Fully Funded Scholarships in Japan

The main fully funded scholarship in Japan for Indian students in 2027 is the Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship. Depending on the category, MEXT provides tuition exemption, a monthly allowance and round-trip airfare. Almost every other Japan scholarship is partial support: the official Study in Japan website says scholarships are generally not designed to cover all study costs, so students should not plan a budget around scholarships alone.

Which MEXT category you can apply for depends on your level (Grade 12, bachelor's or master's), age and marks. Embassy applications for the 2027 intake in the Research, Undergraduate, KOSEN and Specialized Training College categories have already closed (April–May 2026), so readers in late 2026 should use this guide to understand the process, track the next cycle and explore alternatives.

Quick Answer

• Fully funded (government): MEXT Scholarship: tuition exempted, monthly allowance (¥117,000–¥145,000 for most categories), round-trip airfare.
• Not fully funded: JASSO scholarships, most university, local-government and private-foundation awards, and tuition reduction/exemption schemes.
• MEXT categories (7): Research, Teacher Training, Undergraduate, Japanese Studies, College of Technology (KOSEN), Specialized Training College, Young Leaders Program (YLP).
• Routes: Embassy Recommendation or University Recommendation. Not every category is open through both.
• India 2027 cycle: Research applications ran 20 April–15 May 2026; Undergraduate, KOSEN and Specialized Training College 23 April–25 May 2026 (Embassy of Japan in India). All closed.
• No guarantee: Selection is competitive and not guaranteed. Amounts and conditions follow the latest MEXT application guidelines.

Know the Cost of Studying in Japan for Indian Students: https://www.teamlanguages.com/blogs/cost-of-studying-in-japan-for-indian-students

What Are Fully Funded Scholarships in Japan?

A fully funded scholarship covers the main costs of study: tuition, living support and travel. It does not mean every personal expense is paid.

Read the exact benefits before applying. Even under MEXT, accommodation costs are borne by the grantee, and the guidelines recommend arriving with roughly US$2,000 because the first payment arrives one to one and a half months after arrival.

• Learn about the Japan Specified Skilled Worker Visa: https://www.teamlanguages.com/blogs/japan-specified-skilled-worker-visa

Best Fully Funded Scholarships in Japan for Indian Students in 2027

MEXT is the only widely available Japan scholarship that is genuinely "fully funded" and can be applied for from India before you travel. Others are partial.

Source: Study in Japan – Overview of Scholarships. One more official point: most scholarships are available only after you arrive in Japan, while MEXT is among the few options you can apply for before coming.

Learn about the Japan Language School April 2027 Intake: https://www.teamlanguages.com/blogs/japan-language-school-april-2027-intake

What Is the MEXT Scholarship 2027?

The MEXT Scholarship (Monbukagakusho) is the Japanese Government scholarship for international students, run by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. According to Study in Japan, the ministry has invited international students to study in Japan at state expense since 1954.

There are seven categories, and applicants apply through either of two routes:

Source: Study in Japan – MEXT Scholarship. YLP candidates are nominated through designated recommending bodies, not the Embassy. For MEXT Scholarship for Indian Students, the Embassy route (through the Embassy of Japan in New Delhi or the consulates in Kolkata, Chennai, Mumbai and Bengaluru) is the one most readers use. Read TLS's explainers: What is the MEXT scholarship and MEXT scholarship types and eligibility.

What Does the MEXT Scholarship Cover?

MEXT covers tuition (through exemption), a monthly allowance and round-trip airfare. Amounts differ by category, so there is no single "MEXT stipend."

Sources: Study in Japan – MEXT Scholarship; Embassy of Japan in India category pages; FY2027 Research Students guidelines. Teacher Training and Japanese Studies figures come from the Embassy's 2026-cycle pages and YLP from Study in Japan (the Embassy's YLP page shows the amount as tentative).

Scholarship amounts and conditions are subject to the latest MEXT application guidelines. The 2027 Research guidelines add that a regional allowance of ¥2,000–¥3,000 per month may apply in specially designated regions, that payments may change each fiscal year, and that the scholarship is suspended during extended absence. For India-facing approximate conversions, the Embassy lists ¥117,000 as about Rs. 68,800 and ¥143,000–¥145,000 as about Rs. 83,100–85,300 (rates change).

