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Japan, a hub of innovation and rich culture, attracts countless international students. While costs seem high, fully funded scholarships like the prestigious MEXT (Japanese Government) Scholarship make “free” study achievable, covering tuition, living expenses, and travel. Top specializations include Engineering (Robotics, AI), Computer Science, Business, Environmental Science, and Japanese Language. Beyond academics, students gain exposure to the best research, a safe environment, and excellent post-graduation opportunities. This ‘Study in Japan for Free’ guide outlines important programs and crucial tips to help you secure a world-class education in Japan without the financial burden.
| Type of Scholarship | Fully Funded (Free) |
| Scholarships For | Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and Ph.D. degree programs |
| Location | Japan |
| Target Audience | Indian / International Students |
| Duration | Full-Time or Varies |
| Funding Amount | Full or partial |
This Blog Includes:
Why Study in Japan for Free?
Studying in Japan for free is an increasingly attractive option for Indian and international students, offering a unique blend of the best education, cutting-edge technology, rich cultural immersion, and significant career advantages. While the idea of “free” tuition is largely facilitated by scholarships, the benefits extend far beyond just financial relief.
- Japan boasts a highly respected education system with numerous universities consistently ranking among the top globally.
- It’s a global leader in technological innovation and scientific research (e.g., robotics, AI, automotive, materials science), offering students access to state-of-the-art facilities and opportunities to work on groundbreaking projects.
- A degree from a Japanese university is highly regarded globally.
- Many scholarships, like MEXT, have no bond or work contract after graduation, giving you full freedom to choose your career path anywhere in the world.
- They cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and sometimes even a preparatory Japanese language course.
- As of May 1, 2024, Japan hosted a record 336,708 foreign students, a 21% increase from the previous year. This shows Japan’s growing popularity as a study destination.
- Waseda University, University of Tokyo, and Ritsumeikan University host some of the highest numbers of international students.
- The Japanese government aims to host 400,000 international students by 2033.
- Average monthly expenses can range from JPY 80,000 to JPY 150,000 (approx. INR 44,000 to INR 83,000), depending on the city and lifestyle.
Also Read: Study Abroad in Japan “The Land of the Rising Sun”
Study in Japan for Free with Universities with No Tuition Fee
The most effective way to achieve “free” study in Japan as an Indian or international student is by securing a fully funded scholarship. The MEXT Scholarship is paramount, covering tuition, living costs, and travel at virtually any eligible Japanese university. Many top universities also offer their own, or facilitate other, comprehensive aid.
Here’s a breakdown of how you can study in Japan for free, focusing on the universities that are great places to target for these opportunities:
| University Name | Important Specializations | Scholarship/Waiver |
| University of Tokyo | Engineering, Information Science, Medicine, Law, Economics, Literature, Natural Sciences, Agricultural & Life Sciences, Public Policy, Environmental Studies. | MEXT Scholarship, University of Tokyo Special Scholarship for International Students (Fellowship), and PEAK Scholarship (for specific English-taught UG programs) |
| Kyoto University | Engineering, Science, Agriculture, Medicine, Law, Economics, Literature, Informatics, Sustainable Development, International Cooperation. | MEXT Scholarship, ADB-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP), and Kyoto University’s Internal Scholarships & Waivers |
| Tohoku University | Engineering (Materials Science, Robotics), Science, Agriculture, Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Arts and Letters, Economics, Law. | MEXT Scholarship, Tohoku University Global Leader Program Scholarships, and Other University-Specific Scholarships & Waivers |
| Osaka University | Engineering Science, Human Sciences, Law, Economics, Medicine, Science, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dentistry, Interdisciplinary fields. | MEXT Scholarship, Osaka University Tuition Fee Exemption for International Honors Students, and Osaka University Enrollment/Tuition Fee Exemption Program |
| Hokkaido University | Agriculture, Environmental Science, Veterinary Medicine, Engineering, Science, Humanities, Social Sciences, Life Sciences, Fisheries. | MEXT Scholarship, Hokkaido University President’s Fellowship, and Other University-specific Scholarships & Waivers |
| Tokyo Institute of Technology | Advanced Engineering (e.g., Robotics, AI, Materials Science), Computer Science, Life Science and Technology, Environment and Society. | MEXT Scholarship and Tokyo Tech’s own scholarships |
| University of Tsukuba | Science and Technology, Medical Sciences, Social Sciences, Humanities, Global Studies, Informatics, Interdisciplinary studies. | MEXT Scholarship and University of Tsukuba Scholarships & Tuition Waivers |
| Nagoya University | Engineering (Automotive, Aerospace, Materials), Science, Agricultural Sciences, Medicine, Law, Economics, Humanities, Informatics. | MEXT Scholarshipand Nagoya University’s International Programs Scholarships (e.g., Global 30) |
