Japan is a great choice for Pakistani students looking to pursue higher studies. To make education more affordable, many universities in Japan offer scholarships that cover tuition and living expenses. These programs aim to support international students and promote cultural exchange. One of the most well-known options is a government-funded scholarship, but there are many others that cater to various fields and degree levels.
By exploring these opportunities, you can take a big step toward achieving your academic goals in a country known for its innovation and rich traditions.
Table of Contents
Overview of Japan Scholarships for Pakistani Students
| No. | Name | University/Institution | Coverage |
| 1 | MEXT Scholarship | Various Japanese-universities | Full funding, monthly stipend |
| 2 | ADB–JSP Scholarship | Designated universities | Full tuition, airfare, stipend |
| 3 | YNU Special Scholarship | Yokohama National University | Tuition waiver, stipend |
| 4 | JJWBGSP Scholarship | World Bank partner universities | Tuition, stipend, travel costs |
| 5 | Hitachi Scholarship | Participating universities | Tuition, research funding |
| 6 | JEES Scholarship | Multiple universities in Japan | Living stipend, tuition grants |
| 7 | Honjo Scholarship | Various universities in Japan | Monthly stipend, research funding |
| 8 | JICA Co-Creation Scholarship | Partner universities | Tuition, living stipend, research funding |
| 9 | Otsuka Toshimi Scholarship | Various Japanese-universities | Financial aid, research support |
| 10 | UTokyo Fellowship | University of Tokyo | Stipend, tuition waiver |
| 11 | Kyoto University Scholarship | Kyoto University | Tuition, stipend, travel costs |
| 12 | Keio University Scholarship | Keio University | Stipend, tuition waiver |
1. MEXT Scholarship (Japanese Government Scholarship)
The MEXT Scholarship, supported by the government of Japan, is one of the most sought-after opportunities for Pakistani students. It is open to undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral applicants.
Benefits:
- Covers full tuition fees.
- Provides a monthly stipend.
- Includes round-trip airfare.
Eligibility:
Applicants need strong academic records and must agree to study in Japanese or English. The scholarship also promotes cultural exchange and language learning.
| No. | Name | University/Institution | Coverage |
| 1 | MEXT Scholarship | Various Japanese-universities | Full funding, monthly stipend |
2. Asian Development Bank–Japan Scholarship Program (ADB–JSP)
The ADB–JSP funds master’s degrees for students from developing countries. It focuses on fields like economics, business, and environmental management.
Benefits:
- Tuition fees and living stipend.
- Airfare and research support.
Eligibility:
Applicants must be under 35, hold a bachelor’s degree, and have strong academic potential. Applications are submitted through participating universities.
| No. | Name | University/Institution | Coverage |
| 2 | ADB–JSP Scholarship | Designated universities | Full tuition, airfare, stipend |
3. Yokohama National University International Scholarship
This program supports international students, especially for PhD programs, offering research opportunities in engineering, economics, and more.
Benefits:
- Full tuition waiver.
- Monthly stipend.
- Research access and support.
Eligibility:
Candidates must exhibit excellent academic performance and research potential.
| No. | Name | University/Institution | Coverage |
| 3 | YNU Special Scholarship | Yokohama National University | Tuition waiver, stipend |
4. Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJWBGSP)
This program focuses on development-related master’s degrees and is tailored for students with professional experience.
Benefits:
- Covers full tuition.
- Provides living expenses, health insurance, and airfare.
Eligibility:
Applicants should have a minimum of three years of work experience in fields like education, economics, or agriculture.
| No. | Name | University/Institution | Coverage |
| 4 | JJWBGSP Scholarship | World Bank partner universities | Tuition, stipend, travel costs |
5. Hitachi Global Foundation Scholarship
Aimed at creating leaders in science and technology, this scholarship supports master’s and PhD students.
Benefits:
- Tuition fees and monthly stipend.
- Travel allowance and research funding.
Eligibility:
Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree and demonstrate academic excellence.
| No. | Name | University/Institution | Coverage |
| 5 | Hitachi Scholarship | Participating universities | Tuition, research funding |
6. Japan Educational Exchange and Services (JEES) Scholarship
JEES offers opportunities to international students enrolled in Japanese-universities, with a focus on cultural exchange.
Benefits:
- Monthly stipend for living costs.
- Tuition grants and financial support.
Eligibility:
Students must maintain high academic performance and participate in cultural exchange activities.
| No. | Name | University/Institution | Coverage |
| 6 | JEES Scholarship | Multiple Japanese universities | Living stipend, tuition grants |
7. Honjo International Scholarship Foundation
The Honjo International Scholarship Foundation supports postgraduate students in Japan, focusing on research excellence and cross-cultural collaboration. It provides scholarships to students pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees.
Benefits:
- Monthly stipend ranging from ¥150,000 to ¥200,000.
- Support for research expenses and living costs.
Eligibility:
Applicants should be under 35, enrolled in a graduate program, and have clear academic and professional goals. Applications are submitted directly to the foundation.
| No. | Name | University/Institution | Coverage |
| 7 | Honjo Scholarship | Various Japanese universities | Monthly stipend, research funding |
8. JICA Knowledge Co-Creation Program
This initiative by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) funds master’s programs in fields related to development, such as public policy, economics, and agriculture. It aims to empower professionals from developing nations.
