Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship Frequently Asked Questions
2023/5/15
Index
(General)
【Eligibility】Q 1-1: Can I submit an application in Hong Kong if I am studying in an overseas school (including Japan)?
Q 1-2: Can I make alternative arrangements or conduct the written examination and interview overseas or online if I am not in Hong Kong on the day?
Q 1-3: I am eligible to apply for the "Research Student", "Undergraduate Students" and "Specialized Training College Student" scholarships at the same time, can I apply for them at the same time?
Q 1-4: Can I reapply if I have applied for a scholarship in the past but was unsuccessful?
【Application documents】
Q 2-1: Is it better to fill in the application documents in Japanese?
Q 2-2: How should I fill in the "nationality" column?
Q 2-3: Do I still need to submit the academic transcript(s) of my previous studies such as Higher Diploma or Associate Degree?
Q 2-4: If I am studying or graduated overseas, can I submit the online version of the application documents such as “academic transcript(s)" and "certificate(s) of graduation" instead?
Q 2-5: There is only one original copy of the “academic transcript(s)" and "certificate(s) of graduation", how should I submit them?
Q 2-6: I am studying in a university / tertiary institution and my examination results for this semester have not yet been released. Can I submit the “academic transcript(s)” later when the results are released?
Q 2-7: Do I need to submit the relevant transcripts if I have been an exchange student at an overseas university in the past?
Q 2-8: What should I do if I do not have a “certificate of graduation” at the time of application?
Q 2-9: Can the “certificate of enrollment“ or “certificate of graduation” be replaced by a student card?
Q 2-10: Is an electronically signed “recommendation letter” accepted?
Q 2-11: The “recommendation letter” has to be submitted in sealed form. What should I do if I cannot take a photocopy?
Q 2-12: What should I do if the referrer wants to submit the recommendation letter directly to the Consulate?
Q 2-13: Which organizations are accepted to issue the "medical certificate"?
Q 2-14: There are two certificates for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), one is a certificate of passing (no scores) and the other has the grades and scores. Which one should I submit? Or should I submit both of them?
Q 2-15: I sat for the Japanese and English public examinations a few years ago, do I need to submit them when I apply?
Q 2-16: If I have never taken a public examination in Japanese or English, will my application be disregarded or will points be deducted?
Q 2-17: Apart from the application documents mentioned in the application guidelines, can I attach my curriculum vitae and records of participated extra-curricular activities and awards?
【Screening】
Q 3-1: When will I be notified of the written examination after I have submitted my application?
Q 3-2: I do not understand Japanese at all. Can I not take the Japanese written examination?
Q 3-3: Is it possible to replace the results of the language written examination with language results such as JLPT, TOEFL or IELTS?
(Regarding specific scholarship scheme)
【Research Students】Q RS-1: Can I submit more than one "recommendation letter"?
Q RS-2: What does it mean by "the field of study the applicants majored in at university or its related field"?
Q RS-3: Is there a word limit for the "field of study and research plan"? Can I write in both English and Japanese?
Q RS-4: Can I choose a graduate school that teaches in English?
Q RS-5: When choosing a graduate school, can I only be admitted to a national university?
Q RS-6: Do I need to contact the Japanese universities in advance when filling out the "placement preference application form"?
Q RS-7: After receiving this scholarship, will I be a master's student when I enter the university?
【Undergraduate students and specialized training college students】
Q US-1: I am currently studying in Form 5 (Senior Secondary 2), can I submit an application?
Q US-2: From which school year should I start submitting my academic transcript(s)?
Q US-3: Do I still need to submit academic transcript(s) for secondary school if I am studying in a tertiary institution or university, or if I have graduated from these institutions?
Q US-4: Does the “certificate of university enrollment qualification examination" in the application document refer to the HKDSE?
Q US-5: Do I need to submit the HKDSE transcript later, if I have not yet obtained it at the time of application?
Q US-6: Are all examination papers in English? Can I choose Chinese papers if I am studying in a Chinese secondary school?
Q US-7: Is the scope of the written examination similar to that of the HKDSE?
【Undergraduate students】
Q UG-1: I have obtained the JLPT N1 qualification or have a certain level of English proficiency. Can I enter a national university undergraduate programme that uses Japanese or English as the medium of instruction directly after coming to Japan? (Without enrolling in the first year of preparatory education)
Q UG-2: Can I choose to study at a private university?
Q UG-3: I would like to study visual arts/music in Japan, but I can only choose between arts and science streams in the “fields of study”. How should I fill in the application form?
Q UG-4: How do I decide on my future university/major after completing my first year of preparatory education?
【Specialized training college students】
Q SC-1: I have obtained the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N1 qualification. Can I go directly to a specialized training college? (Without enrolling in the first year of preparatory education)
Q SC-2: Can I choose my own language school or specialized training college?
