Questions about the MEXT scholarship? Ask them in the comments here or on the individual FAQ pages listed below!
FAQs Released so Far
Here are the links to the existing pages:
- MEXT Scholarship Application Basic Information (Where to apply, etc.)
- Contacting Professors (Embassy-Recommended MEXT Scholarship Application)
- Field of Study and Research Program Plan
- University Recommended MEXT Scholarship Application
Explanation
Given the recent volume of questions, I am afraid that I no longer have the time to answer each emailed question one-by-one and get you the response you want in a timely manner.
Instead, I will group similar questions and answer them in the subject-by-subject FAQ articles linked above.
Live Q&A?
Once TranSenz reaches $50 in monthly support on Patreon, I will start a monthly live video Q&A. If you are interested in supporting this effort, or simply getting faster responses to your questions and access to articles ahead of everyone else, you can become a patron of TranSenz for as little as $2 per month!
Get All the Answers, Fast
When you sign up for my MEXT Scholarship Mailing List, I will send you my sample MEXT application forms as well as a email course introducing you to the essentials of the MEXT scholarship application, step-by-step.
Tips to Get Your Questions Answered Faster
There are some ways you can get your question featured faster:
- Be clear. Let me know what type of application process (Embassy/University/Domestic Selection) you’re asking about, what level (Undergraduate/Graduate), what year, and any other relevant details. If I have to guess what you mean – or write back to you to ask you to clarify your question, it’s going to take more time.
- Be detailed. If your question is “Please help me with the MEXT Scholarship application” or “I don’t know where to start,” then read through the articles that exist on this site first. Specific questions that are easier to understand and research will get answered first. If your question seems like it’s asking for a half-hour sit-down chat, then it’s probably not possible for me to answer in the FAQ.
- Be original. If there is an FAQ for your question already, please watch/read what I have posted in there already. If you ask a question that’s just been answered, it will take me longer to circle back to it.
- Don’t be selfish. Questions that can help more people will get answered first. If your question is specific to only your case, it’s going to take me longer to get to it.
Can’t Wait?
If you’re really in a hurry, you can join the community of TranSenz Supporters on Patreon. These are people who generously donate to help me cover the site costs and production expenses for this website for as little as a few dollars a month.
As one small way of expressing my gratitude to them, I answer their questions on a priority basis, including individual questions.
If you are interested in becoming a TranSenz supporter (whether or not you want faster answers), you can get all of the details here.
Subject Specific FAQs
As I release and publish new Q&As and Q&A videos, I will post each of them on a separate page for that subject. Before posting a new question, please check to see if it’s already been answered, to save yourself some time!
If you can’t find an answer, you can post your question in the comments on the subject-specific page or on this page.
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Hello Travis,
I just finished the interview for the MEXT ug , I want to know what will happen next as the embassy has not said anything ,and do you know what happens in the final screening for the undergraduate
Hi Ayush,
The interview is the last step of the primary screening. The next step for you is to wait for the announcement of results!
(The date and method of this announcement is decided by each individual embassy, so you’d have to check with them for details). After that, your information will be sent to MEXT for the secondary screening. You do not need to do anything during the secondary screening, it is an internal review. You should get the final results for UG in January 2021.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hey, Travis,
First, I just wanted to say thank you for all the work you have done supporting those applying for the MEXT scholarship. I’ve been working on my application for about a month and a half and just recently discovered your books on applying for the MEXT scholarship and writing a field and research study plan. I’m so glad a read them because they really helped hone just about every aspect of my application.
I do have two questions— both are related to employment. I feel I’ve looked all over but I can’t seem to find a clear and concise answer; though, it is entirely possible I have completely overlooked it. I was wondering if a letter of recommendation from my employer is necessary for the application? I am in my senior year of undergraduate studies and am a full-time student, but I do work part-time at a hospital and as a psychiatric technician . The application guidelines as for this letter of recommendation “only if submitted to the Japanese diplomatic mission,” but I’m unsure of what this means. The application itself asks to list recent employment records, but to exclude part-time and volunteer work. Perhaps this next question is contingent on the answer to the first, but if a letter of recommendation from my present employer is necessary, should I include my employment on the application in spite of it only being part-time work?
Thank you for taking the time to answer and, again, for all the work you’ve done providing assistance through your blog posts and books!
Hi Colt Mann,
I’m sorry that the Letter of Recommendation (employer) explanation was confusing. If you are working part time as a student, then my understanding is that you should not need to list that on your application or provide a letter of recommendation from your employer. Listing your employment and obtaining the letter of recommendation from your employer should only be required if you are working full time.
However, the best way to find out for sure if the embassy wants the letter is to call them and ask.
The statement about “only if submitted to the Japanese diplomatic mission” should appear in the list of the documents that you need to submit to universities after passing the primary screening at the embassy. That means that if you were required to submit the document (in your case the employer letter of recommendation) to the embassy, then you would also be required to submit it to the universities.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hello Travis, thanks for your support.
I am applying for undergraduate program and I have a question regarding the recommendation letter, I would like to know if the letter must be with the letterhead or if my recommender’s signature is enough.
Also I would like to know if I authenticate the copies of my original ducumets they will count as if originals to.
Hi Lucas,
For the letter of recommendation, it’s ultimately going to be a judgement call by the office that is processing your application.
I would think that if the letter has the recommender’s signature as well as their name, position, and contact information, that would be sufficient, but you might find yourself dealing with someone stricter at the embassy.
In general, certified copies (authenticated by an official at your school, for school documents, or by a notary) can be accepted as originals.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hi Travis,
I have applied for the MEXT application and I made a mistake with the major groups (I was supposed to write Natural Sciences A but I wrote B) but I correctly filled the majors beside it. Will I still get the scholarship? And will I get it for the wrong subjects or the subjects of my choice? And is it possible to change my major from Natural Sciences B to Natural Sciences A?
Thanks for answering.
Hi Phylisse,
It sounds like you applied for the undergraduate scholarship, right?
I am less familiar with that scholarship, but I assume they will look at your detailed majors rather than the groups. If you filled in Natural Sciences B but all of your majors are from Natural Sciences A, then they should be able to figure that out – especially if your essays align. That mistake by itself should not be enough to cost you a chance at the scholarship.
As far as I know, you cannot change your major after the selection, but I do not have any specific examples or knowledge of individual cases.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Can I sign up for the undergraduate program if I just came straight out of high school?
thank you so much.
Hi Naj,
Yes, it is possible to apply for the undergraduate program fresh out of high school. That is the expectation!
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hi Travis
I just applied for the mext undergraduate scholarship through Japan embassy in my country but how do I know if I am selected
Hi Ziz,
Did the embassy’s website include any information about how they would notify applicants who had moved on to the next step of the process, or when the next step would take place? (The next step after submitting documents should be the written exams).
The notification timing and method is going to be different for each embassy, so I can’t give you a certain answer. I would expect that they will notify you by email, though, unless they have stated otherwise, so be sure to check your email – including your spam mail box – every day.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hi Travis,
The school system in my country is a bit different…
You see we have: Basic education which includes 1st cycle (1st to 4rd grade); 2nd cycle (5th to 6th grade) and 3rd cycle (7th to 9th grade)
And then we have Secundary education (10th to 12th grade)
How should I fill in the part regarding my academic record in the application form?
