University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded

Applications are now open for the University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship 2026 in Japan, a prestigious, fully funded program offered by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT). This scholarship supports outstanding international students who wish to pursue Master’s or Doctoral (Ph.D.) degrees at Japan’s most esteemed institution — the University of Tokyo.

The MEXT University Recommended Scholarship covers all expenses, including tuition fees, airfare, and a generous monthly allowance. It is available to candidates applying for the October 2026 intake across various graduate schools and departments.

Unlike many scholarships, IELTS is not mandatory if your previous degree was taught in English. This makes it an excellent opportunity for talented students from non-English-speaking countries.

Quick Summary of the University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship 2026

• Host Country: Japan
• University: University of Tokyo (UTokyo)
• Degree Levels: Master’s, Ph.D.
• Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
• Duration: 2 years (Master’s) / 3 years (Ph.D.)
• Eligibility: All nationalities (except Japan)
• Deadline: Varies by department

Duration of the Scholarship

• Master’s Program: October 2026 – September 2028 (2 years)
• Doctoral Program: October 2026 – September 2029 (3 years)

Benefits of the University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship 2026

The scholarship provides comprehensive financial coverage to ensure students can focus on their academic and research goals without financial burden.

Full Financial Coverage Includes:

• Monthly stipend for Master’s and Ph.D. students
• Round-trip airfare between your home country and Japan
• Full tuition fees and enrollment costs
• Exemption from admission fees
• Access to the University’s academic, cultural, and research facilities

This makes the University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship one of the most generous and competitive fully funded scholarships in Japan.

Graduate Schools and Departments at the University of Tokyo

The University of Tokyo has 15 Graduate Schools, each offering diverse research opportunities. Applicants can choose programs based on their academic interests.

Some of the Graduate Schools offering MEXT Scholarships include:

1. Graduate School of Science – with departments such as Physics, Astronomy, Earth and Planetary Science, Chemistry, and Biological Sciences.
2. Graduate School of Engineering – including the Department of Civil Engineering.
3. Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences
4. Graduate School of Medicine
5. Graduate School of Public Policy
6. Graduate School of Information Science and Technology
7. Graduate School of Humanities and Sociology

Each school has its own specific deadlines and requirements, so applicants must carefully review the department’s webpage for details.

Eligibility Criteria for the University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship 2026

To qualify for this scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Must hold citizenship of a country other than Japan.
• Must have completed a Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s applicants) or Master’s degree (for Ph.D. applicants).
• Must have a minimum GPA of 2.30 on a 3.0 scale (or equivalent).
• Must be born on or after April 2, 1991.
• Must meet the University’s English language requirements or have completed a degree taught in English.
• Must satisfy the admission criteria of the selected graduate school.

Required Documents for Application

Applicants must prepare the following documents in digital format for upload:

1. Online Application Form (completed via the official portal)
2. Field of Study and Research Plan
3. Letter of Recommendation
4. Passport-sized Photo
5. Official Academic Transcripts from the last university attended
6. Abstract of Graduation Thesis
7. Certificate of (Expected) Graduation
8. Copy of Passport

English Language Requirements

IELTS or TOEFL is not required if the applicant’s previous degree was taught in English. Instead, a Letter of English Proficiency from the previous institution is accepted.

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How to Apply for the University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship 2026

The application process is straightforward but highly competitive. Follow the steps below:

Check Department-Specific Details

Visit the official website of your preferred Graduate School and review the eligibility, application timeline, and required documents.

Submit Online Application

Complete the online application form through the department’s portal. Upload all required documents, including your Research Plan, Recommendation Letter, and Academic Records.

Departmental Review

Each Graduate School conducts its own evaluation process. Only selected candidates will be nominated for the MEXT Scholarship.

MEXT Approval

Final selection is made by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT) in Japan.

Apply Here for the University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship 2026

Selection Process

Applications are reviewed holistically based on:

• Academic excellence and research potential
• Strength of recommendation letters
• Clarity and originality of the research proposal
• Fit between the applicant’s background and program goals
• Overall contribution to international academic exchange

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship 2026

1. Who can apply for the University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship?
   Students from any country except Japan who meet the academic and age criteria.
2. Do I need IELTS or TOEFL?
   No, if your previous degree was taught in English. Otherwise, English language proof may be required.
3. What is the duration of the scholarship?
   Two years for Master’s programs and three years for Doctoral programs.
4. What does the scholarship cover?
   Monthly stipend, airfare, tuition, enrollment fees, and health coverage.
5. Is the application process competitive?
   Yes. The MEXT Scholarship is one of the most competitive scholarships in Japan, so applicants should prepare high-quality documents.
6. Can I apply to multiple departments?
   You can apply to one department at a time, but each Graduate School sets its own rules.
7. When is the application deadline?
   Each Graduate School sets its own timeline. Applicants should check the department’s website for exact deadlines.

Conclusion

The University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship 2026 in Japan offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for international students to study at one of Asia’s most prestigious universities. Fully funded by the Japanese Government, it provides financial security, research excellence, and cultural exposure in one of the world’s most advanced academic environments.

With 15 graduate schools offering diverse programs and world-class facilities, the University of Tokyo stands as a gateway to academic excellence, innovation, and global leadership.

Apply early, prepare your documents carefully, and take this step toward a transformative study experience in Japan.

Application Deadlines: Vary by Department

Don’t wait — apply now for the University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship 2026 and begin your journey toward academic and professional success.