. Nationality – Must hold citizenship from a country with diplomatic relations with Japan. Japanese nationals are not eligible (unless they hold dual nationality and agree to renounce their Japanese citizenship before arrival).
3. Age Limit – Applicants must be born on or after April 2, 1991.
4. Academic Background – Must have the qualifications required for admission to the Master’s or Doctoral Program at the Graduate School of Science, UTokyo.
5. Field of Study – Applicants should apply in a field they previously studied or a related field that can be researched at UTokyo.
6. Language Proficiency – Applicants must demonstrate sufficient language ability through one of the following:
   • English: TOEFL iBT 72+, IELTS 5.5+, or equivalent (CEFR B2 level).
   • Japanese: JLPT N2 or higher.
   • Completion of a degree program taught in English or Japanese also satisfies this requirement.
7. Health – Must be physically and mentally fit to pursue studies in Japan.
8. Arrival in Japan – Applicants must arrive in Japan around October 1, 2026 (two weeks before or after).
9. Visa – Students must obtain a “Student” visa before entering Japan.

Scholarship Benefits

The MEXT Scholarship 2026 covers all major expenses, ensuring that students can focus on their studies and research:

• Monthly Allowance:
  • Master’s: 144,000 JPY/month (2025 figures, subject to change).
  • Doctoral: 145,000 JPY/month.
  • Additional regional allowances may apply.
• Travel Expenses:
  • One economy-class airline ticket from the student’s home country to Japan (before studies).
  • One return ticket to the home country upon completion of the program.
• Tuition and Fees:
  • Exemption from enrollment and tuition fees.
• Accommodation:
  • Guaranteed room in the University of Tokyo International Lodge for the first year. Rent: ~50,000–60,000 JPY/month.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents electronically:

1. Application form (double-sided print).
2. Field of Study and Research Plan.
3. Letter of recommendation from a dean or higher authority (addressed to the President of the University of Tokyo, with original signature on official letterhead).
4. Passport-size photo (taken within 6 months).
5. Official transcripts (previous and current studies).
6. Proof of language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, JLPT, or official medium-of-instruction certificate).
7. Abstract of graduation thesis.
8. Certificate of graduation (or expected graduation).
9. Passport copy (photo page).

Application Process

1. Apply for Admission: Applicants must first apply for admission to the Graduate School of Science (Special Selection for International Applicants).
2. Submit MEXT Scholarship Application: Upload all required documents via the online application system.
3. Preliminary Screening: Graduate School of Science conducts an internal selection.
4. University Nomination: The University of Tokyo nominates candidates to MEXT.
5. Final Selection: MEXT makes the final decision.

Deadline

October 31, 2025 (Japan Standard Time).

Duration of Scholarship

• Master’s Program: October 2026 – September 2028 (2 years).
• Doctoral Program: October 2026 – September 2029 (3 years).
• Extension: Master’s students may apply to extend their scholarship if admitted to the Doctoral program, subject to MEXT approval.

Final Thoughts

University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded is a life changing opportunity for ambitious international students who aspire to pursue advanced research in science. With its generous funding, academic excellence, and global recognition, this scholarship opens doors to a world-class education and the chance to build meaningful international connections.

If you are planning to apply, make sure you prepare your documents early, strengthen your research proposal, and follow the official application guidelines carefully to maximize your chances of success.