Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship Program for Undergraduates 2026

Fully Funded Study Opportunity in Japan

Are you dreaming of studying in Japan with full financial support? The Japanese Government (MEXT – Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology) Scholarship for Undergraduates offers international students the opportunity to pursue higher education in Japan with tuition fully covered, monthly stipends, and travel support.

The Embassy of Japan in Nigeria has officially opened applications for the 2026 intake, and eligible Nigerian students are encouraged to apply.

About the MEXT Undergraduate Scholarship

The MEXT Scholarship is designed to develop future global leaders who will serve as bridges of friendship between Japan and their home countries. Recipients are expected to contribute positively to the development of both nations and the global community.

Scholarship Benefits

Successful applicants will enjoy the following benefits:

1. Monthly Allowance

• 117,000 yen per month

• An additional regional allowance of 2,000 – 3,000 yen for students studying or conducting research in specially designated regions in Japan

2. Tuition & Academic Fees

• Entrance examination fees – Waived

• Matriculation fees – Waived

• Full tuition – Covered

3. Travel Expenses

• Round-trip international airfare from your home country to Japan (as determined by MEXT)

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Japanese Government (MEXT) Undergraduate Scholarship, applicants must meet the following conditions:

Nationality

• Must be a citizen of a country that has diplomatic relations with Japan

• Applicants with Japanese nationality are not eligible

• Dual nationals may apply if they:

  • Reside outside Japan

  • Choose their non-Japanese nationality

  • Renounce Japanese nationality before arrival in Japan

The first screening will be conducted at the Japanese Embassy in the applicant’s country of chosen nationality.

Age Requirement

• Applicants must be born on or after April 2, 2001

• Must be at least 18 years old at the time of admission into a Japanese university

Academic Background

Applicants must meet at least one of the following conditions:

1. Completed 12 years of formal education outside Japan

   • Or expected to complete by March 2026

   • For fall direct placement: completion by August 2026

2. Completed education equivalent to a Japanese upper secondary school

3. Passed a recognized academic qualification exam equivalent to 12 years of schooling

4. Eligible for enrollment in a Japanese university at the time of application

Applicants seeking direct placement must meet conditions 1, 2, or 4.

Japanese Language Requirement

• Applicants must be willing to learn Japanese

• Must have an interest in Japanese culture and society

• Should be prepared to conduct academic studies primarily in Japanese

Health Condition

• Applicants must submit a medical certificate signed by a licensed physician

• Must confirm no physical or mental condition that would hinder study in Japan

Arrival in Japan

• Applicants must be able to arrive in Japan between:

  • April 1 – April 7, 2026

• For fall semester direct placement:

• Arrival must be within two weeks before or after the university’s academic start date.

Required Application Documents

All applicants must submit hard copies of the following documents to the Japanese Embassy:

1. Completed Application Form

2. Direct Placement Preference Form

3. Academic transcripts for all schools attended

4. Certificate(s) of graduation

5. Recommendation letter from a teacher or school principal

6. Medical Certificate (official MEXT format)

7. Certificate of enrollment (if applicable)

8. Certificate of university enrollment qualification examination (if applicable)

9. Certificate of language proficiency (if available)

⚠️ Submitted documents will not be returned.

Application Deadline

Friday, May 30, 2026

Late submissions will not be accepted.

How to Apply

Step 1: Online Information

Visit the official Study in Japan portal:
https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp

Step 2: Submit Hard Copy Application (Nigeria)

Applicants in Nigeria must submit their documents either:

• In person, or

• Via post office or courier service

Submission Address:
Embassy of Japan in Nigeria
No. 9 Bobo Street, off Gana Street
Maitama, Abuja

Important Note:

• Only hard copy applications are accepted

• Ensure submission is completed on or before May 30, 2026

The MEXT Undergraduate Scholarship is a life-changing opportunity to study in one of the world’s most advanced education systems tuition-free and fully funded. If you meet the requirements, don’t miss this chance to study, grow, and build international connections in Japan.

Apply early, prepare your documents carefully, and give yourself the best chance to succeed.