JPSS Scholarship 2026 – 300,000 Yen for International Students in Japan

The JAPAN STUDY SUPPORT (JPSS) Scholarship offers 300,000 yen to four successful international students who plan to enroll in a university or graduate school in Japan. This scholarship is provided by Benesse Corporation and administered through the JPSS platform, a website for international students jointly run by the Asian Students Cultural Association and Benesse Corporation. Applicants must register on JPSS, use the Scout function, and submit an essay and a 30‑second self‑introduction video.

The application period runs from 1 April to 31 May 2026. If you are looking for similar opportunities in Japan, explore fully funded scholarships in Japan for international students.

Scholarship Overview

• Scholarship Name: JPSS Scholarship (JAPAN STUDY SUPPORT)

• Award Amount: 300,000 yen

• Number of Scholarships: 4

• Eligible Applicants: Students planning to enroll in a university or graduate school in Japan between September–November 2025 or April–May 2026 (preparatory courses and short‑term study abroad are not eligible)

• Application Period: 1 April 2026 (9:00 AM JST) – 31 May 2026 (5:00 PM JST)

For students seeking other funded programs in East Asia, check latest scholarships in South Korea for all nationalities.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

• Have a registered MY PAGE with JAPAN STUDY SUPPORT (JPSS)

• Using the JPSS Scout function, plan to enroll in a university or graduate school in Japan during September–November 2025 or April–May 2026 (preparatory courses and short‑term study abroad are not eligible)

• Agree to cooperate with JPSS activities after receiving the scholarship (e.g., speaking at events, advising prospective international students, or being featured on social media)

• Be able to interview in either Japanese or English

• Have a Japanese bank account in the applicant’s own name (internet banks are not accepted)

• Not be a Japanese citizen

Required Application Documents

Applicants must submit the following through their JPSS My Page:

(a) Application form – basic information

(b) Essay – Explain why you chose that university (your motivation) and what you consider to be your strengths, providing specific episodes or reasons. The essay must be within 800 characters in Japanese or 350 words in English. Writing up to the maximum length is recommended.

(c) Self‑Introduction Video – No more than 30 seconds in length. The quality of the video is the applicant’s responsibility.

Application Period

• Fall Admission (September–November 2025 entrants): Application period same as below

• Spring Admission (April–May 2026 entrants): Application period same as below

Application Period: From Wednesday, 1 April 2026, 9:00 AM JST to Sunday, 31 May 2026, 5:00 PM JST

Selection Process

Step 1: First round screening – document screening (essay and application form)

Step 2: Second round screening – interview (conducted in Japanese or English)

Step 3: Notification of successful applicants – successful applicants will be notified directly. JPSS also plans to publicize the names of successful candidates.

Important Notes

• If any application documents or materials contain false information, the application will be rejected. Any scholarship money already paid out must be paid back.

• If a successful candidate does not complete, drops out, or is expelled from their higher education course, all scholarship money must be paid back.

• Scholarship recipients agree in advance to support JPSS activities after receiving the scholarship (details provided to selected recipients after the selection process).

How to Apply – Step by Step

Step 1: Register for a MY PAGE on the JAPAN STUDY SUPPORT (JPSS) website at jpss.jp.

Step 2: Use the JPSS Scout function to connect with universities. You must plan to enroll in a university or graduate school in Japan between September–November 2025 or April–May 2026. Preparatory courses and short‑term study abroad are not eligible.

Step 3: Prepare your application documents:

• Complete the application form (basic information)

• Write your essay (800 characters in Japanese or 350 words in English)

• Record a 30‑second self‑introduction video

Step 4: Log into your JPSS My Page and submit your application during the application period (1 April – 31 May 2026).

Step 5: If shortlisted, participate in an interview (second round screening).

Step 6: If selected, receive 300,000 yen after enrollment at your designated Japanese university.

For additional financial aid options across Asia, explore financial aids for students in Asia.

Why Apply for the JPSS Scholarship?

• Cash award of 300,000 yen (approx. USD 2,000) to support your studies

• Simple application – no complex research proposals or lengthy forms

• Global reach – open to international students from all countries (except Japanese citizens)

• Career networking – opportunity to advise prospective students and participate in JPSS events

Final Thoughts

The JPSS Scholarship 2026 is a great opportunity for international students planning to enroll in a Japanese university or graduate school between September 2025 and May 2026. With a straightforward application (essay + 30‑second video), you could receive 300,000 yen to support your studies. The application deadline is 31 May 2026. Register on JPSS, use the Scout function, and apply today.

For a complete list of open scholarships in Asia, visit list of all open scholarships in Asia.

Apply Now for JPSS Scholarship 2026