Pakistani Student Wins MEXT Scholarship to Study AI and Machine Learning at Ritsumeikan University in Japan

Hey there, what's up? I'm Muhammad Hamza Mehdi from Lahore, Pakistan. With a background in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine/Deep Learning, I’m currently pursuing a Master of Science in Computer Science at Ritsumeikan University.

Mext Scholarship Details

In 2023, I decided that my future and passion lay in further studies and research in the field I love. While browsing online, I came across multiple scholarships, but none seemed captivating or relevant. Then I discovered the MEXT Scholarship. I began researching it further and reached out to a professor at Ritsumeikan University. After receiving a letter of acceptance, I applied through the MEXT application process and was fortunate to be selected under the international student category. The MEXT scholarship is fully funded and offers 1.8 million yen per year, covering accommodation, airfare, and tuition fees. I was both amazed and overjoyed.

My previous degree was in a different field. I graduated in 2020 from the University of Central Punjab in Lahore with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, earning a CGPA of 3.24/4.00. My undergraduate studies included research work, which helped me understand the fundamentals of research. Achieving a good CGPA also boosted my confidence in applying for the scholarship.

How did you apply to Japanese Universities and the MEXT Scholarship?

While searching for potential supervisors, I contacted several researchers regarding research assistant positions in their labs. After numerous long and detailed emails, I finally secured a position at Ritsumeikan University under the MEXT scholarship. I’m currently conducting research in AI, Deep Learning, and Machine Learning. To be accepted into the program, I also had to prepare for an online interview, but I was well-prepared and succeeded in obtaining the scholarship.

How did you prepare for Standardized Exams like IELTS?

Generally, most information about the MEXT scholarship can be found on the website of the Embassy of Japan. However, joining MEXT-focused groups can provide valuable guidance during the application process. It’s also a good idea to take standardized tests like the GRE, IELTS, or SAT, as they increase your chances of being accepted by a university. In my case, I took the IELTS and scored 8.0 out of 9.0, demonstrating C1 proficiency.

What made your application strong?

After securing the university acceptance letter, I filled out the second application form for the MEXT scholarship, which included my research plan, test scores, and future aspirations. I sent the completed form to my university, which then forwarded it to MEXT.

There were three key reasons my application stood out: my previous research in autonomous systems, my CGPA, and my test scores. These helped me successfully navigate the selection process.

What would you have done differently?

There are many things I would have done differently if I could go back to 2023. The most important would have been learning the local language earlier, as the language barrier is the most significant challenge in any foreign country. That said, people here are very kind and helpful, and although many aren’t fluent in English, they don’t mind communicating in it.

I worked hard for one year, from 2023 to September 2024, and eventually earned the opportunity to be selected for this scholarship. Don’t lose hope. Face every hurdle with determination, give it your best, and never look back. You will succeed in life, and one day, you could be the one representing your country abroad. Good luck with your journey!