Japan: Meiji University International Students Scholarship 2026
SPECIAL GRANTS & MEXT GOVERNMENT SCHOLARSHIPS
✅ IELTS NOT REQUIRED WITH EMI CERTIFICATE
Undergraduate & Master's Study With IELTS-Free Options
Japan continues to rise as one of the most appealing study destinations for international students who want high-quality education, advanced technology exposure, and affordable living compared to Western countries. Among the top institutions offering accessible pathways, Meiji University in Tokyo stands out for its strong academic programs and scholarship opportunities that support both undergraduate and graduate international students.
For 2026, Meiji University offers multiple scholarships, including options that allow students to apply without IELTS, provided they meet the university's English proficiency alternatives. Here is the full guide.
Why Choose Meiji University?
Meiji University is one of Japan's top private institutions, known for excellence in:
- Business & Global Management - International business programs with industry connections
- Law and Governance - Legal education with international perspective
- Science & Technology - Cutting-edge research and innovation
- Agriculture and Environmental Studies - Sustainable development focus
- Information & Communication - Technology and media programs
- Political Science - International relations and policy studies
- Architecture & Urban Design - Creative programs in Tokyo's dynamic environment
- Japanese Language Programs - Language and cultural studies for international students
Located in Tokyo, Meiji provides access to:
- Internships at global companies - Strong industry partnerships in Japan's economic capital
- A multicultural student community - Diverse international student body from around the world
- Advanced research facilities - State-of-the-art laboratories and technology centers
- Japan's safest and most modern city environment - Tokyo's exceptional safety and infrastructure
- Cultural immersion opportunities - Traditional and modern Japanese cultural experiences
- Career development services - Dedicated support for international student employment
Scholarships Available for 2026
1. Meiji University Special Grant for International Students
A competitive scholarship that offers comprehensive support for outstanding international students.
Benefits include:
- Reduction of tuition fees (partial or full coverage depending on academic merit)
- Reduction of admission fees - Significant savings on initial enrollment costs
- Priority support for academic and campus services - Enhanced student support
- Housing assistance - Support finding accommodation in Tokyo
- Cultural program participation - Access to Japanese cultural activities
- Academic mentorship - Guidance from faculty and senior students
This scholarship is available for both undergraduate and graduate students and represents Meiji University's commitment to attracting talented international students to Japan.
2. Meiji University Global Japanese Studies Scholarship
Available for students applying to English-taught undergraduate programs with focus on Japanese studies and international perspectives.
Benefits include:
- Tuition fee reductions - Partial coverage of academic costs
- Monthly allowance depending on funding availability - Financial support for living expenses
- Japanese language course support - Assistance with language learning
- Research funding - Support for academic projects related to Japan studies
- Cultural immersion activities - Participation in traditional Japanese cultural experiences
This scholarship supports students interested in Japanese culture, society, and global studies, providing valuable opportunities for cultural exchange and academic development.
3. JASSO Honors Scholarship
A national scholarship available to selected international students at Meiji University, administered by the Japan Student Services Organization.
Benefits:
- Monthly stipend of ¥48,000 - Regular financial support throughout studies
- Non-repayable financial support - No repayment obligation after graduation
- Priority consideration for other benefits - Enhanced access to university services
- Recognition as JASSO scholar - Prestigious designation on academic records
This scholarship is awarded based on academic excellence and financial need, providing valuable support for international students adjusting to life in Japan.
4. MEXT Scholarships (Government of Japan)
Meiji University hosts MEXT scholars each year under these prestigious government-funded categories:
- Undergraduate - For bachelor's degree students
- Master's - For graduate degree students
- PhD - For doctoral researchers
- Research students - For non-degree research programs
Benefits include:
- Full tuition coverage - Complete exemption from academic fees
- Monthly living stipend - Generous allowance for accommodation and living costs
- Round-trip flight to Japan - Travel support for arrival and return
- Japanese language training - Intensive language preparation programs
- Research funding - Support for academic projects and materials
- Health insurance coverage - Comprehensive medical protection
- Cultural orientation - Programs to support adjustment to Japanese life
MEXT scholarships are among Japan's most prestigious awards for international students, offering comprehensive support for academic study and research in Japan.
Study Without IELTS – Who Qualifies?
Meiji University accepts several English-proficiency alternatives, allowing many students to apply without IELTS.
Accepted IELTS-free pathways:
- English Medium Instruction (EMI) Certificate - Official proof of English-medium education
- High school or bachelor's degree completed entirely in English - With institutional documentation
- A-Level English qualifications or equivalent international certificates
- IB Diploma with English as language of instruction
- Certain national exam boards that prove English proficiency (recognized by Meiji University)
- University's internal evaluation (program-dependent assessment for qualified applicants)
- Previous professional experience in English - With employer verification
- Alternative English tests - TOEFL, Cambridge English, Pearson PTE, etc.
- Interview assessment - For selected programs and qualified candidates
Many international students are accepted using only the EMI certificate, particularly those from countries with established English-medium education systems. This flexible approach makes Japanese higher education more accessible to qualified students worldwide while maintaining academic standards.