Q SC-3: Can I go on to university after graduating from a specialized training college? Will the scholarship period be extended?
【Japanese studies students】
Q JS-1: I am in my final year of university but wish to apply for an extension of the study period. Can I apply for a Japanese Studies Students Scholarship?
Q JS-2: I am studying in the final year of an Associate Degree or Higher Diploma but wish to pursue or articulate to an undergraduate programme. Can I apply for a Japanese studies students scholarship?
Q JS-3: I have been accepted by a university as an exchange student. Can I also apply for the MEXT Scholarship?
Q JS-4: Can the subjects and credits completed during the study abroad period be transferred to my home university upon return to Hong Kong?
General
【Eligibility】
Q 1-1: Can I submit an application in Hong Kong if I am studying in an overseas school (including Japan)?
A 1-1: In principle, those who are already enrolled in a Japanese university or other institution with a residence status of “Student” or who are to be enrolled, or plan to be enrolled, in a Japanese university or other institution as a privately-financed international student from the time of application to the MEXT scholarship program in the applicant’s country, until the commencement of the period for payment of the MEXT scholarship, are not eligible to apply for MEXT scholarships. If you are of a residence status other than "Student" or are studying outside Japan, there is no special restriction, but you will be required to return to Hong Kong to attend the written examination and the interview in person (please refer to the " Non-Eligibility " section of the application guidelines).
Please note that we only accept applications who are holders of Hong Kong or Macau SAR passports. If you are not a SAR passport holder, please contact the Japanese Embassy of your passport issuing country for more information.
https://www.mofa.go.jp/about/emb_cons/over/index.html
Q 1-2: Can I make alternative arrangements or conduct the written examination and interview overseas or online if I am not in Hong Kong on the day?
A 1-2: Applicants are required to attend the written examination and interview at the date and venue designated by the Consulate. Failure to attend will result in disqualification and the application will be considered unsuccessful.
Q 1-3: I am eligible to apply for the "Research Student", "Undergraduate Students" and "Specialized Training College Student" scholarships at the same time, can I apply for them at the same time?
A 1-3: No, you cannot. Applicants can only submit one application for a scholarship at a time.
Q 1-4: Can I reapply if I have applied for a scholarship in the past but was unsuccessful?
A 1-4: Yes, you can. You are welcome to re-apply for the MEXT Scholarship Programme as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.
【Application documents】
Q 2-1: Is it better to fill in the application documents in Japanese?
A 2-1: No. The language in which the documents are completed is not a part of the criteria for selection and applicants may choose to complete the application in either English or Japanese. However, please use the same language consistently in the same document.
Q 2-2: How should I fill in the "nationality" column?
A 2-2: Please fill in "Chinese (Hong Kong)" or "Chinese (Macau)".
Q 2-3: Do I still need to submit the academic transcript(s) of my previous studies such as Higher Diploma or Associate Degree?
A 2-3: Yes. Please also submit the original academic transcript(s) of your Higher Diploma or Associate Degree.
Q 2-4: If I am studying or graduated overseas, can I submit the online version of the application documents such as “academic transcript(s)" and "certificate(s) of graduation" instead?
A 2-4: The application requirements are the same regardless of whether the applicant is or was a student in Hong Kong or graduated overseas. (If the institute does not provide printed copies, please contact us.)
Q 2-5: There is only one original copy of the “academic transcript(s)" and "certificate(s) of graduation", how should I submit them?
A 2-5: All application documents will not be returned to the applicant, regardless of whether the application is successful or not in the future. As most secondary schools only issue one original copy of the documents to students, applicants may not be able to submit the original documents when they submit their scholarship application. For this reason, a copy of the above two documents may be submitted, provided that the original school chop or CERTIFIED TRUE COPY is stamped on the copy.
If the applicant does not have a “certificate of graduation” at the time of application, he/she should apply for a “letter of certification” from the university. The letter should include the applicant's name and the year of curriculum or prospective date of graduation to show that the applicant meets the eligibility criteria.
You may also choose to submit a certified copy of the "certificate of graduation of university attended" or apply for a "letter of certification" from the university. However, this method is not applicable to university and tertiary institute transcripts, as an original document is required. Most universities and tertiary institutes offer a service to reissue original transcripts. Applicants are advised to be aware of the procedures required and allow sufficient time to obtain the documents in advance of the scholarship deadline.
Q 2-6: I am studying in a university / tertiary institution and my examination results for this semester have not yet been released. Can I submit the academic transcript(s) later when the results are released?
A 2-6: Even if the results for the current term have not yet been released, it is sufficient for the transcript to show the results that have been released at the time of application. No documents will be accepted after the application deadline, except for the medical certificate, which will be submitted as instructed after passing the written examinations and interview.
