MEXT 2026 Applications Closed and Preparations for 2027 Intake Begins Now

f you missed the opportunity to apply for the MEXT (Monbukagakusho) 2026 Scholarship, don’t worry—now is the perfect time to prepare for the 2027 intake. With competitive selection rounds, detailed documentation, and early deadlines, starting your preparation now will put you miles ahead.

This guide walks you through what just happened with the 2026 cycle, and what steps you should begin for the 2027 application season.

What Happened With MEXT 2026 Applications?

The MEXT 2026 Scholarship applications for both Undergraduate and Research (Master’s/PhD) programs have officially closed in most countries by mid-2025.

Applicants submitted their documents through either:

• The Embassy Recommendation route, where national embassies screened candidates via written exams and interviews; or
• The University Recommendation route, where Japanese universities nominated international applicants for MEXT funding.

Those who applied for 2026 are currently undergoing screenings, and successful candidates will begin their studies in April or October 2026 in Japan.

Now is the Time to Prepare for MEXT 2027

The 2027 cycle will begin around April–May 2026, with deadlines spanning 1 to 2 months, depending on your country. To become a strong candidate by then, follow the preparation steps below.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide for MEXT 2027 Scholarship

Following 7 steps are organized ones for new 2027 batch applicants to prepare themselves for:

1# Understand the Two MEXT Pathways

There are two (02) main ways to apply:

• Embassy-Recommended MEXT Scholarship: Requires you to apply through the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country.
• University-Recommended MEXT Scholarship: You apply directly to Japanese universities offering MEXT-funded programs.

Most applicants use the embassy route, which offers more slots and includes a multi-stage selection process.

2# Gather Your Key Documents Early

Start preparing these documents, as most embassies require similar paperwork:

• Completed MEXT application form (to be released in 2026)
• Passport copy
• Academic transcripts and degree certificates
• Letter of recommendation from your university or school
• Medical certificate (on the prescribed MEXT format)
• A detailed research proposal or study plan
• Proof of language proficiency (English or Japanese, depending on the program).

3# Start Building a Strong Research Proposal (Graduate Track)

If you’re applying for the Research/Master’s/PhD program, your proposal plays a key role in your application. It should include:

• Your academic background
• A clearly defined research topic
• Why you want to pursue this in Japan
• Potential Japanese universities/professors you’d like to work with.

Tip: Even though it’s not mandatory to contact professors in advance, doing so may improve your chances.

4# Choose the Right Universities

Begin your university search now to shortlist potential institutions. Use platforms like:

• JASSO’s official database
• Study in Japan
• University rankings and program websites

Check if the universities:

• Offer courses in English (if you are not proficient in Japanese)
• Have research areas or faculty matching your interests
• Accept MEXT students.

5# Work on Language Skills

• While Japanese proficiency isn’t required for English-taught programs, basic Japanese helps with daily life and enhances your overall experience.
• For Undergraduate applicants, a Japanese language exam is usually part of the embassy selection.
• Learn basic Japanese and prepare for N5–N3 level, or start studying for English exams like IELTS/TOEFL if the university requires it.

Which Language tests will be acceptable for MEXT 2027 Scholarship?

Language proficiency is required for the MEXT Scholarship, depending on the program and medium of instruction. If you are applying for a program taught in Japanese, you are expected to have sufficient Japanese language skills—typically JLPT N2 or N1 level. Embassy-recommended undergraduate and graduate applicants are also required to take a Japanese language exam as part of the initial screening process, even if they plan to study in English. While having a JLPT certificate is not always mandatory at the time of application, being able to understand and communicate in Japanese is essential for daily life and coursework in Japanese-taught programs.

For programs taught in English, Japanese proficiency is not required. However, you must demonstrate your English language ability through standardized tests or proof of prior education in English. Commonly accepted tests include IELTS (minimum score of 6.0–6.5), TOEFL iBT (usually 80+), or equivalent Cambridge English exams. Some universities may also accept the Duolingo English Test or a certificate from your previous school stating that your education was in English. Embassy-recommended applicants are usually tested in both English and Japanese regardless of their target language of instruction, while university-recommended applicants are expected to submit language scores along with their application documents.

6# Practice for Written Exams and Interviews

Depending on your program, you might be tested in:

• English and Japanese (for undergraduate applicants)
• Subject-specific tests (like Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, etc.)
• Research interview (for graduate applicants).

Check past exam papers via your local embassy’s website and practice mock interviews with peers or mentors.

7# Mark the Key for MEXT Japan 2027 Scholarship Timeline (Tentative)

Note: The University-Recommended MEXT route opens around October–December 2026 for the 2027 session.

Quick Checklist for 2027 MEXT Applicants

1. Regularly check your embassy’s website from March 2026
2. Collect academic transcripts and recommendations now
3. Start drafting your research proposal or study plan
4. Practice for English/Japanese/subject exams
5. Learn basic Japanese or improve your English proficiency
6. Shortlist at least 3–5 Japanese universities
7. Plan early for medical certificates and passport validity.

References

1. https://www.qa.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_ja/mext2026.html
2. https://www.uk.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/mext_postgrad.html.