The APU MEXT UR (University Recommendation) Scholarship 2026 in Japan offers an outstanding fully funded opportunity for international graduate students aspiring to study at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU) in Beppu, Japan. Sponsored by Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), this scholarship aims to foster international academic exchange and support highly talented students in development-related fields. Here is a comprehensive, SEO-optimized guide about this scholarship covering all essential details prospective applicants need to know.

Basic Information about the APU MEXT UR Scholarship 2026

Application Deadline: November 12, 2025 (for September 2026 enrollment)
Study Start Date: September 2026 (April enrollment currently not available)
Scholarship Level: Graduate degree (Master’s and PhD programs)
Scholarship Type: Fully funded government scholarship under the University Recommendation (UR) category

University/Institution Details: Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU)

Located in Beppu City, Japan, APU is renowned for its diverse international student body and high-quality academic programs focused on global issues and Asia-Pacific development. It promotes a multicultural environment with approximately 50% international students, making it an ideal setting for cross-cultural exchange and innovation.

Study Areas / Available Programs

The APU MEXT UR scholarship supports a wide range of graduate disciplines including but not limited to:

Economics
Management and Business Administration
Health Sciences
Education
Agriculture and Environment
Natural Resource Management
Science and Technology
Development Studies
Data Science and Digital Transformation

These programs focus heavily on international development, sustainability, and practical research, aligning with MEXT’s goal of nurturing global leaders.

APU MEXT UR Scholarship Benefits

Full admission and tuition fees paid
Monthly living allowance: 144,000 JPY (approx. $1,000 USD) subject to change
Medical insurance coverage
Books and instructional materials stipend
Economy-class round-trip airfare: from home country to APU at the start and end of the program
Comprehensive support from APU and MEXT

Benefits Not Included

The scholarship does not cover personal expenses beyond the monthly stipend.
Accommodation costs may be separate, though APU offers reasonably priced student housing options.
Meals and other living costs (utilities, leisure activities) must be budgeted by students within the monthly allowance.

Eligibility Criteria for APU MEXT UR Scholarship

To qualify, applicants must:

Intend to study abroad in Japan from overseas.
Be a national of a MEXT designated country.
Be born on or after April 2, 1991.
Hold a GPA of at least 2.30 on a 3.00 scale in their most recent university studies.
Not be currently serving in any military duty.
Have “Student” visa status upon arrival in Japan.
Not hold other scholarships that are incompatible with MEXT awards.
For previous MEXT recipients, a gap of at least three years of education or work post-scholarship is required.
Have proof of English proficiency from a test taken on or after mid-March 2024.
First apply to APU, which will recommend eligible candidates to MEXT.
Pay a non-refundable registration fee (approximately USD 39).

Required Documents for Application

Completed APU application form
Academic transcripts
Valid passport
Recent photograph
English proficiency test score (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent)
Research proposal or study plan (if applicable)
Any certificates of professional experience (if applicable)
Additional documents if previously a MEXT recipient

APU MEXT UR Scholarship Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Apply to APU: Submit your application through APU’s official portal by November 12, 2025.
University Screening: APU reviews your documents and academic profile to shortlist outstanding candidates.
University Recommendation: APU recommends qualified applicants to MEXT for the scholarship consideration.
Final Selection by MEXT: MEXT evaluates recommended candidates and announces final awardees by late June.
Admission and Visa Process: Successful scholarship recipients receive admission letters from APU and proceed with student visa arrangements.
Arrival in Japan: Enroll at APU and commence studies in September 2026.

Tips for a Successful Application

Start your application early to gather all documents and meet deadlines.
Ensure your GPA meets or exceeds the minimum requirement and highlight academic achievements.
Craft a clear, compelling study plan or research proposal aligned with APU’s academic strengths.
Prepare for the English proficiency test well in advance; only recent scores are accepted.
Follow all instructions meticulously and submit complete documentation to avoid disqualification.
Demonstrate a strong motivation to study in Japan and contribute to international development.

Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (in USD)

Living Allowance: Approx. $1,000 per month (144,000 JPY)
Accommodation: APU provides furnished student housing at reasonable rates; expect about $300-$400/month.
Food and Daily Necessities: Around $200-$300/month.
Transportation and Miscellaneous: Approx. $50-$100/month.
Total Monthly Budget: Around $600-$800 for living expenses, easily covered by the scholarship stipend.

Why Choose This Scholarship? 5 Reasons

Fully Funded Education: Covers tuition, admission fees, living stipend, insurance, and travel.
Prestigious Government Support: Backed by MEXT, enhancing your academic credibility.
Highly International Environment: Study with peers from around the world at a multicultural university.
Wide Array of Study Programs: Options in key development and technology fields critical for global careers.
Comprehensive Support: From application through arrival and throughout your studies, support is robust.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the APU MEXT UR Scholarship

(Q&A adapted from official APU source)

Q: Can I apply from inside Japan?
A: No, applicants must intend to study abroad in Japan from overseas.
Q: What is the minimum GPA required?
A: A GPA of at least 2.30 on a 3.00 scale is necessary.
Q: Is previous MEXT scholarship a disqualification?
A: Usually, yes, unless you’ve had three years of educational or work experience since the last scholarship ended.
Q: What if I receive another scholarship?
A: You cannot hold another scholarship concurrently without approval.
Q: When are the final results announced?
A: Typically by the end of June following APU’s recommendation.
Q: Are applications accepted for April enrollment?
A: Currently, the scholarship is only available for September enrollment.

For detailed FAQs, application guidelines, and the official application form, please visit APU’s scholarship page: APU MEXT UR Scholarship FAQs.

Official Link:

This scholarship provides a remarkable gateway to study in Japan with substantial financial support, world-class education, and a vibrant international community at APU. Aspirants for the 2026 academic year should carefully prepare their applications and leverage this opportunity for academic and professional growth in one of the world’s leading educational hubs.

APU MEXT UR Scholarship 2026 in Japan