Thank you
Hi Ines,
It would seem that your first and second cycle correspond to primary education, the third cycle corresponds to lower secondary education, and your secondary education corresponds to upper secondary education in the MEXT form. I would recommend filling the years in that way.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hi Travis,
I’ve applied via the Embassy-Recommendation pathway to become a Research Student.
I wanted to ask about you about the certificate that attests to the fact that I have passed the preliminary screening. Will that form typically come via the mail to the address that I listed in my application or could it come as an attachment in an email?
I suppose that I am curious to know how I should expect to communicate with MEXT via the consulate ー whether email or traditional mail is the primary mode of communication.
I reside in the USA and there has been a bit of clamor and commotion surrounding our postal service as of late.
Thank you for taking the time to read this. I greatly appreciate it.
Hi Anonymous,
The way that embassies communicate with applicants is largely up to each individual embassy to determine. That said, Japan has kind of an obsession with original documents and a distaste for emailed copies, so there is a good chance that the Passing Certificate will be sent by post. (They may attach a copy to an email letting you know the results before sending the original by post, though).
Ultimately, it is going to be up to the embassy, so if you have the chance to ask them how they will communicate final results, I would recommend doing so.
I heard that the USPS put its controversial changes on hold, so I hope that the impact won’t be too great either way.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Dear Mr.Travis,
I hope your are well and healthy in these hard times. I congratulate you on your great efforts in guiding many students regarding Japan. However, I found out about your blog after I got the MEXT scholarship for this year through embassy recommendation. I got 3 Letter of Acceptances from Kyoto, Tokyo Tech, at the end got accepted to the University of Tokyo as a post graduate research student wishing to pursue doctoral degree. because of the Pandemic we had to defer from April to October. in these past few months the communication between me and my supervisor was one-way and I don’t get any reply from him, plus I just got some updates about this lab and it’s current projects which made me really frustrated and regretful. So although I don’t want to make my supervisor upset, but I think I seriously need to change my lab, or even my department. I read that you mentioned changing universities- which I had hoped for- is not possible unfortunately! so my questions are:
1- Is it possible to change supervisor/department or it will compromise the scholarship?
2- How can I change my Lab or department? what are the requirements to do that? dose it need certain circumstances?
3- Who is in charge for this matter? who should I contact to deliver my request with out compromising the scholarship? should I email MEXT or the graduate school/department to do this?
4- Should I do the procedure before going to Japan and registration in the university and department or after that?
I know you are thank you very much for your consideration.
Hi Soheil,
I have heard about the plight of this year’s MEXT scholars and I am truly sorry to hear about what you have had to go through.
It sounds like you deferred, rather than start your degree remotely, right? If so, the professor might just have his hands full with the students who are enrolled and who he has to help remotely. It has been a very challenging semester for universities to adjust to suddenly having to do everything remote, and I have heard of professors putting in far more hours into preparation than they normally would. It might just be that your professor is too overwhelmed for now, so please don’t exclude the possibility that things could improve between you when you actually start your studies. (I don’t mean to apologize for your professor, just to offer some hope).
1. I haven’t known anyone who changed their lab or professor, but I am not aware of any rule against it on MEXT’s side. As long as it does not set back your academic progress and delay your graduation, I do not know of a MEXT-level problem.
2. This is a university-specific process, so you would need to find out from your graduate school at Todai.
3. This would be a university-level process. I would recommend contacting the administrative office that you worked with during the application process for their instructions.
4. Personally, I recommend that you wait until you start your enrollment at the university and see how things change then. Since you are not an enrolled student yet, it is possible that the professor is simply focused on the students who are enrolled and that he is responsible for at the moment. Once you become part of that group, things could change.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Dear Mr.Travis,
Thank you for your full response! yes this year’s application, screening process and entry to Japan has been very tough and confusing for everyone. Yes, because of the Pandemic we had to defer from April to October. It is not still confirmed if the international students can enter even in October. Regarding your suggestion, I used to think the same thing about my supervisor being busy with other students or … but it has been 4-5 months now that I didn’t get a reply. and I found out there are only 3 Ph.D. students in the lab, so I’m worried how to get along with lab life. Is it normal in Japan that research labs have such small number of members?
Hi Soheil,
Thank you for the additional details.
I do not know what the usual number of PhD advisees would be for a professor – and I assume it varies to some degree – but three does not seem unusual.
Even if your professor only has three advisees, though, he or she likely has other responsibilities, like teaching courses and Master’s advisees, so there is probably a balance there.
I’m not saying that changing advisors should be out of the question, I just wanted to recommend that you wait until you actually start your studies with the university/professor and have a chance to interact in that context. If the professor’s responsiveness doesn’t change, then a change of advisors would certainly seem to be called for!
On the other hand, if you haven’t gotten a response for that long, you might want to try contacting the professor by another method, like going through the administrative office. I’d be concerned at that point that your emails might have been filtered as spam or something so the professor isn’t seeing them at all.
I hope your university gives you an answer on October soon. Unfortunately, from what I’ve been hearing from other applicants, it looks like the options have been virtual study or another deferral. I have seen no indication at this point that Japan will lift its immigration restrictions when they come up for renewal at the end of this month.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hello Travis
I’m Thanking first for this update
So I want a link to complete my application as undergraduate parterner
Hi Irumva Gedeon,
To get the application form and the instructions for applying in your country, you need to refer to the website of the Japanese embassy or consulate that serves your area.
The embassy will have the information to let you know if the undergraduate scholarship is available in your country as well as a link to the forms and the application instructions for your area.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hello… I would like to pursue my ug in Japan and I’d probably major in humanities or social science. I haven’t opted for math in my high school final year. For the mext exam the requirement is that I take math, English. Can I not take math as I studied secondary level of math only? Pls reply ASAP
Hi Shrinika,
No, you cannot be exempted from any of the MEXT tests based on your previous education.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hey Mr
How can I get a link to fill my application details
If there isn’t any please help me how can I get applied in MEXT
Thank you
Dear Travis
Thank you for all the great advice and time you spent writing these articles!
I am currently filling in all the forms for my appointment next Wednesday. I do have a question though:
Let’s say I’m also considering other options like Canada and the US to pursue a Ph.D. If I, hypothetically, get accepted to a university in Canada which may even be better for my specific interests, but I also got accepted for the MEXT. Will this cause a problem? What will they think if I try to reject and can I even reject?
Best regards
Julian
Hi Julian,
You can withdraw from the scholarship, but I would urge you to consider your choices and priorities in advance.
If you are selected for the scholarship but withdraw, they can’t just pick an alternate. That scholarship slot would go unused, so you would essentially be denying a chance for a life-changing experience to another applicant.
Ultimately, it’s your decision, but do understand that the consequences are not limited to you.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Dear Travis
Thank you for the quick answer!
It would indeed be inconsiderate of me to deny someone else’s spot.
I’m trying to maximise my chances of getting accepted somewhere, but preferably not at the cost of someone else’s.