Undergraduate Programs (English-Taught Available)
Meiji offers English-track undergraduate programs such as:
These programs are designed for students seeking globally relevant degrees in Japan's dynamic academic environment. They combine Japanese academic excellence with international perspectives, preparing graduates for careers in global companies and international organizations.
Master's Programs (Available in English)
Meiji University offers several graduate programs in English:
These programs prepare students for international careers in government, industry, and research. Located in Tokyo, Meiji University offers unique access to Japan's business, political, and cultural centers, providing exceptional opportunities for networking and professional development.
Eligibility Requirements
Undergraduate applicants:
- Recognized high school diploma or equivalent qualification
- Complete academic transcripts showing strong academic performance
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS-free pathways accepted)
- Motivation statement explaining academic interests and goals
- Curriculum Vitae detailing educational background
- Financial documentation for Japanese student visa application
- Passport and identification documents
- Specific program prerequisites (varies by department)
Master's applicants:
- Bachelor's degree in relevant field with good academic standing
- Letters of recommendation (typically 2 from academic or professional references)
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae with academic and professional experience
- Research or study plan (for selected programs requiring academic proposals)
- Proof of English proficiency through approved pathways
- Academic transcripts from previous university studies
- Proof of sufficient financial means for Japanese student visa
- Portfolio or writing samples (for creative or research-focused programs)
All applications must meet Japanese immigration requirements for financial documentation and visa eligibility. Early application is strongly recommended, especially for scholarship consideration and visa processing.
Required Documents
Usually required documents include:
- Valid passport copy with clear identification details
- Academic transcripts from all previous institutions
- English Medium Instruction letter or alternative English proof
- Motivation letter explaining your interest in Meiji University and Japan
- Recommendation letters (typically 2 for most programs)
- Portfolio (for design-related or creative programs)
- Research proposal (for master's and research programs)
- Curriculum Vitae detailing academic and professional experience
- Proof of financial means for Japanese student visa application
- Passport-sized photographs meeting Japanese visa specifications
- Health examination certificate (as required for Japanese student visa)
- Additional program-specific requirements as specified by departments
Ensure all documents are properly certified, translated into English or Japanese if necessary, and submitted according to Meiji University's specific application guidelines and deadlines. Japanese university applications often require careful attention to document formatting and submission procedures.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Select Your Program
Choose from undergraduate or graduate options offered at Meiji University. Review program requirements, language expectations, and scholarship eligibility for your selected field of study.
Step 2: Apply Through the Meiji University Online Portal
Upload your documents and select your scholarship preference. Create your account on Meiji's application system and complete all required sections during the application period.
Step 3: Submit Language Requirements
Students applying without IELTS submit their EMI certificate or alternative English proof. Ensure language documentation meets Meiji University's specific requirements and submission deadlines.
Step 4: Attend Interview (If Required)
Some faculties conduct online interviews to assess applicant suitability and language skills. Prepare for potential interviews by reviewing your academic goals and motivation for studying in Japan.
Step 5: Receive Admission Decision
Scholarship results may come with or after the main admission letter. Review all conditions, deadlines, and requirements carefully before accepting your offer and proceeding with Japanese student visa application.
Why International Students Choose Japan
Japan offers exceptional advantages for international students:
- Safe, clean, and technologically advanced environment - Consistently ranked among the world's safest countries
- Strong job opportunities after graduation - Japan's global companies actively recruit international graduates
- Affordable tuition and living compared to Western countries - Excellent value for world-class education
- World-class education and cultural experience - Unique blend of traditional culture and modern innovation
- IELTS-free options at many universities - Flexible English requirements for qualified applicants
- Advanced research facilities - Cutting-edge technology and scientific resources
- Rich cultural heritage - Opportunity to experience traditional Japanese arts and customs
- Strong support for international students - Dedicated services for academic and personal adjustment
- Global networking opportunities - Connections with Japanese and international professionals
- Post-study work opportunities - Japan's growing demand for international talent
Meiji University offers a perfect mix of academic excellence, global exposure, and financial accessibility. Located in Tokyo, students benefit from Japan's cultural richness while accessing world-class education and career opportunities in one of Asia's most dynamic cities.
Official Source (Verified)
Full details available on the official Meiji University website:
Official Website: Meiji UniversityFor the most current information on programs, application deadlines, scholarship details, and specific requirements, always refer to the official Meiji University website. Japanese university procedures can have specific requirements for international applicants.
Final Thoughts
Meiji University represents an outstanding opportunity for international students seeking high-quality Japanese education with flexible admission requirements and comprehensive scholarship support. As one of Japan's top private universities located in Tokyo, Meiji offers a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural immersion, and professional opportunities in one of the world's most innovative and culturally rich countries.
Japan's combination of technological advancement, rich cultural heritage, strong research ecosystem, and global economic significance creates an ideal environment for ambitious students. Whether through university special grants, prestigious MEXT scholarships, JASSO awards, or other financial support programs, motivated students can find valuable assistance to pursue their academic goals at this prestigious institution in the heart of Tokyo.
Note: This information is based on Meiji University's official admissions and scholarship guidelines. Always verify specific requirements, deadlines, and procedures directly with the university before applying, as Japanese immigration and university procedures can have specific requirements for international students.