For the 2025/2026 academic session, opportunities abound for international students, particularly through prestigious scholarship programs such as MEXT, JICA, ADB-Japan, JASSO, and university-specific scholarships like the University of Tokyo’s Graduate School of Frontier Sciences. These scholarships not only cover tuition fees but also provide living stipends, airfare, research allowances, and in many cases, language training to help students adjust.

If you are considering pursuing your Master’s degree in Japan, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the Top 5 Fully Funded Scholarships available in 2025/2026, their eligibility criteria, benefits, application process, and deadlines.

Why Choose Japan for Your Master’s Degree?

Before diving into the scholarships, let’s explore why Japan stands out as a prime choice for postgraduate studies:

• World-Class Universities: Institutions such as the University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, and Osaka University consistently rank among the top in global rankings.

• Cutting-Edge Research: Japan is renowned for its contributions in engineering, robotics, biotechnology, environmental sciences, and medicine.

• Cultural Experience: Studying in Japan offers a unique opportunity to experience a blend of ancient traditions and futuristic innovations.

• Employment Opportunities: With Japan’s aging population and labor shortages, international graduates are increasingly welcomed into the workforce.

• Government Support: Japan actively invests in international students through scholarships, housing support, and student-friendly visa policies.

Top 5 Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships in Japan for 2025/2026:

1. MEXT Scholarship (Monbukagakusho Scholarship) – 2025/2026

The MEXT Scholarship is Japan’s most prestigious government-funded scholarship for international students. Managed by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), it provides comprehensive financial coverage for students pursuing undergraduate, Master’s, and doctoral degrees in Japan.

For Master’s programs, the MEXT scholarship is highly competitive and attracts thousands of applicants worldwide.

Key Benefits of the MEXT Scholarship

• Full Tuition Coverage: 100% exemption from tuition and entrance examination fees.

• Monthly Stipend: ¥143,000 – ¥145,000 per month for Master’s students.

• Travel Allowance: Round-trip airfare between your home country and Japan.

• Preparatory Education: One year of Japanese language training (if necessary).

• Research Allowances: Additional funds for research-related expenses.

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be a citizen of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan.

• Must hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent (for Master’s applicants).

• Age limit: Under 35 years as of April 1, 2025.

• Applicants must be in good health.

• English or Japanese proficiency required (depending on program).

Application Process

1. Embassy Recommendation: Apply through the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in your home country.

2. University Recommendation: Apply directly to a Japanese university, which will nominate you to MEXT.

3. Domestic Selection: For those already in Japan as international students.

Required Documents

• Application form (provided by embassy/university).

• Research proposal.

• Certified transcripts.

• Degree certificate.

• Recommendation letters.

• Passport copy.

• Medical certificate.

Deadlines

• Embassy recommendation applications typically open April–June 2025.

• University recommendation usually closes December 2025–February 2026.

Official Website

Japan MEXT Scholarship Official Portal

2. JICA SDGs Global Leadership Program (Japan International Cooperation Agency)

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) offers fully funded Master’s scholarships under its SDGs Global Leadership Program, designed for students from developing countries. The program aligns with Japan’s efforts to promote the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Key Benefits of the JICA Scholarship

• Full tuition coverage.

• Monthly living stipend.

• Round-trip airfare.

• Settling-in allowance.

• Medical and travel insurance.

• Opportunities for internships and networking with Japanese organizations.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must be citizens of a JICA-partner developing country.

• Must hold a bachelor’s degree.

• Must be working in a government institution, public sector, or relevant field.

• Must return to home country upon completion to contribute to national development.

• Proficiency in English required.

Fields of Study Supported

• Public policy.

• Economics and development studies.

• Environmental management.

• Engineering and infrastructure.

• Governance and law.

Application Process

1. Application through the Japanese Embassy or JICA office in the applicant’s home country.

2. Nomination by the employer or relevant government institution.

3. Screening by JICA in collaboration with Japanese universities.

Required Documents

• Application form.

• Proof of employment.

• Academic transcripts.

• Research or study plan.

• Employer recommendation.

• Passport copy.

Deadlines

• Deadlines vary by country but typically fall between January–September 2025 for the 2025/2026 intake.

Official Website

JICA Scholarship Programs

3. ADB-Japan Scholarship Program (Asian Development Bank – Japan Scholarship Program)

The ADB-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP) provides opportunities for well-qualified citizens of developing member countries of the Asian Development Bank to pursue postgraduate studies in economics, business, management, science, and technology in Japan.

Key Benefits of the ADB-Japan Scholarship

• Full tuition fees.

• Monthly subsistence allowance (living expenses).

• Housing and accommodation support.

• Medical insurance.

• Travel expenses.

• Books and study materials allowance.

Eligibility Criteria

• Citizenship of an ADB borrowing member country.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with excellent academic performance.

