A Complete Guide to the MEXT University Recommendation (UR) Scholarship at APU (2026 Intake)

For international students who dream of studying in Japan, the MEXT University Recommendation (UR) Scholarship offered through Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU) is one of the most prestigious opportunities. This scholarship, funded by the Japanese government, provides full financial support for outstanding applicants from around the world. APU, with its highly international campus environment, is among the few Japanese universities that can directly recommend candidates for this scholarship.

If you are considering applying for the 2026 intake, here is everything you need to know about the program:

Introduction

Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU), located in Beppu, Oita Prefecture, is a globally recognized institution that attracts students from more than 90 countries. To further support talented international students, APU collaborates with Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) to award the University Recommendation (UR) Scholarship.

This scholarship not only covers tuition but also provides a monthly stipend and airfare, making it a life-changing opportunity for high-achieving students seeking to pursue graduate (and in limited cases, undergraduate) education in Japan.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the MEXT UR Scholarship at APU, applicants must meet the following requirements:

a) Nationality: Must be a citizen of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan (non-Japanese nationality).

b) Age: Born on or after April 2, 1990 (for most current graduate cycles; check APU site for updates).

c) Academic Background:

  • For graduate programs: Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s) or Master’s degree (for PhD) from a recognized institution.
  • For undergraduate programs: Completion of 12 years of education or equivalent.

d) GPA Requirement: Strong academic record (generally GPA of 2.30/3.00 or higher in the most recent degree).

e) Language Proficiency:

  • English: TOEFL iBT 72+, IELTS 5.5+, PTE Academic 50+, or equivalent.
  • Japanese: Not required, but an advantage if available.

f) Health: Applicants must be physically and mentally fit to study abroad.

g) Arrival in Japan: Must be able to arrive by the designated arrival date before the semester begins (April or September).

🎁 Scholarship Benefits

The MEXT UR Scholarship at APU is one of the most generous awards in Japan. It includes:

  • Full tuition waiver (100% tuition fees paid by MEXT).
  • Monthly stipend of 144,000 JPY (approx. USD $1,000) for living expenses.
  • Economy-class round-trip airfare from home country to Japan at the start and end of the program.
  • Duration of support:

            Master’s: 2 years
            Doctoral: 3 years
            Undergraduate: 4 years (rare cases under UR system)

📝 Application Process

Here’s how the application process typically unfolds:

1. Submit Application to APU

  • Apply online via the APU Admissions Portal.
  • Indicate your interest in being considered for the MEXT UR Scholarship.
  • Pay the APU application fee.

2. Document Screening & Interview

  • APU reviews all documents for academic and scholarship eligibility.
  • Some applicants may be invited for an online interview.

3. Nomination by APU

  • Strong candidates are recommended by APU to MEXT.
  • If not selected for MEXT, applicants may still be considered for the APU Tuition Reduction Scholarship.

4. Final Selection by MEXT

  • MEXT makes the final decision on scholarship recipients.
  • Successful applicants receive an official acceptance notification.

5. Enrollment & Arrival in Japan

  • Scholarship recipients apply for a student visa and prepare for travel to Japan (airfare covered).
  • Begin studies at APU in April or September.

📅 APU MEXT UR Scholarship 2026 Deadline

Exact deadlines vary each year, but for the 2026 intake, applicants should expect:

  • September 2026 Enrollment: Applications open around October–November 2025 and close by January 2026.
  • April 2026 Enrollment: Applications open around June 2025 and close by July 2025.

👉 It is strongly advised to check the APU Admissions website regularly, as dates may shift slightly depending on APU’s schedule.

📑 Documents Required

Applicants must prepare the following documents:

  • Application form (via APU online system)
  • Academic transcripts (from high school or university, depending on program)
  • Graduation certificate (or expected graduation statement)
  • Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or equivalent)
  • Research proposal (for graduate applicants)
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Letter of recommendation from an academic supervisor or teacher
  • Passport copy (or national ID if passport not yet available)
  • Health certificate (may be required later in the process)

💵 Application Fee

  • 5,000 JPY (approx. USD $35) if applying from outside Japan
  • 35,000 JPY (approx. USD $245) if applying from within Japan
This fee covers the admission application. There is no separate fee for the MEXT UR Scholarship.

Courses & Programs Covered by MEXT UR Scholarship at APU

1. Graduate School of Asia Pacific Studies (GSA)

This school focuses on international issues, development, policy, and society.

Master’s Programs

Master of Science in Asia Pacific Studies (APS)

Specializations:

  • International Relations
  • Society & Culture

Master of Science in International Cooperation Policy (ICP)

Specializations:

  • International Public Administration
  • Public Health Management
  • Sustainability Science
  • Tourism & Hospitality
  • Development Economics

Doctoral Program

Doctor of Philosophy in Asia Pacific Studies

  • Research-based program focusing on international society, culture, and sustainable development.

2. Graduate School of Management (GSM)

This is APU’s AACSB-accredited business school, offering an MBA with an international focus.

Master’s Program

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Specializations:

  • Accounting and Finance
  • Marketing and Management
  • Innovation and Operations Management
  • Entrepreneurship, Leadership, and Global Management

3. Undergraduate Programs (Rare Cases)

Although the MEXT UR pathway at APU is primarily for graduate students, exceptional undergraduate applicants may also be nominated. These students can apply to:

College of Asia Pacific Studies (APS)

  • Environment & Development
  • Hospitality & Tourism
  • International Relations and Peace Studies
  • Culture, Society, and Media

College of International Management (APM)

  • Marketing
  • Accounting & Finance
  • Strategic Management & Organization
  • Innovation & Economics

✅ Important Notes

  • The majority of MEXT UR awards at APU are for graduate students (Master’s and Doctoral), since the scholarship emphasizes advanced research and professional training.
  • All programs are offered in English, though students are encouraged to study Japanese alongside their coursework.
  • Applicants must demonstrate a strong alignment between their academic background, career goals, and chosen program to maximize their scholarship chances.
  • Applicants not selected for MEXT UR are automatically considered for APU’s Tuition Reduction Scholarship (30–100% tuition waiver).

✨ Final Thoughts

The MEXT UR Scholarship at APU is an outstanding opportunity for ambitious international students who want to pursue higher education in Japan with full financial support. Beyond funding, it offers the chance to study in a uniquely international environment where about half of the students are from overseas.

If you aspire to study in Japan in 2026, now is the time to begin preparing your documents, researching programs, and planning ahead for application deadlines.

For official updates and the most accurate deadlines, visit:


Deadline:

The deadline to apply for the Asian Pacific University MEXT university recommendation scholarship is 12 November 2025 for September 2026 enrollment.