Bhutan Government YLP Scholarship 2026 Under MEXT Japan Program

If you’re an aspiring healthcare professional with leadership ambitions, here’s your chance to study in Japan under a fully funded Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship. The Ministry of Health has officially announced openings for the Young Leaders’ Program (YLP) 2026, offering Master of Healthcare Administration studies at the prestigious Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine. This is your ticket to a one-year intensive program designed to cultivate global leaders in healthcare management.

Why Apply?

The YLP is not just a master’s degree – it’s a gateway to join a network of professionals who will drive healthcare systems forward worldwide. With full financial support, expert-led training, and the experience of studying in Japan, successful candidates will leave empowered to lead reforms in public health and hospital administration.

Scholarship Details

• Course: Master of Healthcare Administration (YLP 2026)
• Duration: One year
• University: Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
• Slots Available: 10 candidates will be recommended for final selection by the MEXT YLP Committee

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements in order to stand eligible for this Bhutani YLP scholarship sponsored by MEXT Japan:

• Education & Service: Must hold a bachelor’s degree and meet civil service entry criteria as per BCSR 2023.
• Work Record: Clean service history and fulfillment of all MEXT scholarship eligibility requirements.
• Age Limit: Under 40 years old as of October 1, 2026 (born on or after October 2, 1986).
• Language Proficiency: IELTS (Academic) 6.0, TOEFL-iBT 80, or equivalent proof of English competency.

Application Process & Deadline

Eligible candidates must submit their documents online via the official application link: https://moh.gov.bt/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Scholarship-Announcement_Healthcare-Administration.pdf

Application Deadline: September 27, 2025, before 5:00 PM.

Selection Procedure

The process involves multiple screening rounds:

1. Initial Screening – Ministry of Health (based on merit ranking).
2. University Review – Document-based evaluation by Nagoya University.
3. Interviews – Conducted by university faculty members.
4. Final Decision – By the YLP Committee at MEXT, Japan.

Post-Selection Requirements

Selected candidates must provide the following two to three months before departure:

• Official admission offer letter.
• Study leave application form (Form 7/B).
• Course content and certificates (medical fitness, good standing, security clearance, and audit clearance).
• For clinical staff: Letter of Good Standing from BQCPA.

Candidates must also pass a mandatory drug test. Withdrawal after acceptance will result in a two-year cooling-off period before being eligible for future study leave.