The Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship 2026 is now open for Indian students, offering a life-changing opportunity to study in Japan with full financial support. Funded by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), this prestigious scholarship covers tuition fees, a generous monthly stipend, and round-trip airfare for selected candidates.

Whether you're planning to pursue an undergraduate degree, embark on research (Master’s/PhD), or join a Specialized Training College (STC), the MEXT Scholarship opens doors to top Japanese universities, world-class academics, and unmatched global exposure.

For Indian applicants, the process is conducted primarily through the Embassy of Japan or its consulates in India. The application period usually falls between April and May, followed by the Embassy’s first screening round (May to July) and final university placement confirmations later in the year.

Ready to apply? Download the official MEXT 2026 Undergraduate Application Form (PDF) to get started.

 Key Dates & Application Timeline

Planning to apply for the MEXT Scholarship 2026 from India? Below is the official application timeline released by the Embassy of Japan in India, categorized by program type:

 Note: The application window for MEXT 2026 is now closed (as of May 2025). If you applied within the deadline, stay alert—first screening results are expected by mid-June 2025.

 Missed the deadline? Start preparing for the next cycle (MEXT 2027) by gathering required documents, improving your Japanese or English language skills, and drafting your research or study plan in advance.

For official application forms and updated announcements, visit the Embassy of Japan in India – MEXT Scholarship Page.

 MEXT Scholarship 2026 Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students

Before applying, it's crucial to ensure you meet the official MEXT Scholarship 2026 eligibility criteria for Indian students. These criteria vary slightly depending on the program you're applying for—undergraduate, research, or specialized training.

 General Requirements:

• Must be a citizen of India (Indian passport holder).
• Must be in good physical and mental health to pursue studies in Japan.
• Willingness to adapt to Japanese culture and lifestyle.

 Academic Requirements by Program:

1. Undergraduate Program

• Completed Class 12 (or equivalent) with minimum 65%–80%, depending on the stream.
• Strong academic background in Science, Commerce, or Humanities.
• Age must be under 25 (born on or after 2 April 2000).

2. Research Student (Master’s/PhD)

• Must have a Bachelor’s degree (or higher) by the time of departure to Japan.
• Age must be under 35 years (born on or after 2 April 1990).
• A well-defined research proposal or study plan is mandatory.

3. Specialized Training College (STC)

• Must have completed Class 12 with at least 60% marks.
• Age must be under 25 (born on or after 2 April 2001).
• Suitable for students aiming to pursue vocational training programs in Japan.

 Language Proficiency:

• Japanese language proficiency is not mandatory, especially for research students.
• However, basic knowledge of Japanese is preferred—particularly for undergraduate and STC applicants, as entrance exams may include Japanese.

 Tip: Learning Japanese can greatly enhance your chances during the interview and make your transition to Japan smoother. Institutions like TLS – The Japanese Language School can help you get started.

Download the official MEXT 2026 Undergraduate Application Guidelines (PDF) for detailed instructions and eligibility.

 Application Routes for MEXT Scholarship 2026 – Indian Applicants

When applying for the MEXT Scholarship 2026 for Indian students, the process varies depending on your academic level. Especially for postgraduate (research) applicants, there are two official application routes:

 1. Embassy Recommendation (Most Common & Preferred)

• Submit your application via the Embassy of Japan in India.
• Includes a written test and interview conducted by the embassy.
• Embassy shortlists and recommends top candidates to MEXT Japan.
• Ideal for students who don’t yet have a university or professor in mind.

 Recommended for most Indian applicants.

For postgraduate applicants, check the MEXT Research Scholarship Application Details on the Study in Japan portal.

 2. University Recommendation

• Apply directly to Japanese universities that offer MEXT through university recommendation.
• Requires contacting professors and obtaining “Letter of Acceptance” or conditional admission.
• Suitable for students who already have a strong research plan and are targeting a specific university or lab.

 Note: This route is more competitive and has earlier deadlines (typically October–December 2025 for 2026 intake).

 For Undergraduate & STC Candidates

• Only the Embassy Recommendation route is available for:
  
  
  • Undergraduate (Bachelor’s degree programs)
  • College of Technology (KOSEN)
  • Specialized Training College (STC)

 That means you must apply through the Japanese Embassy in India, not directly to universities or MEXT.

