Are you eager to study in Japan with complete financial support? The APU MEXT UR Scholarship 2026 in Japan offers international students a fully funded opportunity to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral programs at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU).
Sponsored by the Japanese Government through the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT), this scholarship ensures that talented students can focus entirely on their academic and personal growth without worrying about financial barriers.
APU MEXT UR Scholarship 2026 in Japan
The MEXT University Recommendation (UR) Scholarship at APU is designed for academically outstanding students from around the world. This scholarship enables scholars to join one of Japan’s most internationally diverse institutions, where students from more than 90 countries come together to study.
The program not only covers all educational expenses but also fosters intercultural exchange, professional development, and leadership skills. By removing financial obstacles, the scholarship allows students to fully participate in academic research, cultural immersion, and community-building activities.
APU MEXT UR Scholarship 2026 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | Japan |
| Study Destination | Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU) |
| Scholarship Type | Undergraduate, Master’s, and Doctoral Degrees |
| Funded By | Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT), Japan |
| Eligible Applicants | International Students |
| Scholarship Value | Fully Funded (Tuition, Stipend, Travel, and Admission Fee) |
| IELTS/TOEFL | Required (English-taught programs) or proof of Japanese proficiency (for Japanese-taught programs) |
| Application Deadline | November 12, 2025 |
| Number of Awards | Limited |
| Study Mode | Full-Time, On-Campus |
| Academic Session | 2026-2027 |
What Is the APU MEXT UR Scholarship All About?
The APU MEXT UR Scholarship 2026 in Japan is one of the most competitive and prestigious scholarships offered to international students. Candidates are recommended by Asia Pacific University to MEXT, which then finalizes the scholarship award.
This scholarship covers a wide range of programs, including undergraduate studies, master’s degrees, and doctoral research, ensuring that students from diverse academic backgrounds can apply. By supporting tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs, the program ensures that scholars can concentrate on academic excellence and cultural engagement.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
Applicants must meet the following requirements to be considered for the scholarship:
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan.
- Age: Applicants must have been born on or after April 2, 1991.
- Educational Background:
- For undergraduate programs: Completion of 12 years of schooling outside Japan.
- For master’s programs: A completed bachelor’s degree.
- For doctoral programs: A completed master’s degree.
- Academic Performance: A GPA of at least 2.30 on a 3.00 scale at the most recent institution attended.
- Language Proficiency: Must meet APU’s English or Japanese language requirements. Proof can be provided via IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent certificates.
- Health: Applicants must be physically and mentally healthy to pursue studies in Japan.
- Arrival Requirement: Candidates must be able to arrive in Japan during the designated arrival period set by APU.
- Previous MEXT Scholars: Former recipients must have more than three years of research or teaching experience before reapplying.
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients of the APU MEXT UR Scholarship 2026 will enjoy comprehensive benefits, including:
- Admission Fee: Full coverage of the university admission fee.
- Tuition: 100% of tuition fees covered through APU’s tuition reduction scholarship.
- Monthly Stipend: 144,000 JPY per month for living expenses (amount subject to adjustment).
- Travel Support: Economy-class airfare between the scholar’s home country and Japan, both at the beginning and end of the program.
- Academic Support: Access to advanced research facilities, international faculty, and career development opportunities.
These benefits ensure that recipients can focus entirely on their education and professional development without financial hardship.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:
- Completed the APU online application form.
- Official academic transcripts and degree certificates.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Proof of English or Japanese language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, JLPT).
- Motivation letter or statement of purpose.
- Passport copy or other government-issued ID.
- Research proposal (for master’s and doctoral applicants).
- Recent passport-sized photograph.
- Health certificate (to confirm medical fitness).
All documents should be uploaded in PDF format as per APU’s application instructions.
Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply
Here’s how to apply for the APU MEXT UR Scholarship 2026 in Japan:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet all the requirements for the scholarship.
- Prepare Application Package: Collect all required documents, including academic transcripts, test scores, and proof of language proficiency.
- Submit Application: Apply via the official APU online application portal before the deadline.
- University Screening: APU will carefully review applications and shortlist candidates for the scholarship.
- Recommendation to MEXT: Shortlisted candidates will be recommended by APU to MEXT for final consideration.
- Final Selection: Successful applicants will receive confirmation and guidance regarding travel arrangements, visa procedures, and enrollment steps.
Why Study at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University?
- International Environment: With students from over 90 countries, APU offers a diverse and multicultural learning environment.
- High-Quality Education: APU is recognized globally for its programs in international relations, business management, environmental studies, and social sciences.
- Japanese Cultural Exposure: Students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Japan’s culture, traditions, and language while studying.
- Strong Career Prospects: APU graduates are highly regarded by employers worldwide due to their cross-cultural competencies and academic training.
- Scholarship Prestige: Being awarded the MEXT Scholarship adds a strong credential to any graduate’s professional profile.
Deadline
The application deadline for the APU MEXT UR Scholarship 2026 is November 12, 2025. Due to the program’s competitive nature, applicants are encouraged to begin preparations well in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the APU MEXT UR Scholarship?
It is a fully funded Japanese government scholarship offered through Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral studies.
Who funds this scholarship?
The scholarship is funded by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT) of Japan.
What costs are covered under this scholarship?
The scholarship covers tuition fees, admission fees, a monthly living allowance, and round-trip airfare.
Can previous MEXT recipients apply?
Yes, but only if they have at least three years of teaching or research experience since their last award.
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