Popular Japanese Scholarships for Indian Students
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Popular Japanese Scholarships for Indian Students

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Raushan
Raushan Kumar
Assistant Manager Content
Updated on May 15, 2025 11:54 IST

There are various reasons why Indian students want to study in Japan. Some go for high-quality education, and others go for excellent job opportunities for international students. However, the core reason is the availability of numerous Japanese scholarships and affordable education in Japan for international students.

Top Japan Scholarships for Indian Students

Japan is becoming a popular place for Indian students to study. Many students want to go there because Japan has good schools, new technology, and a different culture to learn about. One big reason is that there are many scholarships to help Indian students pay for their studies. These scholarships can cover school fees, living costs, and even travel expenses.

So, if you wish to study in Japan but the associated cost of studying is concerning you then, worry not! This article covers complete details on the popular Japanese scholarships available for Indian and international students

The most famous scholarship in Japan is called the MEXT Scholarship. It is given by the Japanese government and helps students study for their bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degrees. Besides MEXT, there are other scholarships from groups like the Hanjo Foundation and some Japanese universities.

Japanese scholarships offer a handsome amount per month to students, which covers education costs, one round of airfare and living expenses in a few cases as well. Let us now learn some of the top scholarships for Indian students to study in Japan given in this article below.

Top Scholarships in Japan for Indian Students (2025)

The following section deals with the scholarships in Japan for Indian students offered through various government and external agencies.

Scholarship Name

Funded By

Study Level

MEXT Scholarships

Government of Japan

Undergraduate, Master’s, Ph.D.

Hanjo Foundation Scholarship

Hanjo Foundation

Master’s, Ph.D.

Yokohama National University MEXT

Government of Japan

Master’s, Ph.D.

Hokkaido University MEXT

Government of Japan

Master’s, Ph.D.

The University of Tokyo MEXT

Government of Japan

Master’s, Ph.D.

World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

World Bank

Master’s

APU MEXT UR Scholarship

Government of Japan

Undergraduate, Master’s, Ph.D.

Keio University ADB Japan Scholarship

Asian Development Bank (ADB)

Master’s

Osaka University MEXT Scholarships

Government of Japan

Master’s, Ph.D.

Kyoto University ADB Scholarship

Asian Development Bank (ADB)

Master’s

MEXT Scholarships Japan: Fully Funded by the Japanese Government

Under the Japanese Government MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology), there are around seven types of scholarships offered to Indian students pursuing various levels of study, including Masters in Japan. For now, MEXT scholarship applications for Indian students for 2024 and 2025 are closed. Applications for MEXT scholarships for Indian students are free of cost. The following are the details for the Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship

Type 

MEXT Scholarship Eligibility 

Scholarship Amount Offered (per month)*

Number of Scholarships Offered 

Research Students

  • The students must be under 35 years of age and college graduates (plus prospective graduates). Or must have completed 16 years of schooling.
  • A relevant bachelor's or master's degree with a minimum of 70% marks is required for postgraduate or research programs. Documents pertaining to all the associated mark sheets and/or research work and experience must be submitted on or before September 30, 2026, for the October 2026 batch.
  1. Preparatory education & non-regular students: 143,000 yen (Approx. Rs.73,989)
  2. Regular enrolled in master’s or professional degree courses: 144,000 yen (Approx. Rs.74,506)
  3. Regular students enrolled in the doctoral course: 145,000 yen (Approx. Rs.75,024)

TBA 

Undergraduate Applicants

  • Students must be born on or after April 02, 2001.
  • Must have received a minimum of 80% of marks in class 10, 11 or 12th.
  • Students with proficiency in the Japanese language will be preferred.

117,000 yen (Approx. Rs.60,536) 

12 

National Institute of Technology (Kosen)

  • Students must be born on or after April 02, 2001.
  • Along with other documents and requirements listed in the guidelines, one must have received a minimum of 65% of marks in class 10, 11 or 12th.
  • Students with proficiency in the Japanese language will be preferred.

