Are you a future researcher looking to expand your academic horizons in one of the world’s most innovative and culturally rich countries? The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) of Japan has officially opened the call for applications for the MEXT Scholarship 2026 for Research Students — and it’s your golden ticket to fully funded graduate studies in Japan.
This prestigious program is more than a scholarship; it’s an invitation to pursue your academic passion while experiencing Japan’s world-class education, vibrant culture, and cutting-edge research environment.
What Is the MEXT Scholarship for Research Students?
The MEXT Research Student Scholarship is designed for outstanding international students seeking to pursue Master’s or Doctoral degrees in Japan. The program starts with a research phase as a non-regular student, with the opportunity to advance to full-degree programs depending on academic performance and university acceptance.
Applicants can choose from a wide range of fields — from engineering and natural sciences to social sciences and economics — as long as the research area aligns with their academic background.
Note: Clinical training in medicine or traditional Japanese arts is excluded unless proper licensing is acquired.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the MEXT 2026 Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of a country with diplomatic ties to Japan, such as the Solomon Islands.
- Be born on or after April 2, 1991 (exceptions apply).
- Hold a degree that qualifies them for a Japanese graduate program.
- Be in good physical and mental health.
- Demonstrate a willingness to learn Japanese and adapt to life in Japan.
- Be able to arrive in Japan:
- Between April 1–7, 2026 or
- Two weeks before or after September/October 2026 for the fall intake.
Dual citizens must renounce their Japanese citizenship before arriving in Japan.
What the Scholarship Covers
Successful candidates will receive:
- Monthly stipend:
- ¥143,000 for research students
- ¥144,000 for Master’s students
- ¥145,000 for Doctoral students
- Additional regional allowance of ¥2,000–¥3,000 (depending on location)
- Full tuition: Including entrance, matriculation, and university fees
- Round-trip airfare: From your home country to Japan and back
Important Dates & Deadlines
Application Deadline: All applications must be submitted to the Embassy of Japan in the Solomon Islands by 4:00 PM on Friday, 16 May 2026. First Screening: Written exams and interviews are scheduled for early June 2026.
Results Announcement:
- Primary results: Mid-June 2026
- Final placement & scholarship confirmation: January–February 2027
Required Documents
Prepare the following documents:
- 2026 MEXT Application Form (Download PDF)
- Research Plan
- Academic transcripts and graduation certificates
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Medical certificate
- Proof of English or Japanese proficiency (if applicable)
- Portfolio (for Fine Arts/Music majors)
Shortlisted candidates will take written exams in English and Japanese.
Practice past exam papers: Study in Japan Exams
How to Apply
Interested candidates should visit the official website to review full eligibility criteria and submit their application: Apply Now
Final Thoughts
The MEXT Scholarship 2026 is more than financial aid — it’s your gateway to joining a global academic community, accessing cutting-edge research, and experiencing life in one of the world’s most dynamic countries. If you’re from the Solomon Islands or another eligible country, don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime chance.
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