Since the official grantees are notified somewhere in June (although I read this can differ) and most universities accept students somewhere during Spring, during what stage is it still safe to opt out without denying someone else’s chances (during secondary screening, before etc.)?
Best regards
Julian
PS: I have no idea why this is my profile picture.
Hi Julian,
That is curious that you have a profile picture that you didn’t select when most others do not.
The only safe time to opt out of the MEXT Scholarship without harming another applicant’s chance is during the primary screening, before the initial results are released. So, for the ongoing embassy-recommended MEXT Scholarship application (Sept/Oct 2021 arrival), that would be some time in Aug or Sept 2020, depending on your country’s schedule.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Dear Travis
Okay, I think it would be best then to contact potential supervisors and see if any of them even want me or if they even accept foreign Ph.D students during these confusing times.
Thank you!
I mean, the profile picture is from 6 years ago, but I don’t know to which account this is coupled.
Best regards
Julian
Hello, I’m going to apply for MEXT undergraduate exam next year and I’m having a drop year because of that. Is there any age restriction to apply for MEXT? If has then what is the maximum age for MEXT UG I can apply? Can I apply for MEXT second time if I get rejected once? And do I have to come back to my home country after completing UG course in Japan with MEXT scholarship? Or is there any way to study further in Japan?
Hi Sanchayita,
This website is primarily focused on the MEXT Scholarship for Graduate Students. I haven’t written any articles specifically about the undergraduate scholarship.
However, you can find the age requirements in the official application guidelines. You are allowed to apply multiple times as long as you are still eligible.
As for extending the scholarship to continue studying at the graduate level, it may be possible, but that depends on the policy five to six years from now when you would graduate.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Am I eligible if I have passed high school but failed in one major subject, like maths? I’m talking about undergraduate.
Hi Sanchayita,
Failing a course would not make you ineligible, as long as you meet all other eligibility requirements. (Unless there are additional eligibility requirements imposed by the embassy in your country – I recommend checking the instructions on their website to be sure).
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hello Travis,
I am applying for the 2021 Embassy Recommendation Scholarship. My original plan was to spend one semester as a research student to learn Japanese (starting in October 2021) and then enroll in a Masters degree in April 2022. However, the Masters Degree I have in mind (University of Tokyo) also starts in the Fall semester, so I figured I would have to spend an additional semester as a non-degree student.
My problem is that I found something on the University site that confused me. On their FAQ section, when asked about the possibility to register as a non-degree research student and earn credits at the Master’s course, the answer is “No. The Master’s Global 30 Course does not accept any non-degree students”. So now I am unsure of how to proceed.
When they say that they don’t accept non-degree students, are MEXT Scholarship students included? If so, is it possible to apply for the scholarship now, but arrive to Japan in 2022? or should I apply as a degree-seeking student right away, even though I don’t speak Japanese? I know I could apply to a different program, but I’m hoping I won’t have to.
Thank you for your time!
Hi Pascale,
Even programs that do not normally accept non-degree students sometimes make an exception for Embassy Recommended MEXT Scholarship applicants when there is no other option. If that FAQ was for regular fee-paying admissions and not specific to the MEXT Scholarship, then it should not pose a problem for you.
I would recommend that you still try to apply. Ultimately, it is the university, not you, that will decide if you take the semester of language studies, and they will also determine what level of student (research student or master’s student) that they will accept you as. Leave that up to them.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
My name is Behzad Nasiri. I took my B.Sc. degree in Marine Engineering (Ship Engine) from the Petroleum University of Technology, Mahmoudabad, Iran
This year, I intend to apply for a graduate program in mechanical engineering at Universities of japan, commencing winter of 2021
I have experience of working as a marine engineer in ship engine room and tugboats over one year. I worked on multiphase fluid flow, pulsating heat pipes, internal combustion engines and simulation of combustion in a porous SRB using Ansys-Fluent. Moreover, I worked on fresh water generator, boiler, fuel injection systems, turbochargers, heat exchangers and compressor in ship, also I have experience in repairs and maintenance of passenger aircrafts in military service, In addition, I did research on heat transfer, energy storage, cost saving and mathematical modelling. Also, I have worked on several numerical projects in fluid mechanics like analysis of inlet air flow to engine room, impact of temperature and pressure on engine parts, optimal and economical consumption in ventilation systems with minimum energy consumption
I would appreciate it if you could consider my email
Best regards
Hi Behzad Nasiri,
This blog is filled with all of the advice I have for applying for the MEXT Scholarship, so I hope it becomes a valuable resource for you in your application.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hello, Travis.
I am interested in the MEXT scholarship and I have some questions about the scholarship.
The first one I am concerning about is after I apply and get the scholarship to one university (For example, Tokyo University) and then I want to change the university (for example, Hokkaido University), will I still have a scholarship?
The second one is if I fail one exam (one credit) then what will happen? The number of credits depends on University, but what if I fail one do I have to pay or/and there will be retake?
Thank you
Hi Asia Li,
If you are applying for the Embassy Recommended MEXT Scholarship, it is possible to change universities, but only when extending your scholarship to an additional degree. For example, if you complete a Master’s degree at Tokyo and want to enroll in a PhD at Hokkaido, it is possible to apply to do so and also apply to extend your MEXT Scholarship to cover the PhD.
However, it is never possible to transfer universities during the course of your degree. You would lose the scholarship. It is also not possible to change universities, even between degrees, if you are a University Recommended MEXT Scholar.
As for failing a course, if failing the course means that you cannot complete your degree on time, then you would lose the scholarship. However, if it is possible to retake that course, pass it, and not have any negative impact on your graduation schedule, then you should be able to continue your studies and your scholarship in that situation.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hi!
Can I apply for MEXT if I am in Japan already (but my nationality is foreign)?
Thanks!
Hi DeeTaufaga,
Yes, you can apply, but you need to have a definite plan to leave Japan and give up your current residence status there before the start of your MEXT Scholarship. You will need to newly enter Japan with a Student Residence Status obtained via application at the embassy in your home country just prior to the start of the scholarship.
If you are currently enrolled in a university in Japan, that might impact your eligibility too. I recommend reading my most recent article about eligibility criteria to double-check.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Thank you, Travis!
Hello Travis
Due to Coronavirus my university is closed right now, so I can’t get the recommendation letter. I just wanted to know whether digital signature is acceptable for recommendation letter?
Hi Hironmoy,
This is going to be a country-by-country decision, so I would recommend that you contact the embassy where you will apply for their guidance.
Even if the university is closed, is there no way to get a hold of your advisor by phone, email, or post? If it is still possible for your advisor to send you a LoR by post, then I would recommend trying that.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Thank you for the reply. I had one more inquiry. The sample recommendation letter specifies that the letter must be sealed in an envelope with the university seal in both recommendation letter and it’s envelope. Do we need to submit in a sealed envelope?
Hi Hironmoy,
No, you do not need to seal the letter of recommendation in an envelope. That sample letter is from a time when it was required to seal recommendation letters, but that is no longer the case (It does not say anywhere in the current application guidelines that letters must be sealed and you are not required to use that sample format.)
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Thank you for your help
Hi
I am looking for the best and accurate answer for the below question while filling Mext form.
1>>
what was the trigger for having an interest in japan mext.
