Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships in Japan for International Students in 2025. Learn eligibility, benefits, monthly stipend, step-by-step application process, and tips to study free in Japan for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees.
Introduction
Japan is one of the world’s most advanced education hubs, offering high-quality learning, world-class research facilities, and excellent job opportunities after graduation. In 2025, Japan(Scholarships in Japan) continues to attract thousands of global students through fully funded scholarships that cover tuition fees, airfare, accommodation, monthly stipends, visa support, and health insurance.
If you dream of studying in Japan for free, this is the most complete and updated 2025 guide to the Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships in Japan for international students.
This comprehensive article covers:
• Full list of the top scholarships
• Eligibility requirements
• Benefits and stipend coverage
• Application timetable
• Documents required
• Tips to increase your selection chances
Let’s explore the best opportunities that can help you pursue Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs—completely free of cost.
⭐ 1. MEXT Scholarship (Japanese Government Scholarship)
The MEXT Scholarship remains the number one fully funded scholarship in Japan for students worldwide. Offered directly by the Ministry of Education (MEXT), it supports all academic levels including Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD, Specialized Training, and Teacher Training.
Eligibility Requirements
• Non-Japanese international students
• Excellent academic record
• Age between 17–35 depending on the category
• Good health
• Strong interest in Japanese culture or research
Benefits
• 100% free tuition
• Monthly stipend (varies by level)
• Airfare to and from Japan
• Free language training
• Accommodation support
• Full medical coverage
Why It Is the Best
Because it provides the most funding, longest duration, and covers nearly every field of study. Highly competitive but extremely prestigious worldwide.
⭐ 2. JASSO Scholarship (Japan Student Services Organization)
The JASSO Scholarship supports international students accepted into Japanese universities through exchange or degree programs.
Eligibility
• Must be enrolled or accepted in a Japanese institution
• Strong academic standing
• Good financial need
Benefits
• Monthly stipend
• Travel allowances
• Full or partial tuition exemption
• Support for accommodation
Why Choose JASSO
It is widely available and easier to obtain than MEXT, especially for students already accepted by universities.
⭐ 3. Asian Development Bank – Japan Scholarship Program (ADB–JSP)
This scholarship is funded by the Japanese government and administered by ADB, designed for students from developing countries.
Eligibility
• Must be a citizen of an ADB-recognized developing country
• Must hold a bachelor’s degree
• Professional experience preferred
• Must return home after studies
Benefits
• Full tuition fees
• Monthly subsistence allowance
• Housing allowance
• Medical and insurance
• Travel expenses
• Thesis and research grants
Why It’s Great
Ideal for students pursuing development, economic, environmental, or sustainability-related degrees.
⭐ 4. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP)
Jointly funded by the Government of Japan and the World Bank, this Scholarships in Japan is intended for Master’s students in development-related fields.
Eligibility
• Citizen of a World Bank member country
• Two years of recent development-related work experience
• Admission to an approved Japanese university
Benefits
• Full tuition
• Monthly living stipend
• Round-trip airfare
• Books and supplies
Ideal For
Students interested in sustainable development, economics, public policy, and project management.
⭐ 5. University of Tokyo (UTokyo) Fellowship for International Students
This prestigious fellowship provides full financial support to highly talented students.
Eligibility
• Must be admitted to a UTokyo graduate program
• Excellent academic performance
• Strong research statement
Benefits
• Full tuition waiver
• Monthly stipend
• Research grants
• Support for housing
Why It’s Famous
UTokyo is Japan’s most elite university—winning this Scholarships in Japan can transform your career.
⭐ 6. Kyoto University Scholarships
Kyoto University offers several fully funded Scholarships in Japan , especially for postgraduate students.
Eligibility
• Admission to Kyoto University
• Academic excellence
• Research capabilities
Benefits
• Tuition coverage
• Monthly allowance
• Participant support (housing & travel)
Why Choose Kyoto
It is one of Asia’s top research universities, renowned for science, engineering, and humanities.
