Scholarships Master's PhD

Institute of Science Tokyo 2027 MEXT Scholarship for International Graduate Program (A)

Institute of Science Tokyo

Published on September 17, 2026

LocationJapan DeadlineNovember 30, 2026 · OPEN FundingFully funded International applicantsYes

About the opportunity

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) of Japan offers scholarships to international students who wish to pursue graduate studies at Japanese universities. Institute of Science Tokyo recommends scholarship candidates from among applicants to the International Graduate Program (A) (IGP(A)) in science and engineering fields. The scholarship covers tuition and enrollment fees, provides a monthly stipend, and includes international airfare under certain conditions. The initial scholarship period spans the two-year master’s program, with possible extension options for integrated doctoral education programs based on academic performance.

Funding and benefits

  • Monthly stipend of up to JPY 147,000 for master's students and JPY 148,000 for doctoral students
  • Full waiver of enrollment fees and tuition
  • Reimbursement of entrance examination application fees if allocated by MEXT
  • Provision of air tickets to and from Japan under certain conditions

Who can apply?

  • Must have a grade point average of 2.30 or above out of 3.00 in the last-attended degree program
  • Must hold the nationality of a country that has diplomatic relations with Japan and not hold Japanese nationality at application (dual nationals must renounce Japanese nationality before arrival)
  • Must generally be 34 years old or younger as of April 1 of the first year of the scholarship period
  • Must be a graduate of a university or possess equivalent academic ability
  • Must major in the same field as their previous university studies or a related field
  • Must satisfy English language proficiency equivalent to CEFR level B2 or higher, or have completed an English-medium curriculum
  • Must be physically and mentally able to pursue studies in Japan
  • Must be able to arrive in Japan within two weeks of the start date of the third quarter in late September
  • Must obtain a Student visa for entry into Japan

Required documents

  • Application Form for Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship
  • Recommendation letter from the dean or equivalent official of the applicant's home university addressed to the President of Institute of Science Tokyo
  • Materials showing English language proficiency (test score report or medium of instruction certificate)

When to apply

  • Application period for IGP(A): Mid September to late November of the year prior to intended enrollment

How to apply

  • Check details and application guidelines for the International Graduate Program (A)
  • Prepare the required MEXT scholarship application forms and supporting documentation
  • Obtain and submit a dean's recommendation letter from your home university
  • Submit the scholarship application concurrently with the IGP(A) admission application

Additional information

  • The general scheme for MEXT scholarship recruitment has been suspended from 2026 onwards; applications proceed via the Priority scheme under IGP(A).
  • 75% or more of nominees are chosen from among applicants with nationalities of countries designated by MEXT.

Our Take on This Opportunity

This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.

You may be a strong fit if…

  • Ideal for prospective international graduate students aiming for a fully funded integrated master's and doctoral track in science and engineering fields.
  • Well-suited for candidates who meet strict academic GPA thresholds and possess strong English proficiency qualifications.

What should you think carefully about?

  • Requires concurrent application with the International Graduate Program (A) admission process within a tightly defined autumn window.
  • Strict eligibility constraints apply regarding age limits, nationality rules, and the prohibition of concurrent scholarship applications.

How could this fit your current goals and plans?

This opportunity fits ambitious graduate students seeking robust financial backing and a structured pathway to complete advanced research degrees in Japan without tuition burdens.

Our take

International candidates seeking science and engineering graduate degrees at Science Tokyo who fulfill academic and language criteria should strongly consider applying through the IGP(A) framework.

Ready to apply?

Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.

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