The application window is currently open for the 2026 cohort of the Japanese Government (MEXT) Teacher Training Scholarships. This prestigious program, administered by Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT), invites international educators interested in advancing their research in school education to apply as Teacher Training Students at selected Japanese universities.
About the Scholarship
This scholarship aims to nurture talented individuals who will serve as cultural and educational ambassadors, strengthening the bonds of friendship between their home countries and Japan. Recipients are expected to contribute positively not only to their own nations but also to global educational development through the knowledge and experience gained in Japan.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet several specific requirements to qualify for this opportunity:
- Nationality: Candidates must hold citizenship of a country that maintains diplomatic relations with Japan. Those who possess Japanese nationality at the time of application are ineligible. In cases of dual nationality where one is Japanese, applicants residing outside Japan may apply if they designate their non-Japanese nationality and formally relinquish their Japanese citizenship before arriving in Japan for study (acquisition of student status).
- Age: Generally, applicants should have been born on or after April 2, 1991. Exceptions are rarely made and only under extraordinary circumstances such as compulsory military service or disruptions caused by war that prevented the candidate from applying earlier. Personal factors like financial hardship or health do not qualify for age exceptions.
- Educational and Professional Background: Applicants must have graduated from a university or teacher training school and accumulated a minimum of five years of teaching experience at primary or secondary schools, or teacher training schools (excluding universities) in their home country by October 1, 2026.
- Japanese Language and Cultural Interest: While prior knowledge of Japanese is not mandatory, applicants must demonstrate a strong willingness to learn the language and a keen interest in Japanese culture. They should be prepared to immerse themselves in understanding Japan academically and socially during their stay.
- Health Requirements: A health certificate completed by a licensed physician is required, confirming that the applicant has no physical or psychological conditions that would interfere with their ability to study and live in Japan.
Duration of the Scholarship
The scholarship covers the full duration required to complete the designated training course at the host university. Typically, this period spans from October 2026 (or the course start month) through March 2028. For courses beginning on September 1, 2026, the scholarship period will correspondingly commence in September 2026.
Scholarship Benefits
- Monthly Stipend: Upon arrival in Japan, recipients will receive a monthly allowance of 143,000 yen. Those placed in specially designated regions may receive an additional regional allowance of 2,000 or 3,000 yen per month. Note that these amounts are subject to change based on the Japanese Government’s budget allocations each fiscal year.
- Education Fees: All costs related to entrance examinations, enrollment, and tuition at the host university are fully covered by MEXT.
- Travel Expenses:
- Travel to Japan: MEXT will provide economy-class airfare from the international airport nearest the applicant’s residence (usually the country of nationality) to an international airport in Japan, following a route designated by the Ministry.
- Return Journey: Upon successful completion of the training program, MEXT will arrange and fund a return flight ticket back to the applicant’s home country.
Country-Specific Application Links and Deadlines
- JAPANESE GOVERNMENT SCHOLARSHIP 2026: TEACHER TRAINING STUDENTS: Liberia
- Japanese Government Scholarships (MEXT) 2026: Teacher Training: Nigeria
- Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship 2026 “Teacher Training Students: Seychelles
- JAPANESE GOVERNMENT SCHOLARSHIP 2025: TEACHER TRAINING STUDENTS: Sierra Leone
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the country. Interested candidates should consult the respective embassy websites for detailed timelines.
Essential Application Documents
- Application Guidelines for Teacher Training Students
- Application Guidelines for Teacher Training Students (in Japanese)
- Course Guide of Teacher Training Program（MEXT Site）
- Application Form for FY2026
- Placement Preference Application Form for FY2026
- Certificate of Health (must be completed by a qualified medical doctor)
- Recommendation Letter Sample (this is a template; various styles of recommendation letters are accepted)
Further Details and Application Process
Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to review all instructions carefully and ensure all required documents are prepared according to the official guidelines. For comprehensive information and updates, please refer to the official scholarship webpage:
Visit the Official Webpage of the 2026 Japanese Government (MEXT) Teacher Training Scholarships
