July 7, 2025 Japan continues to attract Nepalese students with its advanced education, safe cities, and career-friendly visa policies. But, one of the strongest reasons behind this growing interest is the wide range of scholarships, many of which are fully funded, making studying in Japan financially feasible.
This guide introduces the most relevant scholarships in Japan for Nepalese students – government, private, on-campus, undergraduate, postgraduate, and even technical training aids. Whether you’re planning a bachelor’s, research, or diploma course, there’s something in here for you.
MEXT Scholarship Nepal 2026
The MEXT (Monbukagakusho) Scholarship is the Japanese government’s flagship academic funding program. It covers 100% of tuition, a monthly stipend (approx. ¥117,000–¥145,000), and one-time airfare to Japan, making it one of the most sought-after scholarships in Asia.
MEXT 2026 Application for Nepalese Students
The Embassy of Japan in Nepal has announced three categories of MEXT Scholarships for 2026:
- Postgraduate/Research Students
- Undergraduate Students
- Specialized Training College Students
- Teacher Training Student
Why Apply for Japan’s MEXT Scholarship?
- The most prestigious Japanese scholarship, fully funded by government
- Over 9,000 students worldwide are selected each year
- Nepal has one of the highest acceptance rates in South Asia, especially in the research category
- No application fee, and many don’t require prior Japanese language proficiency
- CV boost, makes you stand out in front of your future employers
MEXT scholarship could be your entry point into Japan’s top universities, world-class research, and long-term career pathways. It’s a golden opportunity for academically strong Nepalese students aiming for global exposure.
Undergraduate Scholarships in Japan for International Students
For Nepalese students completing +2 or equivalent, Japan offers a variety of scholarships that support undergraduate studies in fields like engineering, social sciences, business, IT, and more. These scholarships can cover partial to full tuition, monthly living costs, and even travel expenses, making Japan a competitive and affordable study destination.
Top Undergraduate Scholarships in Japan for Nepalese Students
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Bachelors Scholarship |
Description |
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MEXT Undergraduate Scholarship |
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JASSO Scholarship (Reservation Program) |
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Rikkyo University Global Scholarship |
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Rikkyo Ladies Club International Exchange Scholarship |
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Rikkyo University Tokyo St. Paul’s Lions Club Scholarship |
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ServiceScape Scholarship |
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On-Campus Scholarships |
More on-campus scholarships are discussed below in this blog |
These scholarships are often competitive but realistic goals for motivated students. If you’re academically strong and committed to studying in Japan, securing one of these programs could be your launchpad to global opportunities.
Scholarships for Postgraduate and Research Students in Japan
For Nepalese students aiming to pursue master’s degrees, doctoral programs, or postdoctoral research, Japan offers some of the world’s most well-respected scholarship programs. These support high-potential individuals in fields ranging from technology and public policy to climate science, education, and peacebuilding.
Many of these are fully funded and include tuition, a monthly stipend, and airfare, making Japan an accessible destination for postgraduate education.
Top Scholarships for Postgraduate and Research Study in Japan
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Masters Scholarship |
Description |
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MEXT Scholarship (Postgraduate / Research Students) |
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JDS Scholarship (Japan Grant Aid Human Resource Development Scholarship) |
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JJ/WBGSP (Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program) |
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ADB–Japan Scholarship Program |
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JFUNU Scholarship (Japan Foundation for UNU) |
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Toyota Foundation Fellowship |
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JSPS Fellowship (Japan Society for the Promotion of Science) |
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NIG Postdoctoral Fellowship |
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Human Frontier Science Program (HFSP) Fellowships |
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IIE-SRF Fellowship |
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Facebook PhD Fellowship |
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Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future |
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As much as these scholarships aid you financially, they also offer international prestige, research exposure, and connections to academic and professional communities around the world.
Scholarships for Studying in Japanese Specialized Training Colleges
Specialized Training Colleges (Senmon Gakkō) in Japan offer practical and career-oriented programs in fields such as hospitality, IT, healthcare, animation, and automotive technology. These programs are popular among Nepalese students seeking skill-based qualifications with job-ready outcomes. And yes, there are scholarships too.
Available Scholarships for Specialized Training Programs in Japan
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Training Scholarship |
Description |
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MEXT Specialized Training College Scholarship |
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JASSO Scholarship (Reservation Program) |
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NIT Akashi College Scholarship |
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These scholarships support Nepalese students looking to gain professional skills in Japan without the financial burden of tuition and living costs. Plus, vocational graduates often enjoy high employability within Japan.
Fully Funded Scholarships in Japan for International Students
For students looking to eliminate financial obstacles entirely, several fully funded scholarships in Japan offer complete coverage of tuition, monthly living expenses, and international travel. These scholarships are highly competitive, but also very achievable with the right academic preparation.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Japan
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Fully Funded Scholarship |
Description |
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MEXT Scholarship (Undergraduate, Graduate, and Specialized Training) |
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JDS Scholarship (Japan Grant Aid Human Resource Development Scholarship) |
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JJ/WBGSP (Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program) |
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ADB–Japan Scholarship Program |
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JFUNU Scholarship (Japan Foundation for UNU) |
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Rotary Peace Fellowship |
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Facebook PhD Fellowship |
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Apart from funding your education, these scholarships often open doors to career networks, international research, and lifelong global exposure.
Private Scholarships for International Students in Japan
Many private universities, organizations, foundations, and corporate donors offer independent funding opportunities for international students. These scholarships often support students based on academic merit, financial need, or personal background, and can sometimes be combined with on-campus aid.