What MEXT does not do: pay your rent, guarantee a university of your choice, or pay for personal travel. Domestic travel to the airport, airport fees, travel insurance and baggage are also the grantee's cost.

Planning to study in Japan? Building your Japanese language skills before departure can make your preparation easier. Explore Japanese language learning options with TLS – The Japanese Language School.

Check Japan Student Visa Japanese Language Requirements: https://www.teamlanguages.com/blogs/japan-student-visa-japanese-language-requirements

MEXT Scholarship 2027 Categories

MEXT Research Scholarship

Who it is for: graduates who want to study at a Japanese graduate school (master's or doctoral). Level: graduate school. Route: Embassy and University Recommendation. Duration: non-regular students April/September/October 2027 to March 2029; regular students for the standard period of the course, with 6 months of Japanese preparation added only when required.

India 2027 conditions (Embassy): under 35 (born on or after 2 April 1992, in principle); bachelor's degree in the relevant field with minimum 70% (humanities and social sciences: 65%) for master's/doctoral first phase; master's degree with minimum 70% for doctoral second phase. The Embassy's 2027 list of fields includes humanities, social science, physics, chemistry, engineering streams, computer science and sports science. Read TLS's MEXT Research Student guide.

MEXT Undergraduate Scholarship

Who it is for: Grade 12 students and prospective graduates. Level: bachelor's degree. Route: Embassy and University Recommendation. Duration: 5 years including 1 year of preparatory education, or 4 years if placed directly at a university.

India 2027 conditions (Embassy): born on or after 2 April 2002; minimum 80% marks in Grade 12 (or, for those without results yet, 80% in Grade 10 plus a school certificate that 80% is expected in the 2027 Grade 12 board examination); preference for candidates with Japanese-language proficiency. Medicine and dentistry are not offered in India. Up to 12 scholarships were listed. See MEXT undergraduate guide.

MEXT Teacher Training Scholarship

Who it is for: in-service primary/secondary teachers with at least five years of experience (college/university teachers in service are not considered). Level: master's level leading to a certificate. Route: Embassy only. The Embassy's 2026 cycle said the programme is for teachers from selected education boards, with up to 6 slots and a written test and interview in February.

Check the JFT-Basic 2026 for SSW Japan: https://www.teamlanguages.com/blogs/jft-basic-2026-for-ssw-japan

MEXT Japanese Studies Scholarship

Who it is for: undergraduates studying Japanese language or culture at selected Indian universities. Level: one academic year in Japan from October. Route: Embassy and University Recommendation. The Embassy's 2026 cycle listed up to 6 scholars, age between 2 April 1996 and 1 April 2008, and one year of Japanese study. The Embassy has already contacted participating universities, so applicants ask their own university.

MEXT College of Technology (KOSEN) Scholarship

Who it is for: school students (Grade 10 completed) interested in engineering at a KOSEN. Level: undergraduate leading to an associate degree. Duration: 4 years from April 2027 to March 2031 including 1 year of preparation. India 2027 conditions: born on or after 2 April 2002; minimum 65% in Grade 10; preference for Japanese-language proficiency; up to 12 scholarships.

MEXT Specialized Training College Scholarship

Who it is for: Grade 12 students interested in vocational fields (technology, personal care and nutrition, education and welfare, business, fashion, culture). Duration: 3 years from April 2027 to March 2030 including 1 year of preparation. India 2027 conditions: born on or after 2 April 2002; minimum 60% in Grade 12 (or the Grade 10 expected result route); preference for Japanese proficiency; up to 12 scholarships. Embassy route only.

Explore the Study Cost in Tokyo for Indian Students: https://www.teamlanguages.com/blogs/cost-of-studying-in-tokyo-for-indian-students

MEXT Young Leaders Program (YLP)

Who it is for: young government officials, legal professionals and business professionals with work experience. Level: one-year master's course at selected graduate schools. Candidates are nominated by designated recommending bodies in India (not through the standard Embassy application). The Embassy's page was last updated for the 2025–26 year, so check with the recommending body and MEXT for the current cycle.

