Author – Ritesh Ranjan: The Osaka University MEXT Scholarship 2027 is a prestigious fully funded scholarship opportunity for international students who wish to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or PhD programmes in Japan. Funded by the Government of Japan through the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, commonly known as MEXT, this scholarship supports talented students from around the world who want to study at one of Japan’s leading research universities.
For students dreaming of a globally respected degree without the financial burden of tuition fees and living expenses, this scholarship can be a life-changing opportunity. Osaka University is widely recognised for its strong research environment, international academic collaborations, advanced laboratories, and student-friendly campus culture. Through this scholarship, selected students can focus fully on their academic and research goals while experiencing Japan’s rich culture, innovation, and global education system.
Why Choose Osaka University?
Osaka University is one of Japan’s top national universities and is known for excellence in research, innovation, and international education. The university offers a wide range of programmes across science, technology, humanities, public policy, life sciences, and social sciences.
International students at Osaka University benefit from modern learning facilities, experienced faculty members, advanced research centres, and a multicultural academic environment. The university also encourages global exchange, helping students build academic and professional networks that can support their future careers.
For students interested in Japan’s education system, research ecosystem, and international career opportunities, Osaka University provides a strong platform for growth.
Scholarship Benefits
The Osaka University MEXT Scholarship 2027 provides complete financial support to selected international students. This makes it one of the most attractive scholarship options for students who want to study in Japan.
Full Tuition Fee Waiver
Selected students receive a 100% tuition fee waiver for the full duration of their academic programme. This means students do not have to worry about paying tuition fees while completing their undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral studies.
Monthly Living Allowance
The scholarship also provides a monthly stipend to help students manage living expenses in Japan. The allowance depends on the level of study:
| Study Level | Monthly Allowance |
| Undergraduate | ¥117,000 |
| Master’s | ¥144,000 |
| Doctoral | ¥145,000 |
This monthly support helps students cover accommodation, food, transport, study materials, and other basic expenses.
Travel and Health Support
The scholarship includes round-trip economy airfare between the student’s home country and Japan. Scholars are also covered under Japan’s national health insurance system, giving them access to basic healthcare services during their stay.
In addition, students get access to Osaka University’s laboratories, libraries, research facilities, and academic support services.
Who Can Apply?
The Osaka University MEXT Scholarship 2027 is open to international students from all nationalities. However, applicants must be non-Japanese citizens and should have a valid passport.
The academic eligibility depends on the programme level:
For Undergraduate Programmes
Applicants must have completed high school or an equivalent qualification before the programme begins.
For Master’s Programmes
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognised institution.
For PhD Programmes
Applicants must hold a master’s degree or an equivalent qualification in a relevant field.
Apart from academic qualifications, applicants should have a strong academic record, clear study goals, and research potential. Depending on the course language, students may also need to provide proof of English or Japanese language proficiency.
Available Study Fields
Osaka University offers a wide range of academic fields under the MEXT Scholarship. Students from both STEM and non-STEM backgrounds can find suitable programmes.
Popular study areas include:
- Natural Sciences
- Engineering and Technology
- Life Sciences
- Information and Data Sciences
- Social Sciences
- International Public Policy
- Humanities and Language Studies
This broad academic range makes the scholarship suitable for students interested in research, innovation, policy, technology, culture, and global studies.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare all documents carefully before applying. Incomplete or incorrect applications may not be considered for further screening.
Documents Needed for Application
The commonly required documents include:
- Completed application form
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates or school completion certificates
- Research proposal or study plan
- Two recommendation letters
- Proof of English or Japanese language proficiency
- Passport copy
- Medical certificate in the required format
Students applying for master’s or PhD programmes should give special attention to their research proposal. A clear and well-written proposal can strongly improve the application.
How to Apply for Osaka University MEXT Scholarship 2027
There are two main application routes for the MEXT Scholarship: the Embassy Route and the University Route.
Embassy Route
Under the Embassy Route, applicants apply through the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in their home country. The embassy usually conducts the first stage of screening, which may include document review, written examination, and interview.
After the first screening, shortlisted candidates are recommended to MEXT and the university for further evaluation.
University Route
Under the University Route, applicants apply directly through Osaka University’s admissions or scholarship platform. The university reviews applications and recommends selected candidates to MEXT for final approval.
Applicants should carefully check the instructions for their chosen route and programme before submitting the application.
Selection Process
The selection process is competitive and may include multiple stages. Candidates are usually assessed based on academic performance, study plan, research potential, language ability, recommendation letters, and interview performance.
The first screening may include:
- Document review
- Written test
- Interview
- Academic evaluation
Final approval is given by MEXT in coordination with Osaka University. Selected students are expected to begin their studies in April or October 2027, depending on the intake and programme schedule.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the Osaka University MEXT Scholarship 2027 is 1 September 2026, Japan time.
Since this is a highly competitive scholarship, students should not wait until the last date. Preparing academic records, recommendation letters, language test scores, and research proposals can take time. Early preparation improves the chances of submitting a strong and complete application.
Final Thoughts
The Osaka University MEXT Scholarship 2027 is an excellent opportunity for international students who want to study in Japan with full financial support. With tuition waiver, monthly stipend, airfare, health support, and access to world-class research facilities, this scholarship offers everything students need to focus on their academic journey.
For ambitious students looking for global exposure, advanced education, and a strong research environment, Osaka University can be a powerful destination. Applicants should start preparing early, check the official requirements carefully, and submit a complete application before the deadline.
FAQs
1. What is the Osaka University MEXT Scholarship 2027?
The Osaka University MEXT Scholarship 2027 is a fully funded scholarship offered by the Government of Japan for international students who want to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or PhD studies at Osaka University.
2. What expenses are covered under the scholarship?
The scholarship covers full tuition fees, monthly living allowance, round-trip economy airfare, basic health insurance, and access to university research and academic facilities.
3. Who is eligible to apply for this scholarship?
Non-Japanese international students with the required academic qualification can apply. High school completion is required for undergraduate programmes, a bachelor’s degree for master’s programmes, and a master’s degree for PhD programmes.
4. Is IELTS or TOEFL required for the Osaka University MEXT Scholarship?
Language requirements depend on the programme. Some courses may require English proficiency proof such as IELTS or TOEFL, while Japanese-taught programmes may require JLPT or equivalent Japanese language proficiency.
5. What is the deadline for the Osaka University MEXT Scholarship 2027?
The application deadline is 1 September 2026, Japan time. Applicants should prepare early to avoid last-minute errors or incomplete submissions.