Applications are now open for the Ritsumeikan University Scholarship 2026, a fully funded opportunity for international students to pursue a Master’s or PhD degree in Japan. Sponsored by the MEXT Japanese Government, this scholarship offers comprehensive financial support, making it a remarkable option for those looking to study abroad.

  • 🎓 Scholarship Overview: MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship is a full-ride scholarship from the Japanese government, requiring recommendation by a Japanese university (e.g., Ritsumeikan University) for consideration.
  • 🌏 Eligibility: Applicants must be foreign nationals (non-Japanese or dual nationals renouncing Japanese citizenship), born on/after April 2, 1991, in good health, willing to obtain a student visa, arrive mid-September 2026, have a minimum CGPA of 2.30/3.00, and meet CEFR B2 English level for English programs.
  • 🏫 Graduate Schools & Programs: Scholarship recruitment applies to certain programs at the Graduate School of Science and Engineering (GSSE) and Graduate School of Life Sciences (GSLS). International Relations (Master’s) and Information Science & Engineering (Doctoral) may recruit based on availability.
  • ✍️ Application Process: Applicants must apply via Ritsumeikan University’s online system, complete all required forms, indicate a preferred academic supervisor (GSSE requires prior permission), and submit supporting documents including a Letter of Recommendation, health certificate, and study plan.
  • 📅 Application Timeline:
    • GSSE: Nov 20 – Dec 11, 2025
    • GSLS: Nov 27 – Dec 11, 2025
  • 📄 Document Requirements: All forms must meet guideline criteria. Letters of Recommendation and transcripts must adhere to the specified standards. English test scores can follow after initial submission if not yet available.
  • ⏳ Selection Schedule:
    • Late Nov–Dec 2025: Submit applications
    • Jan–Feb 2026: RU announces admissions
    • Feb–Mar 2026: RU submits scholarship recommendations to MEXT
    • Jun–Jul 2026: MEXT notifies scholarship results
    • Mid-Sep 2026: Scholars travel to Japan
    • Sep 26, 2026: Fall semester begins
  • ℹ️ Additional Notes: Only one university recommendation per applicant. Students can consult the Researcher Database for potential supervisors. Specific procedures exist for students from Chinese universities for verification. For questions, contact Ritsumeikan International Center (cger-bkc@st.ritsumei.ac.jp).
  • 🔗 References & Resources:
    • MEXT: http://www.mext.go.jp/en/
    • Ritsumeikan Admissions: https://en.ritsumei.ac.jp/admissions/
  • 🎯 Other Scholarships: Embassy Recommendation, Asian Development Bank-Japan, Japan-IMF, China Scholarship Council, JICA ABE Initiative, LPDP-JICA.

Designation

Master’s and PhD Programs

Research Area

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Available in all fields offered at Ritsumeikan University.

Location

Ritsumeikan University, Kyoto, Japan

Eligibility/Qualification

  • Must be a national of a country that has diplomatic relations with Japan.
  • Applicants should not hold Japanese nationality.
  • Must be born on or after April 2, 1991.
  • Minimum CGPA of 2.30 out of 3.00 during the last two years of formal study.
  • Physically and mentally fit for study.
  • Must be able to arrive in Japan by mid-September 2026.
  • English Language Proficiency: Requires either an English proficiency test score (e.g., TOEFL iBT 72 or equivalent) or a certificate from the previous institution if instruction was in English (for exemption from testing).

Job Description

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This scholarship facilitates a comprehensive learning experience at Ritsumeikan University, allowing students to conduct research in their chosen fields while contributing to academic and cultural exchange in Japan.

How to Apply

The application process is online. Candidates must apply for enrollment in master’s or doctoral degree programs at Ritsumeikan University. Once admitted, applicants will be recommended by the university for the MEXT Scholarship. Complete the necessary documents and email them to the university as per the instructions outlined in the application guidelines.

Last Date for Application

The application deadline is December 11, 2025.

For more details and to start your application, please refer to the official Ritsumeikan University website.

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