USHIO Foundation Scholarships 2026, Japan (For Privately Funded International Graduate Students)
The USHIO Foundation Scholarships 2026 is a prestigious private funding opportunity in Japan designed specifically for privately funded international graduate students already studying in the country. Offered by the USHIO Foundation, this scholarship provides targeted financial support to a small number of high-achieving students facing financial constraints.
Unlike large-scale government programs, this scholarship focuses on depth of support rather than broad access, making it one of the most competitive and selective private scholarships in Japan.
Degree Level
- Master’s Degree
- PhD (Doctoral Degree)
Available Subjects
The scholarship is limited to selected STEM and technical disciplines, including:
- Engineering
- Science
- Interdisciplinary Engineering
- Information Science
- Electrical Engineering
- Mathematics
Benefits
The USHIO Foundation Scholarship offers:
- Monthly stipend: 120,000 yen
- Duration:
- Up to 2 years for Master’s students
- Up to 3 years for PhD students
Additional Features
- Direct bank transfer in Japan
- Grant (not a loan, no repayment required)
- Participation in foundation events and networking activities
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet strict requirements:
- Must be an international student currently studying in Japan
- Must hold a Student visa
- Must be privately funded (not receiving other living stipends)
- Must be 30 years or younger as of 1 April 2026
- Must be enrolled in an eligible graduate program (Master’s or PhD)
- Must demonstrate financial need and academic excellence
Academic Requirements
- Minimum GPA equivalent to 2.5 on JASSO scale
- Strong academic record (around 80% A-level grades preferred)
Language Requirement
- Japanese proficiency around JLPT N2 level (mandatory)
Important Restriction
- Chinese nationals are not eligible under this application route
Selection Criteria
Candidates are selected based on:
- Academic performance
- Financial need
- Field of study relevance
- Institutional nomination (one candidate per university)
Number of Scholarships
- Maximum 8 scholarships awarded nationwide
- Only one nominee per participating university
Application Procedure
The application involves two stages:
Stage 1: University Nomination
- Apply through your university
- Internal screening conducted by the institution
- One candidate is nominated
Stage 2: Foundation Application
- Submit documents to the USHIO Foundation
- No interview required
- Final selection based on submitted materials
Application Timeline
- University Nomination Deadline: 3 April 2026
- Nomination Results: 8 April 2026
- Final Application Deadline: 16 April 2026
- Final Results: Around 20 April 2026
Why Choose the USHIO Foundation Scholarship?
This scholarship is highly valuable for students who:
- Are already studying in Japan but lack financial support
- Want stable monthly funding throughout their degree
- Seek recognition from a prestigious private foundation
- Value networking opportunities and community engagement
Its selective nature ensures that recipients receive meaningful financial relief and strong academic recognition.
