Scholarships in Japan Without IELTS 2026 (Fully Funded). Apply for fully funded scholarships here. Japan is a top destination for international students, offering world-class education, cutting-edge research, and rich cultural experiences. The best part? Many fully funded scholarships in Japan do not require IELTS, making them accessible to students from all over the world.
Scholarships in Japan Without IELTS 2026 Details:
| University: | Japanese Universities |
| Degree level: | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD |
| Scholarship coverage: | Fully Funded |
| Eligible nationality: | All Nationalities |
| Award country: | Japan |
| Last Date: | Vary with Scholarship |
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about scholarships in Japan without IELTS, including types of scholarships, eligibility criteria, the application process, required documents, FAQs, and key deadlines.
1. Why Study in Japan Without IELTS?
Japan welcomes international students with various scholarship options that do not require IELTS or TOEFL. Instead, universities may accept:
✅ English proficiency certificates from previous schools 5
✅ University-conducted interviews or tests 5
✅ Alternative English tests (TOEFL, TOEIC, Duolingo, PTE) 10
✅ Previous degrees taught in English 10
This flexibility makes Japan an attractive choice for students who want to avoid the hassle of standardised English tests.
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2. Types of Fully Funded Scholarships in Japan Without IELTS
A. Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship
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Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend (¥117,000–¥242,000), airfare, accommodation
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Degree Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, Research, Teacher Training 2
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Eligibility:
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Undergraduate: 17–25 years, 12 years of education
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Master’s/PhD: Under 35, bachelor’s/master’s degree 6
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No IELTS required (English proficiency can be proven via university letter).5
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Application Process:
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Embassy Recommendation (apply via Japanese embassy in home country) 2
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University Recommendation (apply directly to a Japanese university) 2
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🔗 Official Link: MEXT Scholarship Website
B. University-Specific Scholarships
Many top Japanese universities offer their own fully funded scholarships without IELTS.
| University | Degree Level | Scholarship Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| University of Tokyo | Master’s, PhD | Full tuition + ¥144,000/month 10 |
| Osaka University | Master’s, PhD | Tuition waiver + stipend 5 |
| Hokkaido University | Master’s, PhD | Full funding + travel allowance 10 |
| Kyoto University | Master’s | Tuition + ¥120,000/month 10 |
| Yokohama National University | Master’s, PhD | Full support and research funding 10 |
C. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship (JJ/WBGSP)
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For: Master’s students from developing countries 9
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Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, airfare, health insurance 9
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Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree + 3 years of work experience 9
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No IELTS required (depends on university) 9
🔗 Apply Here: JJ/WBGSP Official Site
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3. Eligibility Criteria (Simplified)
To qualify for Japan scholarships without IELTS, you typically need
✔ Academic Excellence (strong grades in previous studies) 5
✔ Age Limits (varies by scholarship, e.g., under 35 for MEXT Master’s) 2
✔ Nationality (open to all countries with diplomatic ties to Japan) 6
✔ Alternative English Proof (university letter, interview, or other tests) 10
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4. Required Documents
Most scholarships ask for:
📄 Application form (varies by university/scholarship)
📄 Academic transcripts & degree certificates
📄 Proof of English proficiency (university letter, if no IELTS) 5
📄 Research proposal (for Master’s/PhD) 6
📄 Passport copy & photographs
📄 Recommendation letters (2–3) 6
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5. How to Apply?
1️⃣Choose a scholarship (MEXT, university-specific, or JJ/WBGSP).
2️⃣Check deadlines (varies by programme—most open in April–May 2025).
3️⃣Prepare documents (transcripts, recommendation letters, study plan).
4️⃣Submit application (via embassy or university portal).
5️⃣Await interview/exam results (some require written tests).
🔗 MEXT Application Portal: Apply Here
6. FAQs
❓Can I study in Japan without IELTS?
✅Yes! Many scholarships accept alternative English proofs like university letters or interviews. 5.
❓Is the Japanese language required?
✅ No, many programmes are taught in English, but learning Japanese is helpful for daily life. 10.
❓When is the deadline?
📅 Varies by scholarship—check embassy/university websites for exact dates.6.
❓Can I work while studying?
✅ Yes, international students can work part-time (up to 28 hours/week).5.
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7. Conclusion
Japan offers fully funded scholarships without IELTS, making it easier for students worldwide to access top-tier education. Whether you’re applying for the MEXT Scholarship, university-specific funding, or the JJ/WBGSP, ensure you meet eligibility criteria and submit documents on time.
🚀 Ready to apply?Check the official links above and start your journey to studying in Japan!
Would you like a personalised application checklist? Let us know in the comments! 🎓✈️
List of Scholarships in Japan Without IELTS:
1# Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarships for Young Leaders Program at GRIPS
- For More Information: Visit Here
2# Kyoto University Scholarships
- Scholarship Coverage: Full Tuition Fee, Monthly Stipend, Return Air Tickets.
- For More Information: Visit Here
3# Toyohashi University Scholarship in Japan
- Financial Coverage: Full Tuition Fee, Monthly Stipend, Return Air Tickets.
- For More Information: Visit Here
4# Hokkaido University Scholarship in Japan
- Financial Coverage: Full Tuition Fee, Monthly Stipend, Return Air Tickets.
- For More Information: Visit Here
5# Honjo International Scholarship in Japan
- For More Information: Visit Here
6# University of Tokyo Scholarship
- For More Information: Visit Here
7# Yokohama National University Scholarship
- For More Information: Visit Here
8# Asia Pacific University Scholarship
- For More Information: Visit Here
9# Osaka University Scholarship in Japan
- For More Information: Visit Here
10# Hiroshima University Scholarships
- For More Information: Visit Here
List of Japanese Universities Without IELTS:
- University of Sistema
- Asia Pacific University, Japan
- Yokohama National University
- University of Tsukuba
- Toyohashi University of Technology
- Meiji University
- University of Tokyo
- Hiroshima University