| Kyushu University | Engineering, Science, Agriculture, Medicine, Dental Science, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Law, Economics, Humanities, Social & Cultural Studies, Information Science & Electrical Engineering. | MEXT Scholarship, Kyushu University President’s Fellowship, and Other Internal Scholarships & Waivers |
| Waseda University | Social Sciences, Political Science, Economics, Law, Literature, Commerce, Science & Engineering (various fields), Sports Sciences, International Liberal Studies. | MEXT Scholarship (University Recommendation for specific programs), Waseda University Scholarships for International Students and Honjo International Scholarship Foundation (student-applied, generous stipend can cover costs) |
| Keio University | Economics, Law, Medicine, Science & Technology, Business & Commerce, Policy Management, Environmental Information, Nursing, Pharmacy, Letters. | MEXT Scholarship (University Recommendation for some graduate programs), Keio University Scholarships for International Students, and ADB-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP) |
| Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU) | International Management (MBA), Asia Pacific Studies, Tourism, International Relations, Environmental Studies. Known for its highly international environment. | MEXT Scholarship (University Recommendation) and APU Tuition Reduction Scholarships (Merit-based) |
| International University of Japan (IUJ) | International Relations, International Management (MBA), Public Management, Economics, Digital Governance, Finance. | MEXT Scholarship and IUJ Scholarships (Various Corporate & Foundation Scholarships) |
Also Read: Best University in Japan for International Students
List of Scholarships to Study in Japan for Free
This table highlights major scholarships that offer comprehensive financial coverage, allowing you to pursue your education in Japan for free. Remember that “fully funded” generally means tuition, living expenses, and travel are covered.
| Scholarship Name | Degree Levels | Coverage |
| MEXT Scholarship (Japanese Government) | UG, Master’s, Ph.D., Research Student, Teacher Training, Japanese Studies | Full Tuition (entrance, admission, annual fees), Generous Monthly Living Stipend (e.g., JPY 117,000-145,000), and Round-trip Airfare & optional Japanese language prep. |
| Honjo International Scholarship Foundation | Master’s, Ph.D. | Generous Monthly Stipend (e.g., JPY 180,000-230,000), effectively covers tuition (if not waived) and all living costs, and no direct airfare. |
| ADB-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP) | Master’s | Full Tuition Fees, Monthly Subsistence & Housing Allowance; Books & Instructional Materials, and Medical Insurance; Round-trip Airfare. |
| Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) | Master’s | Full Tuition, Monthly Living Stipend, Health Insurance, and Round-trip Airfare, Travel Allowance. |
| Rotary Peace Fellowships | Master’s, Professional Development Certificate | Full Tuition and Fees; Room and Board, Round-trip Transportation, and Internship & Field-Study Expenses. |
| Asian Future Leaders Scholarship Program (AFLSP) | Undergraduate, Master’s | Full Tuition Fee Coverage & Admission Fee Waiver, Monthly Stipend for living expenses (e.g., JPY 150,000-220,000), and International networking and leadership development opportunities. |
| Yokohama National University (YNU) MEXT (UR) Scholarship | Master’s, Ph.D. | Full Tuition Fee exemption, Monthly MEXT stipend (e.g., JPY 144,000 for Master’s, JPY 145,000 for PhD), and Round-trip airfare. |
| Hokkaido University MEXT (UR) Scholarship | Master’s, Ph.D. | Full Tuition Fee coverage, Monthly MEXT stipend (standard MEXT rates), and Round-trip airfare. |
| The University of Tokyo MEXT (UR) Scholarship | Master’s, Ph.D., Research Student | Full Tuition Fee coverage, Monthly MEXT stipend (standard MEXT rates), and Round-trip airfare. |
| APU MEXT (UR) Scholarship (Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University) | Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D. | Full admission fee, 100% of tuition covered (often through APU’s tuition reduction scholarship combined with MEXT), and a Monthly MEXT stipend (e.g., JPY 144,000/month); economy class air travel. |
| Keio University ADB Japan Scholarship | Master’s | Full Tuition Fees, Monthly Subsistence Allowance, Books, Medical Insurance, and Round-trip Airfare. |
| Osaka University MEXT (UR) Scholarships | Undergraduate, Master’s, Ph.D. | 1. Full tuition coverage, Monthly MEXT stipend (standard rates). And Round-trip airfare, health insurance; and access to research facilities. |
| Kyoto University ADB Scholarship | Master’s | Full tuition fee coverage, Monthly living and housing allowance, books and instructional materials, and Medical and accident insurance; economy-class airfare, research/thesis allowance. |
Also Read: Top Masters Courses to Pursue in Japan
Scholarship Details to Study in Japan for Free
For individuals dreaming of pursuing higher education in Japan without the financial burden, securing a fully funded scholarship is the most viable and rewarding pathway. These highly competitive scholarship programs are designed to cover the full spectrum of educational and living costs, providing an invaluable opportunity to immerse oneself in Japan’s world-class academic environment and rich culture.
