Studying in Japan is a dream for many Indian students world-class education, cutting-edge technology, safe campuses, and generous government support. The biggest opportunity is the MEXT Scholarship, also called the Monbukagakusho Scholarship, offered by the Japanese government.
This guide explains everything clearly from what is MEXT scholarship Japan, eligibility, timelines, acceptance rate, MBBS options, subject lists, and how Indian students can apply successfully for 2026–2027.
The MEXT (Monbukagakusho) Scholarship is a prestigious, fully funded scholarship program offered by the Government of Japan through its Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT). It is designed to support talented international students including Indian students who wish to study at leading Japanese universities.
What makes MEXT truly special is that it removes the financial barriers of studying abroad and allows students to focus completely on learning, research, and career growth.
To understand the eligibility criteria for Indian students, read our detailed guide on MEXT Scholarship Eligibility for Indian Students.
If selected, you receive complete financial support, including:
Because it covers almost every major cost of studying abroad, MEXT is considered one of the most generous and competitive fully funded scholarships in Japan for international students.
In short, the MEXT Scholarship is not just financial aid it is a complete academic and cultural opportunity to build a global career in one of the world’s most advanced and respected education systems.
To understand step-by-step, read our guide on the MEXT Scholarship 2026 Application Process for Indian students.
Planning ahead is the key to securing the MEXT Scholarship. Below is a clear timeline and eligibility guide to help Indian students prepare confidently for the MEXT Scholarship 2027 intake.
While exact dates are announced each year by the Embassy of Japan, the general schedule follows this pattern:
Tip: Start preparing your documents and language skills at least 6–9 months in advance to stay stress-free and competitive.
To apply for the MEXT Scholarship, Indian applicants must meet the following basic requirements:
Meeting these criteria makes you eligible to apply — but strong preparation is what helps you get selected.
For updates on the upcoming program, visit our page on MEXT Scholarship 2026 to stay informed about deadlines and application procedures.
This is one of the most common and important questions asked by Indian students:
“Is the MEXT scholarship available for MBBS?” or “Can medical students apply for MEXT?”
The MEXT Scholarship does not offer a direct MBBS program in English like in India. Japan’s medical education system is different, and most medical degrees are taught in Japanese and follow a different structure.
Stay updated with the latest announcements by checking the MEXT 2026 Results Announced page.
If you are interested in medicine or healthcare, you can apply through the Research Student or Graduate track for fields such as:
These tracks are ideal for students who want to work in research, innovation, healthcare systems, or pursue advanced studies related to medicine.
For official details and application submission, check the MEXT Undergraduate Scholarship Official Website.
Yes — medicine-related study is possible through research and graduate programs.
But a direct Indian-style MBBS degree is not offered under MEXT.
If your goal is to build a career in medical research, healthcare innovation, or advanced clinical studies, the MEXT Scholarship can still be a powerful and prestigious pathway just with a different structure than Indian MBBS.
Think beyond the degree think about where you want your medical career to go.
Learn more about opportunities with the MEXT Scholarship Japan and how it supports Indian students to study in Japan.
While the MEXT Scholarship is the most well-known and generous option, it is not the only way for Indian students to study in Japan with financial support. There are several other scholarships offered by the Japanese government, universities, and organizations that can significantly reduce your study costs.
Here is a simple comparison to help you understand your options:
For a complete overview, visit our MEXT Scholarship blog to understand eligibility, benefits, and tips.
| Scholarship | Funding Type | Who It’s For |
| MEXT Scholarship | Fully funded (tuition, stipend, airfare) | Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD students |
| JASSO Scholarship | Partially funded (monthly allowance) | Exchange and short-term international students |
| Japan Foundation Scholarship | Mostly funded (language & cultural programs) | Students of Japanese language and culture |
| University Scholarships | Partial to full funding | Depends on the university and program |
Smart students apply for multiple scholarships to increase their chances.
Research students can refer to the Embassy of Japan – Research Student Program for official eligibility and application information.
The MEXT Scholarship is highly competitive, with an estimated global acceptance rate of around 2%–5%, depending on the track and country.
However, Indian students with:
have a very real chance of getting selected.
The key difference between selected and rejected candidates is not luck it’s preparation, clarity, and consistency.
Start early, prepare smart, and you can absolutely make it through.
The MEXT Scholarship supports a wide range of academic disciplines, allowing students from different backgrounds to find the right path in Japan.
You can apply for programs in the following major fields:
Choose a subject that aligns with your academic background, career goals, and Japan’s research strengths this greatly improves your chances of selection and long-term success.
Japan values students who have clear purpose, not just good marks.
If you need guidance on your visa application, see our Japan Visa Assistance for Students article.
To help you choose the right scholarship based on your goals, duration, and funding needs, here is a simple comparison of the most popular options available to Indian students:
| Feature | MEXT Scholarship | Japan Foundation Scholarship | University Scholarships |
| Tuition Fees | Fully covered | Sometimes covered | Sometimes covered |
| Monthly Stipend | Yes | Sometimes | Sometimes |
| Duration | Long-term (Full degree) | Short-term programs | Varies by university |
| Competition Level | High | Medium | Medium |
Pick the scholarship that fits your academic plan not just the one with the biggest name.