Q 2-7: Do I need to submit the relevant transcript(s) if I have been an exchange student at an overseas university in the past?
A 2-7: Yes. Please also submit a copy of the relevant transcript(s) for reference. Please note that if you are recommended by the Consulate in the future, you may need to provide the original transcripts for verification.
Q 2-8: What should I do if I do not have a “certificate of graduation” at the time of application?
A 2-8: If you are in your final year of study, you will need to apply for a “letter of certification” from the university. The letter should contain information such as the applicant's name, major, year or curriculum or prospective date of graduation to show that the applicant has met the eligibility criteria. If the expected date of graduation is not available, the date of completion of the course may be a substitute.
Q 2-9: Can the “certificate of enrollment“ or “certificate of graduation” be replaced by a student card?
A 2-9: No, it cannot. The "certificate of enrollment" or "certificate of graduation" should be a document issued by the school with the applicant's name, major, year of curriculum or prospective graduation date to show that he/she meets the eligibility criteria.
Q 2-10: Are electronically signed “recommendation letter(s)” accepted?
A 2-10: No. The signature on the “recommendation letter(s)" must be hand-written and electronic signatures are not accepted.
Q 2-11: The “recommendation letter” has to be submitted in sealed form. What should I do if I cannot take a photocopy?
A 2-11: You can submit the original letter without a photocopy. The photocopy will be copied by our staff.
Q 2-12: What should I do if the referrer wants to submit the recommendation letter directly to the Consulate?
A 2-12: The letter can be submitted to the Consulate by post, in person or by courier before the deadline and should indicate the scholarship applied for and the name of the applicant on the cover. Applicants should also inform the Consulate that the recommendation letter will be delivered separately when submitting the documents.
Q 2-13: Which organisations are accepted to issue the "medical certificate"?
A 2-13: The medical check can be conducted in a government-approved and registered medical centre, clinic or hospital. The cost of the examination is to be paid by the applicant. Only those who have passed the written examination and interview and have been recommended are required to submit the “medical certificate” upon request. Generally speaking, applicants are required to submit a “medical certificate” within one week. As the time taken to issue the report varies from three days to more than 10 days and the cost varies, applicants are advised to check the information in advance and to make an appointment for examination as soon as possible after receiving the first screening results, in order to obtain and submit the "medical certificate" within the deadline.
Q 2-14: There are two certificates for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), one is a certificate of passing (no scores) and the other has the grades and scores. Which one should I submit? Or should I submit both of them?
A 2-14: Please submit a copy of the certificate containing the grades and scores. If printing the web version of the examination results, please ensure that it contains the candidate's name, qualification level, pass result and scores.
Q 2-15: I sat for the Japanese and English public examinations a few years ago, do I need to submit them when I apply?
A 2-15: From the date of application, only English language results taken within the past two years are accepted. If the examination was taken two years ago or more, you do not need to complete and submit the relevant certificates.
Q 2-16: If I have never taken a public examination in Japanese or English, will my application be disregarded or will points be deducted?
A 2-16: It is not necessary to have the results of the Japanese or English language public examinations in order to submit an application. Even if you do not, your application will not be affected.
Q 2-17: Apart from the application documents mentioned in the application guidelines, can I attach my curriculum vitae and records of participated extra-curricular activities and awards?
A 2-17: Apart from the application documents listed in the application guidelines, any additional documents will not be accepted.
【Screening】
Q 3-1: When will I be notified of the written examination after I have submitted my application?
A 3-1: Notification of the written examination will be sent by email to all eligible applicants no later than one week prior to the written examination.
Q 3-2: I do not understand Japanese at all. Can I not take the Japanese written examination?
A 3-2: No, you cannot. Applicants must sit for all subjects as specified in the scholarship scheme.
Q3-3: Is it possible to replace the results of the language written examination with results of examinations such as JLPT, TOEFL or IELTS?
A 3-3: No, you cannot. Applicants must sit for all subjects as specified in the scholarship scheme.
Q 1-1: Can I submit an application in Hong Kong if I am studying in an overseas school (including Japan)?
A 1-1: In principle, those who are already enrolled in a Japanese university or other institution with a residence status of “Student” or who are to be enrolled, or plan to be enrolled, in a Japanese university or other institution as a privately-financed international student from the time of application to the MEXT scholarship program in the applicant’s country, until the commencement of the period for payment of the MEXT scholarship, are not eligible to apply for MEXT scholarships. If you are of a residence status other than "Student" or are studying outside Japan, there is no special restriction, but you will be required to return to Hong Kong to attend the written examination and the interview in person (please refer to the " Non-Eligibility " section of the application guidelines).
