University of Tokyo Japan MEXT Scholarship 2026 (University Recommendation) – Fully Funded
The University of Tokyo is now accepting applications for the prestigious 2026 Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship – University Recommendation. This is a fully funded opportunity for exceptional international students who wish to pursue a Master’s or Doctoral degree in science and related fields at Japan’s leading institution.
If you aim to study in Japan with a full scholarship, this MEXT program offers generous financial support, tuition exemption, and the chance to study in a top global research environment.
Degree Level
University of Tokyo Japan MEXT Scholarship 2026 (University Recommendation) – Fully Funded is available to undertake Masters, PhD level programs at University of Tokyo.
Available Subjects
Applicants must choose a research field that aligns with their previous academic background or is closely related. The Graduate School of Science at the University of Tokyo offers programs in:
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Earth & Planetary Science
- Astronomy
- Biological Sciences
- Mathematical Sciences
Explore detailed offerings and faculty contacts on the official Graduate School of Science website.
Benefits
The MEXT Scholarship with University Recommendation is awarded by Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT). In this scheme, the University of Tokyo recommends outstanding international students to MEXT after conducting a thorough screening process.
Key Features:
- Target Degree Programs: Master’s and Doctoral Programs in the Graduate School of Science
- Scholarship Duration:
- Master’s: October 2026 – September 2028
- Doctoral: October 2026 – September 2029
- Monthly Stipend:
- 144,000 yen/month (Master’s)
- 145,000 yen/month (Doctoral)
- (subject to change based on fiscal conditions)
- Additional Benefits:
- Full tuition and enrollment fee exemption
- Round-trip economy airfare
- Guaranteed university accommodation for 1 year
- Access to Japan’s cutting-edge research facilities
Eligible Nationalities
Open to international students of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all the following requirements:
Academic Qualifications:
- Must apply to a Master’s or Doctoral Program at the Graduate School of Science
- Hold a strong academic record (minimum 2.30 GPA, MEXT calculation method)
Nationality:
- Must be a national of a country with diplomatic ties to Japan
- Japanese nationals or dual nationals must relinquish Japanese citizenship before arrival
Age:
- Must be born on or after April 2, 1991
Language Proficiency:
- English: CEFR B2 level or above (e.g., TOEFL iBT 72+, IELTS 5.5+), or completed education in English
- Japanese: JLPT N2 or higher, or completed education in Japanese
Health and Visa:
- Must be medically fit
- Must obtain a Student Visa before arriving in Japan
Ineligible Applicants:
- Previous MEXT recipients (with exceptions)
- Current residents of Japan
- Those receiving other scholarships
- Incomplete graduates by enrollment date
- Applicants planning extended internships or fieldwork abroad
Application Procedure
Required Documents
All documents must be in English or Japanese, formatted in A4, and submitted electronically via the official online form.
- Completed MEXT Application Form
- Research Plan and Field of Study Form
- Letter of Recommendation (from a Dean or higher authority)
- Passport-size photo (taken within the last 6 months)
- Official Academic Transcripts (current and previous degrees)
- Proof of English/Japanese language proficiency
- Abstract of Graduation Thesis
- Certificate of (Expected) Graduation
- Copy of Passport
Note: Only applicants who have completed the university’s graduate program application process will be considered for the MEXT nomination.
Application Timeline
- Application Period: October 15 – October 31, 2025 (Japan Standard Time)
- University Nomination Result: February 2026 (Graduate School) & April 2026 (University-wide)
- Final Decision by MEXT: June 2026 (tentative)
- Enrollment: October 2026
How to Apply
- Apply for admission to a Master’s or Doctoral Program in the Graduate School of Science (Special Selection for International Students).
- Upload all MEXT application documents via the official MEXT Online Application Form before the deadline.
- Track your application through the confirmation email you’ll receive
Note: Email or postal applications are not accepted.
Why Choose the University of Tokyo?
- Ranked among the top universities globally
- Home to world-renowned faculty and Nobel Laureates
- Gateway to cutting-edge science and research in Asia
- Strong international student support network
- Location in Tokyo, one of the most innovative and livable cities worldwide
