Study in Japan without paying tuition fees through the top fully funded scholarships of 2025. Explore the 10 best Japanese scholarships for international students, including coverage, eligibility, benefits, application process, FAQs, and expert tips to secure them.
Introduction
Study in Japan has become one of the most attractive destinations for international students seeking high-quality education, cultural immersion, and life-changing career opportunities. With globally ranked universities, advanced research facilities, a safe environment, and strong job prospects, Japan offers a complete academic and life experience. The good news is that you can study in Japan without paying tuition fees through several prestigious and fully funded scholarships available for 2025.
This comprehensive guide explores the 10 best scholarships in Japan that allow you to pursue undergraduate, master’s, research, or doctoral studies free of cost. These scholarships not only waive tuition fees but also cover monthly stipends, accommodation allowances, airfare, research budgets, and health insurance.
If you want to build your academic future in one of the world’s most advanced education systems without financial challenges, this is your complete roadmap.
Why Study in Japan Without Tuition Fees?
Study in Japan offers an education system known for academic excellence, global innovation, and discipline. For thousands of international students each year, Japan’s fully funded scholarships provide the perfect opportunity to experience world-class learning without financial burden.
Study in Japan gives you:
Affordable or free education
Safe environment with world-class transport
Access to global technology leaders like Toyota, Sony, SoftBank, Panasonic
Scholarship-friendly environment for international students
Part-time job opportunities
Possibility of working in Japan after graduation
The Japanese government and many universities welcome global talent, especially in fields like science, engineering, technology, business, robotics, AI, agriculture, and humanities.
⭐ Top 10 Scholarships to Study in Japan Without Tuition Fees in 2025
Here is the complete list of the best scholarships that waive tuition fees and provide free education in Japan.
1. MEXT Scholarship (Japan Government Scholarship)
The MEXT Scholarship is the most prestigious and fully funded scholarship offered by the Government of Japan. Tens of thousands of students apply, but every year numerous international students earn a spot.
■ Benefits:
Full tuition fee waiver
Monthly allowance
Free round-trip airfare
Accommodation assistance
Preparatory Japanese language course
No IELTS required (most programs accept English proficiency letter)
■ Best For:
Undergraduate students
Master’s students
PhD candidates
Research students
Teacher training students
College of Technology programs
■ Why It’s the Best:
Covers everything: tuition, living, travel, and more.
Accepted across all Japanese universities.
No age barriers for most research programs.
2. JASSO Scholarships (Monbukagakusho Honors Scholarship)
The Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) offers merit-based scholarships to students studying at Japanese universities or language schools.
■ Benefits:
Monthly stipend for one year
Tuition fee reduction
Accommodation support
■ Best For:
Exchange students
Short-term programs
Students needing financial support while in Japan
■ Why It’s Popular:
Flexible and includes students already studying in Japan.
3. Asia Pacific University (APU) MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship
APU recommends top-achieving students directly to the Japanese Government for the MEXT University Scholarship.
■ Benefits:
Full tuition fee waiver
Monthly stipend
Airfare
On-campus support
■ Best For:
Students applying to APU directly
Global students with outstanding academic achievements
■ Why It’s Special:
One of the most competitive university-specific MEXT pathways.
4. University of Tokyo (Todai) Fellowships and Scholarships
The University of Tokyo provides fully funded scholarships for international master’s and PhD students.
■ Benefits:
Full tuition fee waiver
Generous monthly stipend
Research budget
Housing assistance
■ Best For:
Master’s and PhD students
STEM and research-intensive fields
■ Why It’s Highly Ranked:
One of the world’s top universities with elite research facilities.
5. Kyoto University Scholarships for International Students
Kyoto University offers a range of scholarships for both graduate and undergraduate international students.
■ Benefits:
Full or partial tuition fee waiver
Monthly stipend
On-campus accommodation
■ Best For:
Science, engineering, and social science students
■ Why Students Choose It:
Rich research culture and global recognition.
6. JICA Scholarship (Japan International Cooperation Agency)
The JICA scholarships target students from developing countries, offering fully funded master’s and PhD programs.
■ Benefits:
Full tuition
Travel allowance
Accommodation
Medical insurance
Monthly stipend
■ Best For:
Working professionals
Students seeking development-focused leadership programs
■ Why It Stands Out:
Great option for public policy, engineering, economics, and environmental studies.
7. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship
This prestigious scholarship supports students from developing nations pursuing development-related master’s programs.