Specialized College Training Students

  • Students must be born on or after April 02, 2001.
  • Along with other documents and requirements listed in the guidelines, one must have received a minimum of 60% of marks in class 10, 11 or 12th.
  • Students with proficiency in the Japanese language will be preferred.

Japanese Language Studying Applicants

  • Those wanting admission to these courses must be between 18 to 30 years of age.
  • Students must be enrolled as undergrads in selected universities and have studied the Japanese language/culture for 1 year or more.

117,000 yen (Approx. Rs.60,536) 

09 

Young Leaders' Program Students

  • The applicants must be under 40 years of age.
  • Master’s courses aspirants.

242,000 yen, but is subject to change (Approx. Rs.1,25,212)

Handful  

Teacher Training Students

  • Applicants must be under 35 years of age and graduate of a college or teacher training college.
  • They must have at least five years of active experience as a teacher in a primary, secondary or teacher-training college in their home country. (Note: College and university teachers currently in service will not be considered for this scholarship).

143,000 yen (Approx. Rs.73,989)

09 

Note:

  • Education fee is exempted for all those Indian students who are qualifying for the above-given MEXT scholarships. Also, round airfare is available for students as part of these scholarships. 
  • The application procedures for all the Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarships are to be carried out by the Japanese Embassies and consulates in one's own country or by the institutions of higher education where you wish to enrol in Japan.

Related Blogs:

Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarships Deadlines

Type No. of Scholarships Application Period Remarks
Research Student To be announced April–May Applications closed for 2026*
Undergraduate Students 12 22 April–26 May, 2025 Applications open for 2026*
National Institute of Technology (Kosen) 12 22 April–26 May, 2025 Applications open for 2026*
Specialized Training College Students 12 22 April–26 May, 2025 Applications open for 2026*
Japanese Studies Students About 9 Dec–Jan Applications closed for 2025
Young Leaders’ Program Students A few Jul–Sep Applications closed for 2025
Teacher Training Students About 9 Dec–Jan Applications closed for 2025
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Japanese Scholarships by Local Governments & Local International Associations  

International students who come and study in Japan’s local district’s schools and universities are also offered certain scholarships. The following scholarships can be availed while studying at Japanese universities

  • Kyoto City International Foundation 
  • Hyogo International Association 
  • The Asia-Fukuoka FosterParents Scholarship 
  • University-corporate scholarship for International students in Fukuoka 

Students must ensure that the above-given scholarships they are applying to fit their eligibility criteria and are applicable to their country of origin. Only designated country students are eligible for these scholarships plus there may be an age limit also, thus, please check before proceeding for admission and scholarship application. 








JASSO Scholarships for International Students in Japan

JASSO or Japan Student Services Organisation also offers international students scholarships to fund their education in Japan. There are just two scholarships offered under this category - one is for privately funded international students and the other one is the exchange program for international students. Check out the JASSO-offered scholarships below: 

Type of JASSO Scholarship 

Scholarship Eligibility 

Scholarship Amount Offered (per month)*

Scholarship Amount Payment Period

 
 

Monbukagakusho Honors Scholarship 

  • Graduate or research students,
  • Undergrad universities,
  • Junior colleges,
  • College of Technology (3rd year and above), or
  • Specialised training college,
  • Preparatory Japanese language courses by junior college students and private universities,
  • Advanced course by junior/technical college and university or
  • University preparatory courses   

48,000 yen (Approx. Rs.24,835)

  • Either for year, from April to March of the following yaer, or
  • for 6 months, from Octobe to March of the folowing year.

 

Japanese language institution student 

30,000 yen (Approx. Rs.15,522)

Student Exchange Support Program (Scholarship for Short-term Study in Japan) 

Students accepted by Japanese schools for an exchange agreement or student exchange arrangement with their home school. 

80,000 yen (Approx. Rs.41,392)

It is advised that students check the minimum eligibility criteria and whether or not their institution partners with Japan for exchange programs before applying.







