The MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship at Ritsumeikan University is a comprehensive “full-ride” scholarship sponsored by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan (Monbukagakusho). This prestigious opportunity is designed for high academic achievers who are expected to go on to act as vital bridges between Japan and their home countries and contribute positively to global society. To be selected, applicants must first be recommended by Ritsumeikan University to MEXT, indicating a high level of academic potential and fit for the institution. The award covers all major expenses, providing a worry-free pathway to a Master’s degree in Japan. The deadline for submission is December 11, 2025.
MEXT Scholarship at Ritsumeikan University 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | Ritsumeikan University, Japan |
| Funding Body | Japanese Government (MEXT) |
| Degree Level | Master’s Programmes (Postgraduate) |
| Funding | Full Scholarship (Tuition, Stipend, Travel) |
| Monthly Stipend | ~$11,200 (Annual estimate for living expenses) |
| Eligible Countries | All Countries (excluding Japanese nationals) |
| Key Criteria | CGPA $\geq$ 2.30/3.00, Born on or after April 2, 1991, Student Visa requirement |
| English Requirement | CEFR B2 equivalent or prior English medium study (No IELTS specifically required) |
| Application Deadline | December 11, 2025 |
Japan Government MEXT Scholarship Details
The MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship is highly competitive and is a testament to the applicant’s academic excellence and potential for future societal contribution. Applicants are required to proactively engage with the university’s faculty by contacting a research supervisor and gaining informal approval before submitting their formal application. This ensures a strong research fit, which is crucial for the university’s recommendation process.
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Benefits and Specific Scholarship Award Tiers
The MEXT Scholarship offers a comprehensive financial package, ensuring successful candidates can focus completely on their research and studies without financial distraction.
Tier 1: Core Academic and Living Support (Full Tuition + Stipend)
This tier provides the essential financial components required for study and living in Japan.
- Value: Full tuition fees are covered.
- Criteria: Provided for the standard duration of the Master’s program.
- Value: Monthly living allowances (estimated annual total of $11,200).
- Criteria: Provides sufficient funds to cover accommodation, meals, and personal expenses in Japan.
Tier 2: Mobility and Enrollment Access
This category focuses on facilitating the student’s entry into Japan and settling into their new environment.
- Value: Travel support (round-trip economy airfare).
- Criteria: Covers travel costs to and from Japan, depending on MEXT guidelines.
- Value: Visa fees and additional subsidies required for life and study in Japan.
- Criteria: Ensures the necessary financial aid for administrative and settlement expenses upon arrival.
Tier 3: Academic Excellence and Recognition
These benefits highlight the recipient’s elite academic standing and commitment to international diplomacy.
- Value: Recognition as an esteemed MEXT Scholar (Monbukagakusho).
- Criteria: Designation conferred by the Japanese government, recognizing the highest level of academic achievement.
- Value: Opportunity to act as bridges between Japan and their home countries.
- Criteria: Scholars are expected to use their experience and network to foster international relations and collaboration.
Eligibility Requirements for Japan Government MEXT Scholarship 2026
Applicants must strictly meet the nationality, age, academic performance, and entry requirements to be eligible for consideration.
- Academic/Leadership:
- Must have a CGPA equal to or higher than 2.30 out of 3.00 for the most recently attended degree program (or current degree program). The university will calculate the final GPA using MEXT’s formula.
- For applicants to English language medium degree programs: Must have English language ability equal to or greater than CEFR B2 level, OR have studied in English in the most recent (or currently enrolled) degree program. (No IELTS required if these criteria are met).
- Study Status:
- Must be born on or after April 2, 1991.
- Must be in both good physical and mental health.
- Visa Status:
- Must have the nationality of a country that has diplomatic relations with the Japanese government. Japanese dual-nationality citizens who plan on renouncing their Japanese citizenship may apply.
- Must be willing to newly acquire a student visa and newly enter Japan for the purpose of study upon receipt of the scholarship.
- Program Admission:
- Must be able to arrive in Japan on a date designated by Ritsumeikan University in the middle of September 2026.
- Must secure informal permission for academic supervision from a faculty member before applying.
How to Apply for Japan Government MEXT Scholarship at Ritsumeikan University 2026 (Step by Step)
The application process is integrated with the admission process for the Graduate School and requires pre-application research supervisor contact.
- Contact a Research Supervisor: Identify a research supervisor whose work aligns with your intended research. Discuss the details of your intended research and receive informal permission for academic supervision from the faculty member before proceeding with the formal application.
- Complete Online Application: Apply and complete the Ritsumeikan University Graduate School Online Application. Ensure all application fields are filled out accurately and completely.
- Submit Required Documents: Submit all required supporting documentation, including the Application Form, Academic Transcript, Letter of Recommendation, and Certificate of Health, before the closing date.
- Await Selection and Review: Once recommended by Ritsumeikan University to MEXT, the applicant undergoes a subsequent scholarship review by MEXT. Final awardees are then selected by the Ministry.
Application Deadline: December 11, 2025
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the Japan Government MEXT Scholarship at Ritsumeikan University fully funded?
Yes, the MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship is a fully funded opportunity that covers full tuition fees, travel costs, and provides a monthly living allowance (stipend).
2. What is the application deadline for the MEXT Scholarship at Ritsumeikan University?
The deadline for submitting applications for the 2026 intake is December 11, 2025.
3. Is there an age limit for applicants to the MEXT Scholarship?
Yes, applicants must have been born on or after April 2, 1991 to be eligible for this specific MEXT University Recommendation.
4. Is the IELTS exam required to prove English proficiency?
No, an IELTS score is not explicitly required. Applicants can demonstrate English ability by achieving a score equal to or greater than CEFR B2 level, or by having studied in English in their most recent or current degree program.
5. What is the minimum academic requirement (CGPA) for the scholarship?
Applicants must have a CGPA equal to or higher than 2.30 out of 3.00 for their most recent or current degree program. The university will perform the final calculation using the MEXT formula.
6. What is the importance of contacting a research supervisor before applying?
It is a mandatory step to contact a research supervisor, discuss your intended research, and receive informal permission for academic supervision. This ensures your research proposal aligns with faculty expertise and enhances your chances of university recommendation.
7. Who is ineligible to apply for this specific MEXT Scholarship?
Applicants who have Japanese nationality are ineligible (unless they plan on renouncing their Japanese citizenship). Also, applicants who are not in good physical and mental health or who cannot arrive in Japan on the designated date are ineligible.
8. What are the key financial benefits covered by the scholarship?
The key financial benefits are full tuition coverage, a monthly living allowance (stipend), and coverage for travel costs (round-trip airfare) and associated entry subsidies.
9. When must the MEXT Scholarship recipient arrive in Japan?
Recipients must be able to arrive in Japan on a date designated by Ritsumeikan University, typically in the middle of September 2026.
10. What role are MEXT Scholars expected to fulfill after graduation?
MEXT Scholars are expected to use their academic experience to act as bridges between Japan and their home countries and to contribute to the overall good of society.