MEXT Scholarship Eligibility for Indian Students

Eligibility differs by category, so there is no universal age limit or percentage. Always apply the guidelines for your own category and year.

Age Requirements

Academic Qualifications

Study in Japan lists the baseline: 12 years of schooling for Undergraduate and Specialized Training College, 11 years for KOSEN, and eligibility for master's/doctoral admission for Research. India-specific minimum marks are set by the Embassy (80% Grade 12 for Undergraduate; 60% Grade 12 for Specialized Training College; 65% Grade 10 for KOSEN; 70% bachelor's/master's for Research, 65% in humanities and social sciences).

Check the Japan Student Visa 2027: https://www.teamlanguages.com/blogs/japan-student-visa-2027

Nationality

Applicants must hold the nationality of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan. People with Japanese nationality at the time of application are not eligible. Dual nationals follow special conditions.

Field of Study

Choose the field you majored in or a related one. The Embassy lists permitted fields for each category, and some choices (for example "Other" fields) may make it harder to find an accepting institution.

Japanese Language Requirements

See the dedicated section below. In short, requirements are category-specific and the guidelines, not this article, decide.

Health Requirements

Applicants submit a health certificate in the prescribed format signed by a physician, confirming no physical or mental condition that would hinder study in Japan. Tuberculosis and other infectious diseases must be treated before arrival.

Check the MEXT Scholarship 2027 Preparation Guide: https://www.teamlanguages.com/blogs/mext-scholarship-2027-preparation-guide

Other Conditions

Typical exclusions in the Research guidelines include: current or previous MEXT grantees (with limited exceptions), applicants applying to another MEXT programme at the same time, people already enrolled in Japan as privately financed students, military personnel, and people planning long-term research or leave outside Japan. Grantees must obtain a new Student visa before travelling and must join National Health Insurance on arrival.

For more on this topic, see TLS's MEXT eligibility guide for Indian students.

MEXT Scholarship 2027 Application Process

Indian students apply by choosing a category, checking the Embassy's current page and guidelines, and submitting through the route stated for that category.

1. Select your category based on your education level.
2. Check eligibility: age, marks, field and nationality for your category.
3. Download the latest application guidelines and forms. Do not use previous years' forms.
4. Prepare documents (see the documents section).
5. Submit through the correct route. Undergraduate, KOSEN and Specialized Training College applications must be submitted by post, courier or in person to the embassy/consulate for your state; email is not accepted. The Research track in the 2027 cycle began with a preliminary application form sent by email (Microsoft Word, under 1 MB).
6. Written examination (where applicable).
7. Interview.
8. First screening result.
9. Placement: Research applicants who pass request provisional acceptance letters from universities; others are placed through MEXT.
10. Second screening and final selection by MEXT.
11. Pre-departure preparation: student visa, health checks, travel.
12. Travel to Japan within the specified arrival window.

No application fee is charged. The Embassy warns that anyone asking for fees or deposits has no link to the Japanese Government. TLS's step-by-step explainers: MEXT scholarship 2027 application process and MEXT 2027 complete guide.

MEXT Embassy Recommendation vs University Recommendation

Embassy Recommendation means the Japanese embassy screens applicants in their home country; University Recommendation means a Japanese university nominates candidates to MEXT.

Not all universities have recommendation quotas. Study in Japan says recommendations are based on student-exchange agreements and limited to universities approved by MEXT, so check the university's website first. University-recommended grantees usually arrive in September or October, though some arrive in late March or early April.

Check Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in Japan: https://www.teamlanguages.com/blogs/scholarships-for-indian-students-to-study-in-japan

MEXT Scholarship 2027 Documents Required

The exact list depends on the category and year. Use the Embassy's "List of Documents" PDF for your category. As an official example, the FY2027 Research Students guidelines list:

• Application form (2027 version) and Placement Preference Application Form
• Field of Study and Research Plan
• Academic transcripts for all years at university
• Certificate of graduation or degree (or prospective graduation certificate)
• Recommendation letter from the dean/president or academic advisor
• Medical (health) certificate in the 2027 format
• Abstracts of theses (if written)
• Language certificates (only if you have Japanese or English certificates issued within two years)
• Employer recommendation letter (if employed)
• Portfolio or recording (only for fine arts or music applicants)

For Undergraduate, KOSEN and Specialized Training College, the Embassy provides an application form, health certificate, sample recommendation letter and a category-specific document list. Documents must be in Japanese or English or accompanied by a translation. Submitted documents are not returned. For the research-proposal side, see TLS's research proposal tips and sample.

