Are you an international student with aspirations of studying at one of the world’s top universities without the burden of tuition fees, travel expenses, and living costs? If yes, then the University of Tokyo MEXT University Recommended Scholarship 2026 could be your perfect opportunity. The Graduate School of Science at the University of Tokyo is calling for applications for the 2026 Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship through university recommendation, a fully-funded scholarship designed for exceptional international students who wish to pursue Master's or PhD degrees in Japan.
This esteemed scholarship program aims to cultivate talent who will foster diplomatic ties and contribute to the global development of science and technology. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the eligibility requirements, application procedures, benefits, and more to help you secure this amazing opportunity.
Overview of MEXT Scholarship at the University of Tokyo:
The University of Tokyo, one of the most prestigious institutions globally, is offering this fully-funded scholarship to talented international students. The Graduate School of Science is focused on selecting individuals who not only excel academically but also possess the potential to become bridges of friendship and collaboration between Japan and their home countries.
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Number of Available Scholarships:
The exact number of scholarships for 2026 will be determined after the application period concludes. However, in the previous round (for 2025 entrance), each Graduate School could nominate up to one applicant, and the University of Tokyo could nominate a maximum of three students to MEXT.
Benefits of the MEXT Scholarship 2026:
The MEXT Scholarship offers a wide range of benefits that will cover all aspects of your stay in Japan, making it an ideal opportunity for international students.
1. Monthly Stipend:
· 144,000 yen/month for Master’s students.
· 145,000 yen/month for Doctoral students.
· A supplementary stipend may be provided for students who study or research in designated regions.
2. Travel Expenses:
Round-trip airfare: MEXT will provide an economy-class air ticket from your home country to Japan and back upon completion of your program.
3. Exemption from Tuition Fees:
Tuition fees and enrollment fees are completely waived for MEXT scholarship recipients, meaning you can focus entirely on your studies without the worry of high costs.
4. Standard Duration of the Scholarship:
The scholarship covers the standard period required to complete your program:
· Master’s Program: 2 years (October 2026 – September 2028)
· Doctoral Program: 3 years (October 2026 – September 2029)
5. Extension of the Scholarship:
Students who progress from the Master’s program to the Doctoral program may be eligible for an extension of the scholarship, provided they meet academic performance requirements and pass an entrance examination.
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Eligibility Criteria of the Scholarship:
To qualify for this prestigious scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Academic Excellence:
Applicants must have an exceptional academic record. Current students should have a minimum GPA of 2.30 or higher. Applicants must be able to maintain the same academic standard during the scholarship period. Graduated applicants must also meet this GPA requirement.
2. Program of Study:
Applicants must apply for a Master’s or Doctoral Program at the Graduate School of Science at the University of Tokyo. The field of study must align with the applicant’s previous academic background or a closely related discipline.
3. Nationality:
Applicants must hold the nationality of an eligible country. Japanese nationals or individuals who have Japanese nationality are ineligible unless they meet specific conditions, such as renouncing their Japanese citizenship before enrollment.
4. Age Requirements:
Applicants must be born on or after April 2, 1991.
5. Language Proficiency:
Applicants should have a TOEFL iBT score of 72 or higher, or an IELTS score of 5.5 or higher, or have completed an English-taught program equivalent to the Graduate School of Science's entry requirements. Alternatively, applicants can meet the requirement by having passed the JLPT N2 or higher.
6. Health and Physical Fitness:
Applicants must be in good physical and mental health to pursue their studies in Japan.
7. Arrival in Japan:
Applicants must be able to arrive in Japan by the specified date (usually within two weeks before or after the semester begins in October).
8. Visa Requirements:
Applicants must obtain a Student Visa from the Japanese embassy in their home country.
How to Apply for the University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship 2026?
The application process is detailed and involves multiple steps. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Prepare Application Documents:
· Application Form:
Complete the official application form provided by the University of Tokyo.
· Field of Study and Research Plan:
Submit a well-structured research proposal outlining your intended area of study.
· Letter of Recommendation:
A recommendation letter from a dean or higher-level academic officer from your previous university.
· Transcripts and Certificates:
Official academic transcripts and certificates of your previous studies, including your final grade point average (GPA).
· Proof of Language Proficiency:
Submit TOEFL, IELTS, or JLPT test scores, or a certificate from your previous university confirming your language proficiency.
· Passport Copy:
Provide a copy of your passport’s photo page.
· Graduation Thesis Abstract:
A concise summary of your graduation thesis or research project.
2. Submit Your Application:
After completing the application for the Graduate School of Science, submit your application through the designated online form by October 31, 2025. Make sure all documents are completed and submitted in the required format (either in English or Japanese). All documents must be in A4 format and printed double-sided.
3. Nomination Process:
After your submission, your application will be reviewed by the Graduate School of Science. If nominated, your application will be forwarded to MEXT, where it will undergo further screening. MEXT will make the final selection of scholarship recipients.
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Important Dates and Application Timeline:
· Application Period: October 15 to October 31, 2025.
· Application Deadline: Ensure that you submit your application before the deadline to be considered for the scholarship.
Conclusion:
The University of Tokyo MEXT University Recommended Scholarship 2026 is an extraordinary opportunity for high-achieving international students to study at one of the most prestigious universities in the world. Not only will it cover all your expenses, including tuition, living costs, and travel, but it also allows you to immerse yourself in Japanese culture and contribute to global knowledge. To apply and know more visit the University of Tokyo MEXT University Recommended Scholarship 2026 official link here.