2>>
why do you choose japan as a destination to study
3>>
what kind of thing do you think contribute to japanese
Thanks
Hi Khalid,
I cover how to answer those questions in my article about how to fill in the MEXT Scholarship Application form (2020 edition), so I recommend reading that piece, if you haven’t yet!
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hello Travis,
Thanks for all your help. I’m looking for getting a Master’s degree.
I have some questions about the requirements:
1) Is it essential to have English language qualifications TOFEL, IELTS.. etc?
2) I’ve been studied all my four years at the university in English, so could I attach a formal letter from my university that emphasis that I’m English qualified?
3) According to publishing a thesis, I already wrote a thesis but it not published yet, it will be published in November/2020, so what should I write in the provided section?
Hi Nasser,
It depends on whether you are applying for the Embassy Recommended MEXT Scholarship or University Recommended MEXT Scholarship. For the embassy, you do not need to submit proof of language ability because you will take a language proficiency test during the primary screening. For the University Recommended MEXT Scholarship, on the other hand, you do need to submit proof of language ability to meet the eligibility requirements.
MEXT has gotten a little less strict about what they will accept for proof of English Language Ability, as described in the article above, but each university can still set its own requirement, so I recommend that you look at the requirements specific to the university that you intend to apply to.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Greetings Travis
My question refers to the medical certificate: In the X-ray field there is a space in which there is a drawing of the lugs, should I place a photo of the x-ray there?
Hi Mike Paulos,
No, you shouldn’t make any marks directly on the sheet yourself. That image is a place for the doctor to circle or mark any areas of possible concern in your lung x-ray. In almost all cases, it would be blank.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hello Travis,
What should be the font size and style in the field of study and research plan?
Also, in my country, the application form is online and only requires the submission of a preliminary application form. Do I have to attach any documents along with it, since there are no specifications as to the submission of other documents?
Hi KT,
Usually, I recommend sticking with the default font (Times New Roman, I think), but the default size can be pretty small. If possible, at least 11 pt font, or 12 if you can fit it, would be easier to read.
If your country only requires a preliminary online submission for now – or has any specific submission process that differs from what I describe, I recommend that you follow the local directions, not mine. They will most likely ask for the other forms later, only from the applicants who pass the primary review.
Since the process is specific to your country, if you have questions about it, I recommend that you contact the local embassy directly.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hello Travis,
thanks for all your advices, I have some questions,
1- if I choose doctoral program rather than non-degree, would I take the Japanese course and entrance exam ?
2- can I change the research plan if I earned the scholarship ?
Hi Mawloud Aichaoui,
1. Whether or not you take the Japanese language program in your first semester is up to the university’s discretion. It does not have anything to do with your level of study. You will need to take the entrance exam prior to starting the degree and your university will determine how and when you will complete that. It should be possible to do so during your semester in the language program.
2. You can (and most likely will) make minor changes under the direction of your advisor. But you cannot make changes so drastic that you would need to change advisors, labs, departments, etc.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hi Travis! I am planning to apply for a MEXT Scholarship for 2021 but am still unsure about the coronavirus and travel restrictions. Can the start of the scholarship be pushed if my country (Philippines) does not permit travel yet? My second question is if I can shorten my scholarship period to only a semester since I am planning to study mainly in my country and it may overlap with the start of my classes in the Philippines (around September-October) Thank you!
– Amanda
Hi Amanda Villacorta,
I understand your concern. You wouldn’t be able to choose to defer the scholarship start, that would the be Japanese government’s decision. It did happen this year that students who were supposed to arrive in the spring semester, but could not because of border controls, were deferred to the fall, but I don’t know what that will look like in the future.
I’m not sure what you mean about shortening your scholarship to a semester, since it should be for the length of your entire degree. What type of scholarship are you applying for?
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hi Travis,
I have just finished filling in the form and the essay but i have just realized after reading your blog that i needed to apply to a school. i was hoping to do a masters in English at a school that offers a gender course but i might be too late. Any advice you can give me will be highly appreciated.
Hi Namatama,
If you are applying for the Embassy Recommended MEXT Scholarship, the first thing you need to do is to apply for the primary screening at the Embassy. After that, you’ll apply to universities for a Letter of Acceptance.
It’s not too late to apply to the university at this point, but you should know the universities that you want to apply to, including the professors that you want to study under. I have an article that can help you find English-taught degree programs in Japan that might help.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hello Travis!
I would like to know if I am pursuing a PhD receiving the MEXT Scholarship University Recommendation and I give up during the PhD program for some reason (e.g. if I found a job), do I have to pay back the scholarship I received while studying? Thank you!
Hi Jess,
As far as I know, if you leave the program voluntarily, you would not need to pay back the scholarship, though you would not get the paid ticket home.
If you were to be removed for violating the program’s rules, then you might be asked to pay back the benefits received up to that point.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Dear Travis
Thank you so much.
I want to apply for Mext Masters Program this year.
I am also planning to apply for any job opportunities in Japan as we have to wait for one year.
So, my question is.
Am I eligible to receive Mext scholarship with a work visa? I will change my visa type as soon as I enroll in Japanese University and get Certificate of Eligibility for a student visa.
I am afraid to be rejected in the process of second document screening in Japan, if they find out I am already in Japan.
Hi Zere Beisenbay,
In general, MEXT requires that applicants newly arrive in Japan for the scholarship. If you are living in Japan at any point during the application process, you would need to be able to show that there was a fixed term when you plan to return to your home country, regardless of the results of the scholarship application process. So, if you were working in Japan, it should be on a fixed-term contract that would end in time for you to return home to apply for the student visa. (Incidentally, MEXT scholars have a special visa application process that does not require a CoE and can only be completed at the embassy where you applied for the scholarship).
If you can show that you will leave Japan, then being in the country temporarily will not disqualify you from the scholarship (unless you are enrolled in a university – that would be a problem!)
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Good Evening Travis,
I am a grantee for the Undergraduate MEXT Scholarship at a certain University in Japan.
Some time ago, I have read that previous grantees of the MEXT Scholarship are ineligible for another MEXT Scholarship if said grantee has not spent 3 years in a degree-seeking program.
So, will I automatically be ineligible to apply for Graduate-Level MEXT Scholarship once I graduate from this university if I plan to immediately go to the Graduate (Masters) Program after I finish my Undergraduate (Bachelor) Degree since three years haven’t passed from the last scholarship payment?
Thanks.
Hi Vic Austen,
Congratulations on earning the MEXT Scholarships.
You are correct that you cannot apply for a new MEXT scholarship for your graduate studies until three years have passed. In the past, I think it was possible to extend your existing scholarship from bachelor’s degree studies to graduate studies, but I cannot seem to find the guidelines for this year. It might be worth asking about at your university anyway, though.
The extension application process would typically occur at the end of the calendar year for students who will be moving up in degree level during the next year.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hi Travis, I have two questions
1) If I simply digitally paste the photograph onto the document, where should I write the nationality and name? Do I have to digitally paste the photograph and also include a physical one with everything written on the back? There is no place in my country in which I can get the photograph professionally printed on photo paper.
