The Graduate Schools of Science and Engineering, Economics, and Policy Science at Ritsumeikan University are currently inviting applications for the Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship under the University Recommendation category for September 2025 enrollment.
This scholarship offers a "full-ride" opportunity to pursue Master's or Doctoral studies in select graduate programs. Below is a detailed overview of the scholarship, eligibility criteria, application process, and timeline to help potential applicants navigate the process effectively.
What is the MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship?
The MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship, administered by Japan's Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (Monbukagakusho in Japanese), provides full financial support for international students. To qualify, applicants must first secure a recommendation from a Japanese university, such as Ritsumeikan University, by following the designated admission procedures.
After obtaining university recommendation, applicants undergo a final review by MEXT, which selects the scholarship recipients. Given the limited number of recommendation slots, only a small number of applicants are successfully nominated and subsequently awarded the scholarship.
Participating Graduate Schools and Programs
Ritsumeikan University is accepting applications for the following schools for September 2025 enrollment:
Graduate School of Science and Engineering
Graduate School of Economics graduate
Graduate School of Policy Science
Ritsumeikan University MEXT scholarship benefits
The MEXT (Monbukagakusho) Scholarship at Ritsumeikan University is a prestigious full-ride scholarship sponsored by the Japanese government. Here are some of the key benefits:
The MEXT (Monbukagakusho) Scholarship at Ritsumeikan University is a prestigious full-ride scholarship sponsored by the Japanese government. Here are some of the key benefits:
1. Tuition and Admission Fees Waived: The scholarship covers all tuition and admission fees, so you won't have to worry about those expenses.
2. Living Stipend: You'll receive a monthly stipend of 120,000 JPY to cover living expenses.
3. Travel Costs: The scholarship includes round-trip airfare to and from Japan.
4. Duration: The scholarship is valid for 4 years, giving you ample time to complete your studies.
5. Eligibility: You must maintain a GPA of 2.3/3.0 or higher to continue receiving the scholarship.
Ritsumeikan University MEXT scholarship Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the MEXT Scholarship via Ritsumeikan University, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Nationality: Applicants must be nationals of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan.
Age: Born on or after April 2, 1990.
Health: Must be in good physical and mental health.
Visa: Willing to acquire a student visa and enter Japan for study.
Arrival: Able to arrive in Japan in mid-September 2025 as specified by Ritsumeikan University.
GPA: A cumulative GPA of 2.30 or higher (on a 3.00 scale) as calculated by MEXT's formula.
English language Proficiency: CEFR B2 level or equivalent, or prior education in English.
Additional Requirements: Additional nationality and residency requirements may apply for Economics and Policy Science programs.
📂 Refer to the [scholarship outline PDF]for a description of scholarship benefits as well as a more detailed overview of scholarship eligibility and conditions.
How to Apply
1. Review Guidelines: Carefully read the application guidelines available for download here. Ensure your program of interest is listed and confirm whether it is recruiting for a Master's or Doctoral degree.
2. Fill out Forms:
Complete and fill below application forms:
Letter of Recommendation Template (Template is optional but recommended)
3. Prepare your documents
In addition to documents above, you'll need to prepare the following documents:
Copy of passport page
Official graduation certificate and Transcript of records
Abstract of thesis written for most recent academic degree awarded.
English language proficiency certificates (if applicable)
4. Online application:
Via the link below fill out and submit the “(1) Ritsumeikan University Graduate
School Online Application Form”.
5. Send your application by email
Convert the remaining application documents to PDFs. Except for your passport, combine the remaining application documents in the order listed in “1. Application Documents” into one PDF. Set the file name to “application_” followed by your full name as indicated in your passport
Send all filled forms above within the specified application period (November 26 - December 19, 2024) to the following email:
📂 You can find detailed application steps and more information on the following document:
⚠️ Important Notes
Applicants do not need prior consent from a faculty member to list them as a preferred supervisor.
Ensure all transcripts and documents meet the specified criteria.
Supplementary documents may be needed to clarify grading scales or other details.
Supervisor Matching: Utilize the [Researcher Database] to identify potential supervisors. No prior permission is required to name a supervisor in the application.
Applicants from Chinese universities must provide additional verification documents.
ℹ️ Contact Information
For queries, email the International Center at [cger-bkc@st.ritsumei.ac.jp]
🔗 OFFICIAL LINK
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