University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship 2026 in Japan (University Recommended) (Fully Funded) Deadline: Varies
The University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship 2026 (University Recommended) is a prestigious, fully funded graduate scholarship offered by Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT) through direct nomination by University of Tokyo.
This route allows outstanding international students to apply directly to the University of Tokyo for Master’s or Doctoral (PhD) programs — bypassing the Japanese embassy process. It’s one of the most competitive and rewarding scholarships in Asia, designed for students with exceptional academic and research potential.
Overview
- Host Institution: The University of Tokyo (UTokyo)
- Scholarship Provider: MEXT (Ministry of Education, Japan)
- Program Level: Master’s and Doctoral (PhD)
- Language of Instruction: English or Japanese (varies by program)
- Duration: 2 years (Master’s), 3 years (Doctorate)
- Application Route: University Recommendation
- Deadline: Varies by Department
Scholarship Benefits
The University Recommended MEXT Scholarship covers all major academic and living costs, including:
- Full tuition, admission, and application fee waiver
- Monthly stipend:
- ¥144,000/month for Master’s students
- ¥145,000/month for Doctoral students
- Round-trip airfare between your country and Japan
- Accommodation & visa support
- Health insurance coverage throughout your stay Buy vitamins and supplements
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship (University Recommended), you must:
- Be a citizen of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s applicants) or a Master’s degree (for Doctoral applicants)
- Have an outstanding academic record and research potential
- Be under 35 years of age as of April 1, 2026
- Be in good health, both physically and mentally
- Meet English or Japanese language proficiency requirements (depending on program)
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents via the University of Tokyo online portal:
- Completed MEXT Application Form
- Research Plan / Statement of Purpose
- Official Transcripts and Degree Certificates
- Two Letters of Recommendation
- Proof of English (TOEFL/IELTS) or Japanese (JLPT) proficiency
- Passport Copy or government-issued ID
- Medical Certificate (UTokyo format)
- Thesis Abstract (if applicable)
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
- Find a Prospective Supervisor
- Identify a professor at UTokyo aligned with your research interest.
- Contact them with your CV, transcripts, and research proposal.
- Prepare & Submit Application to UTokyo
- Submit all required documents to your Graduate School office (usually between November and December 2025).
- Internal Screening by UTokyo
- The University reviews your academic merit, research potential, and alignment with program goals.
- Nomination to MEXT
- The University of Tokyo officially recommends shortlisted candidates to MEXT for final approval.
- Final Result & Visa Process
- Successful candidates receive a final selection notice from MEXT (March–April 2026) and begin visa processing.
Application Timeline (Expected for 2026 Intake)
| Phase | University Route |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | October–December 2025 |
| Preliminary Screening | January 2026 |
| Final Selection | March–April 2026 |
| Arrival in Japan | September–October 2026 |
Why Apply Through University Recommendation?
- Direct connection with UTokyo faculty from the start
- Fewer applicants than the embassy route, higher success rate
- Early confirmation of acceptance before MEXT’s final decision
- Access to UTokyo research labs, mentorship, and collaborations
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Graduates of the MEXT–UTokyo program often continue into:
- Academic positions in global universities
- Research roles in technology, environmental science, AI, and energy
- Leadership positions in UN agencies, JICA, World Bank, and global NGOs
- R&D and innovation hubs across Asia, Europe, and North America
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