Japan Study Support Scholarship 2026 | Step-by-Step Process

Scholarship Overview

The Government of Japan has officially opened applications for the 2026 Japan Study Support Scholarship. This program is designed to provide financial assistance to international students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees at Japanese universities.

The scholarship offers a one-time grant of 300,000 Yen to support tuition, living expenses, and accommodation costs during the first year of study. This opportunity is open to students who have successfully secured admission to a Japanese university and meet specific criteria regarding the application platform (JPSS).

Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: Japan
• Study Level: Undergraduate & Postgraduate (Masters)
• Eligible Regions: All Countries (International students)
• Financial Award: 300,000 Yen (One-time payment)
• Language Requirement: English or Japanese (No IELTS required)
• Application Deadline: May 31, 2026

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the Japan Study Support Scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

1. Admission Status: Must have been accepted to enroll in a Japanese university (undergraduate or graduate program) with confirmed enrollment. The intake periods eligible are:
   • September – November 2025
   • April – May 2026
2. JPSS Registration: Must possess a registered "MY PAGE" account on the JAPAN STUDY SUPPORT (JPSS) website.
3. Scout Requirement: Must have received a recruitment message from the university via the "JPSS Scout function" prior to being accepted.
4. Language Proficiency: Must be able to participate in an interview conducted in either Japanese or English.
5. Bank Account: Must hold a Japanese bank account (in the applicant’s own name) to receive the scholarship funds. Note: Internet banks are not accepted.
6. Citizenship: Must not be a Japanese citizen.

Scholarship Benefits and Duration

The Japan Study Support Scholarship provides financial support to selected students in the form of:

• 300,000 Yen awarded to four successful applicants.
• The funds are designated to assist with expenses upon enrollment at the designated university.

Note: All scholarship recipients are required to submit periodic reports throughout the scholarship period (a few times per year). These reports may be published on the JPSS website or in related information booklets.

Required Documents

To apply, candidates must prepare and submit the following materials:

1. Application Form: Basic personal information.
2. Short Essay:
   • Topic: "Motivation to Study in Japan & Future Goals."
   • Limit: Up to 350 English words or 800 Japanese characters.
3. Self-Introduction Video: A video clip no longer than 30 seconds.

Important Terms & Conditions

• Accuracy: If any application documents are found to contain false information, the application will be rejected immediately.
• Repayment Policy:
  • If false information is discovered, any scholarship money already paid out must be refunded in full.
  • If a recipient does not complete their course, drops out, or is expelled, all scholarship money must be refunded.
• Reporting: Recipients must comply with the requirement to submit periodic progress reports.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified applicants should follow the steps below to apply:

1. University Admission: First, apply for and secure admission to an undergraduate or postgraduate program at a Japanese university.
2. Create Account: Create and verify your account on the Japan Study Support (JPSS) platform.
3. Submit Application: Complete the scholarship application form by attaching the required documents (Essay and Video) and submitting it through the portal.

(Note: Ensure your application is submitted before the deadline: May 31, 2026.)