Benefits:
- Full tuition fees.
- Living and travel allowances.
- Research funding.
Eligibility:
Candidates must have at least two years of work experience in development-related fields. Applications are submitted via the JICA website or partner institutions.
| No. | Name | University/Institution | Coverage |
| 8 | JICA Co-Creation Scholarship | Partner universities | Tuition, living stipend, research |
9. Otsuka Toshimi Scholarship Foundation
This scholarship is tailored for students interested in health sciences, medicine, or pharmacy. It aims to foster global leaders in healthcare innovation.
Benefits:
- Financial aid ranging from ¥1,000,000 to ¥2,000,000 per year.
- Support for academic and research pursuits.
Eligibility:
Open to non-Japanese students enrolled in Japanese universities. Applicants must demonstrate excellent academic performance and interest in healthcare-related studies.
| No. | Name | University/Institution | Coverage |
| 9 | Otsuka Toshimi Scholarship | Various Japanese universities | Financial aid, research support |
10. University of Tokyo (UTokyo) Fellowship
The University of Tokyo offers a fellowship program for graduate students excelling in research. It supports students across diverse disciplines.
Benefits:
- Monthly stipend of ¥200,000.
- Full tuition fee waiver for the duration of the program.
Eligibility:
Students must be admitted to UTokyo’s graduate school with an outstanding academic record. Applications are processed through the university after admission.
| No. | Name | University/Institution | Coverage |
| 10 | UTokyo Fellowship | University of Tokyo | Stipend, tuition waiver |
11. Kyoto University International Scholarship
Kyoto University offers scholarships to students across a wide range of disciplines, prioritizing advanced research and cultural exchange. These scholarships are available for graduate students aiming to excel in their fields.
Benefits:
- Partial or full tuition fee waiver.
- Monthly living stipend and travel allowance.
Eligibility:
Candidates must be international students with exceptional academic records and demonstrate financial need. Applications are submitted through Kyoto University’s scholarship office.
| No. | Name | University/Institution | Coverage |
| 11 | Kyoto University Scholarship | Kyoto University | Tuition, stipend, travel costs |
12. Keio University International Graduate Scholarship
Keio University provides funding for graduate students in various disciplines, including business, technology, and humanities. The program is aimed at fostering academic excellence and global leadership.
Benefits:
- Monthly stipend for living expenses.
- Tuition fee waiver and research support.
Eligibility:
Applicants must be enrolled in a graduate program at Keio University and maintain high academic standards. This scholarship is highly competitive, emphasizing leadership potential and innovative ideas.
| No. | Name | University/Institution | Coverage |
| 12 | Keio University Scholarship | Keio University | Stipend, tuition waiver |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I apply for financial support for higher education in 2025?
To apply for financial support for your studies, you can explore various options available for students planning to study in Japan in 2025. Many institutions offer fully funded opportunities covering tuition, living expenses, and travel. Check with the embassy or relevant universities for details on the application form and requirements.
What are the eligibility criteria for financial assistance for students from Pakistan?
Eligibility varies by program, but most require strong academic records and some level of proficiency in the Japanese language or English. For research programs, applicants may need a background in specific fields. Refer to the ministry of education or your university’s international office for further guidance.
Are there opportunities for research scholarships for international students in 2025?
Yes, many research scholarships are available for international students. These programs often cover full tuition and living costs, and some even offer travel allowances. Be sure to check the official websites of participating universities or government programs for detailed instructions on how to apply for these funded scholarships.
Can I apply for a scholarship without knowing Japanese?
While some programs require knowledge of the Japanese language, many scholarships for international-students allow you to study in English. If you’re applying for a MEXT scholarship, it’s important to verify the language requirements and choose programs that match your skills.
How do I apply for the MEXT research scholarship in 2024-25?
The MEXT scholarship 2025 is highly competitive, and the application process is detailed. You can apply through the embassy in your country or directly to Japanese-universities. The application form will require your academic records, a research proposal, and proof of language proficiency. Be sure to follow the specific instructions provided by the ministry of education.
What does the scholarship in Japan cover?
Most funded scholarships for international students offer comprehensive support, including full funding for tuition, a monthly stipend for living expenses, and sometimes airfare. The exact coverage will depend on the program, so it’s important to review the details of the specific opportunity you are interested in.
How do I find out about the available scholarships for students of Pakistan?
Many universities and government bodies offer scholarships for Pakistani students who wish to study in Japan. Information is usually available through your country’s embassy, the university’s international office, or official scholarship portals. Be sure to check for updated opportunities for the 2024-25 academic year.
What documents are required to apply for a scholarship in Japan?
You will typically need academic transcripts, a research proposal (if applying for research programs), proof of language proficiency (either in Japanese or English), and letters of recommendation. The application form for each scholarship may have additional requirements, so it’s important to review the specific details for each program.
Can I apply for multiple scholarships at the same time?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships for international-students as long as the eligibility criteria and deadlines do not overlap. However, ensure that you fulfill all the requirements for each program and keep track of the specific timelines for submission.
When should I start applying for scholarships to study in Japan?
It’s recommended to start your application process at least a year in advance. For scholarships in 2025, begin researching opportunities in 2024 to ensure you have ample time to gather necessary documents and meet the application deadlines.