Popular Private Scholarships for Japanese Studies from Nepa
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Scholarship Name |
Description |
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ServiceScape Scholarship |
• USD 1,000 award for undergraduate or postgraduate students worldwide. |
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Toyota Foundation Fellowship |
• Research funding for graduate-level or independent scholars in humanities/social sciences. |
|
Aga Khan Foundation Scholarships |
• Offers 50% grant and 50% loan for postgraduate studies. |
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Rotary Yoneyama Scholarship |
• Monthly stipend and airfare reimbursement for international students at Japanese universities. |
On-Campus Scholarships and Financial Aid
Many universities and colleges in Japan offer on-campus financial support to international students. These scholarships are typically awarded based on academic performance, financial need, or active participation in student life.
You don’t always need to apply separately for university scholarships, many are automatically considered when you apply for admission.
On-Campus Scholarships for Nepalese Students in Japan
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University Scholarship |
Description |
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Rikkyo University Scholarships |
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Fukuoka University Scholarship |
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Asia Pacific University (APU) Tuition Reduction and Housing Support |
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Kyoto University – Kyoto iUP Scholarship |
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Tohoku University – President Fellowship for International Undergraduate Students |
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Osaka University MEXT Scholarships (University Recommendation) |
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International Christian University (ICU) Scholarships |
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Research Assistant (RA) / Teaching Assistant (TA) Roles (employment) |
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These financial aids not only support your studies but also connect you to faculty, research, and career opportunities on campus.
How to Get a Scholarship in Japan from Nepal?
First determine your study level, then, explore scholarships such as MEXT, JASSO, JDS, ADB–Japan, and private university scholarships. Apply through their official portals, and prepare all your essential documents, including your academic transcripts, English or Japanese language test scores, statement of purpose or research plan, and recommendation letters.
Staying organized and meeting deadlines is key, as most scholarships are competitive and time-sensitive.
Here’s the detailed steps breakdown to secure Japanese scholarships from Nepal:
Step 1: Choose Your Academic Path
- Decide whether you’ll apply for undergraduate, graduate, or vocational (Senmon Gakkō) studies
- Research which universities or colleges offer your program in English or Japanese
Step 2: Explore Relevant Scholarships
- Check MEXT Scholarship Nepal via the Embassy of Japan in Nepal
- Browse private and university-based scholarships on sites like JASSO Scholarship Search or simply Consult a Japanese education consultant.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
- Academic transcripts, recommendation letters, passport copy, statement of purpose (SOP), and any certificates
- For research scholarships, a well-structured research plan is essential.
Step 4: Meet the Language and Academic Criteria
- Some scholarships require English (IELTS/TOEFL) or Japanese (JLPT) proficiency
- Most need a minimum GPA of 3.0+ (B grade or above)
Step 5: Apply Through the Right Channel
- Embassy Track (for MEXT): Apply through the Embassy of Japan in Nepal
- University Track: Apply directly to universities offering scholarships on admission
- Foundation/Private Track: Apply separately to scholarship foundations like ADB, JJ/WBGSP, etc.
Step 6: Follow Up and Prepare for Exams/Interviews
- MEXT and others require written tests (Math, Science, English)
- Interviews test your motivation, clarity of goals, and cultural understanding
Tips for Nepalese Applicants to Maximise Scholarship Chances
- Apply early — scholarship deadlines in Japan are strict
- Focus your SOP on clear goals and your connection to the field
- Reach out to the Japan Education Centers or your target universities for guidance
Conclusion: Study in Japan from Nepal with Scholarships
Studying in Japan no longer needs to be a distant dream. With dozens of scholarship options available from fully funded government programs like MEXT and JDS to private university aids and on-campus support, Nepalese students have more access than ever before.
Whether you’re aiming for a bachelor’s degree, master’s, PhD, or a technical diploma, there are funding pathways for your needs and aspirations. What matters most is that you start early, stay informed, and apply strategically.
Thousands of international students, including many from Nepal receive scholarships in Japan every year. If you’re dedicated and prepared, you can be next.
Contact Hardford Education, Nepal’s leading consultancy for Japan, where we excel in helping students with scholarship, admission, and visa application along with language preparation classes.
Secure your scholarship today, and begin a thriving journey in Japan with us!
Frequently Asked Questions: Japanese Scholarships from Nepal
How to get a scholarship for a master’s degree in Japan?
Apply to programs like MEXT, JDS, ADB–Japan, or JJ/WBGSP. Prepare strong academics, research plan or SOP, recommendation letters, and meet language requirements (IELTS/TOEFL or JLPT if needed). Apply through the Japanese Embassy or directly to universities.
How much CGPA is required for a scholarship in Japan?
Most scholarships, like MEXT, require a minimum of 2.30/3.0 GPA (~3.0/4.0). Higher CGPA increases your chances.
How can I get a full scholarship in Japan?
Apply to fully funded options: MEXT, JDS, ADB, or JFUNU. They cover tuition, living allowance, and airfare. Focus on academics, clear goals, and timely application.
How much money is required to study in Japan for Nepali students?
Yearly cost:
- Tuition: ¥500,000–1,200,000
- Living: ¥100,000–150,000/month
Scholarships and part-time work can reduce this
Discover the Total Cost of Studying in Japan from Nepal in our comprehensive guide.
Which course is best in Japan for Nepali students?
Engineering, IT, Robotics, Business, Environmental Science are the top choices in 2025. Choose based on your interest and Japan’s industry strengths.
Which scholarship is easy to get in Japan?
JASSO (¥48,000/month) and university scholarships like APU’s tuition reduction are easier than MEXT. Criteria: decent GPA, motivation, and financial need.
Also Read:
10 Most Affordable Cities in Japan for International Students
IT University in Japan for Nepali Students: 2025 Guide