Both scholarships are excellent, but they serve very different purposes. Here’s a simple comparison to help you understand which one fits your goals:
| Aspect | MEXT Scholarship | Japan Foundation Scholarship |
| Administered by | Government of Japan (MEXT) | The Japan Foundation |
| Coverage | Full degree programs | Mostly language and cultural programs |
| Duration | Long-term (several years) | Short-term (a few months) |
One builds a career. The other builds cultural understanding. Choose based on your long-term plan.
Another detailed resource is our MEXT Scholarship 2026 Application Process page for practical steps and tips.
Top-ranked Japanese universities, including Meiji University, actively accept students through the MEXT Scholarship program.
At Meiji University, MEXT scholars are typically admitted under:
Even if you pass the MEXT screening, universities like Meiji conduct their own internal evaluation to ensure your academic background and research interests match their faculty and resources.
The MEXT Undergraduate (UG) Scholarship is a special track designed for young students who want to pursue their bachelor’s degree in Japan.
It is ideal for Indian students aged 17–21 who have recently completed school and are looking for an international education experience.
This track is perfect for students who are academically strong, open to learning Japanese, and excited about studying and living in a new culture from a young age.
There are two official pathways to apply for the MEXT Scholarship. Choosing the right one depends on your academic level and goals.
To prepare for student visas, refer to our SSW Visa Preparation Classes blog.
This is the most common route for Indian applicants.
Steps:
This track is ideal for students who want centralized guidance and a transparent selection process.
This route is more independent and university-focused.
Steps:
This track suits students with strong academic profiles or existing contacts with Japanese professors.
Even basic Japanese shows commitment and makes you stand out among applicants.
Preparing for MEXT or Japanese universities requires strong Japanese language skills and JLPT readiness. TLS – The Japanese Language School helps Indian students prepare for JLPT, academic Japanese, and interviews with expert trainers.
Learn about cultural and teaching opportunities with the JET Programme for Indians 2026.
Visit Us:
2/81-82, 2nd Floor, Lalita Park, Gali No-2, Laxmi Nagar, New Delhi – 110092
Call Us: +918700956038
Email: tls@teamlanguages.com
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The interview is not about perfect English or memorized answers it’s about clarity, honesty, and purpose.
Here’s how to make a strong impression:
They’re not looking for perfection. They’re looking for students who know what they want and why.
Learn how to apply for a MEXT scholarship in 2026 by visiting this guide: How to Apply for a MEXT Scholarship in 2026.
The acceptance rate is estimated at around 2%–5% globally, depending on the category and number of applicants from each country. Strong academics, a clear study plan, and good interview performance can significantly improve your chances.
Yes. The MEXT Scholarship is completely funded, covering:
This allows students to focus entirely on their studies without financial stress.
Yes. Indian students can apply either through the Embassy Track (via the Japanese Embassy in India) or through the University Track (direct application to a Japanese university that nominates you).
Japanese is not mandatory at the time of application for all tracks, but learning Japanese is highly recommended. Most degree programs and daily life in Japan require at least basic Japanese, and having JLPT N3 or N2 strengthens your application.
A direct Indian-style MBBS program is not offered under MEXT. However, students can pursue medical research, biomedical sciences, public health, or healthcare-related graduate programs through the Research or Graduate tracks.
The age limit depends on the category:
For step-by-step visa guidance, check our SSW Japan Visa page.
Most top universities accept MEXT scholars, including:
Final placement depends on your field of study and professor availability.
MEXT supports full degree programs, while the Japan Foundation Scholarship focuses mainly on short-term language, cultural, or exchange programs. MEXT is more academic and long-term in nature.
Commonly required documents include:
Exact requirements may vary slightly each year.
If you are looking for language courses to improve your chances, read about the Best Japanese Language Course in Delhi.
Yes These are common misspellings of MEXT Scholarship, and they all refer to the same program officially known as the Monbukagakusho Scholarship.
No, work experience is not mandatory. However, for research or professional programs, relevant academic projects or internships can strengthen your profile.
Yes, you can indicate preferred universities, but final placement depends on professor availability and university approval.
No. Applying for the MEXT Scholarship through the Embassy or University Track is free of cost.
Yes. You can apply for MEXT along with other scholarships like JASSO or university scholarships to improve your chances of funding.
You can apply again in the next cycle. Many successful scholars get selected on their second attempt after improving their profile, language skills, or study plan.
👉 Download the full application checklist
👉 Book a free counseling session with TLS
👉Start your Japanese preparation today
Final Thought
The MEXT Scholarship is life-changing — but preparation is key. With the right planning, language skills, and guidance, Indian students can realistically secure this opportunity.
Start early. Prepare smart. And build your future in Japan.
