MEXT University Scholarship at APU 2027
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Overview
The MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship at APU is a Japanese government scholarship for graduate students from MEXT designated countries who apply to Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU). It covers the full admission fee and tuition, a monthly allowance of JPY 144,000 including housing, and economy-class airfare to and from Japan. APU recommends candidates to MEXT, which makes the final decision. For the full list of benefits, see what the scholarship covers.
What to know before applying
You must be a national of a MEXT designated country, born on or after 2 April 1992, and intend to study in Japan from overseas. You need a GPA of at least 2.30 on a 3.00 scale at your most recent university and English test scores from exams taken on or after 15 March 2025. Active military personnel and military civilian staff are not eligible, and former MEXT scholarship recipients are generally ineligible. You cannot hold another scholarship unless MEXT has approved it.
The process has two steps. You apply to APU’s graduate school first, APU selects candidates to recommend, and MEXT decides the final results by the end of June. The country list is in a PDF linked from the official APU scholarship page. This is the university route, and MEXT also runs a separate embassy route. For other options in Asia, see the Japanese Government MEXT Scholarship, the KAIST International Scholarship, fully funded scholarships, more Master’s scholarships and PhD scholarships.
Timeline notes
Applications for September 2027 enrollment close on 5 November 2026. APU says the 2027 conditions may change, so check its site before you apply. See the application deadline section for the current status.
About the MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship at APU
The MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship at APU is a fully funded scholarship offered by MEXT (Japan) through Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU) for study in Japan. The scholarship supports students pursuing Masters and PhD studies in Not communicated. Recipients receive JPY 144,000 per month including housing. The amount is subject to change for a duration of Not communicated.
Eligible applicants: Nationals of MEXT designated countries who intend to study in Japan from overseas. The country list is in a PDF linked from the official page. Academic standing: A GPA of at least 2.30 on a 3.00 scale at your most recent university.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and align with the MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship at APU selection criteria, this represents a life-changing opportunity to study with full financial support. Read the sections below carefully to understand the benefits, eligibility, application process, and deadline before applying.
Scholarship Benefits & What's Covered
Selected recipients of the MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship at APU receive a comprehensive funding package. Here's what the scholarship covers:
- Stipend and allowances: JPY 144,000 per month including housing. The amount is subject to change
- Tuition fees: Yes, the full admission fee and the full tuition fee
- Accommodation: Included in the monthly allowance of JPY 144,000
- Airfare / travel: Yes, economy-class airfare between your home country and APU at the start and end of the programme
- Health insurance: Not communicated
- Family / dependants: Not communicated
- Program duration: Not communicated
- Number of awards per year: Not communicated
The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means recipients receive complete financial coverage throughout their study period, allowing them to focus entirely on their academic and research goals without financial burden.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship at APU, applicants must meet the following requirements. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected, so review these carefully before applying.
Academic requirements
- Minimum degree level: Graduate applicants only. The page does not state the required prior degree
- Academic standing: A GPA of at least 2.30 on a 3.00 scale at your most recent university
- Academic background: You must apply to an APU graduate programme first. Active military personnel and military civilian staff are not eligible. Former MEXT scholarship recipients are generally ineligible. You cannot hold other scholarships unless MEXT has approved them
- Fields of study: Not communicated
Nationality & residency
- Eligible countries: Nationals of MEXT designated countries who intend to study in Japan from overseas. The country list is in a PDF linked from the official page
- Residency: You must intend to study in Japan from overseas and hold Student status of residence in Japan
Language requirements
- Language of instruction: Not communicated
- Language test: Yes, English proficiency test scores from exams taken on or after 15 March 2025
- Minimum score: Not communicated
Other requirements
- Age: Born on or after 2 April 1992
- Gender: Not communicated
How to Apply for the MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship at APU
Applications for the MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship at APU are submitted through the official channels of MEXT (Japan) through Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU). Follow these steps to submit a strong application:
Step 1: Verify eligibility. Confirm you meet every requirement listed above, particularly nationality, academic level, and language proficiency. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected without review.
Step 2: Prepare required documents. You will need to submit: English proficiency test scores taken on or after 15 March 2025. No other documents are listed on the page. Prepare each document carefully, reviewers typically shortlist based on document quality and completeness.
Step 3: Secure reference letters. Not communicated. Contact your referees early. References take time to prepare.
Step 4: Submit the application. Complete the application on the official portal before the deadline. The application deadline for this scholarship is 5 Nov 2026. Late or incomplete applications are not considered.
Step 5: Await response. Shortlisting typically takes 4–8 weeks after the deadline. Successful candidates are invited to interview or additional assessment. Final decisions are announced 3–6 months after the application deadline.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship at APU is 5 Nov 2026. Application window: To be announced.
We strongly recommend starting your application at least 6–8 weeks before the deadline to allow sufficient time for document preparation, reference letter requests, and revisions to your personal statement. Rushed applications are visibly weaker and reduce your chance of shortlisting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship at APU fully funded?
The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means it covers all or most major costs — see the Benefits section above for a full breakdown.
Who can apply for the MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship at APU?
Applicants must be from Nationals of MEXT designated countries who intend to study in Japan from overseas. The country list is in a PDF linked from the official page. Additionally, applicants must hold Graduate applicants only. The page does not state the required prior degree. Full eligibility criteria including language, age, and academic requirements are detailed in the Eligibility section above.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline for the MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship at APU is 5 Nov 2026. Late applications are not accepted, so aim to submit at least 2 weeks in advance.
Is there a bond or return obligation?
Not communicated.
Where do I apply?
Apply directly on the official portal: Application Link. ScholarshipSpace does not process applications on their behalf.