MEXT Scholarship Exam and Interview

There is no single MEXT exam. Subjects depend on the category. Study in Japan lists these Embassy-route examinations:

Interview: the Research guidelines say the interview should show a clear sense of purpose, knowledge of Japanese universities, and enough Japanese or English to communicate with an academic advisor. Panels look at academic background, study or research plan, motivation and suitability for Japan. Passing the first screening does not guarantee final selection. Past question papers are published on the Study in Japan website. See TLS's MEXT interview tips.

Is Japanese Language Required for MEXT Scholarship?

It depends on the category, and the application guidelines decide.

• Research Students: applicants must be willing to learn Japanese. Both Japanese and English papers are part of the first screening, and the Japanese result is used as a reference for the preparatory Japanese education (up to 6 months). Students with advanced Japanese needs for their subject must show a considerable level in the interview.
• Undergraduate, KOSEN and Specialized Training College: the Indian Embassy gives preference to candidates with Japanese-language proficiency, and the written exam includes Japanese. Selected grantees then complete a year of preparatory education in Japan.
• Japanese Studies: the programme itself is for students who have studied Japanese language or culture.
• University Recommendation: each university can set its own language expectations, so check its page.

The MEXT guidelines also tell grantees to learn Japanese before departing. Learning Japanese does not guarantee selection, but it can help with the Japanese paper, the interview and adjusting to life in Japan. TLS's guide: Japanese language requirements for MEXT scholars.

How Learning Japanese Can Help Indian Students Planning Japan Study

Learning Japanese before you apply gives you a head start on the exam, the interview and your first months in Japan. It does not guarantee a scholarship or visa.

• Language paper preparation: the Embassy-route exams include Japanese for several categories.
• JLPT milestones: the JLPT runs from N5 (beginner) to N1 (advanced). Study in Japan notes that keeping up with Japanese-taught university classes generally means N1 or N2. TLS offers level-wise training: Basic Japanese N5, Intermediate N4, Pre-Advance N3, Advance N2 and Super Advance N1. See the JLPT page and JLPT N5 study guide for Indian students.
• Interview confidence: conversation classes in Japanese help with speaking.
• Daily life: Japanese helps with housing, municipal offices and part-time work.
• Japanese language schools: if you later apply to a Japanese language school, prior study is often expected.

If you are comparing a Japanese Language Course in Delhi, Japanese Classes in Delhi, Japanese classes near me or an Online Japanese Language Course, check the syllabus, JLPT coverage, trainer experience, batch size and schedule. Try the free Japanese quiz to estimate your starting level.

Preparing for Japan study in 2027? Start your Japanese language preparation early with TLS – The Japanese Language School: Japanese Language Course.

Can I Get a Fully Funded Scholarship in Japan Without JLPT?

Yes, in some categories. JLPT is not a universal MEXT requirement. The FY2027 Research guidelines accept JLPT or other language certificates only as optional supporting documents, and the Embassy's applicants take Japanese and English written papers instead. For Undergraduate, KOSEN and Specialized Training College, the Embassy gives preference to Japanese proficiency without making a JLPT level mandatory on its 2027 pages.

It depends on:

• the scholarship category
• your course and field (a Japanese-taught programme may need a high level)
• the university (University Recommendation, admission to Japanese-taught courses)
• the current application guidelines

Do not assume "no JLPT needed" for every route. A JLPT result can still help your application, your university placement and your first year in Japan. Compare JLPT and other Japanese tests if you are unsure which test to take.

Other Scholarships in Japan Besides MEXT

Besides MEXT, Japan has JASSO scholarships, university scholarships, local-government and private-foundation awards, and tuition reduction/exemption schemes. Most are partial support. Study in Japan says most are available after you arrive, and the majority of applications are made through your school.

JASSO Scholarships

JASSO runs the Monbukagakusho Honors Scholarship for Privately-Financed International Students and the Student Exchange Support Program. See the next section.