Please note that we only accept applications who are holders of Hong Kong or Macau SAR passports. If you are not a SAR passport holder, please contact the Japanese Embassy of your passport issuing country for more information.
https://www.mofa.go.jp/about/emb_cons/over/index.html
Q 1-2: Can I make alternative arrangements or conduct the written examination and interview overseas or online if I am not in Hong Kong on the day?
A 1-2: Applicants are required to attend the written examination and interview at the date and venue designated by the Consulate. Failure to attend will result in disqualification and the application will be considered unsuccessful.
Q 1-3: I am eligible to apply for the "Research Student", "Undergraduate Students" and "Specialized Training College Student" scholarships at the same time, can I apply for them at the same time?
A 1-3: No, you cannot. Applicants can only submit one application for a scholarship at a time.
Q 1-4: Can I reapply if I have applied for a scholarship in the past but was unsuccessful?
A 1-4: Yes, you can. You are welcome to re-apply for the MEXT Scholarship Programme as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.
【Application documents】
Q 2-1: Is it better to fill in the application documents in Japanese?
A 2-1: No. The language in which the documents are completed is not a part of the criteria for selection and applicants may choose to complete the application in either English or Japanese. However, please use the same language consistently in the same document.
Q 2-2: How should I fill in the "nationality" column?
A 2-2: Please fill in "Chinese (Hong Kong)" or "Chinese (Macau)".
Q 2-3: Do I still need to submit the academic transcript(s) of my previous studies such as Higher Diploma or Associate Degree?
A 2-3: Yes. Please also submit the original academic transcript(s) of your Higher Diploma or Associate Degree.
Q 2-4: If I am studying or graduated overseas, can I submit the online version of the application documents such as “academic transcript(s)" and "certificate(s) of graduation" instead?
A 2-4: The application requirements are the same regardless of whether the applicant is or was a student in Hong Kong or graduated overseas. (If the institute does not provide printed copies, please contact us.)
Q 2-5: There is only one original copy of the “academic transcript(s)" and "certificate(s) of graduation", how should I submit them?
A 2-5: All application documents will not be returned to the applicant, regardless of whether the application is successful or not in the future. As most secondary schools only issue one original copy of the documents to students, applicants may not be able to submit the original documents when they submit their scholarship application. For this reason, a copy of the above two documents may be submitted, provided that the original school chop or CERTIFIED TRUE COPY is stamped on the copy.
If the applicant does not have a “certificate of graduation” at the time of application, he/she should apply for a “letter of certification” from the university. The letter should include the applicant's name and the year of curriculum or prospective date of graduation to show that the applicant meets the eligibility criteria.
You may also choose to submit a certified copy of the "certificate of graduation of university attended" or apply for a "letter of certification" from the university. However, this method is not applicable to university and tertiary institute transcripts, as an original document is required. Most universities and tertiary institutes offer a service to reissue original transcripts. Applicants are advised to be aware of the procedures required and allow sufficient time to obtain the documents in advance of the scholarship deadline.
Q 2-6: I am studying in a university / tertiary institution and my examination results for this semester have not yet been released. Can I submit the academic transcript(s) later when the results are released?
A 2-6: Even if the results for the current term have not yet been released, it is sufficient for the transcript to show the results that have been released at the time of application. No documents will be accepted after the application deadline, except for the medical certificate, which will be submitted as instructed after passing the written examinations and interview.
Q 2-7: Do I need to submit the relevant transcript(s) if I have been an exchange student at an overseas university in the past?
A 2-7: Yes. Please also submit a copy of the relevant transcript(s) for reference. Please note that if you are recommended by the Consulate in the future, you may need to provide the original transcripts for verification.
Q 2-8: What should I do if I do not have a “certificate of graduation” at the time of application?
A 2-8: If you are in your final year of study, you will need to apply for a “letter of certification” from the university. The letter should contain information such as the applicant's name, major, year or curriculum or prospective date of graduation to show that the applicant has met the eligibility criteria. If the expected date of graduation is not available, the date of completion of the course may be a substitute.
Q 2-9: Can the “certificate of enrollment“ or “certificate of graduation” be replaced by a student card?
A 2-9: No, it cannot. The "certificate of enrollment" or "certificate of graduation" should be a document issued by the school with the applicant's name, major, year of curriculum or prospective graduation date to show that he/she meets the eligibility criteria.
Q 2-10: Are electronically signed “recommendation letter(s)” accepted?
A 2-10: No. The signature on the “recommendation letter(s)" must be hand-written and electronic signatures are not accepted.
Q 2-11: The “recommendation letter” has to be submitted in sealed form. What should I do if I cannot take a photocopy?
A 2-11: You can submit the original letter without a photocopy. The photocopy will be copied by our staff.