■ Benefits:
Full tuition
Living stipend
Travel allowance
Books and research support
■ Best For:
Master’s students in public policy, economic development, health, climate, etc.
■ Why It’s Unique:
Focus on global development and leadership training.
8. Hitotsubashi University Scholarships
Hitotsubashi is known for elite business, economics, management, and social sciences programs.
■ Benefits:
Tuition exemption
Monthly allowance
Accommodation support
■ Best For:
Business and MBA programs
Economics and social sciences
■ Why It’s Attractive:
One of Japan’s top universities for international business careers.
9. Tokyo Institute of Technology (Tokyo Tech) Scholarships
Tokyo Tech offers full funding for science, engineering, and technology programs.
■ Benefits:
Full tuition waiver
Scholarship stipend
Research funding
■ Best For:
STEM and technical research fields
■ Why It’s Popular:
Japan’s leading engineering and technology institution.
10. Yokohama National University Scholarships
YNU provides scholarships through its MEXT University Recommendation program and other funding schemes.
■ Benefits:
Full tuition
Airfare
Monthly allowance
On-campus housing
■ Best For:
Students applying for engineering, economics, and business programs
■ Why Choose It:
Strong global rankings and excellent faculty.
⭐ How to Study in Japan for Free in 2025
To study in Japan without tuition fees, follow these steps:
Research available scholarships
Check eligibility requirements
Prepare academic transcripts
Write a strong research or study plan
Get a recommendation letter
Apply through Japanese embassies or university websites
Prepare for interviews and document verification
Japanese institutions value:
Good academic records
Research interest
Global leadership qualities
Strong communication skills
⭐ Tips to Win Fully Funded Scholarships in Japan
Improve your academic scores
Write a powerful SOP or study plan
Build a research-focused CV
Learn basic Japanese for better impression
Apply early and track deadlines
Get strong recommendation letters
Highlight achievements in STEM or global fields
⭐ Fields Most in Demand in Japan for Scholarship Students
Artificial Intelligence
Mechanical Engineering
Marine Science
Robotics & Automation
Environmental Studies
Business Administration
International Relations
Computer Science
Medicine & Public Health
Agriculture & Food Science
These programs often receive more funding and scholarship support.
⭐ Life in Japan as an International Student
Living in Japan is a rewarding and enriching experience. Students enjoy:
Safe environment
Clean cities
Advanced transportation
Affordable student dormitories
Delicious food
Cultural diversity
Part-time job options
Japan allows students to work 28 hours/week during semesters.
⭐ Part-Time Jobs for Students in Japan
Students commonly work in:
Restaurants
Convenience stores
English teaching
Campus assistant roles
Retail shops
Hotels & tourism
Wages range from ¥900 to ¥1,500 per hour, depending on location.
Conclusion
Study in Japan without paying tuition fees is entirely possible, thanks to the country’s generous and globally recognized scholarship programs. From the fully funded MEXT Scholarship to JASSO financial support and prestigious university-specific awards, international students have multiple opportunities to earn a world-class education in one of the safest, most advanced, and culturally rich countries in the world.
These scholarships not only remove the financial burden but also open doors to top universities, innovative research labs, global career pathways, and lifelong cultural experiences. With the right preparation—strong academics, a compelling study plan, and timely applications—you can secure a fully funded seat in Japan’s leading institutions in 2025.
Also Read: How Can Students Study in Canada Without IELTS Through Scholarships 2025?
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FAQs
1. Can I study in Japan without paying tuition fees?
Yes. Study in Japan Fully funded scholarships like MEXT, APU MEXT, JASSO, and university fellowships allow students to study in Japan for free.
2. Do I need IELTS to apply for Japanese scholarships?
Most Japanese scholarships, including MEXT, do not require IELTS. An English proficiency letter is often accepted.
3. What is the living cost for international students in Japan?
On average, ¥60,000–¥90,000 per month depending on city and lifestyle. Scholarships typically cover living expenses.
4. Can Indian students apply for MEXT?
Yes. Study in Japan Indian students are eligible for all categories of MEXT including undergraduate, master’s, PhD, and research programs.
5. Is Japan good for engineering students?
Japan is one of the world leaders in robotics, engineering, automotive technology, and advanced innovation—ideal for engineering studies.
6. Can students work while studying in Japan?
Yes. Study in Japan International students can work 28 hours per week with a valid work permit.
7. Which scholarship is the easiest to get?
JASSO and university-specific scholarships are less competitive than global MEXT programs.