Japan has long been a destination for international students seeking high-quality education, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a chance to immerse themselves in a unique cultural experience. For 2025, various organizations, including the Japanese government, universities, and private foundations, are offering fully funded scholarships to support talented international students. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and more, making education in Japan accessible to students worldwide.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top fully funded scholarships for international students in Japan for 2025, their benefits, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.

Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students in Japan 2025

Why Study in Japan?

Japan is renowned for its innovation, academic excellence, and vibrant culture. Here are some reasons why international students choose Japan:

• World-Class Education: Japanese universities are ranked among the best globally, offering programs in diverse fields.
• Research Opportunities: Japan is a hub for innovation in technology, engineering, and the sciences.
• Cultural Experience: Students can experience Japan’s rich traditions alongside modern advancements.
• Career Prospects: Graduates often find opportunities to work in Japan or with Japanese companies globally.

Top Fully Funded Scholarships for 2025

1. MEXT (Monbukagakusho) Scholarship

Provided by: Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT)
Benefits:

• Full tuition coverage
• Monthly stipend (¥117,000–¥145,000, depending on the level of study)
• Travel expenses to and from Japan

Eligibility:

• Open to students from countries with diplomatic relations with Japan.
• Undergraduate, master’s, PhD, and research students are eligible.
• Proficiency in English or Japanese, depending on the program.

How to Apply:

• Applications are submitted through the Japanese embassy in your home country or directly to the university offering the scholarship.

2. JASSO Scholarships (Japan Student Services Organization)

Provided by: Japan Student Services Organization
Benefits:

• Monthly stipend of ¥48,000
• Travel and tuition subsidies in some cases

Eligibility:

• Open to self-financed international students enrolled in Japanese universities or vocational schools.
• Academic excellence and financial need are primary criteria.

How to Apply:

• Apply directly through your institution in Japan.

3. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP)

Provided by: The World Bank
Benefits:

• Tuition fees
• Monthly living stipend
• Round-trip airfare
• Health insurance

Eligibility:

• Open to students from developing countries.
• Must apply to specific master’s degree programs in fields like economic policy, public health, or engineering.

How to Apply:

• Submit your application through the World Bank scholarship portal.

4. Asian Development Bank-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP)

Provided by: Asian Development Bank
Benefits:

• Full tuition coverage
• Monthly stipend for living expenses
• Travel expenses
• Health and accident insurance

Eligibility:

• Open to students from ADB member countries pursuing graduate studies in economics, management, science, or technology.

How to Apply:

• Applications are submitted through the participating university in Japan.

5. University-Specific Scholarships

University of Tokyo International Student Scholarship

• Full tuition waiver and monthly living allowance of ¥200,000.
• Applications are typically submitted alongside the admission process.

Kyoto University Scholarships

• Various fully funded opportunities for international students in both undergraduate and graduate programs.

Waseda University Scholarships

• Offers full tuition waivers and living stipends for exceptional international students.

General Eligibility Criteria for Scholarships in Japan

While each scholarship has its own requirements, most programs share these common criteria:

1. Academic Excellence: High grades and achievements are often required.
2. Language Proficiency: Some programs require Japanese language skills, while others accept English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS scores).
3. Nationality: Applicants must typically be from countries that have diplomatic relations with Japan.
4. Field of Study: Many scholarships prioritize students in specific disciplines, such as STEM, social sciences, or arts.

How to Apply for Scholarships in Japan

1. Research Opportunities

Begin by identifying the programs and universities that align with your academic interests. Check their scholarship offerings and eligibility criteria.

2. Prepare Your Documents

Commonly required documents include:

• Academic transcripts
• Proof of language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS/JLPT)
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose or research plan

3. Submit Your Application

• Embassy-Recommended: Apply through the Japanese embassy in your country.
• University-Recommended: Submit your application directly to the university.

4. Prepare for Interviews

Some scholarships require interviews, either in person or online. Be ready to discuss your academic goals and motivation.

Tips for a Successful Application

1. Start Early: Scholarship deadlines are often months before the academic year begins.
2. Be Specific: Tailor your statement of purpose to highlight how studying in Japan aligns with your goals.
3. Seek Guidance: Reach out to past recipients or university advisors for advice.
4. Polish Your Application: Ensure all documents are error-free and professionally presented.

Which scholarship is available now in Japan?

There are several scholarships available for international students to study in Japan. Some of the most popular ones include:

• Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship: This is a fully-funded scholarship that covers tuition fees, living expenses, and airfare.It is offered by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) of Japan.
• Honjo International Scholarship Foundation: This foundation offers scholarships for master’s and PhD students. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel expenses for attending an international conference.
• Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program: This scholarship is offered by the World Bank and the Japanese government. It is a fully-funded scholarship that covers tuition fees, living expenses, and airfare.
• Scholarships from local governments, government agencies, private foundations, and NGOs: There are many other scholarships available from various organizations in Japan. These scholarships may cover tuition fees, living expenses, or other costs associated with studying in Japan.

Can I get a fully funded scholarship in Japan?

Yes, you can get a fully funded scholarship to study in Japan. One of the most well-known and prestigious scholarships is the Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship. This scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and airfare for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs.

Here are some other fully funded scholarships you can consider:

• Honjo International Scholarship Foundation: Offers scholarships for master’s and PhD students, covering tuition, living expenses, and conference travel.
• Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program: Fully-funded scholarship covering tuition, living expenses, and airfare.

Important Note: Eligibility criteria and application procedures vary for each scholarship. It’s crucial to research specific scholarships and their deadlines carefully.

How much CGPA is required for scholarship in Japan?

The minimum CGPA requirement for the MEXT scholarship, one of the most popular scholarships in Japan, is 2.30 out of 3.00 in your most recent academic degree. However, this is just the minimum requirement, and a higher GPA will increase your chances of being selected.

Important Note:

• The MEXT scholarship requires you to convert your GPA to a 3.0 scale. You can find a conversion table on the MEXT scholarship website or consult with your university.
• Some scholarships may consider other factors besides your GPA, such as your research experience, language proficiency, and extracurricular activities.

Is IELTS required for a Japan student visa?

While IELTS is not a strict requirement for a Japan student visa, it is often recommended and can be beneficial for your application. Many universities and institutions in Japan require English language proficiency, and IELTS is one of the accepted tests to demonstrate this.

• University Requirements: Individual universities may have specific English language requirements, including IELTS scores. Check the requirements of the specific university and program you’re applying to.
• Visa Application: While not mandatory for the visa itself, a good IELTS score can strengthen your overall application and increase your chances of visa approval.
• Alternative Language Tests: If IELTS is not suitable for you, you may consider other English language tests like TOEFL or TOEIC. Some universities may accept these as well.

It’s always best to consult with the specific university or institution you’re applying to and the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country for the most accurate and up-to-date information on language requirements and visa procedures.

How much bank balance is required for a Japan student visa?

The required bank balance for a Japan student visa varies depending on the duration of your stay and the specific university or institution you’re attending. However, a common requirement is around JPY 1,500,000 to JPY 2,500,000 (approximately USD 10,000 to USD 17,000) for a one-year visa.

It’s important to note that this is just an estimate, and the exact amount required may vary. You should consult with the specific university or institution you’re applying to and the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Additionally, some universities may offer scholarships or financial aid that can help reduce the amount of money you need to have in your bank account.