Q 2-12: What should I do if the referrer wants to submit the recommendation letter directly to the Consulate?
A 2-12: The letter can be submitted to the Consulate by post, in person or by courier before the deadline and should indicate the scholarship applied for and the name of the applicant on the cover. Applicants should also inform the Consulate that the recommendation letter will be delivered separately when submitting the documents.
Q 2-13: Which organisations are accepted to issue the "medical certificate"?
A 2-13: The medical check can be conducted in a government-approved and registered medical centre, clinic or hospital. The cost of the examination is to be paid by the applicant. Only those who have passed the written examination and interview and have been recommended are required to submit the “medical certificate” upon request. Generally speaking, applicants are required to submit a “medical certificate” within one week. As the time taken to issue the report varies from three days to more than 10 days and the cost varies, applicants are advised to check the information in advance and to make an appointment for examination as soon as possible after receiving the first screening results, in order to obtain and submit the "medical certificate" within the deadline.
Q 2-14: There are two certificates for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), one is a certificate of passing (no scores) and the other has the grades and scores. Which one should I submit? Or should I submit both of them?
A 2-14: Please submit a copy of the certificate containing the grades and scores. If printing the web version of the examination results, please ensure that it contains the candidate's name, qualification level, pass result and scores.
Q 2-15: I sat for the Japanese and English public examinations a few years ago, do I need to submit them when I apply?
A 2-15: From the date of application, only English language results taken within the past two years are accepted. If the examination was taken two years ago or more, you do not need to complete and submit the relevant certificates.
Q 2-16: If I have never taken a public examination in Japanese or English, will my application be disregarded or will points be deducted?
A 2-16: It is not necessary to have the results of the Japanese or English language public examinations in order to submit an application. Even if you do not, your application will not be affected.
Q 2-17: Apart from the application documents mentioned in the application guidelines, can I attach my curriculum vitae and records of participated extra-curricular activities and awards?
A 2-17: Apart from the application documents listed in the application guidelines, any additional documents will not be accepted.
【Screening】
Q 3-1: When will I be notified of the written examination after I have submitted my application?
A 3-1: Notification of the written examination will be sent by email to all eligible applicants no later than one week prior to the written examination.
Q 3-2: I do not understand Japanese at all. Can I not take the Japanese written examination?
A 3-2: No, you cannot. Applicants must sit for all subjects as specified in the scholarship scheme.
Q3-3: Is it possible to replace the results of the language written examination with results of examinations such as JLPT, TOEFL or IELTS?
A 3-3: No, you cannot. Applicants must sit for all subjects as specified in the scholarship scheme.
Regarding specific scholarship scheme
【Research Students】
Q RS-1: Can I submit more than one "recommendation letter from the president/dean or the academic advisor at the current or last university attended"?
A RS-1: Only one 'letter of recommendation' from the president/dean or the academic advisor at the current or last university attended will be accepted.
Q RS-2: What does it mean by "the field of study the applicants majored in at university or its related field"?
A RS-2: Since it is difficult to specify the details for each major, the subjects that have been taken and corresponding credits earned, as listed in the university transcripts, are used as the main method of verification.
Q RS-3: Is there a word limit for the "field of study and research plan"? Can I write in both English and Japanese?
A RS-3: No, there is not. However, you are required to complete your research plan within two pages. You can only complete the form in either English or Japanese.
Q RS-4: Can I choose a graduate school that teaches in English?
A RS-4: Yes.
Q RS-5: When choosing a graduate school, can I only be admitted to a national university?
A RS-5: Applicants may choose either a national or private university according to their personal preference, but the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) will give preference to national universities in consideration of the overall budget.
Q RS-6: Do I need to contact the Japanese universities in advance when filling out the "Placement Preference Application Form"?
A RS-6：At this stage, applicants can fill in the names of the universities according to their personal wishes (maximum 3). They are not required to contact the Japanese universities at this stage.
Q RS-7: After receiving this scholarship, will I be a master's student when I enter the university?
A RS-7: Generally speaking, after passing the entrance examination and being awarded a scholarship by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), you will enter Japan as a research student (non-regular student) and not as a master's student (regular student). For more information on the status of admission, please refer to the “academic pathway for research students” in the application guidelines.
【Undergraduate students and specialized training college students】
Q US-1: I am currently studying in Form 5 (Senior Secondary 2), can I submit an application?
A US-1: Yes, you can. As the date of departure for Japan is in April of the following year, if the applicant can submit a certificate of prospective graduation, (stating that the applicant has completed S6 by April of the following year), the basic application requirements will be met. However, as the HKDSE is normally held in April, please note that if the applicant decides to accept the scholarship, he/she will not be able to sit for the HKDSE.
Q US-2: From which school year should I start submitting my academic transcript(s)?