2) In the application form; should I leave the spaces where I don’t have anything to fill them with in blank? Or should I put something like N/A, like in period of employment, I haven’t been employed in my life, should fill it with N/A or just leave it blank?
Hi Zharmas,
1) If you digitally paste the photo in, you do not need to worry about writing your name and nationality on it (the reason they have you write that is in case the photo falls off and they need to figure out who it belonged to). You do not need to also submit a printed photo if you digitally add it.
2) I recommend that you fill in “none” or “n/a” in any spaces that do not apply. That way, reviewers know that you didn’t just forget to complete it. For sections like employment, one “n/a” in the first box is sufficient to cover the entire table. You wouldn’t need to write it in every field.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Dear Travis, would it be better to write 該当なし or just N/A?
Hi Sarah Fahraat,
My recommendation is that if you are completing the application in English, you should write “N/A” and if you are completing it in Japanese, you would write “該当なし”.
(You should complete the application form in the language of the program that you are applying to, if possible, unless instructed otherwise by your embassy).
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Dear Travis,
Thanks for your diligent efforts for clarifying all these doubts. I would be really grateful if you could help me out with the LORs mentioned in the Embassy recommended scholarships. Previous year I had applied through the University route in December at Osaka University. For this I had obtained all the required LORs from my Dean and concerned professors. As things went, I failed to get through the exams (coz of the essay writing). And just recently the Japanese embassy in India has announced the scholarships.
So my question is since all the LORs earlier had been specifically addressed to Osaka University, could I maybe apply them again here since my first preference is to get to the same university?
Also I had earlier submitted all the originals, and all I’m left now with are the color photocopies. With the rife of Covid, it will be impossible for me to get a new LOR before the stipulated deadline. Could this work out in this dire situation?
TIA
Hi Abhyuday Verma,
You really should get a new Letter of Recommendation if at all possible, so I recommend that you start trying. In any case, you are required to submit an original, so I do not think that a photocopy of an old letter written for another application process will be acceptable.
If the post is functioning where you live, it should be possible to get a new letter, shouldn’t it?
If you really are unable to obtain a new letter, then I would recommend contacting the embassy to ask for their advice in your situation, but don’t do that until you have exhausted all possible avenues of getting a new letter and know that it is truly impossible.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Ok, I’ll try to get the letters if possible. If not I’ll request the embassy people for some leniency. Thank you so much.
Dear Travis,
Thank you for all your hard work with this blog. I really appreciate it. So… I am currently waiting to go to Japan in October 202o for my PhD. However, due to Covid19, my country is on Japan’s list for the entry ban. I know things are very uncertain now, but do you know when the entry ban will be lifted for countries badly affected by covid? Will I have the option to defer to April 2021 since my scholarship is for 2020? I’m also not sure if it is safe to travel internationally with my kids at the moment even if the entry ban is lifted. I’ve emailed the embassy in my country but I have yet to receive any replies from them.
Thank you again and stay safe.
Hi Mira,
I have heard that Japan is going to discuss exemptions to the entry ban this summer, starting with working visas, but also including student visa holders. The discussion is likely going to be country by country, though, so students from less affected countries will likely be let back into the country first.
Unfortunately, I do not know yet how this is going to play out. I am trying to follow along as best I can, since it is a critical issue for me and my day job as well!
I don’t think the Embassy in your country has any information, either, and as long as nothing is officially decided, they probably are not willing to guess. All we can do is to wait and hope that either the entry ban will be lifted or that MEXT will make arrangements for scholars to arrive later.
I will share anything new on here as soon as I learn it.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Dear Travis
Thank you so much. I want to pursue master degree by mext
I have few question
1. It takes 1 year to wait a result. Can i enroll as a phd in other university(other country) while waiting for the result? or I can work for 1 year?
2. I will get my master degree. Do I need to submit my transcript in undergraduate? it is requirement?( I read the guidelines but it did not say clearly)
3. I only have 16yrs of study including master it is enough?
4. Do I need to contact a professor before applying to mext for increase chance?
Hi Lloyd,
1. Yes, you can enroll in a degree in another university in the semesters while you are waiting, as long as it is not in Japan.
2. Yes, you need to submit your certificate of graduation/expected graduation (if you plan to graduate before the MEXT Scholarship) and transcripts from all university degrees you are enrolled in or have enrolled in in the past, including graduate and undergraduate degrees.
3. To be eligible to apply for a Master’s degree, you need to have 16 years of education (there are other alternative qualifications) and to apply for a PhD, you need to have earned a Master’s degree. So, it sounds like you qualify in both cases!
4. Contacting a professor in advance is not necessary, but it does help your application in a few ways: At the embassy interview, they will likely ask you if you have been in touch with your professor yet and being able to say “yes” and describe your relationship makes you look like a more serious applicant; It also helps when applying for a Letter of Acceptance from the university, since the professor will already be familiar with you at that point. I recommend it if possible.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hello, I have another question in Filling up the form there is question that ”Are you receiving or schedule to be receiving any scholarship from any organization other than the Japanese government(Mext) including an organization of your home country government) together with MEXT scholarship ?”and ‘If you are receiving or applying for other scholarship, please specify the name of the sponsor, scholarship period, scholarship amount” and also confused about ”professional graduate program and Doctoral program ”
Currently I am also on government scholarship in another country (Not in my home country) taking my master degree but will finish this august2020. Should I tick the yes in the first question and put the details of my scholarship on second?? and does it matter if I have family living in japan?
Hi Lloyd,
If you are currently receiving another scholarship but it will end before your MEXT scholarship begins – as it will in your case, then there is no problem. They are only concerned with scholarship that overlap in payment coverage. So, a scholarship for your Master’s degree is not going to be considered “together with” your MEXT scholarship for your PhD. You are fine.
The difference between a professional graduate program and a PhD program is the type of program and degree. A “professional graduate program” is a master’s or doctoral-level program that grants a professional degree (a degree that prepares you for a specific job) rather than an academic degree. Examples of professional degree programs are: MBA, LLM, JD, MD, MDDS, DVM, EDD, and degrees in teaching.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hi Travis
My name is Clara from Nigeria and i would like to apply for the MEXT scholarship for undergraduates 2021. My question is must I send a printed copy of my application form and recommendation letter to the Japanese embassy in my country or can i send an online copy.
Hi Clara,
Every embassy or consulate sets their own application requirements and process, so I would recommend that you check the website of the Japanese Embassy in Nigeria to see how they want the documents submitted.
My guess is that email is never going to be acceptable (you need to submit original documents, after all!) but post or submission in person should be possible.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Dear Travis,
My name is Alyaa and I am from Iraq. First I want to say thank you so much for your hard work, You gave us great help with all of this information in one place.
I have several things I am still wondering about:
1- I want to apply for a Master’s degree but some universities I want to apply to state that students should start as research students until we pass the entrance exam. Is it like preparation for the exam? Cant we prepare for it as we take the Japanese language program?
while one university explained that if the student starts as a degree student they should take the exam before arriving which is difficult coz we are not sure the embassy will prove as until the end maybe they decide not to and of course you should travel to take it. Is this explanation apply for all cases? In general, I am still confused with the first course as a research student
2- If I placed as a research student coz I arrived late for the semester then about what I am gonna do the research? the same topic and plan I provided or something else they decide on it?
