The Young Leaders Program (YLP) MEXT Scholarship at the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS), Japan, is a prestigious fully funded scholarship for international students aiming to pursue a Master’s degree. This opportunity targets highly promising young government officials and public administrators worldwide, offering full financial support to study in Japan and develop leadership skills for public policy and administration.
Basic Information and Application Deadline
The YLP MEXT Scholarship 2026 is fully funded by the Japanese government through MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology). The application deadline for submissions is November 21, 2025, JST. Eligible candidates from eligible countries can apply for this one-year master’s program commencing in September 2026.
- Aims to develop future national leaders in Asia and other regions.
- Builds strong international networks among government leaders.
- Focuses on Government and Local Governance.
- Degrees offered: Master of Public Administration / Master of Public Policy.
- Language: English.
- Duration: 1 year (October–September).
- Scholarship: Fully funded by the Japanese Government (MEXT).
- The application deadline for submissions is November 21, 2025, JST.
University and Program Details
The scholarship is offered at GRIPS, located in Minato, Tokyo, a reputed graduate institute specializing in policy studies and public administration. The program is delivered entirely in English and designed to groom young leaders in public administration and governance.
Program Structure
- Two tracks:
- School of Government (since 2001)
- School of Local Governance (since 2009)
- Covers topics in public administration, policy-making, and governance.
- Includes field trips, workshops, and independent research/policy paper.
- Provides opportunities for discussions with Japanese leaders and policy research with government institutions.
Available Study Areas
Candidates can pursue Master’s degrees in:
- Master of Public Policy
- Master of Public Administration
The YLP mainly targets young government officials with public administration and policy experience to build international networks among future leaders.
YLP MEXT Scholarship at GRIPS Benefits
The YLP MEXT Scholarship covers:
- Full tuition and admission fees
- Monthly stipend of approximately 242,000 JPY (~$1,650 USD)
- Economy class round-trip airfare between the student’s home country and Japan
- Field trip costs required by the program
- Application fees are also covered
- All Admission Fee
Benefits Not Included
- Family or dependent support expenses
- Domestic travel costs within home countries or Japan
- Insurance expenses or additional personal costs.
Eligibility Criteria for YLP MEXT Scholarship at GRIPS
- Nationality: Must be a non-Japanese citizen from eligible countries participating in YLP
- Age Limit: Must be under 40 years old as of September 1, 2026
- Education: Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
- Work Experience: Minimum 3 years of full-time professional experience in public administration or related fields
- Language: Proficiency in English (TOEFL iBT score of 79 or equivalent)
- Health: Must be physically and mentally fit to study in Japan
- Must be available to commence studies in September 2026 and reside in Japan during the program.
Eligible countries for School of Government:
- Australia, Bangladesh, Brunei, Bulgaria, Cambodia, China, Czech Republic, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Republic of Korea, Kyrgyz Republic, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Pakistan, Philippines, Poland, Romania, Singapore, Slovakia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Viet Nam.
Eligible countries for School of Local Governance:
- Cambodia, China, Czech Republic, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Republic of Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Pakistan, Philippines, Poland, Romania, Thailand, Turkey, Uzbekistan, and Viet Nam
Required Documents
Applicants must submit hard copies of:
- Completed MEXT application form
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts
- Valid passport copy
- Two recommendation letters (from workplace superiors or academic supervisors)
- Letter of recommendation from employing organization
- English proficiency certificate
- Essays including statement of purpose and future plans
- Certificate of health issued by a medical institution designated by the Japanese Embassy
- Other supporting documents as specified in the official guidelines.
YLP MEXT Scholarship at GRIPS Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Check eligibility and carefully read the official YLP application guidelines from GRIPS and your local Japanese embassy
- Prepare all required documents, ensuring translations are attached if original documents are not in English
- Obtain recommendation letters and fill out the MEXT application form
- Submit the application package to your country’s nominated organization or Japanese embassy before the deadline (November 21, 2025)
- Pass initial screenings and interviews held by participating universities and MEXT committee
- Await final selection results and complete admission formalities at GRIPS
- Obtain a student visa and prepare for departure to Japan for program commencement in September 2026.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start early to gather all documents and secure recommendation letters
- Write clear, compelling essays explaining your leadership goals and how YLP will help impact your home country
- Highlight your professional experience and commitment to public service
- Follow all guidelines strictly and check for any updates from the Japanese embassy
- Prepare thoroughly for interviews to demonstrate motivation and capabilities.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Japan
Living costs vary by city and lifestyle, with Tokyo being among the most expensive. On average, international graduate students spend approximately:
- Rent (shared dormitory or apartment): $400–$700 USD/month
- Food and groceries: $180–$320 USD/month
- Transportation: $50–$90 USD/month
- Utilities and communication: $50–$100 USD/month
- Miscellaneous and entertainment: $30–$120 USD/month
Total estimated monthly expenses: $650–$1,000 USD. Students can reduce costs by sharing accommodation and using public transport passes.
Why Choose the YLP MEXT Scholarship?
- Fully funded scholarship including tuition, living stipend, and airfare
- Study at a top-tier graduate institute specializing in policy studies with global networks
- Build leadership skills tailored for public administration and governance
- Develop international networks with young government officials from Asia and beyond
- Experience living and learning in Japan, an economic and technological hub with rich culture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can applicants apply from any country?
A: Only nationals from countries participating in the YLP program are eligible. Detailed country lists can be found on the official GRIPS YLP webpage.
Q: Is there a language test requirement?
A: Yes, proficiency in English is essential (TOEFL or equivalent). Japanese language knowledge is not mandatory.
Q: How long is the scholarship duration?
A: The program duration is approximately one year (September 2026 to August 2027).
Q: Are family members covered under the scholarship?
A: No, this scholarship covers only the recipient’s expenses.
Q: What happens after completing the program?
A: Graduates are expected to take leadership roles in their home countries and contribute to public policy development.
Official Link:
This scholarship is an excellent opportunity for young public administrators aiming for impactful careers on the global stage while benefiting from a fully funded world-class education in Japan.