University Scholarships

Some schools offer scholarships and tuition fee exemption/reduction for international students. A few can be applied for before enrolment; many are for students already in Japan.

Local Government Scholarships

Local governments and local international associations support students living or studying in their district. Only a few accept applications from overseas.

Private Foundation Scholarships

Foundations may target a district, a field linked to the company, or students from certain countries. For examples relevant to India, see TLS's popular Japanese scholarships for Indian students and the Mitsui scholarship.

Tuition Fee Reduction and Exemption

The Study in Japan scholarship and tuition reduction search lets you look up school-run reductions/exemptions, local-government scholarships, international exchange organisation awards and private awards. When checked on 7 October 2026 it listed 661 items. The site notes that the information is supplied by schools and organisations, not all programmes are searchable, and you should confirm the latest details directly with the school or organisation. Browse it at the official scholarship search. More on this: scholarships for Indian students to study in Japan.

JASSO Scholarships for International Students

JASSO scholarships are not universally fully funded. They are mostly monthly stipends that support living costs.

• Monbukagakusho Honors Scholarship for Privately-Financed International Students: students who score strongly in the EJU and plan to enrol as regular students in eligible courses can be selected as "reservation" holders before arrival; most other students apply through their school after enrolling, and schools have recommendation limits. Universities have reported a monthly amount of ¥48,000 in recent years, but the amount, period and conditions can change each fiscal year, so confirm with JASSO or your school. Applicants must hold "Student" status and meet income and academic conditions.
• Student Exchange Support Program (Scholarship for Study in Japan under Agreement): for students accepted by Japanese schools under exchange agreements with their home institution; apply through the host school.

Learn about the exam in TLS's EJU registration guide for Indian students.

Fully Funded Scholarship in Japan After 12th

After Grade 12, the main fully funded route is the MEXT Undergraduate Scholarship, with MEXT KOSEN and Specialized Training College as alternatives.

For the 2027 intake the Embassy of Japan in India listed:

• Undergraduate: born on/after 2 April 2002; 80% in Grade 12 (or 80% in Grade 10 plus the expected-result certificate); up to 12 scholarships; ¥117,000/month, tuition exempted, round-trip airfare; 5 years including 1 year of preparation or 4 years with direct placement.
• KOSEN: 65% in Grade 10; 4-year pathway including preparation.
• Specialized Training College: 60% in Grade 12; 3-year pathway including preparation.

Study in Japan notes that applicants to Japanese universities must have completed 12 years of formal education. If you miss a MEXT cycle, consider a Japanese language school and later university scholarships, JASSO and tuition-reduction schemes, remembering that these are partial. See TLS's guides on Japanese language course after 12th, learn Japanese after 12th and the cost of studying in Japan for Indian students.

Fully Funded Master's Scholarship in Japan

The MEXT Research Student Scholarship is the main fully funded route to a master's degree in Japan. It places you in a Japanese graduate school as a non-regular or regular student.

• Level: master's or doctoral (first phase) with a bachelor's degree.
• India 2027: bachelor's with minimum 70% (65% for humanities/social sciences) and born on or after 2 April 1992.
• Stipend: ¥143,000 (preparatory/non-regular) and ¥144,000 (regular master's or professional).
• Pathway: non-regular students can proceed to a regular course after passing the university's entrance examination, and may apply for an extension of the scholarship period if they meet the criteria. MEXT extension is permitted only after passing the entrance exam for a regular course.

Related: the Young Leaders Program (YLP) is a one-year master's route for eligible professionals. For India, see MEXT scholarship for Indian students 2027.

Fully Funded PhD Scholarship in Japan

MEXT Research Students can pursue doctoral study at a Japanese university with a ¥145,000 monthly allowance for regular doctoral students, plus tuition exemption and airfare.

• Entry: Doctoral (second phase) applicants need a master's degree with minimum 70% in the relevant field and relevant practical research, teaching or work experience (per the Embassy's 2027 page). Those with a bachelor's degree may enter through a doctoral first-phase pathway as the guidelines allow.
• Research proposal: the Field of Study and Research Plan is an important reference for university placement.
• Provisional acceptance: the guidelines say a letter of provisional acceptance "will greatly influence final selection results," so contact the university's international student office. Supervisor contact and department fit matter in practice.
• Medicine, dentistry, veterinary and some pharmaceutical doctorates: require 18 years of education or equivalent conditions; check each university.

