The Fully Funded MEXT Scholarship Awarded to an Indian Student to Pursue his Bachelor's Degree in Japan

Hi there! I’m Ayush Dixit from Lucknow, India, and I am currently pursuing my undergraduate studies in information and communication engineering with the support of the MEXT College of Technology (COT) scholarship. My passion for understanding how technology connects people inspired me to explore this field more deeply, and studying in Japan has been a perfect fit for that journey.

I like to make Indian food and play video games when I'm not studying since they both help me unwind and stay creative. It's been a fascinating blend of growth and learning, and I can't wait to see where it goes from here.

MEXT Scholarship Details

The MEXT (Monbukagakusho) Scholarship, funded by the Japanese government, offers full financial support to international students for various educational programs, including undergraduate, graduate, research, and special training colleges.

The application process for this scholarship can be pursued through two primary routes: the embassy recommendation and the university recommendation. The embassy recommendation route involves several stages: an initial document screening, a written test, an interview, and a final international review. The university recommendation route allows students to apply directly through a specific Japanese university, but the process and requirements differ slightly.

For those awarded the MEXT scholarship, the benefits are extensive. It covers full tuition fees and provides a monthly stipend of ¥120,000 (approximately $830) for undergraduate students. Additionally, it includes round-trip airfare to Japan at the beginning and end of the program. This comprehensive support makes it possible for students to focus on their studies and fully engage with their academic and cultural experiences in Japan.

Educational Background

I completed my high school education in India with strong results, achieving 94% in 10th grade and 92% in my final year. These academic successes provided a solid foundation for my studies. Additionally, I performed well in written exams, which helped me get through both screenings.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the MEXT Scholarship?

To prepare for scholarships, I researched the application process and carefully prepared my documents. My English-taught high school education meant I didn’t need standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS. Although I didn’t have JLPT certificates, having one could be helpful. I focused on meeting all other requirements and presenting a strong application for the MEXT scholarship.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

If I were to go through the scholarship application process again, I would first make sure to obtain a Japanese language proficiency certificate like the JLPT, as it could have strengthened my application. Additionally, considering how lengthy and time-consuming the process is, I would have prepared a backup plan to avoid putting all my hopes on the secondary screening. Having an alternative plan would have provided more security and flexibility throughout the application journey.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

For those applying for a similar scholarship, it’s crucial to start with comprehensive research on the application process before seeking help with specific doubts. The process can be lengthy and complex, so patience is key; don’t assume success until you receive the official acceptance letter. Additionally, avoid investing all your hopes and resources into a single application. Having a backup plan can provide security. Lastly, while the process is competitive, maintaining hope and approaching it step by step will help you navigate the challenges more effectively.