 Step-by-Step MEXT Scholarship 2026 Application Process (India)

Applying for the MEXT Scholarship 2026 may seem complex, but breaking it down into clear steps can make the process much smoother. Here’s a detailed guide specifically for Indian applicants:

 Step 1: Download the Official Application Forms

Visit the official website of the Embassy of Japan in India
  https://www.in.emb-japan.go.jp/education/japanese_government_scholarships.html

Navigate to the “Japanese Government Scholarships” section, and download the documents relevant to your chosen program (Undergraduate, Research, STC, or KOSEN):

You’ll need to fill out:

• Application Form
• Certificate of Health
• Recommendation Letter (format provided)
• Direct Placement Form (for STC, if applicable)

 Step 2: Collect All Required Documents

Before submission, prepare a complete set of supporting documents:

•  Academic transcripts and degree certificates
•  Class 10 & 12 marksheets (for UG/STC applicants)
•  Letter of Recommendation – from your Dean/Principal/Supervisor
•  Study Plan / Research Proposal (for Research category)
•  Passport photocopy
•  Medical certificate (using the provided format)
•  Photographs – recent, as per guidelines
•  Any language proficiency test scores (Japanese/English), if available

 Note: Recommendations can be typed by you and signed/stamped by the official authority.

For a complete breakdown, don’t miss our detailed MEXT Scholarship Guide on the TLS Blog.

 Step 3: Submit the Application via Post

• Submit the complete printed application by post or courier to the designated address mentioned in the official guidelines.
• Emailed or digital submissions are not accepted.

 Pro Tip: Keep scanned copies and a postal tracking ID for reference.

 Step 4: First Screening by the Embassy

• The first screening typically takes place between May and August 2025.
• It includes:
  
  
  • Document screening
  • Written examinations
  • Shortlisting for interviews

 For STC and KOSEN categories, separate written exams and interviews are also conducted by the embassy.

 Step 5: Written Exam & Interview

The format of the written test depends on the program:

The interview focuses on:

• Your motivation to study in Japan
• Clarity of your study or research plan
• Future goals and adaptability

 Pro Tip: Practice mock interviews with mentors or join coaching sessions from institutes like TLS – The Japanese Language School for personalized guidance.

Need help with your study plan? Check out MEXT Scholarship Research Proposal Writing Tips to craft a compelling application.

 Step 6: Embassy Recommendation & MEXT Final Selection

• If selected, the Embassy will recommend your application to MEXT Japan.
• MEXT makes the final decision and sends confirmation between November 2025 and March 2026.

 Selected candidates receive:

• Final acceptance letter
• University placement details
• Travel and arrival instructions

 Step 7: Japanese Language & University Enrollment

• Most candidates undergo a one-year Japanese language preparatory course before starting their main program (especially UG and STC).
• University placement is finalized during or after the language training phase.

 Research scholars may join directly if their university does not require a preparatory year.

This clear, step-by-step approach ensures you stay on track and submit a strong, complete application for the MEXT Scholarship 2026. If you’re unsure about documentation or interview prep, connect with TLS – The Japanese Language School for expert help.

Curious about the selection process? Read our latest update on MEXT Scholarship Results & What to Expect Next.

 MEXT Scholarship 2026 Benefits for Indian Students

One of the biggest advantages of the MEXT Scholarship 2026 for Indian students is the fully funded support it offers across all categories—undergraduate, research, STC, and KOSEN. Here's a breakdown of the financial and academic benefits you can expect:

 1. Full Tuition Fee Waiver

MEXT covers 100% of your tuition fees, including:

• Enrollment fees
• University entrance exam fees
• Academic tuition throughout your course

You won't pay a single rupee toward university education in Japan—this is a complete tuition waiver funded by the Japanese government.

 2. Monthly Stipend

All MEXT scholars receive a generous monthly living allowance to cover food, accommodation, transportation, and daily expenses.

Note: Stipends are subject to minor annual revisions by MEXT.

Maximize your chances with these expert MEXT Scholarship Tips for Indian Students covering preparation, interviews, and documentation.

 3. One-Time Round-Trip Airfare

• International airfare is covered for both arrival in Japan and return after course completion.
• MEXT books economy-class tickets between the nearest international airport in India and Japan.
• This benefit is provided once at the beginning and end of the scholarship period.

 4. Free Japanese Language Education

• Before starting the main degree, students (especially undergraduates and STC) receive 1 year of free Japanese language training at a designated preparatory institution.
• This training helps you adjust linguistically and culturally before entering university classes.

