RESEARCH STUDENTS

 

In view of the large number of enquiries regarding the MEXT Scholarship, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions and suggest applicants to read the information before completing the application form. If you have any questions, please contact us at (852) 2522-1184 or email to infojp@hn.mofa.go.jp with your (1) name, (2) phone number, (3) the name of the scholarship programme and (4) the questions you wish to enquire about.

This scholarship aims at providing an opportunity for students in Hong Kong and Macau Students who wish to study in graduate courses at Japanese universities as Research Students (either regular students or non-regular students).
 
Currently Open for Application           YES
 
Duration
18 to 24 months, beginning in April/October 2026 (including six months of language training if necessary)
 
Outline of eligibility
Age: born on or after April 2, 1991 (under 35 years old)
Degree: Bachelor’s degree or higher (final year student may also acceptable)
Study area: the same field that the applicant has studied, or a related field
 
Departure date
April/October 2026

Placement at University
Designated by MEXT, based on your admission or a letter of provisional acceptance you obtain from Japanese universities
 
Application period
17 April 2025 (Thursday) to 11 June 2025 (Wednesday), must be received by 5:00pm

Selection process
1. Documents review
2. Written test (Japanese and English): 25 June 2025 (Wednesday)
3. Interview: 21 July 2025 (Monday)
4. 1st screening notification: Late July 2025
5. 2nd screening notification: January 2026
6. Acceptance notification: January to February 2026
 
*As part of the preliminary selection, assessment tests in Japanese and English will be given to eligible applicants. Shortlisted candidates will be notified of the date and time of their interview and exam.

*Please note that for Hong Kong and Macau residents, the interviews and tests are only conducted in Hong Kong, at a venue designated by the Consulate and there will be no exceptions made. If you cannot attend the written test on the designated date, the qualification will be terminated. For inquiries, please feel free to contact us on (852) 2522-1184 or send an e-mail to infojp@hn.mofa.go.jp .

Application forms to download
STUDY in JAPAN
https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/smap_stopj-applications_research.html

• All students must submit all documents mentioned in Point 9 （1）-（11） and a copy of passport.
• As Point 9 （2）Placement Preference Application Form, please provide the name of the Japanese university where you intend to do your research, but it is not necessary to have made formal contact with Japanese university before passing the written test and interview. You may use the search engine* to find a university which offers the program of study you wish to pursue.
• It is not necessary to fill in Point 9 （7）Medical certificate before passing the written test and interview, as this is the first stage of the application procedure. 
• If printing out the certificates of language proficiency from the Internet, print out and submit a page showing the applicant’s name and the details of the relevant qualification (level, score, etc.). The date of issue of the certificates should be no earlier than two years from the date of application to the Consulate-General of Japan.