• At least two years of professional work experience.

• Age limit: 35 years or younger (exceptions up to 45 for senior officials).

• Return to home country after completion of studies.

Partner Universities in Japan

• University of Tokyo.

• International University of Japan.

• Keio University.

• Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University.

Application Process

1. Submit applications to an eligible university in Japan.

2. University recommends shortlisted candidates to ADB.

3. ADB makes final selection.

Required Documents

• Application form.

• Academic records.

• Degree certificate.

• Proof of work experience.

• Recommendation letters.

• Statement of purpose.

• Passport copy.

Deadlines

• Deadlines vary by university but typically fall between February–September 2025.

Official Website

ADB-Japan Scholarship Program

4. JASSO Honors Scholarship (Japan Student Services Organization)

The JASSO Honors Scholarship is offered by the Japan Student Services Organization and is available for privately financed international students studying in Japan. While not as large as MEXT, it still provides significant support for Master’s students.

Key Benefits of JASSO Scholarship

• Monthly stipend of ¥48,000 for Master’s students.

• Duration: 12 months.

• Available to students across many universities.

Eligibility Criteria

• International student enrolled in a Japanese university.

• Excellent academic performance.

• Demonstrated financial need.

• Recommendation from the institution.

Application Process

1. Apply through the Japanese university where you are enrolled.

2. University nominates candidates to JASSO.

3. Final selection by JASSO.

Required Documents

• Application form.

• Academic transcripts.

• Proof of enrollment.

• Recommendation letter from academic advisor.

Deadlines

• Application deadlines vary depending on the host institution, typically April–September 2025.

Official Website

JASSO Scholarships

5. University of Tokyo Special Scholarships for International Students

The University of Tokyo (UTokyo), one of Japan’s most prestigious universities, offers fully funded scholarships for outstanding international students pursuing Master’s and Doctoral degrees.

Key Benefits

• Full tuition exemption.

• Monthly stipend of ¥150,000.

• Travel expenses (in some cases).

• Research and academic support.

Eligibility Criteria

• Non-Japanese citizen.

• Admission to a Master’s program at the University of Tokyo.

• Excellent academic record.

• Proficiency in English or Japanese (depending on program).

Application Process

1. Apply for admission to a Master’s program at UTokyo.

2. Submit scholarship application (if required).

3. University selects candidates and offers scholarship simultaneously with admission.

Required Documents

• Application form.

• Academic transcripts.

• Degree certificate.

• Personal statement.

• Recommendation letters.

• Research proposal.

Deadlines

• Varies by program, but typically between November 2025 – January 2026.

Official Website

University of Tokyo Scholarships

Comparison Table: Top 5 Fully Funded Masters Scholarships in Japan (2025/2026)

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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a Master’s Scholarship in Japan

1. Identify the Right Scholarship – Match your academic background, career goals, and eligibility.

2. Prepare Early – Gather documents such as transcripts, recommendation letters, and language test scores.

3. Craft a Strong Research Proposal – Especially important for MEXT and university scholarships.

4. Apply Through the Correct Channel – Embassy, university, or directly to scholarship provider.

5. Attend Interviews/Exams – Some scholarships require interviews or written exams.

6. Stay Organized – Keep track of deadlines and required documents.

7. Follow Up – Check emails regularly for updates and respond promptly.

FAQs (Schema-Ready for SEO)

Q1. Can I apply for more than one scholarship in Japan at the same time?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships, but if awarded more than one, you may be required to choose only one.

Q2. Do I need to speak Japanese to qualify for these scholarships?
Not necessarily. Many Master’s programs in Japan are offered in English, especially for international students. However, basic Japanese language skills are beneficial.

Q3. Can I work while studying in Japan on a scholarship?
Yes, with a valid student visa, you can work part-time (up to 28 hours per week), but scholarship conditions may limit this.

Q4. Are these scholarships renewable for PhD studies?
Some scholarships, like MEXT, allow progression from Master’s to PhD, but you must reapply or extend.

Q5. What is the acceptance rate for MEXT?
Highly competitive, with an estimated acceptance rate of 3–5% depending on country and category.

Conclusion

Japan continues to open its doors to international students by providing fully funded scholarships that remove financial barriers and encourage global talent to thrive in its universities. Whether you aim to study science, engineering, policy, or humanities, scholarships like MEXT, JICA, ADB-Japan, JASSO, and UTokyo’s internal awards offer excellent opportunities to gain world-class education while immersing yourself in Japanese culture.

The 2025/2026 academic session presents a golden chance for ambitious students to apply. Start early, prepare your documents carefully, and take the bold step toward securing your Master’s degree in Japan.

With full financial support, high-quality education, and vibrant cultural experiences, Japan could be the launchpad for your future success.