The Japanese Government’s MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology) Scholarship program presents a unique opportunity for Indian students aspiring to pursue undergraduate education in Japan. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the program’s offerings and application process:

Fields of Study:

• Social Sciences and Humanities: Covering a diverse range including Law, Politics, Literature, Economics, and Business Administration.
• Natural Sciences: Encompassing Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, various Engineering fields, Agricultural Studies, Medicine, and Biology.

Application Process:

• Undergraduate Category: Submit applications to the Embassy of Japan in New Delhi or the Consulates in Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, or Bengaluru.
• College of Technology and Specialised Training Categories: Send applications to the Embassy or Consulates in Chennai and Kolkata for the College of Technology, and to the Embassy or Consulate in Kolkata for Specialised Training Colleges.
• Deadline: May 27, 2024.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Nationality: Open to applicants from countries with diplomatic ties with Japan. Dual citizens with Japanese nationality must renounce it before arrival.
• Age: Born on or after April 2, 2000.
• Academic Background: Completion of 12 years of schooling or equivalent outside Japan by March 2025.
• Language Proficiency: Willingness to learn Japanese, as studies are primarily conducted in Japanese.
• Health: A health certificate confirming fitness for study in Japan is required.
• Arrival in Japan: Must arrive between April 1 and April 7, 2025, or as specified by the accepting university for autumn enrollment.
• Visa Requirement: Obtain a “Student” visa from the Japanese diplomatic mission in their country.

Preparatory Education and University Study:

• Selected students undergo a one-year preparatory course in Japanese language and other subjects.
• Upon completion and passing the entrance examination, students are placed in a university designated by MEXT.

Placement:

• Direct Placement: Available for applicants with sufficient Japanese language proficiency.

Scholarship Duration and Benefits:

• For Grantees At Preparatory Educational Institutions: Five years, including one year of preparatory education, with allowances and waived education fees.
• For Direct Placement Grantees: Four years, with similar benefits.
• Allowance: 117,000 yen per month, with additional regional allowances.
• Education Fees: Entrance examinations, enrollment, and tuition fees at universities are waived.

This scholarship not only provides financial support but also opens doors to a culturally enriching academic experience in Japan for deserving Indian students.