A US-2: You need to submit your academic transcripts for S4, S5 and S6. Academic transcripts from the first semester of university will also be necessary if you have been studying in a university.
Q US-3: Do I still need to submit academic transcript(s) for secondary school if I am studying in a tertiary institution or university, or if I have graduated from these institutions?
A US-3: Yes. In addition, you are required to submit the original academic transcripts from your tertiary institution or university up to the date of application, in addition to your S4, S5 and S6 transcripts.
Q US-4: Does the “certificate of university enrollment qualification examination" in the application document refer to the HKDSE?
A US-4: No. If the applicant has obtained an offer from the university at the time of application and can submit an official letter or certificate from the university, he/she does not need to submit the "academic transcript(s)", "certificate(s) of graduation" and "recommendation letter" as part of the application.
Q US-5: Do I need to submit the HKDSE transcript later, if I have not yet obtained it at the time of application?
A US-5: HKDSE transcripts are not included in the required application documents, so there is no need to submit them.
Q US-6: Are all examination papers in English? Can I choose Chinese papers if I am studying in a Chinese secondary school?
A US-6: All papers are in English, except for "Japanese", which is in Japanese. (There is no Chinese paper).
Q US-7: Is the scope of the written examination similar to that of the HKDSE?
A US-7: Each year, scholarship applications are made at the same time at the respective embassies and consulates and the examination papers used are standardised. As all embassies and consulates use the same question papers and the questions are not based on the educational areas or learning content of a particular country or region. Applicants may refer to samples of the exam questions for preparation, which are linked below:
https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/planning/scholarship/application/examination.html
*Some questions are not available for public viewing.
【Undergraduate students】
Q UG-1: I have obtained the JLPT N1 qualification or have a certain level of English proficiency. Can I enter a national university undergraduate programme that uses Japanese or English as the medium of instruction directly after coming to Japan? (Without enrolling in the first year of preparatory education)
Q UG-1: Applicants who have a certain level of Japanese or English language proficiency at the time of application and meet the admission requirements of individual universities may directly apply for admission to a 4-year undergraduate programme. For more details, please refer to the description of "direct placement" in the application requirements.
Q UG-2: Can I choose to study in a private university?
A UG-2: No, you cannot. Under this scholarship scheme, applicants will only be admitted to national universities, not private universities.
Q UG-3: I would like to study visual arts/music in Japan, but I can only choose between arts and science streams in the “fields of study”. How should I fill in the application form?
A UG-3: For subjects not listed in the "fields of study" column, please fill in " Social Sciences and Humanities – A 8. Others" and list the name of the subject. For example: Others (visual arts). The examinations to be taken in the future will be the same as those for the arts stream.
*Not all national universities in Japan offer "visual arts" courses. Please check the course information of universities in advance when choosing a subject, other than those listed under the "fields of study" column, to avoid being denied admission to the university of your choice after receiving a scholarship.
Q UG-4: How do I decide on my future university/major after completing my first year of preparatory education?
A UG-4: Applicants can choose from a list of universities determined by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), in coordination with the national universities, based on their performance in the first year of preparatory education and the subjects they have been allocated.
【Specialized training college students】
Q SC-1: I have obtained the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N1 qualification. Can I go directly to a specialized training college? (Without enrolling in the first year of preparatory education)
A SC-1: No, you cannot. Even if the applicant has a certain level of Japanese language proficiency, he/she must still enrol in the first year of preparatory education.
Q SC-2: Can I choose my own language school or specialized training college?
A SC-2: No, you cannot. The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) will assign applicants to schools according to their preferred subjects and applicants are not allowed to choose a region or a specific school.
Q SC-3: Can I go on to university after graduating from a specialized training college? Will the scholarship period be extended?
A SC-3: Some universities will accept graduates from specialized training college into Year 3 of their undergraduate programmes. There is no requirement for students to return to their home country after completing the course, so students are free to consider further study or career paths as they see fit. If a student is admitted to the third year of an undergraduate programme at a Japanese national university, they may apply to the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) for an extension of their scholarship, which may be granted to students with excellent grades and who meet certain criteria. (Please note that students who go on to study at a public or private university are not eligible to apply for scholarship extensions.)
【Japanese Studies Students】
Q JS-1: I am in my final year of university but wish to apply for an extension of the study period. Can I apply for a Japanese Studies Students Scholarship?
A JS-2: Applicants must be non-final year undergraduates at the time of application. If you wish to extend your studies in order to be eligible for the scholarship, you must complete the relevant procedures before the deadline and submit proof of "non-final year" status.
Q JS-2: I am studying in the final year of an Associate Degree or Higher Diploma but wish to pursue or articulate to an undergraduate programme. Can I apply for a Japanese Studies Students scholarship?