MEXT Scholarship (Japanese Government Scholarship)
The MEXT Scholarship is the pinnacle of fully funded opportunities for individuals aspiring to study in Japan, available across various academic levels including Undergraduate, Master’s, Ph.D., Research Student, Teacher Training, and Japanese Studies programs. Its comprehensive coverage ensures that individuals receive full tuition exemption (including entrance, admission, and annual fees), a generous monthly living stipend (e.g., approximately JPY 117,000 for undergraduates and JPY 143,000-145,000 for graduate students), and crucial round-trip airfare from their home country to Japan. Eligibility for individuals hinges on factors such as nationality (India is fully eligible), specific age limits (generally under 25 for undergraduate and under 35 for graduate applicants), a strong academic record, and good physical and mental health.
| Particulars | Details |
| Coverage | Full tuition exemption, a generous monthly living stipend (e.g., approximately JPY 117,000 for undergraduates and JPY 143,000-145,000 for graduate students). |
| Eligibility | Nationality (India eligible), age limits (under 25 UG, under 35 PG), strong academics, and good health |
| Application Deadline | Embassy route for 2026 intake closed May 2025 (plan for 2027), University route deadlines vary (some 2026 may still be open late 2025) |
Honjo International Scholarship Foundation Scholarship
The Honjo International Scholarship Foundation Scholarship is an outstanding option for individuals pursuing Master’s or Ph.D. degrees in Japan. It provides substantial financial support that effectively renders study free, offering a very generous monthly stipend ranging from JPY 180,000 to JPY 230,000 depending on the degree’s duration. This ample stipend is designed to comfortably cover all living expenses and often tuition as well. For individuals to be eligible, they must be non-Japanese citizens, be enrolled or planning to enroll in a Japanese graduate school, typically be under 30 for Master’s and under 35 for Doctoral programs. A critical requirement for individuals is conversational Japanese language proficiency, as all interviews are conducted in Japanese.
| Particulars | Details |
| Coverage | Generous monthly stipend (JPY 180,000-230,000) effectively covering all costs |
| Eligibility | Master’s/Ph.D. non-Japanese citizens, under 30 (Master’s)/35 (Ph.D.), and conversational Japanese required |
| Application Deadline | 2026 intake applications open Sept 2 – Oct 31, 2025 |
ADB-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP)
The ADB-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP) is specifically tailored for individuals from ADB borrowing member countries, which includes India, who wish to undertake a Master’s degree in development-related fields at designated Japanese universities. The scholarship offers full coverage, encompassing tuition fees, a monthly subsistence and housing allowance, an allowance for books and instructional materials, comprehensive medical insurance, and round-trip airfare. Eligibility for individuals mandates holding a bachelor’s degree with a superior academic record and having at least two years of full-time professional work experience acquired after obtaining their university degree, coupled with a commitment to return and contribute to their home country’s development.