MEXT Scholarship Deadline 2027 and Timeline for Indian Students

There is no single MEXT deadline. Deadlines depend on the category and the embassy. The table below shows the official 2027-cycle dates published by the Embassy of Japan in India.

What happens next (Research guidelines, FY2027): requests for provisional acceptance by 1 September 2026; placement preference forms around mid-September to early October 2026; MEXT second screening from November 2026; results between January and early March 2027; arrival 1–7 April 2027, or around the September/October 2027 term start.

Timeline for a future cycle (what students should do):

For the next cycle, verify dates only on the Embassy of Japan in India's MEXT scholarships page and the relevant university. Some third-party sites list different deadlines or stipends from the official ones; rely on the Embassy and Study in Japan. Some 2027 recruitment steps begin in the previous year, as shown above.

How Competitive Is the MEXT Scholarship?

MEXT is competitive, but no official acceptance rate is published here, and this article does not state one. What the official pages do show:

• India's Embassy listed up to 12 scholarships each for Undergraduate, KOSEN and Specialized Training College in the 2027 cycle; the Research number was "to be announced."
• For these categories, about 12 applicants who pass the first screening proceed to MEXT's worldwide final screening. Passing the first screening does not guarantee final selection, and reasons for decisions are not disclosed.
• For Research, an accepting university must also be found.

Factors that influence outcomes: academic record, quality of the study or research plan, exam performance, interview, eligibility, field, quotas, provisional acceptance and recommendation route.

Common Mistakes Students Make When Applying for MEXT

1. Using an old application form. The Embassy tells applicants not to use previous years' forms.
2. Missing the correct deadline (it varies by category and consulate).
3. Applying for the wrong category.
4. Ignoring the latest guidelines. If a summary differs from the guidelines, the guidelines apply.
5. A weak research or study plan.
6. Incomplete documents. Submissions are not returned.
7. The wrong recommendation route. For example, Teacher Training and Specialized Training College are Embassy-only.
8. Assuming JLPT is universally mandatory (or never needed).
9. Assuming every university has a recommendation quota.
10. Assuming the scholarship covers every personal expense, including accommodation.

How to Improve Your MEXT Scholarship Application

• Read the latest guidelines for your category word by word.
• Keep strong academic documents: transcripts and degree certificates in the exact format asked.
• Write a clear study or research plan, specific to your field and to Japan.
• Understand your field and the Japanese universities that teach it.
• Prepare for the written papers using the past questions on the Study in Japan website.
• Practise interview questions on motivation, goals and why Japan.
• Learn basic Japanese, especially for Undergraduate, KOSEN, STC and Japan-related fields.
• Verify every document, photo and attestation before posting.
• Follow Embassy and university instructions exactly.

No tip guarantees selection. For preparation material, see TLS's how to prepare for the MEXT scholarship and MEXT 2027 preparation guide.

TLS – The Japanese Language School for Japan Study Preparation

Students planning to study in Japan can consider Japanese-language preparation before departure. TLS – The Japanese Language School offers Japanese Classes in Delhi, level-wise Japanese language courses from N5 to N1, and online learning.

• Searching for a Japanese Language Course in Delhi or Japanese Language Course Delhi? See the course page and fee information (for Japanese Language Course Fees).
• Looking for a Japanese Language Institute in Delhi, Japanese Institute Near Me or Japanese Language Classes Near Me? See TLS in Delhi, the Laxmi Nagar centre and classes near you.
• Comparing options like the best Japanese language institute in Delhi or the best institute for Japanese language in Delhi? Compare trainers, batch size, JLPT preparation, fees, schedule and flexibility, and speak to the institute before deciding. TLS is one option to evaluate. Also see Japanese language institute guidance with Study in Japan support.
• Japanese coaching near me? TLS also offers JLPT-oriented preparation.

If you are searching for a Japanese Language Course in Delhi or Japanese Classes in Delhi, connect with TLS to explore suitable learning options: contact TLS or read the admission process.

