Yes. The Global Scholarships MEXT page describes it as a fully funded Japanese government scholarship that covers tuition fees, a monthly stipend, and round-trip travel expenses. The page also notes that research students generally receive ¥143,000 to ¥145,000 per month, while undergraduate students generally receive ¥117,000 per month. According to Genes P. Maylem, the scholarship “fully covers tuition, provides a monthly stipend, and includes round-trip airfare between Japan and my home country.”

MEXT supports Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD studies in Japan. Recipient stories also show that students have used it for undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, research, and teacher-training pathways. For example, Ayush Dixit used MEXT for a bachelor’s degree, while Chhay LIM received it under the Research Student category for a master’s degree.

There are two main application routes: the Embassy Track, where students apply through Japanese embassies in their home countries, and the University Track, where students apply directly through Japanese universities. Chaw Su Thin explained this clearly: “There are two types of MEXT Scholarships: University Recommendation and Embassy Recommendation.”

The general Global Scholarships overview says applicants commonly need academic transcripts, a certificate of graduation or enrollment, a recommendation letter, a health certificate, a language proficiency certificate, and thesis abstracts for research students. From a recipient perspective, Lubanda (Luyando) Hamweendo said, “I prepared and gathered supporting documents early: transcripts, recommendation letters, a polished CV, and any required certificates.” Jawad Khan also advised applicants to “Start early—give yourself months to gather documents, refine your research proposal, and seek feedback.”

It depends on the program. Many MEXT recipients study in English-taught programs, but learning Japanese still helps a lot with daily life and integration. Gardin, a MEXT scholar at the University of Tsukuba, said that “the courses are entirely conducted in English” in his program. At the same time, he added that basic Japanese is highly recommended for everyday life. Chhay LIM also noted that “MEXT requires you to sit for a written English and Japanese language examination” depending on your study language and route.

Across the recipient stories, the strongest applications are usually well-prepared, clearly aligned with the chosen university or professor, and backed by a strong academic or professional story. Ragini Kumari said, “I carefully went through the course guide to identify professors whose areas of expertise overlapped with mine.” Likewise, Lubanda (Luyando) Hamweendo emphasized tailoring the proposal to the supervisor’s research, and Jawad Khan stressed refining the research proposal early and seeking feedback.

No single deadline applies to everyone. Deadlines vary by institution, which is why applicants should check the Japanese embassy in their country or the specific university handling the nomination. Since procedures can differ by route and degree level, it is best to confirm dates directly from the relevant official source before applying.

Recipient stories suggest that the experience can be academically demanding but very supportive and rewarding. Gardin said his university had “an organization for supporting international students” and also provided tutors, dormitory options, and free Japanese courses. Jawad Khan described studying in Japan as “a life-changing experience,” adding that the academic atmosphere and support from professors and lab members were major highlights.