Eligibility Criteria

1. Research Students

• Age: Under 35
• Education: College graduate or completed 16 years of schooling

2. Teacher Training Students

• Age: Under 35
• Education: Graduate of a college/teacher training college
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years teaching experience (not applicable for college/university teachers)

3. Undergraduate Students

• Age: 17 to 25
• Education: Completed 12 years of schooling or equivalent

4. Japanese Studies Students

• Age: 18 to 30
• Education: Enrolled in a university abroad majoring in Japanese language or culture

5. College of Technology Students

• Age: 17 to 25
• Education: Completed education comparable to high school (minimum 11 years)

6. Specialized Training College Students

• Age: 17 to 25
• Education: Completed 12 years of schooling or equivalent

7. Young Leaders Program (YLP) Students

• Age: Under 40
• Education: University graduate with practical work experience, particularly in public administration

Required Examinations

• Research Students: Japanese and English
• Teacher Training Students: Japanese and English
• Undergraduate Students: Japanese, English, mathematics, and science
  • Science faculty examinees choose two: chemistry, physics, or biology
• Japanese Studies Students: Japanese only
• College of Technology Students: Japanese, English, mathematics, and either physics or chemistry
• Specialized Training College Students: Japanese, English, and mathematics

Application Process

1. Embassy Recommendation

• Initial screening by a Japanese embassy or consulate.
• Check local requirements, as they may vary by country.

2. University Recommendation

• Japanese universities recruit candidates based on international exchange agreements.
• Not all universities can recommend students; verify eligibility with the institution.

Important Notes

• Scholarship recipients typically arrive in Japan in September/October or late March/April.
• Application requirements and academic standards may differ depending on the accepting university.