How a Pakistani Civil Engineer Earned the Fully Funded MEXT Scholarship to Pursue a Master’s in Creative Science and Engineering at Waseda University

My name is Zain Ashfaq, and I come from Pakistan. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology (GIKI). Currently, I am pursuing a Master’s degree in Creative Science and Engineering at Waseda University, Japan (September 2024 – September 2026) under the prestigious MEXT Scholarship.

I have always been passionate about infrastructure development and the application of sustainable engineering in real-world settings. My professional journey began as a Senior Executive Civil Engineer at Engro Enfrashare, one of Pakistan’s leading digital infrastructure companies. In this role, I gained practical experience in telecommunication tower construction, data validation, quality assurance, and stakeholder coordination. These experiences motivated me to pursue advanced studies and develop more innovative and sustainable solutions for infrastructure challenges.

MEXT Scholarship Details

I was fortunate to be awarded the MEXT (Monbukagakusho) University-Recommended Scholarship, offered by the Government of Japan. The MEXT Scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships in Asia, covering full tuition, a monthly living stipend, round-trip airfare, and health insurance. The scholarship aims to support outstanding international students in contributing to international goodwill and mutual understanding through education and research.

The scholarship enabled me to join Waseda University, one of Japan’s top institutions, where I am focusing on the intersection of civil infrastructure and smart city technologies. Although I

explored other scholarship options, MEXT provided the most comprehensive academic and financial support that aligned with my long-term goals.

Educational Background

I completed my undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering from the Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology (GIKI), one of Pakistan’s premier engineering institutions. Throughout my academic journey, I maintained a strong academic record, earning a position on the Dean’s Honor List for four consecutive semesters in recognition of my consistent academic excellence.

My Final Year Project, titled “Development of Geo-Polymer Concrete Using Green Materials and Assessing Its Application for 3D Concrete Printing”, was awarded Best Final Year Project for its innovation and relevance to sustainable construction technologies.

Beyond my academic coursework, I actively engaged in research-focused activities and presented a technical paper at the 4th Park-Turk International Conference, which provided me with valuable exposure to international academic forums. These experiences significantly enhanced my research capabilities and cultivated a strong foundation for graduate-level study. My undergraduate education not only sharpened my technical and analytical skills but also developed my ability to communicate complex engineering concepts effectively—an essential asset in today’s global research environment.

 How Did You Prepare to Apply to Waseda University?

I began by identifying universities in Japan that offered programs aligned with my academic interests—specifically, smart infrastructure, sustainable urban development, and construction innovation. I found Waseda University to be a perfect fit due to its interdisciplinary focus and international environment.

I reached out to professors with research interests in structural optimization and smart city planning. After receiving a positive response from my prospective supervisor, I began preparing a detailed research plan, CV, and Statement of Purpose. Since my undergraduate degree was completed in English, I was exempted from submitting IELTS or TOEFL scores, which simplified the application process.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the  MEXT Scholarship?

The MEXT application is rigorous and requires meticulous attention to detail. I began by carefully reading the official guidelines and preparing all required documents, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a medical certificate, and a comprehensive research plan.

I devoted considerable time to drafting and refining my research proposal, ensuring that it aligned with Japan’s research priorities and my academic background. I also sought guidance from previous MEXT scholars and professors to enhance the quality of my documents. The university-recommended route required me to secure acceptance from a Japanese professor, which played a crucial role in the success of my application.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

What made my application stand out was the clarity of my academic vision, the professional relevance of my research, and alignment with Japan’s development initiatives. My hands-on engineering experience allowed me to propose a research plan that addressed real-world issues, such as optimizing digital infrastructure for disaster-prone regions and integrating green construction materials into mainstream development.

Additionally, I demonstrated how the outcomes of my proposed research could benefit both Japan and Pakistan, contributing to regional cooperation and technological exchange. I also ensured that my documentation reflected honesty, consistency, and genuine passion for the subject matter.

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

While I am overall satisfied with how my journey unfolded, there are a few things I would approach differently if given the opportunity. I would begin my research planning much earlier, ideally well before the application cycle opened, to allow more time for refining my research proposal. Engaging with alumni networks and potential supervisors at an earlier stage could have provided deeper insights into academic expectations and strengthened my application. Additionally, I would implement a more structured timeline to manage critical tasks such as gathering documents, proofreading, and obtaining certified translations, ensuring everything was completed well ahead of deadlines.

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

Start your preparation early and dedicate time to understanding the scholarship’s objectives. Build a research proposal that reflects both your personal experience and global relevance. Contact professors, get feedback from peers or alumni, and tailor your application documents to the values and goals of the institution and scholarship provider.

Most importantly, be genuine. Don’t try to fit into a mold—highlight your unique journey, challenges, and aspirations. For MEXT specifically, emphasize how your work will contribute to mutual understanding between Japan and your home country. The process is competitive, but with consistent effort, clear planning, and sincerity, it is absolutely achievable.