Japan With Adi

How to study in Japan for free.

A MEXT scholarship application envelope with a statement of purpose on a desk

You can study in Japan for free on the MEXT scholarship from the Japanese government. It pays your full tuition, a monthly allowance of ¥117,000 to ¥145,000 and round-trip airfare. Students in India apply through the Embassy of Japan or through a Japanese university.

By Aditya Dewangan · Updated 10 October 2026

What does the MEXT scholarship pay for?

  • Tuition: exempted in full.
  • Monthly allowance: ¥117,000 for undergraduate students, ¥143,000 to ¥145,000 for research (master’s and PhD) students.
  • Travel: round-trip airfare between your country and Japan.

Who can apply?

Each year’s official guidelines set the exact conditions, so check the current edition before you apply.

  • Undergraduate: under 25, with 12 years of school education (students in their final year can apply).
  • Research students (master’s or PhD): under 35 and eligible for admission to a Japanese graduate school.
  • College of technology (KOSEN) and specialized training college: under 25.

What are the two ways to apply?

  • Embassy recommendation: the Embassy of Japan in your country screens applicants through documents, written exams and an interview.
  • University recommendation: a Japanese university nominates you to MEXT. Only some universities have a quota, so check with the university first.

Which exams are part of the embassy route?

Research applicants take Japanese and English. Undergraduate applicants take Japanese, English and mathematics, and science applicants also take two of physics, chemistry and biology.

Are there other funded routes?

Yes. Japanese universities, JASSO and private foundations also fund international students, often in part. A strong application plan covers MEXT and these routes together.

Sources

Quick answers.

Is the MEXT scholarship fully funded?

Yes. Tuition is exempted, you receive a monthly allowance of ¥117,000 to ¥145,000 depending on your level, and round-trip airfare is provided.

Can I apply for MEXT after 12th?

Yes. The undergraduate category is open to applicants under 25 who have completed 12 years of school education, including students in their final year.

Do I need to know Japanese for MEXT?

Japanese is one of the exam subjects on the embassy route. Some programs are taught in English, but a JLPT N5 or N4 level strengthens your application and your interview.

When do MEXT applications open in India?

In spring. In 2026 the Embassy of Japan in India accepted applications from late April to late May (research students 20 April to 15 May; undergraduate, KOSEN and specialized training college 23 April to 25 May). Check the embassy page for the current call. There is no application fee.

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