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Applications are now open for the Fully Funded Honjo International Scholarship 2026 for international Graduate students
The 2026 Honjo International Scholarship Foundation provides valuable funding for international students pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree in Japan.
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This application guide provides a full overview of the scholarship opportunity, including eligibility, rewards, and a step-by-step application process for interested candidates. For general guidance on how to win a fully-funded undergraduate scholarship or other funding options, you can check related articles.
Scholarship Overview
The Honjo International Scholarship is designed for foreign students who are either studying at or planning to enroll in a Japanese graduate school. This scholarship offers an exceptional opportunity for international students to obtain a quality graduate degree from a Japanese university. Applications can be submitted in both English and Japanese, making it accessible to students who are proficient in English but not yet fluent in Japanese. Applicants can apply directly to the foundation without needing prior selection by a university.
Benefits and Rewards
The Honjo International Scholarship provides substantial financial support to its recipients.
- Monthly Grant: The scholarship offers a generous monthly stipend based on the duration of your degree program:
- ¥230,000 per month for a 1-2 year degree
- ¥210,000 per month for a 3-year degree
- ¥180,000 per month for a 4-5 year degree
- Travel Grant: A travel grant is also provided to cover expenses for attending an international conference, as per the scholarship rules.
- Scholarship Duration: The scholarship is awarded for the minimum period required to complete your degree. Note that the payment period cannot be changed once it begins, and those enrolled in programs shorter than one year are not eligible.
Eligibility and Requirements
To be considered for the 2026 Honjo International Scholarship, you must meet the following criteria:
- International Student: You must be an international student.
- Enrollment Status: You must be either currently enrolled or applying for an academic course starting in April 2025 at a Japanese graduate school. This includes those who are currently employed but will be enrolled by April 2025. When considering studying abroad, it’s wise to first ask the top 10 questions to help you decide if studying abroad is right for you.
- Future Commitment: You must have a strong desire to return and serve your home country after graduation.
- Community Involvement: Applicants must be willing to engage with the foundation’s network and attend events.
- Language Proficiency: You must be able to hold an everyday conversation in Japanese, as interviews are conducted in Japanese.
- Age Limits: You must start your Master’s program by age 30 and your PhD course by age 35, with no exceptions.
- Program Length: Your program must be longer than 12 months.
Required Documents
When applying for this scholarship, you must be prepared to submit the following documents:
- Academic Transcript: Must be in Japanese or English. If in another language, you must attach a translation.
- Research Proposal: A crucial document using the designated template, written in Japanese. The proposal should describe your research topic, your intended contribution to your home country, and your past academic and social achievements. To craft a winning proposal or essay, consider a guide on how to write a scholarship essay that wins or why you deserve this scholarship essay. If you have a low GPA to explain, it can be addressed in your personal statement.
- Recommendation Letter: A letter of recommendation from a supervisor. Need help with this? Here’s a guide on how to ask for a recommendation letter for a scholarship.
- Admission Proof: Documents proving your admission or enrollment, such as an acceptance letter or certificate of enrollment.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
All applications for the Honjo International Scholarship are submitted via the online application system. Follow these steps:
- Visit the scholarship webpage by clicking the button provided in the original article.
- Complete the application form using the online system. The system’s interface is in both English and Japanese.
- Ensure your device’s auto-translation feature is turned off, as it may interfere with the online application system’s functions.
It is an excellent opportunity for those who want to study their masters abroad and join the ranks of scholarship winners.
Application Deadline: October 31, 2025
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for this japan scholarship? The scholarship is open to international students from all countries who are enrolled or will be enrolled in a Japanese graduate school.
What is the monthly stipend? The stipend varies from ¥180,000 to ¥230,000 per month, depending on the length of your degree program.
Are there age limits? Yes, you must be 30 or younger to start a Master’s program and 35 or younger to start a PhD course.
Can I apply if I am not yet enrolled in a university? Yes, applicants who are not yet enrolled but are applying to start a program in April 2025 are eligible.
Is Japanese language proficiency required? Yes, you must be able to carry an everyday conversation in Japanese, as the interview will be conducted in Japanese.
What is the application deadline? The application deadline is October 31, 2025.
Do I need a separate application? No, all applications are submitted through the online system.
What documents are required for the application? Required documents include academic transcripts, a research proposal in Japanese, a recommendation letter, and proof of admission.
Are there scholarships for undergraduate studies? No, this scholarship is specifically for graduate-level students pursuing Master’s or PhD degrees.
What is the scholarship duration? The scholarship is awarded for the shortest period of time required to complete your intended degree, which must be a minimum of 12 months.
