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Writer's pictureyusi setiawati

Navigating the MEXT Scholarship: University Recommendations and Opportunities


The MEXT Scholarship, also known as the Monbukagakusho Scholarship, offered by the Japanese government, presents a highly appealing opportunity for international students. This scholarship can be acquired through embassy channels or university recommendations. The MEXT Scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, accommodation, airfare, visa costs, and importantly, does not entail any service obligations.


The main distinction between the MEXT Scholarship through the Japanese Embassy and the MEXT Scholarship University Recommendation lies in the selection process. The Embassy-based MEXT Scholarship is evaluated by the Japanese Embassy in the applicant's home country. Conversely, the MEXT Scholarship University Recommendation is evaluated by the university in Japan that the applicant intends to attend.


Furthermore, the Embassy MEXT scholarship requires recipients to undergo one year of Japanese language preparatory school before university selection. In contrast, for the MEXT University Recommendation, students can typically begin their studies directly in English-taught programs (with certain exceptions, such as the Kyoto IUP program).


For those interested in the Embassy MEXT Scholarship, detailed information can be found on its official website: https://www.id.emb-japan.go.jp/sch.html. This article will focus on the MEXT Scholarship based on university recommendations.


As previously mentioned, there are Japanese universities that are part of the G30 program, offering international classes in English and providing MEXT scholarships. The selection process for these scholarships is managed individually by each university, each with its own policies and quotas. These universities also offer a diverse range of fields of study, necessitating careful exploration on their respective websites.


For instance, the Tohoku University Future Global Leadership (FGL) Program offers three English-taught undergraduate majors: AMC (Advanced Molecular Chemistry), IMAC-U (International Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Course Undergraduate), and AMB (Applied Marine Biology). Applicants are required to meet TOEFL IBT 79+ or IELTS academic 6+ scores, as well as Standardized Examination Scores in subjects like mathematics, physics, and chemistry (or biology for AMB). These standardized scores can be obtained from A-level, IB, ACT without writing, AP, or a combination of these tests. Complete details can be found on the Tohoku University website.

Generally, English-taught programs have limited quotas, and only well-prepared candidates can apply, especially due to the standardized test requirements. Failing to meet these requirements would result in disqualification from the application process or subsequent selection stages.


For successful Japanese Government (MEXT) scholarship recipients, entrance fees of JPY 282,000 and annual tuition of JPY 535,800 (JPY 267,900 x 2) are waived. Moreover, a living stipend of JPY 119,000 per month for 4 years (subject to certain GPA conditions) and round-trip economy airfare between the home country and Japan are provided.


The monthly stipend of JPY 119,000 is sufficient to cover dorm/apartment expenses, transportation, and meals, enabling you to pursue tuition-free education in the enchanting land of Japan. A truly captivating prospect.


For those who do not secure the MEXT scholarship, alternatives like the President Fellowship and MEXT Honor Scholarship for privately financed international students exist. To compare these options, explore the financial support section.


For other universities in Japan, you can delve into their specifics by visiting individual university websites such as Kyushu, Nagoya, Tsukuba, APU, and more. Each university has distinct prerequisites and offers diverse fields of study. Choose your desired major, assess the competitive landscape, and prepare yourself diligently. Best of luck in your journey, and may success be yours.

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