Apply for the University of Tsukuba MEXT Scholarship 2026 in Japan. Fully funded for international students. Covers tuition, stipend & airfare. Apply now!
University of Tsukuba MEXT Scholarship 2026 – Fully Funded in Japan
Looking to study in Japan with a fully funded scholarship? The University of Tsukuba MEXT Scholarship 2026 is a life-changing opportunity for international students. Sponsored by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), this scholarship offers full financial support for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degree programs at one of Japan’s top-tier universities.
About the Scholarship
- Country: Japan
- University: University of Tsukuba
- Status: Open for international students
- IELTS Requirement: Required or equivalent English/Japanese language proficiency
- Duration: Varies by degree (generally 4 years for undergraduate, 2 years for master’s, 3–4 years for PhD)
- Deadline: Varies based on the application pathway
Admission Announcement Date
The admission and application process for the 2026 MEXT Scholarship typically begins in early 2025, with Embassy and University Recommendation deadlines varying between April to October 2025.
Eligibility Criteria for Each Program
Undergraduate Programs
Must be under 25 years old
Completion of 12 years of schooling
Excellent academic record
Language proficiency in English or Japanese
Master’s Programs
Under 35 years old
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
Academic excellence required
English or Japanese language skills
Doctoral Programs
Under 35 years old
Master’s degree in relevant field
Proof of research capability
English or Japanese proficiency
Programs Offered
Natural Sciences
Engineering and Technology
Life Sciences and Medicine
Social Sciences
Arts and Humanities
Education
Environmental Studies
Information Technology
Benefits of the Scholarship
Full tuition fee coverage
Monthly stipend:
Undergraduate: ¥117,000
Master’s: ¥144,000
PhD: ¥145,000
Round-trip airfare to and from Japan
Assistance with accommodation and daily living expenses
Access to cutting-edge research facilities and expert faculty
Cultural immersion and global networking opportunities
Comprehensive medical support throughout the study period
Application Procedure
Embassy Recommendation
Contact the Japanese embassy in your country
Submit application and required documents
Attend written test and interview
Await nomination and acceptance from the University of Tsukuba
University Recommendation
Apply directly through the University of Tsukuba
Complete the online application form
Upload required documents
Await interview (if applicable)
Final selection and MEXT approval
Required Documents
Completed MEXT application form
Academic transcripts
Graduation certificate or proof of expected graduation
Research or study plan
Letters of recommendation
Copy of valid passport
Proof of language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or JLPT)
Last Date to Apply
The application deadlines vary by route:
Embassy Recommendation: April to June 2025
University Recommendation: August to October 2025
It is advisable to begin preparations early.
If you’re thinking about studying in Japan and wondering how to get financial support, this opportunity might be exactly what you’re looking for. A lot of students ask whether it’s possible to study without paying tuition, and yes, it is. This scholarship covers not only your tuition but also your living costs and even your travel expenses, making it a truly stress-free way to focus on your studies.
You might also be wondering if you need to know Japanese. While some programs do require it, many are offered entirely in English, so not knowing the language won’t hold you back. It’s also common to be unsure about which application route to take, whether you need to contact professors beforehand, or what kind of grades you need. The process may seem overwhelming at first, but once you understand the steps, like gathering the right documents, writing a study plan, and meeting the deadlines—it becomes much more manageable. And if you’re concerned about the competition, that’s normal. Many students feel the same way, but with the right preparation and genuine interest in your field, you stand a strong chance. This isn’t just a scholarship, it’s a chance to build a future in one of the world’s most innovative and welcoming academic environments.