⭐ 7. Osaka University International Scholarship
Osaka University offers generous funding for both Master’s and PhD students.
Eligibility
• Admitted international students
• Strong recommendation letters
• Excellent academics
Benefits
• Full tuition
• Monthly stipend
• Accommodation support
• Research funds
Best For
Students seeking advanced research in science, engineering, medicine, and robotics.
⭐ 8. Hokkaido University President’s Scholarship
One of the most prestigious scholarships in northern Japan.
Eligibility
• Outstanding academic performance
• Admission to a graduate program
• Strong research plan
Benefits
• Full tuition fee exemption
• Monthly stipend
• Travel allowance
Why It’s Unique
Designed for top academic performers with innovative research goals.
⭐ 9. Yokohama National University (YNU) Scholarship
YNU offers scholarships(Scholarships in Japan) mainly for engineering, economics, and social sciences students.
Eligibility
• Academic excellence
• Admission to YNU
• Research or leadership potential
Benefits
• Free tuition
• Monthly stipend
• Lodging support
• Travel allowance
Perfect For
Students interested in technology, engineering, and applied sciences.
⭐ 10. Tokyo Institute of Technology (Tokyo Tech) Scholarship
Tokyo Tech provides several fully funded opportunities, especially for STEM students.
Eligibility
• Undergraduate or graduate admission
• Strong academic background
• Interest in science, engineering, or innovation
Benefits
• Full tuition
• Stipend
• Accommodation support
• Research budget
Why It’s Popular
It is Japan’s top technology-focused university with global research opportunities.
⭐ Why Study in Japan in 2025?
Japan remains one of the world’s most student-friendly destinations due to its:
• High-quality education system
• Cutting-edge research facilities
• Affordable cost of living
• Safe and welcoming environment
• Global employment opportunities
• Innovative technology hub
With fully funded scholarships(Scholarships in Japan), you can study in Japan 100% tuition-free, making 2025 the best year to apply.
⭐ Required Documents for Japan Scholarship Applications
Most scholarships(Scholarships in Japan) require the following:
• Academic transcripts
• Degree certificates
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of Purpose
• Research proposal (for graduate programs)
• Passport copy
• Medical certificate
• English or Japanese language proof
• Photograph
⭐ Tips to Increase Your Chances of Selection
• Maintain excellent academic grades
• Write a strong motivation letter
• Choose research topics aligned with Japan’s priorities
• Get strong recommendation letters
• Apply early—before deadlines
• Learn basic Japanese (optional but recommended)
Conclusion
Japan(Scholarships in Japan) is one of the best study destinations for international students in 2025, offering more than 10 powerful fully funded scholarships. Whether you are applying for Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD studies, Japan provides world-class academic experiences, research opportunities, and generous financial support. The opportunities listed in this guide can help you study in Japan completely tuition-free, with stipends, airfare, accommodation, and health insurance.
If you prepare strong documents, apply early, and meet the eligibility requirements, your chances of winning a fully funded Scholarships in Japan are very high. Start preparing today and take the first step toward your successful academic future in Japan.
Also Read: How Can Students Study in Canada Without IELTS Through Scholarships 2025?
Sources
FAQs
1. Can I study in Japan for free in 2025?
Yes.Scholarships in Japan Fully funded scholarships like MEXT, JASSO, and university-based programs allow you to study in Japan completely free.
2. Do I need IELTS for Japanese scholarships?
Not always. Many Japanese universities accept alternative tests, university language certificates, or Japanese proficiency.
3. Which scholarship is best for international students?
The MEXT Scholarship is considered the most prestigious and fully funded.
4. Can I work in Japan while studying?
Yes, international students can work part-time up to 28 hours a week.
5. Are scholarships available for Bachelor’s students?
Yes. MEXT Undergraduate and several university scholarships cover Bachelor’s degrees.
6. How long is the MEXT Scholarship duration?
It varies by program but typically ranges from 4 to 7 years (including language training).
7. When should I apply for Japanese scholarships?
Applications usually open between April and November, depending on the scholarship type.