Primary Keywords:
- Osaka University MEXT Scholarship
- MEXT Scholarship Japan
- fully funded scholarship Japan
Why Choose the Osaka University MEXT Scholarship?
Osaka University MEXT Scholarship The Osaka University MEXT Scholarship is a fully funded Japanese Government (MEXT) award for international students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degrees. This prestigious scholarship—under the MEXT Scholarship Japan program—provides a comprehensive package covering tuition, monthly living allowance, airfare, and health insurance.
Osaka University is renowned for its cutting-edge research, vibrant campus culture, and global academic community. In 2024, it ranked 80th in the QS World University Rankings and 175th in Times Higher Education
Academic Levels & Key Dates
| Degree Level | Deadline (University Recommendation) | Start Date |
| Undergraduate | September 1, 2025 | April 2026 |
| Master’s | September 1, 2025 | April 2026 |
| PhD | September 1, 2025 | April 2026 |
Embassy-track deadlines may fall earlier (Feb–Mar or Nov–Jan)
Scholarship Benefits
- 100% tuition waiver
- Monthly stipend (~117,000 ¥)
- Round-trip airfare from your home country
- Health insurance coverage
- Access to state-of-the-art research facilities
- Opportunity to learn Japanese and join a global academic community
These perks make it an attractive fully funded scholarship Japan option.
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria
You qualify if you:
- Are a non-Japanese citizen from a country with diplomatic ties to Japan.
- Meet academic requirements:
- Undergraduate: high school diploma
- Master’s: bachelor’s degree
- PhD: master’s degree
Demonstrate strong academic and research potential.
Provide proof of English (TOEFL/IELTS) or Japanese (JLPT) proficiency.
Meet age requirements (e.g., born on or after April 2, 1989)
- Fulfill Japanese government health standards.
Required Documents
To apply, gather:
- Completed application form
- Academic transcripts & degree certificates
- Research proposal or study plan
- Language test scores (TOEFL/IELTS or JLPT)
- Passport copy & medical certificate
- CV/resume
- Motivation letter
- 2–3 recommendation letters
- Thesis abstract (if applicable)
- Embassy app: included with written test and interview
- University track: additional documents via Osaka University
Application Process
1. Choose Your Application Route
- Embassy Recommendation:
- Feb–Mar (undergrad) or Nov–Jan (grad)
- Document review, written test, interview
University Recommendation:
- Apply directly to Osaka University
- Internal screening, interview, and submission of hard copies
2. Sit for Screening
E mbassy track: take Japanese and English tests.
University track: university-level document and interview reviews.
3. Final Selection
Qualified candidates are reviewed by both Osaka University and MEXT. Notifications are sent:
- Embassy track by Feb 2026
- University track typically May 2026
4. Arrival in Japan
Selected students arrive in April or October 2026, based on program schedule.
Student Experience at Osaka University
MEXT scholars begin with language classes at the Center for Japanese Language and Culture, then join their degree programs
The university fosters a multicultural atmosphere, cutting-edge research labs, and a supportive global peer community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I need Japanese language skills?
No—in many programs, English is accepted. But you must prove proficiency in either English or Japanese, depending on your field.
Q2: How much is the monthly stipend?
About ¥117,000 per month—regional supplements may apply
Q3: Can I apply to multiple degrees?
Yes—just meet the academic and application requirements for each level.
Q4: What’s the difference between the two application routes?
Embassy track is handled via your local Japanese embassy; University track is processed directly through Osaka University, with internal screening before submission to MEXT.
Q5: When will I know if I’m selected?
Embassy route notifications arrive around February 2026; University route usually in May 2026 .
Final Tips for Applicants
- Start early—collect certified documents and request recommendation letters months ahead.
- Research well—craft a focused and compelling research plan.
- Prepare for tests—study for Japanese or English language exams and embassy-level entrance exams.
- Consult your embassy or the Osaka University website (official admissions page link).
- Practice active voice and clear sentences in your application materials—show confidence and clarity.
By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to apply for the Osaka University MEXT Scholarship—one of the top fully funded scholarships in Japan. If you need help refining your research proposal or preparing for interviews, feel free to ask!
Helpful External Resources
- Official Osaka University admission portal
MEXT scholarship overview
MEXT stipend info (117,000 ¥/month)