A JS-2: In principle, applicants must be non-final year students and must return to their home institution to continue their studies after completing the Japanese Studies Students programme. If an applicant is accepted by a university to enrol in a relevant undergraduate programme upon completion of an Associate Degree or Higher Diploma, the undergraduate programme will be considered as an extension of the original programme and the applicant will be eligible for the Japanese Studies Students scholarship. Applicants are required to submit an additional letter of acceptance for the undergraduate programme. If you meet the above criteria and wish to apply for a Japanese Studies Students scholarship, please contact us at your earliest convenience so that we can determine your eligibility and provide you with guidance.
Q JS-3: I have been accepted by a university as an exchange student. Can I also apply for the MEXT Scholarship?
A JS-3: Yes, you can. However, the "Japanese Studies Students" course is a part of the scholarship programme. The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) will assign the student to a course of study based on the applicant's declared wishes. In other words, if an applicant is eventually accepted as both an exchange student and a MEXT scholarship student at a particular school, only one of these courses can be chosen, regardless of whether they are offered by the same university.
Q JS-4: Can the subjects and credits completed during the study abroad period be transferred to my home university upon return to Hong Kong?
A JS-4: Some universities offer credit-bearing courses in the “Japanese Studies Students” programme. Please check with your home university to see if the relevant subjects and credits are recognised.
Q RS-1: Can I submit more than one "recommendation letter from the president/dean or the academic advisor at the current or last university attended"?
A RS-1: Only one 'letter of recommendation' from the president/dean or the academic advisor at the current or last university attended will be accepted.
Q RS-2: What does it mean by "the field of study the applicants majored in at university or its related field"?
A RS-2: Since it is difficult to specify the details for each major, the subjects that have been taken and corresponding credits earned, as listed in the university transcripts, are used as the main method of verification.
Q RS-3: Is there a word limit for the "field of study and research plan"? Can I write in both English and Japanese?
A RS-3: No, there is not. However, you are required to complete your research plan within two pages. You can only complete the form in either English or Japanese.
Q RS-4: Can I choose a graduate school that teaches in English?
A RS-4: Yes.
Q RS-5: When choosing a graduate school, can I only be admitted to a national university?
A RS-5: Applicants may choose either a national or private university according to their personal preference, but the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) will give preference to national universities in consideration of the overall budget.
Q RS-6: Do I need to contact the Japanese universities in advance when filling out the "Placement Preference Application Form"?
A RS-6：At this stage, applicants can fill in the names of the universities according to their personal wishes (maximum 3). They are not required to contact the Japanese universities at this stage.
Q RS-7: After receiving this scholarship, will I be a master's student when I enter the university?
A RS-7: Generally speaking, after passing the entrance examination and being awarded a scholarship by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), you will enter Japan as a research student (non-regular student) and not as a master's student (regular student). For more information on the status of admission, please refer to the “academic pathway for research students” in the application guidelines.
【Undergraduate students and specialized training college students】
Q US-1: I am currently studying in Form 5 (Senior Secondary 2), can I submit an application?
A US-1: Yes, you can. As the date of departure for Japan is in April of the following year, if the applicant can submit a certificate of prospective graduation, (stating that the applicant has completed S6 by April of the following year), the basic application requirements will be met. However, as the HKDSE is normally held in April, please note that if the applicant decides to accept the scholarship, he/she will not be able to sit for the HKDSE.
Q US-2: From which school year should I start submitting my academic transcript(s)?
A US-2: You need to submit your academic transcripts for S4, S5 and S6. Academic transcripts from the first semester of university will also be necessary if you have been studying in a university.
Q US-3: Do I still need to submit academic transcript(s) for secondary school if I am studying in a tertiary institution or university, or if I have graduated from these institutions?
A US-3: Yes. In addition, you are required to submit the original academic transcripts from your tertiary institution or university up to the date of application, in addition to your S4, S5 and S6 transcripts.
Q US-4: Does the “certificate of university enrollment qualification examination" in the application document refer to the HKDSE?
A US-4: No. If the applicant has obtained an offer from the university at the time of application and can submit an official letter or certificate from the university, he/she does not need to submit the "academic transcript(s)", "certificate(s) of graduation" and "recommendation letter" as part of the application.
Q US-5: Do I need to submit the HKDSE transcript later, if I have not yet obtained it at the time of application?
A US-5: HKDSE transcripts are not included in the required application documents, so there is no need to submit them.
Q US-6: Are all examination papers in English? Can I choose Chinese papers if I am studying in a Chinese secondary school?
A US-6: All papers are in English, except for "Japanese", which is in Japanese. (There is no Chinese paper).
Q US-7: Is the scope of the written examination similar to that of the HKDSE?