Cannot attend classroom classes? Explore an Online Japanese Language Course or Learn Japanese Language Online with suitable learning support. More at learn Japanese language.

TLS does not guarantee scholarships, admission or visas.

Japan Visa Assistance for Scholarship Students

MEXT grantees and other admitted students still complete the immigration and visa process. The FY2027 guidelines require grantees to newly obtain a "Student" visa at the Japanese diplomatic mission in their country before travelling. Following the official requirements and your school's or MEXT's instructions is essential.

Need help understanding the Japan student visa process after receiving your admission or scholarship? Explore our Japan Visa Assistance service.

Related pages: documentation, COE guidance, timeline, Japan student visa 2027 and Certificate of Eligibility guide. Visa approval is decided by the Japanese authorities and is never guaranteed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the fully funded scholarships in Japan for Indian students in 2027?

The MEXT (Japanese Government) Scholarship is the main fully funded option. It provides tuition exemption, a monthly allowance and round-trip airfare for several categories. Other scholarships, such as JASSO, university and private awards, are mostly partial support. Always check the latest MEXT guidelines for your category.

2. Is MEXT scholarship fully funded?

MEXT is the closest to fully funded: tuition is exempted, a monthly allowance is paid and round-trip airfare is provided. It does not pay everything, though. Accommodation, insurance, domestic travel and personal expenses are the grantee's responsibility, and amounts differ by category and fiscal year.

3. What does the MEXT scholarship cover?

It covers education fees (entrance examination, matriculation and tuition fees for research students), a monthly allowance and economy-class round-trip airfare as per the guidelines. It does not cover accommodation, airport fees, travel insurance or personal expenses. Benefits vary by category and are subject to the latest guidelines.

4. How much is the MEXT monthly stipend?

It depends on the category. Research students receive ¥143,000–¥145,000 per month, Undergraduate, KOSEN, Specialized Training College and Japanese Studies ¥117,000, Teacher Training ¥143,000 and YLP ¥242,000, according to official sources. Amounts may change each fiscal year, so verify the current guidelines.

5. Is tuition free under MEXT?

Yes, tuition and related education fees are exempted for MEXT grantees. For Research Students, the entrance examination, matriculation and tuition fees are waived, though the entrance examination fee is borne by the grantee if they cannot proceed to the course or be admitted. Other costs are not waived.

6. Does MEXT provide airfare?

Yes, MEXT provides an economy-class ticket to Japan and, on application, a return ticket after completing the scholarship. Grantees must arrive within the specified period. Domestic travel to the airport, airport fees and travel insurance are paid by the grantee, and early return for personal reasons is not covered.

7. Who is eligible for MEXT scholarship?

Eligibility depends on the category. Research applicants must be under 35 and eligible for graduate admission, Undergraduate applicants under 25 with 12 years of schooling, and others have separate rules. For India, the Embassy also sets minimum marks. Check the guidelines for your category and year.

8. What is the MEXT age limit?

There is no universal limit. Official limits include under 35 for Research (born on or after 2 April 1992 in the 2027 cycle), under 25 for Undergraduate, KOSEN and Specialized Training College, 18–29 for Japanese Studies and under 40 in principle for YLP. Follow your category's guidelines.

9. Can Indian students apply for MEXT?

Yes. India has an Embassy Recommendation route through the Embassy of Japan in New Delhi and the consulates in Kolkata, Chennai, Mumbai and Bengaluru, and University Recommendation for some categories. Which route you use depends on your category and state of residence.

10. Can I apply for MEXT after 12th?

Yes. After Grade 12 you can apply for the MEXT Undergraduate, KOSEN or Specialized Training College scholarship. For the 2027 intake, the Embassy asked for 80%, 65% (Grade 10) and 60% respectively, with applicants born on or after 2 April 2002. The 2027 round has closed.

11. Can I get a MEXT scholarship for master's study?

Yes, through the MEXT Research Students category, which can lead to a master's or doctoral course. India 2027 requirements included a bachelor's degree with minimum 70% (65% in humanities/social sciences), age under 35 and a university placement. Selection is competitive and not guaranteed.

