Are you passionate about Japanese language and culture? The MEXT Japanese Studies Scholarship 2025-2026 offers a golden opportunity for U.S. undergraduate students to immerse themselves in Japanese culture and language at a Japanese university for one year. Applications are now open, with a deadline of February 12, 2025. Here’s everything you need to know about this prestigious scholarship program!
Scholarship Overview
The MEXT Japanese Studies Scholarship, sponsored by the Government of Japan, provides:
- Full tuition at a Japanese university for one academic year (starting September or October 2025).
- Round-trip airfare between the U.S. and Japan.
- A monthly stipend to cover living expenses while in Japan.
This scholarship is designed for undergraduate students majoring in fields related to Japanese language or Japanese culture who are eager to deepen their understanding of Japan.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for this scholarship, you must meet the following criteria:
1# Citizenship and Residence: Must hold U.S. citizenship and must reside in Maryland, Virginia, or the District of Columbia (applicants from other states should apply through their local consulate).
2# Age and Education:
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- Born between April 2, 1995, and April 1, 2007.
- Must be an undergraduate student majoring in Japanese language or culture.
- Must have completed at least one year of Japanese studies at a university by September 1, 2025.
3# Language Proficiency: Must possess sufficient knowledge of Japanese to attend classes and complete assignments at a Japanese university.
4# Post-Scholarship Requirement: Must return to the home institution and continue studies after completing the scholarship period.
Apply here: https://www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/mext-scholarship.html.
Selection Process
The application process involves several stages:
- February 12, 2025: Deadline for submitting application documents.
- February 25, 2025: Written examination in Japanese at the Embassy of Japan in Washington, D.C.
- Late February to Early March 2025: Interviews for shortlisted candidates.
- Late March 2025: Results of the first screening announced.
- Late May 2025: Notification of secondary screening results from MEXT in Tokyo.
- July–August 2025: Final placement and travel arrangements for recipients.
- September or October 2025: Departure to Japan to begin the program