MEXT Scholarship 2026 at the University of Tsukuba – Fully Funded Study in Japan
The MEXT Scholarship 2026, provided by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), offers international students a chance to pursue fully funded undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral studies in Japan. The University of Tsukuba, a leading institution located in Japan’s renowned Tsukuba Science City, is one of the participating universities offering this prestigious opportunity through both Embassy and University Recommendation routes.
Why Choose the University of Tsukuba?
Ranked among Japan’s top universities, the University of Tsukuba is globally recognized for its cutting-edge research, interdisciplinary education, and strong support for international students.
Highlights:
- 🌐 International Focus: Multicultural campus with students from 100+ countries
- 🤖 Research Excellence: Notable strengths in AI, robotics, biomedicine, and resilience engineering
- 🏙️ Prime Location: Based in Tsukuba Science City, Japan’s tech and research hub
- 💼 Career & Innovation Support: Strong ties with global industries and research networks
Scholarship Details
- Host University: University of Tsukuba, Japan
- Sponsor: MEXT (Japanese Government)
- Funding Type: Fully funded
- Programs Covered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees
- Eligible Nationalities: All non-Japanese international applicants
- Study Start Date: April or October 2026 (depending on the route)
- Application Routes:
- Embassy Recommendation
- University Recommendation (General or Special Programs)
Scholarship Benefits
The MEXT Scholarship covers all key expenses, allowing students to focus entirely on academics and research:
- 100% Tuition Coverage
- Admission Fee Waiver
- Monthly Living Allowance
- Round-trip Airfare to Japan
- Access to Full Academic and Research Facilities
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following general requirements:
- Be a non-Japanese national
- Meet the age requirement (typically under 35 for graduate programs)
- Hold or be expected to complete the required educational qualification (e.g., bachelor’s for master’s program)
- Demonstrate strong academic performance
- Show interest in Japanese language/culture (especially for undergraduates)
- Be in good health
- For University Recommendation: Candidates must be from countries designated by MEXT
Note: Exact requirements may vary depending on degree level and application route.
Deadlines & Timelines
Embassy Recommendation:
- April–July 2025: Apply through Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country
- By September 1, 2025: Request Provisional Acceptance from University of Tsukuba
- October–November 2025: Submit acceptance to embassy
- April or October 2026: Program begins (varies by academic cycle)
University Recommendation:
- November–December 2025: Applications open
- January–February 2026: Internal review and university selection
- June 2026: Final results announced by MEXT
- October 2026: Studies begin at Tsukuba
Application Process & How to Apply
1. Embassy Recommendation Route
- Step 1: Visit your country’s Japanese embassy/consulate website
- Step 2: Complete MEXT application forms and collect required documents (e.g., transcripts, personal statement, language proof)
- Step 3: Submit application by local deadline (usually April–July 2025)
- Step 4: If shortlisted, contact Tsukuba via the TRIOS academic database to find a potential supervisor
- Step 5: Obtain a Letter of Provisional Acceptance from Tsukuba by September 1, 2025
- Step 6: Submit the letter to the embassy for final consideration
- Step 7: Await confirmation from MEXT
2. University Recommendation Route
- Step 1: Choose a degree program offered by Tsukuba
- Step 2: Identify and contact a suitable academic advisor using the TRIOS system
- Step 3: Obtain written agreement from the professor to act as your supervisor
- Step 4: Prepare application materials as per university guidelines (released in November 2025)
- Step 5: Submit your application to the University of Tsukuba
- Step 6: Participate in internal screening, if required
- Step 7: If nominated, wait for MEXT’s final decision in June 2026
Special Programs (e.g., AI, Resilience Engineering, Sport and Olympic Studies) may have separate processes and entrance requirements—check Tsukuba’s site for program-specific instructions.
Programs Available
Eligible programs span a wide range of disciplines at all academic levels:
- Undergraduate: Global Issues, Interdisciplinary Engineering
- Master’s & Doctorate:
- Artificial Intelligence & Robotics
- Biomedical Innovation
- Materials Science
- Sport and Olympic Studies
- Resilience Engineering
These programs align with Japan’s global innovation priorities and provide a rigorous academic foundation for future leaders.
Why Apply for MEXT at Tsukuba?
- Prestige & Recognition: One of the most competitive and respected scholarships worldwide
- Innovation-Focused Curriculum: Research-based learning in fields that matter globally
- Global Community: Connect with peers and faculty from over 100 countries
- Career Readiness: Career counseling, industry partnerships, and internships for real-world experience
- Cultural Immersion: Opportunities to engage with Japanese society, language, and traditions
Final Thoughts: Shape Your Future in Japan
The MEXT Scholarship 2026 at the University of Tsukuba is a life-changing opportunity for international students to earn a world-class degree without financial constraints. Whether your interests lie in technology, science, health, or global development, Tsukuba offers a vibrant academic community to support your goals.
Apply here https://www.tsukuba.ac.jp/en/admissions/financial-scholarships/individual/