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Private Scholarships to Study in Japan (2025)

There are scholarships to study in Japan offered by Japanese or other private foundations which offer funding to international students. There may be certain criteria which must be fulfilled in order to qualify for any of the following privately funded scholarships in Japan:  

  • The Asian Foundation for International Scholarship Interchange 
  • Iwaki Scholarship Foundation 
  • The Iwatani International Scholarships 
  • Inner Trip Foundation  
  • The Iwatani Naoji Foundation 
  • The Emori Asian Student Scholarship Foundation 
  • LSH Asia Scholarship Foundation 
  • Kashiyama Scholarship Foundation 
  • Kato Asao International Scholarship Foundation 
  • Kawanishi Memorial Shinmaywa Education Foundation 
  • The Kambayashi Scholarship Foundation 
  • Kyoritsu Foundation Scholarship 
  • The Prefectural University of Kumamoto International Postgraduate Scholarship for Research on Mercury 
  • Kohnan Asia Scholarship Foundation 
  • Rokko Scholarship Fund 
  • Kobayashi Foundation - General Scholarship & Special Research Fellowship  
  • Sato Yo International Scholarship Foundation 
  • Shiiki Masakazu Memorial Scholarship for Asian Student 
  • Shunju Scholarship Foundation  
  • One Seed Scholarship  
  • Senshu Scholarship Foundation 
  • Takayama International Education Foundation (TIEF) 
  • Takizaki Memorial Trust  
  • East Asian Circle of Applied Technology (EACAT) 
  • Tokio Marine Kagami Memorial Foundation 
  • Nagashima Bunka Zaidan   
  • JEES 
    • DOCOMO International Student Scholarship (JEES Sponsor-Crowned Scholarship) 
    • Seiho Scholarship (JEES Sponsor-Crowned Scholarship) 
    • T.Banaji Indian Students Scholarship (JEES Sponsor-Crowned Scholarship) 
  • Hashimoto Yasuhiko Asia Africa Ryugakusei Shogakukikin 
  • Hirose International Scholarship Foundation 
  • Mitsubishi UFJ Foundation  
  • Moriya Scholarship  
  • Yamaoka Scholarship Foundation 
  • Watanuki International Scholarship Foundation 
  • JT Asia Scholarship 

Each scholarship given above has different scholarship amounts offered and the number of awardees also differ. Thus, apply within time if students qualify for the minimum eligibility criteria applying to Japanese universities. 

Overall, it can be concluded that since there is a plethora of scholarships available for international students to study in Japan, Indian students apply for higher education there. Each Japanese scholarship that is offered has certain minimum eligibility criteria which need to be checked before applying for the same.

Q:   Which scholarship is best for Indian students to study in Japan?
A:

The MEXT Scholarship is the most prestigious and fully funded, covering tuition, living costs, and airfare.

Q:   How can I get a full scholarship in Japan?
A:

There are several scholarships available for international students to study in Japan, and some of them can cover the full cost of tuition and fees. Here are some steps you can take to increase your chances of getting a fully funded scholarship in Japan:

  • Excel in your academics: This is the most important factor for scholarship applications. Aim for high grades in all your courses, and consider taking additional courses relevant to your field of study in Japan.

  • Develop a strong research proposal: If you are applying for a research-based scholarship, be sure to develop a well-defined and compelling research proposal. This will show the scholarship committee that you are a serious student with a clear plan for your studies.

  • Start planning early: The application process for scholarships can be competitive and time-consuming. Start researching scholarships well in advance and give yourself plenty of time to gather all of the required materials.

  • Look for scholarships from a variety of sources; There are scholarships offered by the Japanese government, Japanese universities, private organizations, and international organizations. Broaden your search to increase your chances of finding a scholarship that is a good fit for you.

Here are some resources that can help you find Japan scholarship for Indian students 2024:

  1. The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) Scholarship: This is a prestigious scholarship programme offered by the Japanese government. It covers the full cost of tuition and fees, as well as a monthly stipend for living expenses.

  2. JASSO Scholarship: The Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) offers a variety of scholarships for international students. These scholarships can cover the full or partial cost of tuition and fees.

  3. University Scholarships: Many Japanese universities offer their own scholarships for international students. Be sure to check the websites of the universities you are interested in to see if they offer any scholarships.