12. Can I get a fully funded PhD scholarship in Japan?

Yes, MEXT Research Students can pursue doctoral study with a ¥145,000 monthly allowance for regular doctoral students, tuition exemption and airfare. A strong research plan, qualifying degree and accepting university are needed. Some universities and foundations offer additional support, usually partial.

13. Is JLPT required for MEXT?

Not universally. The 2027 Research guidelines treat language certificates as optional supporting documents, and Embassy applicants sit Japanese and English papers. The Embassy gives preference to Japanese proficiency for Undergraduate, KOSEN and Specialized Training College. Universities may have their own expectations, so follow your category's guidelines.

14. Is IELTS required for MEXT?

The official 2027 Research guidelines do not make IELTS mandatory. English is tested in a written paper for several Embassy categories, and an English certificate is an optional supporting document. Individual universities may ask for English scores for admission, so check the accepting institution.

15. What documents are required for MEXT?

Documents vary by category. For Research they include the application form, field of study and research plan, transcripts, graduation certificate, recommendation letter, health certificate and, if available, thesis abstracts and language certificates. Use the Embassy's category-specific list for the 2027 forms.

16. What is the MEXT Scholarship 2027 deadline?

There is no single deadline. For the 2027 cycle, the Embassy of Japan in India accepted Research applications from 20 April to 15 May 2026, and Undergraduate, KOSEN and Specialized Training College applications from 23 April to 25 May 2026. These are closed. Check the Embassy for future cycles.

17. How do I apply for MEXT from India?

Choose your category, check the Embassy's page and guidelines, prepare the documents and submit them through the stated route. Undergraduate, KOSEN and Specialized Training College applications go by post, courier or in person to the relevant mission, not by email. Then complete the exam and interview.

18. What is Embassy Recommendation?

It is the route in which a Japanese embassy or consulate recruits and first-screens applicants in their home country, then recommends them to MEXT. Written exams, interviews and documents are handled by the mission. Availability of categories and fields can differ from country to country.

19. What is University Recommendation?

It is the route in which a MEXT-approved Japanese university nominates candidates, usually based on exchange agreements with overseas schools. Not all universities have quotas, and requirements, duration and deadlines vary. Check the university's international office before applying.

20. Are there scholarships other than MEXT in Japan?

Yes. Other options include JASSO scholarships, university scholarships, tuition reduction or exemption, local-government and international-association awards, and private-foundation scholarships. Most are partial support and many are available only after arrival in Japan. Use the Study in Japan scholarship search to explore them.

21. Does JASSO provide fully funded scholarships?

No. JASSO scholarships, such as the Monbukagakusho Honors Scholarship for Privately-Financed International Students, provide a monthly stipend toward living costs, not full funding. Eligibility, amounts and application routes vary by programme and fiscal year, so check JASSO or your school.

22. Can I get a scholarship before going to Japan?

Yes, in some cases. MEXT lets you apply from India. Some EJU high scorers can be selected as JASSO "reservation" holders, and a few schools, local governments and foundations accept pre-arrival applications. The official overview notes that most scholarships are only available after arriving in Japan.

23. Can I study Japanese before applying for a Japan scholarship?

Yes, and it is a good idea. MEXT guidelines tell grantees to learn Japanese before departure, and Japanese is tested or preferred in several categories. You can start with a beginner N5 course, in a classroom or online, and build toward higher JLPT levels.

24. Can a Japanese language course help with Japan study preparation?

Yes. A structured course can help with the Japanese paper, interview, JLPT preparation and daily life in Japan. It does not guarantee a scholarship, admission or visa. Compare syllabus, trainers, batch size and fees before choosing a Japanese language course.

25. Where can I learn Japanese in Delhi?

Several institutes offer Japanese classes in Delhi. TLS – The Japanese Language School, at Laxmi Nagar, New Delhi, is one option to explore, with level-wise courses, JLPT preparation and online classes. Compare options based on your level, schedule, budget and goals.

Visit or Contact TLS – The Japanese Language School

TLS – The Japanese Language School

Visit Us: 2/81-82, 2nd Floor, Lalita Park, Gali No - 2, Laxmi Nagar, New Delhi - 110092

Call Us: 91 8700956038

Email Us: tls@teamlanguages.com