3- On the website of the embassy in my country state (You may need to take an entrance exam depending on the university and its decision.) Is this for undergraduate or graduate students or both?
4- why some universities want us to attach an English language certification while the embassy says if it’s available?
once again thank you so much and sorry for the long reply
Hi Alyaa,
Thank you for your kind words.
1. In general, the entrance exam is one of the reasons that you should consider starting as a research student. Another is to take time to get used to your studies in Japan and to brush up on any material that you need to catch up on. Once you start your Master’s degree, you will have to complete it within two years or you will lose the scholarship. If you start as a research (non-degree) student, then the semester or semesters that you are in that program do not count toward your two years. You can still take courses and start your research as a research student. Taking the entrance exam is also a key factor. If your university requires that you sit for an actual exam before starting the degree, then you almost have to start as a research student. By the way, your semester of Japanese language study (if applicable) also counts as being a research student, for the scholarship purpose.
2. In general, even if you are a research student, you have to arrive at the same time, in time for the start of the semester. But as a research student you can start work on the research project that you will complete during your degree.
3. This should be for graduate students. But it depends on the university whether or not they will have you sit for an entrance exam or whether they will accept a review of your application documents as having completed the “exam”. In Japan, all admissions procedures are called “entrance exams” regardless of whether or not they include an actual test.
4. You will take an English language proficiency exam at the Embassy during the primary screening, so that is why the embassy doesn’t require scores. Some universities will consider it good enough that you have passed that test, but in reality, the universities don’t know anything about its contents, so some may ask for a language proficiency screening that they do understand, like TOEFL. (Of course, if you are taking a course in Japanese, they will certainly want to see your JLPT scores, too).
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hi Travis,
Thank you so much for the explanation. This is really helped me understand the full process of research students (non-degree) as the first course.
Regarding the third question when I checked the website again I notice the link for the FAQ is from the section for postgraduate research students I didn’t notice it first because I was looking for too much information at the same time so I apologize for that but the further explanation made the whole picture clear so thank you again.
Just one last question for confirmation, if I take the first course as a research student (non-degree) and move to a Master’s degree when I write the research timeline it should cover more than 2 years, right?
Thank you so much for your time.
Hi Alyaa,
I’m glad I was able to help!
Yes, if you are planning to start as a research student for one semester then matriculate to the degree, I recommend that you write one Field of Study and Research Program Plan that covers both your non-degree and degree studies.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hello Travis, I can not thank you enough for all of your work, your mailing list and blogs really helped me. I am intending to apply for 2021 Mext Embassy Recommendation as a research student. However I have some questions regarding document requirements;
1. Does the MEXT medical certificate form are equally the same wherever country I lived in? Because I want to get a head start and use the form you have sent through your mailing list, since Indonesian embassy (I’m Indonesian) have not given any official announcement yet. But I’m afraid that the medical form would be different when it finally be announced and I would lose precious time and perhaps money.
2. I also want to ask, there is a requirement where applicant’s transcript should show all of applicant’s grades and semester they’ve taken the course. My transcript sure does show my grade and lists of all the courses I attend but not in a chronological order nor in a per semester order. It is shown in a alphabetical order by the courses codes. Would it be a problem?
I am hoping you would reply to my inquiries. Thank you, have a good day.
Hi Alya Dayna,
Thank you for your kind feedback! I am glad that you have found the blog to be helpful.
1. Yes, the Medical Certificate is designated by MEXT and is the same in all countries. You can get the 2021 form from the Study in Japan website. However, I would recommend that you wait on this form. Some countries do not ask you to turn it in with the rest of the application documents at the beginning and only ask for it later in the process, once applicants have been through part of the screening. Your local embassy might also have additional medical documentation, etc., specific to your country, so I would recommend waiting for their guidance.
2. As far as I know, yes, you would need a document that shows when you took each of your courses over your four years. It should not have to be shown on the transcript itself, if you can provide another official document from your university that shows when you took each one. When I handled applications from students in Indonesia, most often they provided a separate document with a year-by-year breakdown of courses taken so that we could compare it to the transcript.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hello Travis
Does the recommendation letter have to be sealed and sent in the specific format given or can any other format be used as well? How many letters of recommendation do I require?
Hi KT,
You do not need to use the sample format given by MEXT and it does not need to be sealed (unless the embassy where you are applying specifically instructs you otherwise). The guidelines specifically say that a freeform letter is acceptable.
You need one letter of recommendation from the president, dean, or academic advisor at the last university you attended and one letter of recommendation from an employer if you are currently working. (Again, though, refer to the specific instructions from the embassy or consulate where you will apply, because they may have additional requirements or directions.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hello Travis
So I have a question and I don’t seem to find the answer anywhere, I’m planning on applying this year 2020 for an undergraduate scholarship, now I’m currently in a university so I know I need to list that in the application, but in order to take the scholarship, if I do get it, I’m gonna have to withdraw from my university since I would be graduating in 2024, so my question is do I need to specify somewhere in the application that I would be leaving my current university or changing anything at all? Because everywhere I see applications of people who are in university but will have graduated by the time of the scholarship.
Hi Monica,
It is most common to apply for the MEXT scholarship to start after you finish your degree, but I have seen applicants in the past who planned to quit partway through their current degree to take the MEXT scholarship if possible.
Since you will not be finishing your current degree before starting the MEXT scholarship, any years that you have spent in that program will not count toward your total years of schooling in the application form or for the eligibility requirements. I would recommend that you list the degree in the education table, then, in the notes section, indicate that you will withdraw from that degree program if accepted to the MEXT scholarship.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hello Travis,
As a research student, will I be a non-degree student if I get the scholarship
? Is it possible for me to apply as a degree-seeking student while applying for the scholarship?
I do not understand what a non-degree student means, it would be helpful if you could explain it.
Thank you.
Hi KT,
There are two meanings to the word “research student” (they are different words in Japanese, but unfortunately, both translate to the same English word).
1. First Meaning: Research Student refers to all graduate students at any level (non-degree, masters, doctoral, or professional degree). This is the meaning of the “MEXT Scholarship for Research Students”. You can apply to start directly as a degree-seeking student.
2. Second Meaning: Research Student also refers to “Non-Degree Student” to distinguish from degree-seeking students. This definition is usually used at the university level. A Non-degree student is enrolled at the university, can take classes, use facilities, and receive research guidance from professors, but they are not formally enrolled in a degree program (have not passed the entrance exam) or working toward earning their degree,
Most MEXT scholars in my experience start as Non-degree research students so that they can arrive in Japan and settle into their studies then take the entrance examination once they have arrived. It can be difficult to take the entrance exam before arriving, as some universities will require you to sit for it in person. The other advantage to starting as a research student is that once you formally enroll in the degree, you have a time limit that you need to finish in: 2 years for a Master’s and 3 for a Doctorate. If you stumble during your first semester because you are adjusting to Japan, etc., and lose progress, you might not be able to graduate on time and could lose the scholarship. If you start as a research student (non-degree student), though, that gives you time to adjust.
I always recommend starting as a non-degree student and matriculating to the degree program after arrival, if your personal circumstances allow it.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hi Travis,
Thanks a lot for all you are doing for us. We cant thank you enough!