| Particulars | Details |
| Coverage | Full tuition, monthly allowances, medical insurance, and round-trip airfare |
| Eligibility | Citizen of ADB borrowing country (India), Master’s degree focus, min. 2 years post-degree work experience, and commitment to return home |
| Application Deadline | University-dependent |
Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP)
The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) is a global initiative for individuals who are professionals from World Bank member developing countries (including India) and seek to pursue a Master’s degree in development-related subjects at participating universities, including select institutions in Japan. This scholarship provides full funding, covering tuition, a monthly living stipend (which varies by host country), round-trip airfare, and health insurance. Key eligibility for individuals includes possessing a bachelor’s degree earned at least three years prior to the application deadline, having at least three years of recent paid development-related work experience, and being unconditionally admitted (except for funding) to one of the JJ/WBGSP’s approved Master’s programs. Individuals must first secure university admission, then apply for the JJ/WBGSP scholarship online.
| Particulars | Details |
| Coverage | Full tuition, monthly living stipend, health insurance, and round-trip airfare |
| Eligibility | Citizen of World Bank developing country (India), min. 3 years recent development work experience, and admitted to participating Master’s program |
| Application Deadline | 2025-2026 Window 2 closed May 23, 2025; 2026-2027 windows expected Jan-Feb and Mar-May 2026 (details in Fall 2025) |
Rotary Peace Fellowships
For individuals passionately committed to peace and conflict resolution, the Rotary Peace Fellowships offer a fully funded opportunity to pursue a Master’s degree or a professional development certificate at one of the Rotary Peace Centers, such as International Christian University (ICU) in Japan. This prestigious fellowship covers full tuition and fees, room and board, round-trip transportation, and all internship and field-study expenses. Eligibility for individuals pursuing a Master’s degree typically requires a bachelor’s degree and a minimum of three years of relevant full-time work or volunteer experience, alongside a strong commitment to peace and international understanding.
| Particulars | Details |
| Coverage | Full tuition/fees, room/board, transportation, and internship/field-study expenses |
| Eligibility | Master’s/certificate, min. 3 years relevant experience, commitment to peace, and no close Rotary affiliation |
| Application Deadline | 2026-2027 application closed around May 15, 2025; plan for 2027-2028 (applications likely open Feb 2026). |
Asian Future Leaders Scholarship Program (AFLSP)
The Asian Future Leaders Scholarship Program (AFLSP) targets individuals who are citizens of eligible Asian countries (including India) and demonstrate potential to become future leaders. It provides full tuition coverage and a substantial monthly stipend for living expenses (e.g., JPY 150,000-220,000/month), coupled with access to leadership training and networking opportunities, making it a fully funded option for undergraduate and Master’s degrees. Eligibility for individuals includes a strong academic record, demonstrated leadership potential, and English proficiency. Individuals typically apply for admission to a participating university (such as Kyoto University or Waseda University), which then nominates candidates for the scholarship.
| Particulars | Details |
| Coverage | Full tuition, substantial monthly stipend (JPY 150,000-220,000), and leadership development |
| Eligibility | Citizen of eligible Asian country (India), strong academics, leadership potential, andEnglish proficiency |
| Application Deadline | University-dependent |
Also Read: Japan Study Support Scholarships worth 500000 Yen
FAQs
Yes, it’s very possible to study in Japan for free. Numerous fully-funded scholarships, primarily from the Japanese government (MEXT), universities, and private foundations, cover tuition, living costs, and often travel, making it a truly accessible option for international students.
To get a 100% scholarship in Japan, the key is to aim for highly competitive, fully-funded programs. The most prominent is the Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship, which covers tuition, living expenses, and airfare. Other excellent options include the Honjo International Scholarship Foundation (for graduate students), ADB-Japan Scholarship Program, and the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program, as well as specific university-level full scholarships. Success largely depends on a strong academic record, a clear research proposal (for graduate studies), excellent essays, and often, proficiency in Japanese or English, depending on the program.
Yes, Indian students are highly welcome to study in Japan, and the number choosing it as a destination is steadily increasing. Japan actively promotes international student exchange and offers various pathways for Indians to pursue education, including numerous scholarships (like the prestigious MEXT scholarship) that can cover tuition and living expenses, and a clear student visa process.
As an individual who has completed 12th grade, you can definitely pursue higher education in Japan. Many Japanese universities, including national, public, and private institutions, accept international students for undergraduate programs. You’ll need to meet academic requirements, often including English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL (for English-taught programs), and sometimes the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU) or specific university entrance exams.
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