 Additional Support

• Many universities offer subsidized dormitory housing for MEXT scholars.
• Some institutions also provide free health checkups and academic mentoring.

With these extensive benefits, the MEXT Scholarship 2026 ensures that financial barriers never limit academic potential. Whether you're planning to study technology, humanities, sciences, or Japanese culture, this scholarship offers the stability and support needed to thrive in Japan.

Nervous about the interview? Explore these MEXT Scholarship Interview Tips to prepare confidently and stand out.

 Official Resources & Links

To ensure a successful application to the MEXT Scholarship 2026 for Indian students, it's essential to refer only to verified and up-to-date sources. Below are the official websites and documents you should rely on for accurate guidance, downloadable forms, and eligibility information.

 1. Embassy of Japan in India – Official MEXT Scholarship Page

This is your primary destination for all scholarship-related updates, including:

• Application forms for Undergraduate, Research, STC, and KOSEN categories
• Step-by-step application instructions
• Interview/written test guidelines

 https://www.in.emb-japan.go.jp/education/japanese_government_scholarships.html

 2. MEXT 2026 Official Guidelines (JASSO PDFs)

Access detailed scholarship guides and requirements directly from Japan’s Study in Japan portal.

•  Undergraduate Guidelines 2026 PDF:
   https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/_mt/2025/04/2026_Guidelines_Undergraduate_E.pdf
•  Research (Postgraduate) Application Info:
    https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/smap-stopj-applications-research.html

 Need Help Preparing?

For coaching, documentation, and interview prep—connect with:

TLS – The Japanese Language School
  Address: 2/81–82, 2nd Floor, Lalita Park, Gali No – 2, Laxmi Nagar, New Delhi – 110092
  Call: 91 87009 56038
  Email: tls@teamlanguages.com

 TLS – The Japanese Language School (New Delhi) Contact Info

Preparing for the MEXT Scholarship 2026? Whether it’s Japanese language training, SOP drafting, document verification, or interview prep—TLS – The Japanese Language School offers complete support tailored for Indian applicants.

 Visit Us:

TLS – The Japanese Language School
2/81‑82, 2nd Floor, Lalita Park, Gali No – 2, Laxmi Nagar, New Delhi – 110092

 Call Us:

91 87009 56038

 Email:

tls@teamlanguages.com

 Why Choose TLS?

• Personalized training for MEXT interviews
• JLPT & Japanese language foundation courses
• Assistance with Embassy document requirements
• Trusted by hundreds of students aiming for Japan

 Start your journey to Japan with expert guidance from TLS today.

 Frequently Asked Questions

1. When to apply for MEXT 2026?

For Indian students, Embassy-submitted applications for entry in April 2026 were accepted 22 April to 26 May 2025 for Undergraduate/STC/KOSEN, and 14 April–13 May 2025 for Research .

2. How to get MEXT scholarship from India?

1. Check eligibility and category
2. Download forms from Indian Embassy
3. Prepare documents (transcripts, proposals, recommendations)
4. Submit package via post
5. Prepare for embassy written test & interview
6. Embassy forwards top candidates to MEXT Japan
7. Await final result and depart April 2026

3. How many Indians give the MEXT exam?

Exact numbers vary each year, but embassies nominate ~12 candidates per category for final screening globally . Thousands of Indian students apply, but embassy slots are limited—so selections are highly competitive.

4. MEXT Scholarship 2026 Application Form—where to get it?

Visit the Embassy of Japan in India’s official website under "Japanese Government Scholarships" for your category. Download the Application Form, Certificate of Health, Recommendation Form, and category-specific documents (UG/STC/Research).

 Tips for a Strong Application

• Start early—collect documents and letters ahead
• Draft your recommendation letters and have your supervisors/Dean sign them 
• Polish your proposal/plan—vision, purpose, and methodology matter
• Practice written tests & interviews—know your subject area and story
• Use TLS support for Japanese coaching, application review, and interview simulations

 Final Thoughts

The MEXT Scholarship 2026 offers Indian students a comprehensive opportunity to study in Japan with full financial support. While the timeline and procedures are demanding, aligned preparation, strong documentation, and use of trusted resources like TLS can significantly improve your odds.

 Your next step: Begin preparing today—download forms, plan your study/research proposal, and schedule your embassy submission. Best of luck, and feel free to reach out for tailored guidance or coaching!