Q:   Is it difficult to get a scholarship in Japan for Indian students?
A:

Getting a full-funded scholarship in Japan for Indian students can be competitive, but it's not impossible. Here's a quick breakdown:

Challenges:

  • Competition: Many international students vie for limited scholarship spots which is why getting a scholarship in Japan proves to be way more difficult.

  • Academic Strength: High grades and relevant coursework are crucial to securing your chances of getting the much-desired 100% scholarships in Japan.

Tips to Increase Chances:

  • Strong Academics: Maintain a stellar academic record.

  • Stand Out: Craft a compelling research proposal (if applicable).

  • Plan Early: Research scholarships well in advance.

  • Explore Options: Look beyond government scholarships to universities and private organizations.

Q:   How can an Indian student get scholarship to study in Japan?
A:

In order to avail a scholarship in Japan for Indian students, you must be academically excellent as it is one of the most important factors considered. Apart from studies, they will also expect you to stand out among all the other applicants. Hence, your resume must contain unique experiences, which will help you outshine the other candidates. There are certain other criteria as well, such as the age factor, document requirements, language requirements, and more, which you must fulfill to enjoy the benefits of a Japan scholarship for Indian students.

Note that preference is given to candidates with Japanese Language proficiency. Hence, learning the Japanese language will elevate your profile and increases your chances of grabbing the opportunity.

Eligibility Criteria for UG Candidates

Eligibility Criteria for PG Candidates

  • Must be of the age of 18 or above at the time of admission;

  • Must have completed 12 years of schooling; and

  • Fluency in the Japanese language.

  • A Bachelor's degree with minimum 70% grades (in a relevant field of study);

  • Must be under 35 years of age; and

  • Fluency in the Japanese language.

Q:   How many Indian students get the MEXT scholarship?
A:

On the undergraduate level, the MEXT scholarship offers 12 scholarships and usually one candidate is selected for each scholarship. As per the report released on the official website, the 12 applicants (approx.) who successfully pass the first screening proceed to the world-wide final screening by MEXT. It is then decided whether they are a good match for the scholarship. Refer to the table below for the important dates and deadlines:

Particulars

Dates & Deadlines

Application Deadline

May-End, 2025 (tentative)

Application Screening

Early-Jun, 2025 (tentative)

Notification of Shortlisted Candidates for Written Test/Interview

Mid-Jun, 2025 (tentative)

Written Examination

Jun-End, 2025 (tentative)

Interview

Jun-End, 2025 (tentative)

Notification of the Results of the First Screening

Mid-Jul, 2025 (tentative)

Q:   Is MEXT scholarship hard to get?
A:

Japan is a popular study abroad destination among international students and attracts bright minds from all around the globe. Most of the students look for scholarships when planning to study abroad. Due to the top-notch financial aid offered, availing a MEXT scholarship is on everybody's bucket list. This makes the volume of applications very high and thus, the MEXT scholarships very competitive and hard to get. However, you must not get discouraged. Excellent academic scores, fluency in the Japanese language, and other co-curricular activities will increase your chances of availing the scholarships.

Q:   What is the fee of University of Tokyo for international students?
A:

The tuition fees at the University of Tokyo is different for domestic and international students. Also, the tuition fee for international students will depend on the type of course and level of study. Therefore, international students should check the tuiton fee for their course before applying. Below is given the tuition fees for some popular courses offered at the University of Tokyo

CourseAverage Tuition Fees
MSINR 3 L 
MAINR 2 L 
MArchINR 3 L 
Q:   How can I get admission in Tokyo University?
A:

Tokyo University is very selective and highly competitive for any course so candidates need to score very high in academics and must have extra curriculars to show as part of their profile. Along with that, students must fulfill the basic eligibility requirements set by the university. Students must submit some required documents including college/university transcripts, recommendations, resumes, video and timed writing reflection, and TOEFL/IELTS scores. 

About the Author
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Written by
Raushan Kumar
Assistant Manager Content

Raushan Kumar is a skilled writer and a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. He oversees various aspects of studying abroad, including educational opportunities, entrance exams, colleges, latest new... Read Full Bio

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