Scholarships in Japan
Scholarships in Japan for Bangladeshi Students
Japan is a global education powerhouse—offering top-ranked universities, high-tech campuses, and a unique mix of tradition and innovation. While studying in Japan is more affordable than in Western countries, scholarships play a decisive role in making world-class education accessible for Bangladeshi students. With dozens of merit- and need-based awards—from government programs like MEXT to prestigious private foundations—Japan provides pathways for brilliant students to unlock their academic dreams.
Why Apply for Scholarships in Japan Through PFEC Bangladesh?
- Access to Scholarships Ranging from 30% to 100%: Widest coverage for international students, including tuition, stipends, and living expenses.
- Expert Matching: Personalized scholarship recommendations based on your academic record and university preference.
- Living Expense Support: Scholarships often help cover accommodation and daily costs—making Japanese student life more affordable.
- Higher Success Rates: Early, targeted applications get priority; funding is competitive and often limited.
- Early Bird Advantage: Applicants who apply before deadlines are more likely to secure top-value scholarships.
Major Scholarship Types in Japan
- Japanese Government Scholarships (MEXT)
MEXT Scholarship (Monbukagakusho) is the largest and most competitive Japanese scholarship for international students including Bangladeshis, supporting undergraduate, master’s, PhD, and specialized programs.
Key Features:
- Coverage: Full tuition, monthly living allowance (¥117,000–¥242,000 depending on level), round-trip airfare, and preparatory language year for some tracks.
- Eligibility:
- Undergraduate: 12 years completed education, age 17–21 as of April 1 of arrival year.
- Master’s/PhD: Bachelor’s degree, under 35 years (born on or after April 2, 1990 for 2025 intake), good academic performance.
- General: Bangladeshi citizenship, demonstrated health, English or Japanese proficiency.
- Application Methods:
- Embassy Recommendation: Through the Japanese Embassy in Dhaka; deadlines in April/May, written tests and interviews in June, results in December.
- University Recommendation: Direct application to Japanese universities, which then nominate students to MEXT.
- Duration: 4–6 years (undergrad), 2+ years (master’s/research), 3–4 years (specialized).
- Application for 2025: Most types closed by May 27, 2024; results typically out one month post-deadline. Next cycle opens April 2025. Check embassy and university sites for annual updates.
- Honjo International Scholarship Foundation
The Honjo Scholarship is a fully funded program for master’s and PhD students from developing nations, including Bangladesh.
Key Features:
- Coverage:
- Monthly allowance: ¥180,000–¥230,000 (depending on degree and duration)
- Accommodation support
- Conference travel expenses
- Eligibility:
- Non-Japanese citizens enrolled (or planning to enroll) as graduate students (by April 2025 or Fall 2025 entry)
- Must be under 30 (Master’s) or under 35 (PhD) at program start
- Willingness to serve home country after graduation; basic Japanese conversational ability (interviews conducted in Japanese)
- Duration: 1–5 years depending on course
- Deadline:
- Spring intake: September 2 – October 31, 2025
- Fall intake: April 1 – April 30, 2025
- Application Steps: Documents and interview; results by March 31 or end of April.
- ADB–Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP)
Sponsored by the Asian Development Bank, this program is for postgraduate (master’s) study in development fields.
Key Features:
- Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend (~¥147,000), travel, medical insurance, research allowances.
- Eligibility:
- Bangladeshi nationality (ADB member country), under 35 years old, bachelor’s degree with strong academics, 2+ years of relevant experience, commitment to return home for at least 2 years post-study
- Proficiency in English
- Fields: Economics, management, science, and technology relevant to development
- Application: Secure admission to an approved university (e.g., University of Tokyo, Kyoto University), then apply to ADB-JSP via university at least 6 months ahead; deadlines vary.
- Nitori International Scholarship
Nitori International Scholarship Foundation supports international students (including Bangladeshis) enrolled in Japanese universities at UG/PG levels.
Key Features:
- Coverage: ¥50,000–¥80,000 monthly stipend for one year (renewable), housing and exchange event support.
- Eligibility:
- Enrolled in a Japanese university, valid “College Student” visa, under 24 (UG) or under 26 (PG/six-year), GPA 2.5+ (4.0 scale), JLPT N3 or higher
- Application: Direct via foundation site; 2025 deadline is May 21, 2025
- Selection: Web-applications, document screen, Japanese interview, results timely.
- Other Popular Scholarships in Japan
- JASSO Scholarships: Short-term student exchange and Honors Scholarship for privately funded international students (¥48,000/month stipend).
- Research Assistantships: Offered by many universities for postgraduate research.
- University-specific International Scholarships: Many Japanese universities (Tohoku, Tokyo, Osaka, Waseda, Keio) offer merit-based or need-based tuition reductions or full scholarships.
- Local Government & Foundation Scholarships: E.g. Hiroshima International Center, Rotary Yoneyama, Asian Cultural Council.
How to Apply for Scholarships in Japan
- Shortlist Institutions/Programs: Choose universities in your field—QS/Times ranks and preferences.
- Check Scholarship Availability & Timelines: Review university and embassy pages for deadlines and requirements.
- Prepare Application Documents:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Valid passport
- Proof of English (IELTS/TOEFL)/Japanese (JLPT) as needed
- Health certificate
- Recommendation letters
- Statement of Purpose and research proposal (for graduate)
- Typed application form (for MEXT, Honjo, ADB, others)
- Apply Early: Most scholarships open between January and May the year before intended intake; some have Fall and Spring rounds.
- Interview Notification: Be ready for language and subject tests (MEXT, Honjo, Nitori, etc.).
- Follow Up: Track your application, respond to requests for extra info (sometimes in Japanese).
Universities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can Bangladeshi students get fully funded scholarships in Japan?
Yes—MEXT, Honjo, ADB-JSP, and some university/foundation programs offer full tuition, stipends, and other allowances.
Do I need to speak Japanese to win a scholarship?
MEXT and most government scholarships do not require advanced Japanese, but Honjo and some private/foundation scholarships require at least conversational skills (interviews often in Japanese). JLPT N3+ is strongly recommended.
What GPA is needed for scholarships?
Generally, minimum GPA is 2.5–3.5/4.0 (varies by program), but the best results come with higher academic standing and strong recommendations.
How competitive are Japanese scholarships?
Highly competitive—apply early, prepare documents, and highlight leadership, research, or community contribution.
Can I receive more than one scholarship?
Usually no—most major scholarships prohibit “double-dipping.” Read terms before applying to multiple concurrent awards.
- Apply as early as possible—early applicants get priority for limited funding.
- Consult PFEC Bangladesh: Our counselors can help match you with the right scholarships and ensure your documents meet all requirements.
- Diversify Applications: Don’t rely on a single award—target government, private, and university scholarships.
- Be Prepared to Demonstrate Leadership/Community Impact: Many awards now consider your broader contribution and future vision.