The University of Osaka (formerly Osaka University) is one of Japan’s leading national research universities, recognised globally for excellence in science, engineering, medicine, humanities, and social sciences. The university offers a wide range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students pursuing Master’s and PhD degrees. These scholarships help cover tuition, living, research, and travel expenses, allowing students to focus on academic and professional development.
Here are the major postgraduate scholarship opportunities available for international students at the University of Osaka:
- MEXT (Japanese Government) Scholarship
- JASSO (Japan Student Services Organisation) Scholarship
- Private Foundation Scholarships
- Tuition Fee Exemption Program for Privately Funded International Students
- Tuition Fee Exemption for International Honours Students
- JST SPRING Fellowship (Eligible Doctoral Students)
- JSPS Research Fellowship for Young Scientists (Doctoral Students)
1. MEXT (Japanese Government) Scholarship
Benefits
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Monthly stipend
- Round-trip airfare
- Research allowance
- Medical and student support services
How to Apply
Students may apply through:
- Japanese Embassy/Consulate (Embassy Recommendation)
- University of Osaka (University Recommendation)
Eligibility
- Bachelor’s degree for admission to a Master’s program.
- Master’s degree for PhD admission.
- Excellent academic record.
- Strong research proposal.
- English or Japanese language proficiency.
- Meet MEXT nationality and age requirements.
Required Documents
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Research proposal
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Recommendation letters
- Passport copy
- Language proficiency certificate
- Medical certificate (if required)
Maintaining the Scholarship
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress.
- Remain enrolled as a full-time student.
- Follow MEXT scholarship regulations.
Deadline
- Embassy Recommendation: Usually April–May.
- University Recommendation: Generally November–December, depending on the graduate school.
2. JASSO Scholarship
Benefits
- Monthly living stipend (approximately JPY 48,000)
- Financial support for living expenses
Eligibility
- Privately funded international postgraduate student.
- Full-time enrolment.
- Good academic performance.
- Financial need may also be considered.
Required Documents
- Scholarship application
- Academic transcripts
- Certificate of enrolment
- Passport copy
Deadline
Applications are announced annually after enrolment through the university.
3. Private Foundation Scholarships
The University of Osaka introduces international students to numerous scholarships offered by Japanese foundations, corporations, and local governments.
Benefits
- Monthly stipend
- Tuition assistance
- Research grants
- Living expense support
Eligibility
- Requirements vary by scholarship provider.
- Students are generally required to be enrolled at the university.
- Academic excellence and financial need are commonly considered.
Deadline
Application periods vary throughout the academic year depending on the scholarship provider.
4. Tuition Fee Exemption Program for Privately Funded International Students
Benefits
- Full or partial tuition fee exemption
- Financial assistance for eligible self-funded international students
Eligibility
- Demonstrated financial need.
- Satisfactory academic performance.
- Full-time enrolment in a Master’s or PhD programme.
Deadline
Applications are generally accepted twice each year, before the Spring and Autumn semesters.
5. Tuition Fee Exemption for International Honours Students
Benefits
- 100% tuition fee exemption (currently equivalent to the full annual tuition fee).
Eligibility
- Privately funded international student.
- Outstanding performance in the graduate school entrance examination.
- Must not already receive tuition support from MEXT, a foreign government, or another scholarship covering tuition fees.
Deadline
Available only for eligible graduate school entrance examinations. Applicants should check with their respective graduate school for application schedules.
6. JST SPRING Fellowship (Doctoral Students)
Benefits
- Monthly research stipend.
- Research funding.
- Career development and professional training.
Eligibility
- Enrolled in an eligible doctoral programme.
- Excellent research performance.
- Selection through participating graduate schools.
Deadline
Varies by graduate school each academic year.
7. JSPS Research Fellowship for Young Scientists
Benefits
- Monthly fellowship.
- Research grant.
- Opportunities for advanced research collaboration.
Eligibility
- Outstanding doctoral students.
- Strong research achievements.
- Selection through the JSPS application process.
Deadline
Applications are announced annually by JSPS.
How to Apply for Postgraduate Scholarships
- Choose your preferred Master’s or PhD programme.
- Review the graduate school’s admission requirements.
- Contact a prospective supervisor if required.
- Prepare all required documents, including a strong research proposal.
- Submit your admission application.
- Apply separately for scholarships before the relevant deadlines.
Why Study at the University of Osaka?
- One of Japan’s highest-ranked research universities.
- World-class laboratories and research facilities.
- Strong global research collaborations.
- Diverse international student community.
- Excellent career opportunities in academia and industry.
- Multiple scholarships and tuition support programmes for international students.
Conclusion
The University of Osaka Postgraduate Scholarships 2027 offer excellent financial support for international Master’s and PhD students. Through the MEXT Scholarship, JASSO Scholarship, Private Foundation Scholarships, Tuition Fee Exemption Program, International Honours Tuition Exemption, JST SPRING Fellowship, and JSPS Research Fellowship, students can significantly reduce the cost of studying in Japan. Since scholarship eligibility and deadlines vary by programme and graduate school, applicants should prepare their documents early and regularly check the official University of Osaka website for the latest updates.
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