I’ve 2 questions to which I’ve failed to find answers in your different posts.
1. I’m a Ugandan and I did my master’s degree in electrical and electronics engineering from Ankara, Turkey and graduated last year in June. As I was leaving Turkey after graduation, I got recommendation letters from my professors including my academic advisor and they were never sealed. However according to what I’ve read and understood for mext scholarship, the recommendation letter must be sealed and signed on the seal by the recommender. Could there be any other alternative of getting a recommender who is not from your last university attended or they should be from the last university attended and I should devise ways of getting them from Turkey when the scholarship application window opens? What would you advise?
2. In the sample application form in section 18, you are asked whether you currently have a job and in section 19 you are asked your employment record excluding part-time and volunteeering. I’m a part-time assistant lecturer at a university in my country. Is it in order to say yes in 18 and say none in 19 or if its part-time work still in 18 I should say No?
Best Regards
Hi Ssali Hussein,
You’re very welcome!
1. There is no requirement that the recommendation letter be sealed anymore, at least not from MEXT. That was a requirement several years ago, but no longer. The Japanese embassy in Uganda might ask for it to be sealed, but in that case it would be a local requirement, not a MEXT requirement. So, if they do ask for it to be sealed, you may be able to explain the situation and ask them to allow an unsealed letter.
In general, there is no alternative allowed to getting the letter of recommendation from your most recent university. At least, there hasn’t been in the past. It is possible that things might change this year because of COVID-19 making it harder for people to get letters.
2. If your job as a “part-time” lecturer at your university is your primary form of employment, I would say that you should list it in both parts of the application form. When the form tells you to leave out part-time jobs, they are referring to working a few hours per week at a shop or restaurant or something like that. In the academic career field, MEXT and your reviewers will understand that new academics almost always have to start out as part-time lecturers before getting a full offer of employment from a university.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Thanks so much Travis! You have answered me thoroughly well.
Dear Travis,
I just found about the scholarship a day or two back. I am a doctor (MBBS), looking for options for Post Graduation in fields related to medicine or surgery. The scholarship program says medicine, I hope that considers every field of medicine and surgery and not just medicine.
While searching, I have found that to apply I would have to get a minimum of 70 percent (which is very high for medical field), mine is a little above 65, Is it the 70% norm for every field under natural science (or is it different for medicine)?
Is there any other courses that I need to learn? Found out that the embassy takes exams for Japanese and English, does that mean I need to learn Japanese before applying?
If someone gets selected by the embassy, does that mean he/she gets a university or even after the embassy selects him/her, university needs to select and are there chances of rejection by the university?
(These are the questions I remember now, I am from Nepal)
-Thank You
After going through the FAQ, I found the answer to the last question.
How likely is it for a doctor to get scholarship for surgical field?
Hi Amrit Neupane,
There is no way to say how likely something is just based on the field. There are far too many other factors, like the level of competition, your past academic performance, the quality of your application, the priorities of your country, etc.
All you can do is focus on the steps and things you can do to strengthen your application and increase your personal likelihood of earning the scholarship.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Thank you for your reply.
My question was about surgery was on the based on the fact that the scholarship notice of last year had mentioned medicine but not surgery (For a non medical field person, they may be similar but for a medical person having one and leaving the other might mean different things).
Hi Amrit Neupane,
As far as I know, “Surgery” is going to be a field of study within the Graduate School of Medicine at a Japanese university.
The guidelines from last year also say “A student who studies medicine, dentistry or welfare science will not be allowed to engage in clinical training such as medical care and operative surgery until he/she obtains a relevant license from the Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare under applicable Japanese laws.” so they include surgery as a type of clinical training under the field of medicine. (By the way, that was the license I was referring to that you would need to test for in Japanese.)
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSez
Dear Amrit Neupane and dear Travis,
I hope this information might help you, Amrit. I have a Surgeon degree in my home country. It is definitely possible to apply to MEXT as a surgeon and get the scholarship. I got it this year and will forever be grateful to Travis for that 😀
However, please bear in mind that you can’t perform any kind of procedure over real patients because your Medical license is not valid in Japan. You can join a surgical research laboratory of a Graduate School of Medicine you choose, for research purposes only.
That being said, if you are a recently graduated physician who wants to enroll in postgraduate studies to get a surgeon degree, well that is not possible with this scholarship because as Travis said, you need to pass the exam in Japan that allows you to get a medical license there, which unfortunately is very, very difficult and requires a N1 Japanese level proficiency.
Anyway, if that is what you want to pursue, go ahead and don’t give up. It may be difficult, but it’s not impossible. Good luck!
Hi Ayu,
Thank you for your feedback and for this very helpful insight! I find it really helpful to hear about your direct experience and I’m sure Amrit Neupane will appreciate it, too!
Good Luck with your studies!
– Travis from TranSenz
Dear Travis,
I am in a difficult situation. I have been awarded MEXT scholarship (FY-2019) as by University recommendation.
There are some painful misunderstanding happened with my Professor due to my mentor. For my mentor (she) careless, poor communication and attacking mentality created this issue.
I would like to change my current lab to another lab. Is it possible in spite of being University recommended MEXT scholar or will it produce any effect of my scholarship?
Thanks in advance.
Hi Ethan,
I am sorry to hear about your situation.
As far as MEXT is concerned, if you are changing to another lab in your university, that should not be a problem as long as it does not interfere with your ability to graduate on time. I don’t think the university would even have to report that change to MEXT.
So, that makes it a decision for your graduate school. If you can make the case there, then it should be fine, as far as I know.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Thank you Travis for the help. This will definitely help me decide my path for future studies.
Also, thank you to Ayu.
Thank you Ayu
Means a lot
Hi Amrit Neupane,
The grades that you have to receive are different for every country, because each country’s system is different. (e.g. 70% is good in the UK, but poor in the US or Japan). You need to convert your grades to the MEXT 3.0 GPA scale to find out if you are eligible.
For medical degrees, you should assume that you will need to be fluent in Japanese. You will need to pass a national exam in order to participate in the practice phase of your studies and that exam is going to be entirely in Japanese. You can apply for a research degree in a field like Life Sciences that has medical applications without having Japanese ability, though.
There are several steps to the application process. The first is applying to the Embassy and passing the Primary Screening. After that, you need to acquire Letters of Provisional Acceptance from universities, so yes, you will need to apply to universities, too, and there is certainly a chance of rejection at that stage. You should already know what universities you want to apply to before submitting your application to the embassy.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Good Day Travis!
Firstly, I’d like to thank you for all your advice and dedication towards helping people!
just a quick question, I’ve wanted to study in Japan since my highschool days, in 2014, I obtained
a student visa but unfortunately couldn’t leave as I was accepted into a program but not the university itself – my grades weren’t good enough by the time I got them and it was too late to redo them.
Now, after a few years I have obtained a full high school diploma and would like to apply again, whilst I know that my chances for getting into a university are reasonably good, I would like to obtain a scholarship, however herein lies the problems:
1 – I am turning 25 this April (2020), I have phoned the embassy and consulted with someone who has told me that I am allowed to apply, however looking at past documentation (regarding undergrad) the guidelines state that one needs to be born between April 2, 1996 and April 1, 2001. Assuming applications start mid April this year and are not postponed due to Covid-19, am I still eligible to apply as I was born in 1995 and will turn 26 next year?
