Scholarship Summary

Key Information at a Glance

• Country: Japan
• Host University: Kyoto University
• Study Levels: Master’s, PhD, Professional Degree
• Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
• Deadline: 30 January 2026

Benefits of Kyoto University MEXT Scholarship 2026

One of the biggest advantages of the Kyoto University MEXT Scholarship is its comprehensive financial coverage, allowing students to focus entirely on academics and research.

Monthly Stipend

• Research Students: JPY 143,000 per month
• Master’s / Professional / Early Doctoral: JPY 144,000 per month
• Doctoral (Later Years): JPY 145,000 per month

Additional Allowances

• +3,000 JPY/month for Yoshida, Katsura, or Otsu campuses
• +2,000 JPY/month for Uji or Inuyama campuses

Other Covered Benefits

• Full tuition fee exemption
• Admission and application fee waiver
• Round-trip airfare to Japan
• Access to advanced research facilities and libraries
• Support services for international students

Eligible Fields of Study

Applicants must apply for a field of study that is the same as or closely related to their previous academic background. Kyoto University offers a wide range of graduate programs, including:

• Engineering and Technology
• Natural and Life Sciences
• Medicine and Health Sciences
• Economics and Business
• Social Sciences
• Humanities and Arts
• Environmental and Global Studies

Eligibility Criteria for Kyoto University MEXT Scholarship 2026

To be considered, applicants must meet all of the following requirements.

Nationality

• Open to international applicants from MEXT-designated countries
• Japanese nationals are generally not eligible
• Dual nationals must renounce Japanese nationality before arrival

Academic Requirements

• Excellent academic record with a minimum GPA coefficient of 2.30/3.00
• Must meet Kyoto University’s graduate admission requirements

Age Limit

• Applicants must be born on or after 2 April 1991

Language Proficiency

Applicants must meet Japanese or English language requirements.

Japanese:

• JLPT N2 or higher, or
• Education conducted primarily in Japanese, or
• Recognized equivalent by Kyoto University

English:

• CEFR B2 level or higher
• IELTS 5.5+, TOEFL iBT 72+, or equivalent
• Prior education in English may be accepted

Health Condition

• Applicants must be physically and mentally fit to study in Japan

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit all documents requested by the prospective host professor and Kyoto University.

Commonly Required Documents

• Completed application form
• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Research plan or study proposal
• Proof of language proficiency
• Recommendation letters
• Copy of passport
• Medical certificate (if required)

Important: Missing or late documents may result in automatic disqualification.

How to Apply for Kyoto University MEXT Scholarship 2026

The application process involves close coordination with a prospective host professor at Kyoto University.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Identify a Host Professor

Search for a professor whose research aligns with your academic interests. Contact them professionally with a strong research proposal.

Step 2: Receive Guidance from the Professor

If the professor is interested, they may request additional documents or conduct an online interview.

Step 3: Submit Required Documents

Prepare and submit all required materials by the deadline specified by the professor or graduate school.

Step 4: University Screening

Kyoto University conducts an internal screening and selects candidates for recommendation to MEXT.

Step 5: MEXT Final Selection

MEXT reviews the nominations and makes the final decision.

Step 6: Arrival in Japan

Successful applicants must arrive in Japan between 17 September and 15 October 2026.

Visa and Arrival Information

• Scholarship recipients must obtain a Student Visa

• Entry must be completed within the official arrival window
• Failure to arrive on time may result in loss of the scholarship

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Kyoto University MEXT Scholarship fully funded?

Yes. It covers tuition, monthly stipend, airfare, and additional allowances.

Can I apply to more than one university?

No. Applicants recommended by more than one university will be disqualified.

Can joint or double-degree students apply?

Yes, provided that:

• Research outside Japan does not exceed half the scholarship period
• The first six months are spent in Japan

Is work allowed during the scholarship?

Limited part-time work may be permitted with official approval, but academic commitments must remain the priority.

Why Choose Kyoto University?

Kyoto University is one of Japan’s top-ranked institutions, known for innovation, Nobel laureates, and interdisciplinary research. Studying here offers:

• Global academic recognition
• Cutting-edge research opportunities
• Strong international networks
• Immersive cultural experience in historic Kyoto

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