The METI AI and Tech Talent Internship 2025 is a fully funded program sponsored by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). It offers international students and graduates an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in Japanese companies specializing in AI, IT, and tech. The internship runs from October 31 to December 15, 2025.
Interns will be placed in various Japanese companies across the country in the METI AI and Tech Talent Internship. These host companies are approved by METI and are selected to provide meaningful experiences in the AI and tech sectors. Applicants can choose between AI and IT tracks, with application deadlines on June 19 and June 26, 2025, respectively.
IT Engineer Application deadline: June 26,2025(JST)
AI Engineer Application deadline: June 19,2025(JST)
Internship Summary
- Funded By: Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI).
- Host Country: Japan
- Location: Japanese Companies
- Duration: 1.5 Months
- Number of Recruits: 1 to 5 recruits per company.
- Internship Dates: October 31 to December 15, 2025
Study Areas
Participants will engage in diverse fields, including:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Information Technology
- Web Design and Development
- Market Research and Marketing
- Service Development for Overseas Markets
- Digital Transformation
Internship Placement
- Internships are at private companies located and headquartered in Japan.
- Host companies are selected through a matching process overseen by the administration office and screening committee.
METI AI and Tech Talent Internship Benefits
The METI internship provides comprehensive support to ensure a productive experience:
- Daily allowance: 3,000 yen per day
- Travel: Round-trip airfare covered
- Accommodation: Fully provided
- Training: Cross-cultural communication lectures and training
- Insurance: Internship insurance included
Benefits Not Included
While the program covers major expenses, interns are responsible for:
- Personal expenses beyond the daily allowance
- Any additional travel or leisure activities
- Meals not provided by the host company
Main Responsibilities of Interns
- Collaborate with company representatives to set internship goals and roles.
- Attend training sessions and guidance meetings.
- Communicate regularly with the administration office and host company for safety and coordination.
- Submit required documents and reports before, during, and after the internship.
- Act professionally, understanding the internship is funded by the Japanese government.
Eligibility Criteria for METI AI and Tech Talent Internship
To be considered for the internship, applicants must:
- Must support the program’s objectives and contribute to the global engagement of Japanese companies.
- Must be a citizen of a country on the OECD/DAC list (excluding China).
- DAC list of ODA Recipients
- Must reside outside Japan.
- Must be a student or recent graduate (within the past 3 years) of a higher education institution.
- Must communicate in English.
- Must not have Japanese language skills equivalent to JLPT N5 or higher.
- Must commit fully to internship activities as scheduled.
- Must meet any extra requirements specified by the host company.
Required Documents
Applicants need to prepare the following documents:
- Valid passport
- Educational transcripts
- Certificate of enrollment or graduation
- Letters of recommendation
- Language proficiency certificates (if available)
- Updated CV
Internship Schedule & Application Process
IT Engineers
- May 1–June 26, 2025: Application period
- June 28–29: Coding contest
- July–August: Interviews with companies
- End of August: Company selection
- Early September: Pre-departure training
- October 31–December 15: Internship in Japan (entry: Oct 29, departure: Dec 17)
AI Engineers
- May 1–June 19, 2025: Application period
- June 21–22: AI contest & preliminary screening
- July–August: Interviews with companies
- End of August: Company selection
- Early September: Pre-departure training
- October 31–December 15: Internship in Japan (entry: Oct 29, departure: Dec 17)
METI AI and Tech Talent Internship Application Process
To apply for the METI AI and Tech Talent Internship:
- Visit the official application portal.
- Complete the provisional registration by entering your email address.
- Receive a confirmation email with a link to the full application form.
- Fill out the application form with personal information, educational background, language proficiency, and preferred study areas.
- Upload the required documents.
- Submit the application before the respective deadline.
Important Notes
- Submitting an application does not guarantee placement.
- No feedback is provided on selection results.
- Internships may be canceled due to unforeseen issues (e.g., visa, disasters).
- Once matched, cancellations are not allowed.
- Interns cannot leave Japan or pause activities during the internship.
- Information about internship results may be publicly shared by the program.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start the application process early to ensure all documents are prepared.
- Tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences in AI and tech.
- Demonstrate your interest in Japanese culture and the specific study areas.
- Ensure clarity and accuracy in your application form.
- Seek feedback on your application from mentors or peers.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Japan
Living costs in Japan vary based on location, lifestyle, and accommodation choices. Here’s an overview of typical monthly expenses:
- Accommodation:
- University Dormitories: ¥30,000–¥50,000
- Private Apartments: ¥50,000–¥100,000
- Shared Housing: ¥40,000–¥70,000
- Food:
- Cooking at Home: ¥25,000–¥35,000
- Eating Out Occasionally: ¥30,000–¥50,000
- Utilities (Electricity, Gas, Water): ¥8,000–¥15,000
- Internet and Mobile Phone: ¥5,000–¥10,000
- Transportation: ¥5,000–¥15,000
- Health Insurance: Approximately ¥2,000–¥3,000
- Miscellaneous (Books, Entertainment, Personal Items): ¥10,000–¥20,000
Total Estimated Monthly Expenses: ¥100,000–¥180,000
Why Choose the METI AI and Tech Talent Internship?
The METI AI and Tech Talent Internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in Japan’s leading tech industries. Here’s why you should consider it:
- Professional Development: Work directly with Japanese companies at the forefront of AI and technology.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience Japanese culture and business practices firsthand.
- Networking Opportunities: Build connections with professionals and peers in the tech industry.
- Financial Support: Benefit from a fully funded program covering airfare, accommodation, and daily allowances.
- Career Advancement: Enhance your resume with international work experience in a competitive field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I need to know Japanese to apply?
No, proficiency in Japanese is not required. However, knowledge of English or Japanese is beneficial.
Q2: Can I choose the company for my internship?
While you can express preferences, placements are determined based on matching your skills with company needs.
Q3: Is there an application fee?
No, applying for the METI internship is free of charge.
Q4: What if I have already participated in a METI internship before?
Applicants who have participated in METI internships from FY2016 to FY2024 are not eligible.
Q5: What support is provided during the internship?
The program offers round-trip airfare, daily living allowance, accommodation, cross-cultural training, internship insurance, and necessary equipment like PCs if required.
Official Link for More Details and Application
For comprehensive information and to apply, please visit the official METI Internship Program website:
https://internshipprogram.go.jp/english/intern/