I am somewhat confused by this.
2 – I’m not sure if this question has been asked before, and if it has I apologise, however, it’s been a few years since I have done aptitude tests, whilst I am not overly worried about an interview or an English test, I am concerned about anything Math related as it is not my strong point. Furthermore, I do not wish to pursue a field where math and scienece are needed. How much will a negative performance during an exam impact the probability of obtaining a scholarship? I am confident in myself with regards to the interview and English exam as well, just not so much the Math.
Thank you for your assistance.
Best Regards,
Suhail
Hi Suhail S,
My expertise is in the scholarship for graduate students, not the undergraduate scholarship, but in this case, some of the same answers apply, so I will answer as best I can.
1. The application guidelines will be specific about what date your birthdate must be before. For the 2020 Scholarship (2019 application/2020 arrival), applicants had to be born on or before April 2, 1995. So, for the 2021 Scholarship, for which the application will start soon, I would expect that the requirement will be that you must have been born on or before April 2, 1996, like you said. Since you haven’t said when your birthday is, I can’t say if you will meet this requirement, but if it is on or before April 2, 1996, you should be fine.
2. According to the guidelines, everyone must take a math test (the type depends on what field of study you are applying in), so if you know this is a weak area for you, I would recommend that you start studying now. While I do not have an exact reference as to how much each individual part of the application process matters toward your passing, I would assume that every single part is important and you cannot afford to be weak in any area. This is a very competitive scholarship application and it is a zero-sum game. There are only so many scholarship places available, so if you want one, you have to outperform all of the other applicants.
You can find past tests to study at http://www.transenzjapan.com/tests/ (Redirect link to the official Study in Japan page).
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hi Travis!
Thank you for your reply, my birthday falls on the 18th of April and I was born in 1995. I’m assuming that I will be eligible to apply but I’d only get one shot at it in this case, correct?
Thank you for clearing any doubts I had, obviously I’d need to get some tutoring in order to perform well for the test.
Just one last question! I do understand that your speciality is for grad students, so I’d just like to find out if possible, are there any other sites that would be able to provide for example, a list of companies that provide scholarships or such for undergrad students, or is the MEXT scholarship the only option available?
I apologise for any inconvenience caused!
Thank you for your help!
Best Regards,
Suhail
Hi Suhail,
Your calculation sounds right to me. You would be eligible this year, but it is also your last shot. If it does not work out, then I would recommend that you earn a bachelor’s degree in your home country then try again for the MEXT scholarship for graduate students later.
Unfortunately, I am not aware of any other pre-enrollment scholarships for international students for undergraduate study in Japan or of anyone else who might have compiled that information.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hello Travis, Do I have to have an IELTS score to get accepted by a university or is there also another way to get selected without IELTS / TOEFL tests? Also, how do you change from a research student to a normal master’s degree student?
Thankyou.
Hi Kamali,
If you apply via the Embassy Recommended MEXT Scholarship, you do not need to submit TOEFL/IELTS scores, etc. But if you apply for the University Recommended MEXT Scholarship, you do need to submit proof of your English language ability.
If you start as a Research Student, you will need to pass the entrance exam for the degree program at your university and also apply simultaneously to extend your MEXT Scholarship. Your university should also provide instructions and the forms/deadlines.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hi Travis, Thank you for answering my question.
But will I be a student that’s acceptable by a university if I don’t have the scores? Or do I need to submit something different like an official document as a proof? I have completed my high school and undergraduate studies in English medium school and university. Therefore, will the university still accept me without the test scores?
Hi Kamali,
Are you referring to applying for Letters of Provisional Acceptance after passing the Primary Screening at the Embassy?
In general, once you have passed the Primary Screening, the universities that you apply to will take it for granted that the embassy has reviewed your English language ability and found it to be sufficient. So many will not ask for any further proof. (Some might, but that’s a university-by-university decision).
In your case, I recommend that you get a certificate from your undergraduate university that the medium of instruction was English and include that in your application documents when you submit it to the Embassy. In the application form, there is a place to indicate your language ability in English and what proof you have – you can fill in “Undergraduate degree taught in English” in that section and attach the certificate. That should clear up most universities’ questions (in addition to having passed the Primary Screening).
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Thank you so much, that was really helpful.
Hi Travis,
I have been granted the MEXt through the embassy recommendation. I m a mba candidate at kyoto and scheduled to arrive in april this year. I have a few questions. 1) i opted for the i-ba path but wonder if it is possible to switch to the i-pm path eventhough I wrote i-ba on the paperwork and was assigned a professor for the chosen path? 2) how likely is it to change university (for example from kyoto to tokyo? will I loose the scholarship? 3) Are scholars allowed to travel during the two months of vacation few months after their arrival? 4) Considering the fact that mext grantees attend japanese classes and then pass the entrance exam, what happens if they fail the exam? will they have a additional chances of taking it again?
Thanks for answering
Hi Meeka,
Congratulations on earning the MEXT Scholarship!
1. I’m assuming those are different programs or courses in the department? I don’t know what those terms mean. But in general, it would be a university decision whether or not to allow you to change programs or departments. I think it would be unlikely, but you may be able to shift your research focus or coursework to be closer to the other field, if that is what you are more interested in now.
2. Changing universities is not possible. The only exception is when you extend your scholarship (i.e. when you complete your MBA and apply to extend to a doctorate).
3. In general, graduate students are expected to be doing research during the breaks between semesters and continuing to work on the projects. If you need to travel for research, that would certainly be possible. But you cannot leave Japan for more than a month at a time, since you need to check in at your university each month to receive your stipend.
4. If you start as a research student (non-degree student) and fail the entrance exam, you may be able to remain a research student for an additional semester and try again. You have up to two years of enrollment as a research student available. However, if you are not scheduled to be a research student at Kyoto but will move directly from the language program to the MBA degree program, that might not be an option in your case. As soon as possible after you arrive, I would recommend that you get in touch with your advisor at Kyoto and talk to him or her about the entrance exam and what you need to do to prepare.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz
Hello Travis,
If it is not too much to ask, I would like to know if people in the LGBT society can qualify to do this program? Specifically the T part. My friend wants to do this scholarship after I showed it to him, but doesn’t know if he can do it. He like me is planing to do the Undergraduate program.
-Hope
Hi Hope,
A person’s sexuality has nothing to do with the scholarship application process. MEXT doesn’t care, so if you don’t make it an issue, they won’t.
But do not expect special treatment or consideration, either. The Japanese government is far behind in recognizing the LGTBQIA+ community. So, they are going to look at everyone from the binary perspective of being whatever sex is recorded in your passport. (That means, in general, that if someone’s passport says “male” and their university has shared housing, they would be living with other males, etc.)
In terms of living in Japanese society as a member of the LGTBQIA+ community, I’m afraid that I do not have any direct experience and have not talked extensively with anyone who has. But I hope your friend can find advice from someone in a better position than me.
Good Luck!
– Travis from TranSenz