How to Apply for the 2026 MEXT Scholarship (Embassy Recommendation) as a Research Student at the University of Tokyo

If you're an international student aspiring to pursue research in Japan, the 2026 MEXT Scholarship (Embassy Recommendation) is one of the most prestigious and fully funded opportunities available. Administered by the Japanese Government (MONBUKAGAKUSHO: MEXT), this scholarship allows international students to study in top universities like the University of Tokyo under the Research Student status.

Below is your step-by-step guide to applying for the MEXT Scholarship 2026 through Embassy Recommendation at the Graduate School of Frontier Sciences (GSFS), University of Tokyo.

Step 1: Pass the Preliminary Examination at Your Local Japanese Embassy

The first and most crucial step is to pass the preliminary screening conducted by the Japanese Embassy or Consulate General in your home country. This includes submitting the official MEXT application form, academic transcripts, a study plan, recommendation letters, and a health certificate.

Locate your nearest Japanese Embassy

Step 2: Choose Your Research Department and Supervisor

Once you clear the embassy screening, your next task is to:

1. Explore departments within the Graduate School of Frontier Sciences (GSFS).
2. Identify a faculty member whose research aligns with your interests.
3. Contact the faculty member directly to request supervision.

View faculty list and contact details

Step 3: Prepare and Submit Required Documents to GSFS

To request a Certificate of Admission (Letter of Acceptance), you must submit the following to the International Liaison Office (ILO) of GSFS:

1. Certificate of Preliminary Examination Result from the Embassy
2. Certified Copies of all documents submitted to the Embassy
3. GSFS Application Form (Download from GSFS website)
4. Letter of Recommendation (GSFS-specific format)
5. Transcript of Bachelor's Degree

Important: Submitting documents does not guarantee admission. The GSFS Committee will evaluate all applications before issuing any Certificate of Admission.

Submission Method: Upload or Mail

1. Preferred: Upload via GSFS online application link
2. Alternate: Email to ilo@edu.k.u-tokyo.ac.jp or send via EMS to:

International Liaison Office

Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo

Rm 120, Environmental Building, 5-1-5 Kashiwa-no-ha, Kashiwa,

Chiba 277-0882 Japan

Tel: +81-(0)4-7136-4558

Application Deadline

All documents must be submitted by:

17:00, Monday, September 1, 2025 (Tokyo Time)

Late applications will not be accepted. Submitted materials will not be returned under any circumstance.

When Will You Receive Your Certificate of Admission?

1. Applications received by August 21, 2025: Results by September 10, 2025
2. Applications received on or after August 22: Results by September 24, 2025

Successful applicants will receive an official Certificate of Admission, required for your final MEXT scholarship submission at the Embassy.

Why Choose the University of Tokyo for MEXT Research?

1. Top-ranking institution globally
2. Diverse and highly qualified faculty
3. Cutting-edge research infrastructure
4. Multinational research environment

For aspiring researchers, the MEXT 2026 Embassy Recommendation Scholarship offers a golden opportunity to study in Japan’s world-class research ecosystem. Start preparing today to turn your academic dreams into reality.

Official Call: https://www.k.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/assets/files/2_4%20Guideline_Research%20Student_E.pdf