A US-7: Each year, scholarship applications are made at the same time at the respective embassies and consulates and the examination papers used are standardised. As all embassies and consulates use the same question papers and the questions are not based on the educational areas or learning content of a particular country or region. Applicants may refer to samples of the exam questions for preparation, which are linked below:
https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/planning/scholarship/application/examination.html
*Some questions are not available for public viewing.
【Undergraduate students】
Q UG-1: I have obtained the JLPT N1 qualification or have a certain level of English proficiency. Can I enter a national university undergraduate programme that uses Japanese or English as the medium of instruction directly after coming to Japan? (Without enrolling in the first year of preparatory education)
Q UG-1: Applicants who have a certain level of Japanese or English language proficiency at the time of application and meet the admission requirements of individual universities may directly apply for admission to a 4-year undergraduate programme. For more details, please refer to the description of "direct placement" in the application requirements.
Q UG-2: Can I choose to study in a private university?
A UG-2: No, you cannot. Under this scholarship scheme, applicants will only be admitted to national universities, not private universities.
Q UG-3: I would like to study visual arts/music in Japan, but I can only choose between arts and science streams in the “fields of study”. How should I fill in the application form?
A UG-3: For subjects not listed in the "fields of study" column, please fill in " Social Sciences and Humanities – A 8. Others" and list the name of the subject. For example: Others (visual arts). The examinations to be taken in the future will be the same as those for the arts stream.
*Not all national universities in Japan offer "visual arts" courses. Please check the course information of universities in advance when choosing a subject, other than those listed under the "fields of study" column, to avoid being denied admission to the university of your choice after receiving a scholarship.
Q UG-4: How do I decide on my future university/major after completing my first year of preparatory education?
A UG-4: Applicants can choose from a list of universities determined by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), in coordination with the national universities, based on their performance in the first year of preparatory education and the subjects they have been allocated.
【Specialized training college students】
Q SC-1: I have obtained the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N1 qualification. Can I go directly to a specialized training college? (Without enrolling in the first year of preparatory education)
A SC-1: No, you cannot. Even if the applicant has a certain level of Japanese language proficiency, he/she must still enrol in the first year of preparatory education.
Q SC-2: Can I choose my own language school or specialized training college?
A SC-2: No, you cannot. The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) will assign applicants to schools according to their preferred subjects and applicants are not allowed to choose a region or a specific school.
Q SC-3: Can I go on to university after graduating from a specialized training college? Will the scholarship period be extended?
A SC-3: Some universities will accept graduates from specialized training college into Year 3 of their undergraduate programmes. There is no requirement for students to return to their home country after completing the course, so students are free to consider further study or career paths as they see fit. If a student is admitted to the third year of an undergraduate programme at a Japanese national university, they may apply to the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) for an extension of their scholarship, which may be granted to students with excellent grades and who meet certain criteria. (Please note that students who go on to study at a public or private university are not eligible to apply for scholarship extensions.)
【Japanese Studies Students】
Q JS-1: I am in my final year of university but wish to apply for an extension of the study period. Can I apply for a Japanese Studies Students Scholarship?
A JS-2: Applicants must be non-final year undergraduates at the time of application. If you wish to extend your studies in order to be eligible for the scholarship, you must complete the relevant procedures before the deadline and submit proof of "non-final year" status.
Q JS-2: I am studying in the final year of an Associate Degree or Higher Diploma but wish to pursue or articulate to an undergraduate programme. Can I apply for a Japanese Studies Students scholarship?
A JS-2: In principle, applicants must be non-final year students and must return to their home institution to continue their studies after completing the Japanese Studies Students programme. If an applicant is accepted by a university to enrol in a relevant undergraduate programme upon completion of an Associate Degree or Higher Diploma, the undergraduate programme will be considered as an extension of the original programme and the applicant will be eligible for the Japanese Studies Students scholarship. Applicants are required to submit an additional letter of acceptance for the undergraduate programme. If you meet the above criteria and wish to apply for a Japanese Studies Students scholarship, please contact us at your earliest convenience so that we can determine your eligibility and provide you with guidance.
Q JS-3: I have been accepted by a university as an exchange student. Can I also apply for the MEXT Scholarship?
A JS-3: Yes, you can. However, the "Japanese Studies Students" course is a part of the scholarship programme. The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) will assign the student to a course of study based on the applicant's declared wishes. In other words, if an applicant is eventually accepted as both an exchange student and a MEXT scholarship student at a particular school, only one of these courses can be chosen, regardless of whether they are offered by the same university.
Q JS-4: Can the subjects and credits completed during the study abroad period be transferred to my home university upon return to Hong Kong?
A JS-4: Some universities offer credit-bearing courses in the “Japanese Studies Students” programme. Please check with your home university to see if the relevant subjects and credits are recognised.