Are you a Nigerian student dreaming of studying in Japan without financial stress? The MEXT Scholarships 2026–2027 offer a fully funded opportunity for Nigerians to pursue undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and specialized training programs in Japan. This prestigious scholarship, funded by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT), covers tuition fees, living expenses, airfare, and other academic costs, allowing you to focus on your studies in one of the world’s most advanced educational systems.

In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about the MEXT Scholarship 2026–2027, including eligibility, benefits, application process, deadlines, and FAQs.

Why Study in Japan with the MEXT Scholarship?

Japan is home to world-class universities, cutting-edge technology, and a rich cultural heritage. The MEXT Scholarship not only provides financial support but also offers international students a platform to build global networks and gain high-quality education. Nigerian students are increasingly choosing Japan due to its innovative research environment, affordable cost of living, and diverse academic opportunities.

Key Highlights of MEXT Scholarships 2026–2027

Feature	Details
Scholarship Name	MEXT Scholarship 2026–2027
Funded By	Government of Japan (MEXT)
Target Group	Nigerian and international students
Degree Levels	Undergraduate, Master’s, Ph.D., and training
Financial Coverage	Fully Funded
Application Deadline	Varies by Embassy (typically April–June 2025)
Study Destination	Japan

Benefits of the MEXT Scholarship

The MEXT Scholarship is fully funded, which means all major expenses are taken care of. Below is a breakdown of the benefits:

Full Tuition Fee Waiver – 100% of tuition costs are covered.
Monthly Allowance – Students receive a monthly stipend of approximately ¥117,000 – ¥145,000 (varies by study level).
Round-Trip Airfare – The Japanese government covers flight tickets from Nigeria to Japan and back.
Accommodation Assistance – Support is available for housing during the initial settlement period.
Research and Language Training – Includes Japanese language courses and research support.

Eligibility Criteria for Nigerians

To qualify for the MEXT Scholarship 2026–2027, Nigerian students must meet the following requirements:

Nationality: Must be a Nigerian citizen.
Age Limit: Typically between 17 – 25 years for undergraduate programs and under 35 years for master’s and Ph.D. programs.
Educational Qualifications:
- For undergraduates, applicants must have completed secondary education with excellent grades.
- For graduate studies, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
Health Condition: Applicants must be physically and mentally fit.
Language Proficiency: Knowledge of English or Japanese is required (IELTS/TOEFL may be requested, but not always mandatory).

How to Apply for the MEXT Scholarship 2026–2027

Applying for the MEXT Scholarship requires careful planning. Nigerian applicants can apply through the Embassy of Japan in Nigeria or through university recommendations.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Check the Official Announcement
Visit the official website of the Japanese Embassy in Nigeria or the MEXT website.
Download and Fill the Application Form
Complete the forms accurately with all necessary personal and academic details.
Prepare Supporting Documents
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Passport-sized photographs
- Medical certificate
- Recommendation letters
- Research proposal (for graduate applicants)
Submit Your Application
Applications are typically submitted to the Japanese Embassy in Abuja or Lagos.
Attend the Written Examination and Interview
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a written test (English and Mathematics/Japanese) and an interview.
Wait for Final Selection
Successful candidates will be notified and assisted with visa and travel arrangements.

Required Documents for MEXT Scholarship (Nigerians)

Document	Details
Application Form	Completed and signed form
Academic Transcripts	Certified copies from secondary or higher education
Medical Certificate	Issued by a recognized hospital
Passport Photographs	Recent photos with white background
Recommendation Letters	At least one from a teacher or professor
Research Proposal (Graduate)	A detailed study plan
Valid Passport	Data page copy

Application Timeline for MEXT 2026–2027

Stage	Timeline
Application Opens	April 2025 (varies)
Deadline	June 2025 (varies)
Written Exam & Interview	July – August 2025
Final Selection	Early 2026
Study Commencement	April or September 2026

Top Japanese Universities for MEXT Scholars

Some of the leading universities Nigerian students can study at through MEXT include:

University of Tokyo
Kyoto University
Osaka University
Hokkaido University
Tokyo Institute of Technology
Tohoku University

FAQs – MEXT Scholarships 2026–2027 for Nigerians

1. Is IELTS required for MEXT Scholarships?
No, IELTS is not mandatory for all applicants. Proof of English proficiency may be required, but Nigerian students with English as their medium of instruction are often exempt.

2. How can I find the application form for Nigerians?
Visit the official Japanese Embassy in Nigeria website or contact them directly for updates.

3. What is the success rate for Nigerian applicants?
The success rate varies, but preparation for the written test and interview significantly increases your chances.

4. Can I apply for multiple universities under MEXT?
Yes, MEXT allows you to choose multiple universities, but final placement depends on availability.

5. What expenses does the MEXT Scholarship cover?
It covers tuition, monthly stipend, airfare, and accommodation support.

Summary

The MEXT Scholarships 2026–2027 for Nigerians present an incredible opportunity to study in Japan without financial worries. If you meet the eligibility criteria, start preparing your documents early and follow the embassy announcements. A fully funded education in Japan can open doors to international careers, research collaborations, and advanced academic opportunities.

MEXT Scholarships 2026–2027 for Nigerians – Fully Funded Study in Japan