The MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship is a comprehensive “full-ride” scholarship sponsored by the government of Japan.
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When is the Application Deadline:
11 December 2025 – all applications must be submitted online by this date.
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Tell Me About The Award:
The MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship is a fully funded Japanese government scholarship that provides:
- Full tuition coverage at Ritsumeikan University
- Living stipend: approximately $11,200 for the duration of study
- Travel support to and from Japan
- Visa fees and related subsidies
This scholarship is highly competitive and requires a university recommendation from Ritsumeikan University. Successful candidates, known as MEXT Scholars, are expected to act as bridges between Japan and their home countries.
Which Fields are Eligible?
- Master’s and Doctoral programmes in selected graduate schools at Ritsumeikan University.
- Applicants must check the Graduate School-specific guidelines to confirm eligibility.
- For the Graduate School of Science and Engineering, applicants must obtain informal approval from a prospective supervisor before applying.
Type:
Full-degree scholarship (Master’s or Doctoral programmes)
Who can Apply?
- Nationals of countries with diplomatic relations with Japan
- Applicants born on or after 2 April 1991
- Must be in good physical and mental health
- Must be willing to acquire a new student visa and travel to Japan for studies
- Must meet minimum academic requirements: CGPA ≥ 2.30/3.0 (calculated by MEXT)
- For English-medium programs: CEFR B2 level English proficiency or prior study in English
Who Cannot Apply:
- Japanese citizens (including dual nationals, unless renouncing Japanese citizenship)
How are Applicants Selected?
- Submit application to Ritsumeikan University: Late Nov – 11 Dec 2025
- RU announces admission results: Jan – Feb 2026
- RU submits scholarship recommendations to MEXT: Feb – Mar 2026
- MEXT announces final scholarship results: Jun – Jul 2026
- Scholars receive certificates and apply for a student visa: Jul – Sep 2026
- Arrival in Japan and semester begins: Mid – Sep 2026
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- All countries with diplomatic relations with Japan
Where will the Award be Taken?
- Ritsumeikan University, Japan
How Many Awards?
- Number of MEXT recommendations per university is limited, meaning only a handful of applicants are selected.
Duration of the Award:
- Master’s: 1–2 years (depending on program)
- Doctoral: 3–5 years (depending on program)
How to Apply:
- Complete the Ritsumeikan University Graduate School Online Application
- Contact a potential research supervisor (if required by program) for informal approval
- Prepare and submit all required documents:
- Application Form
- Academic Transcript
- Letter of Recommendation (mandatory, free format)
- Certificate of Health
- Submit application before 11 Dec 2025
Important Notes:
- Only one university recommendation per applicant is allowed
- Follow the Graduate School-specific guidelines carefully
- Applicants may submit documents before their English test scores arrive; follow up with results later
