Southeast Asia has been gaining popularity among Indians, and Japan is no exception. With world-renowned universities, low tuition fees and many job opportunities, Japan should be on your study abroad list.
The MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology) Scholarship is a renowned financial aid initiative by the government of Japan for gifted individuals from across the globe. Through the MEXT Scholarship, Japan, famous for its cutting-edge technologies, rich cultural legacy, and esteemed educational institutions, provides a golden opportunity for overseas students to pursue their academic goals in the country.
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In this blog, we will explore the MEXT Scholarship, its advantages, eligibility requirements, and the application process to assist you in starting an exciting scholastic adventure in Japan.
| Provided By | Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) |
| Country | Japan |
| Deadline | For Graduates: 15th May 2023, For Undergraduates: 29th May 2023 |
Eligibility Criteria
The MEXT scholarship eligibility requirements for Indian students are given below:
- The applicant must be fluent in English
- Applicants must have the nationality of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan.
- An applicant with Japanese nationality at the time of application is not eligible.
| Research students | You must be under 35 years of age and a college graduate (including prospective graduates). Or you must have completed 16 years of schooling. |
| Teacher Training students | You must be under 35 years of age and a graduate of a college or teacher training college. You must have at least five years of active experience as a teacher in your country’s primary, secondary or teacher-training college. (Please note that college and university teachers currently in active service are not considered for this scholarship). |
| Undergraduate students | You must be at least 17 and under 25 years of age and have completed 12 years of school education or courses in a school comparable to a high school (including prospective graduates). |
| Japanese Studies students | You must be from 18 to 30 years old. You must be enrolled as undergraduate students in faculties or schools which major in Japanese language or Japanese culture in a university outside Japan when they come to Japan and must be enrolled in the home institution when they return to their home countries. |
| College of Technology students | You must be at least 17 and under 25 years of age and have completed school education comparable to a high school (a minimum of 11 years beginning in primary school) education (includes prospective graduates). |
| Specialised Training College students | You must be at least 17 and under 25 years of age and have completed 12 years of schooling or have completed a school education comparable to a Japanese high school (including prospective graduates). |
MEXT Scholarship Benefits
The MEXT scholarship is one of the popular Japanese scholarships for Indian students, offering many benefits like:
- Allowance –117,000 yen (Approx. Rs.70,000) per month. A supplemental regional allowance of 2,000 yen or 3,000 yen per month will be added to the monthly scholarship amount for the grantees studying or conducting research in specially designated regions.
- Education Fees – Fees for the entrance examination, matriculation, and university tuition will be paid by MEXT.
- Travelling Expenses – Also, roundtrip airfare will be provided to the selected Scholars.
For more information regarding the scholarships, applicants can visit:
- For Graduates – https://www.in.emb-japan.go.jp/Education/Research_Student.html
- For Undergraduates – https://www.in.emb-japan.go.jp/Education/Undergraduate_Student.html
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How to apply?
Japanese government scholarship students who stay outside Japan are recruited and selected in two ways:
1. Embassy recommendation
In this type of scholarship, scholarship recipients are recruited and initially screened by a Japanese embassy (or consulate general, depending on the country).
As the application process differs according to the country in which the Japanese embassy is located, please inquire at the Japanese embassy or consulate general in your country for details.
- Research student, Undergraduate student, College of Technology student, and Specialized training college student
Recruitment for those arriving in Japan next April is made between April and May. The initial screening (documentary examination, written test and interview) is made at the embassy between June and July. The embassy then recommends the selected candidates to the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs by late August.
- Teacher training and Japanese studies student
Recruitment for those arriving in Japan in September-October is between December of the previous year and the following February. Screening is conducted between February and March. Selected candidates are recommended to the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs by the beginning of April.
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2. University recommendation
- Research students and Japanese studies students who will be studying in Japan as exchange students based on inter-university student exchange agreements can be screened through the national, public or private Japanese university involved as a candidate for a Japanese Government Scholarship. The university directly recommends the selected candidates to the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT).
- Research students recommended by a university for study in Japan as government-sponsored scholarship recipients basically arrive in Japan in September-October.
Note: The application fee is not charged. So please be aware that organisations or individuals who charge application fees or deposits have no relation with the Japanese Government.
Conclusion
The MEXT Scholarship programme offers a variety of perks in addition to financial assistance, including tuition price coverage, monthly stipends, travel reimbursements, assistance with housing costs, and health insurance. These advantages lessen the financial load, allowing students to concentrate on academics and fully experience Japanese culture.
Students selected as MEXT scholars have access to top-notch instruction, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a global network of experts in their field. Additionally, they experience Japan’s special fusion of tradition and innovation, forging lifelong friendships and memories.
The MEXT Scholarship, in summary, is a doorway to academic success and intercultural understanding. It gives eager students the means to fulfil their scholastic aspirations in Japan and positively impact the world. So take advantage of the chance, immerse yourself in the lively Japanese culture, and set out on a life-changing educational trip that will influence your future and extend your horizons.
Also Read: The Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) for Indians
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Who is eligible to apply for the MEXT Scholarship?
The MEXT Scholarship is open to applicants from countries with diplomatic relations with Japan. The specific eligibility criteria vary depending on the scholarship category but generally include factors such as nationality, age, educational background, language proficiency, and health/character requirements.
Q. Can I apply for multiple categories of the MEXT Scholarship?
No, applicants can only apply for one category of the MEXT Scholarship. It is important to carefully review the eligibility criteria and choose the category that aligns with your academic and career goals.
Q. Is knowledge of the Japanese language required to apply for the MEXT Scholarship?
Proficiency in the Japanese language is typically required for most categories of the MEXT Scholarship. However, some programs offer English-taught courses or language training in Japan before starting the degree program. It is important to check the language requirements for each category before applying.
Q. What is the selection process for the MEXT Scholarship?
The selection process may involve thoroughly evaluating the submitted application documents, written exams, and interviews conducted by the Japanese embassy/consulate or the Japanese universities. The selection process is highly competitive, and the Japanese embassy/consulate will notify successful candidates of their selection.
Q. Can I choose any university in Japan for my MEXT Scholarship?
The MEXT Scholarship allows applicants to choose their preferred university in Japan; however, there may be restrictions depending on the scholarship category and the availability of programs at the desired university. It is advisable to research the universities and programs that align with your field of study.
Q. Can I work part-time while studying with the MEXT Scholarship?
The MEXT Scholarship allows part-time work during the scholarship period, provided it does not interfere with your studies. There are restrictions on the number of hours you can work per week, and it is important to adhere to the regulations set by the Japanese government and the host institution.
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