The MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology) Scholarship is a prestigious Japanese government-funded program that offers international students the opportunity to pursue undergraduate studies in Japan. For the 2026 intake, MEXT has introduced a Direct Placement option for studying in Germany, allowing selected students to complete their degrees at partner German universities while being fully funded by the Japanese government.
This 1000-word guide provides detailed information on the MEXT Undergraduate Scholarship 2026 (Direct Placement – Germany), including eligibility, benefits, application process, and tips for a successful application.
1. Overview of MEXT Undergraduate Scholarship 2026 (Direct Placement – Germany)
The MEXT Scholarship traditionally supports students studying in Japan, but under special agreements, selected candidates can enroll in partner universities in Germany while receiving the same financial benefits. This initiative strengthens academic ties between Japan and Germany, offering students a unique international education experience.
Key Features:
✅ Full tuition coverage
✅ Monthly stipend (approx. €1,000 – €1,200)
✅ Round-trip airfare
✅ No Japanese language requirement (programs in English/German)
✅ Degree from a top German university
Apply Now : MEXT Government Scholarship 2026 | Stuy in Japanese
2. Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the MEXT Undergraduate Scholarship 2026 (Direct Placement – Germany), applicants must meet the following requirements:
A. Nationality
- Must be from a country with diplomatic relations with Japan.
- Applicants already residing in Japan or Germany may have additional restrictions.
B. Age Limit
- Born between April 2, 2001, and April 1, 2009 (for 2026 intake).
C. Academic Background
- Completed 12 years of formal education (or equivalent) by March 2026.
- Strong academic record, especially in science, engineering, or related fields (since most German partner universities focus on STEM).
D. Language Proficiency
- For English-taught programs: IELTS 6.0+/TOEFL 80+ (if applicable).
- For German-taught programs: TestDaF or DSH (varies by university).
- No Japanese language requirement (unlike traditional MEXT Japan placements).
E. Health Requirements
- Must be in good physical and mental health.
3. Fields of Study & Partner Universities in Germany
The MEXT Direct Placement – Germany program focuses on STEM fields, including:
- Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Automotive, etc.)
- Computer Science & IT
- Natural Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
- Mathematics & Data Science
Possible Partner Universities:
While MEXT has not officially disclosed the full list, likely partner institutions include:
- Technical University of Munich (TUM)
- RWTH Aachen University
- University of Stuttgart
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)
- TU Berlin
(Note: Exact universities will be confirmed in the official guidelines.)
4. Scholarship Benefits
Selected students will receive:
✔ Full tuition waiver at the German university.
✔ Monthly stipend of approximately €1,000 – €1,200 (subject to change).
✔ Round-trip economy class airfare from home country to Germany.
✔ Assistance with visa processing.
✔ No bond or repayment requirement.
5. Application Process (Step-by-Step)
The application process for the MEXT Undergraduate Scholarship 2026 (Direct Placement – Germany) involves:
Step 1: Check Eligibility & Gather Documents
- Academic transcripts (last 3 years).
- Proof of language proficiency (English/German).
- Passport copy.
- Recommendation letters (from school/university).
- Statement of Purpose (SOP).
Step 2: Submit Application to Japanese Embassy/Consulate
- Applications typically open April-May 2025 for the 2026 intake.
- Submit documents to the Japanese Embassy in your home country.
Step 3: Written Exam & Interview
- Shortlisted candidates take a subject-based written exam (Math, Physics, Chemistry, etc.).
- Successful applicants proceed to an interview (conducted by the Japanese Embassy).
Step 4: University Placement in Germany
- MEXT and German partner universities finalize placements.
- Students receive an acceptance letter from the German university.
Step 5: Visa Processing & Pre-Departure
- Apply for a German student visa with MEXT’s support.
- Attend a pre-departure orientation (if required).
6. Tips for a Strong Application
To maximize your chances of selection:
🔹 Focus on STEM subjects – MEXT Germany placements prioritize engineering & sciences.
🔹 Maintain high grades – Especially in Math and Science.
🔹 Prepare for the written exam – Study past MEXT exam papers.
🔹 Write a compelling SOP – Explain why you want to study in Germany under MEXT.
🔹 Secure strong recommendation letters – Preferably from STEM teachers.
7. Deadline & Important Dates (Expected)
- Application opens: April 2025
- Deadline: June-July 2025
- Exams & Interviews: August-September 2025
- Results announced: January-February 2026
- Program starts: October 2026
(Exact dates will be updated in the official MEXT announcement.)
8. Conclusion
The MEXT Undergraduate Scholarship 2026 (Direct Placement – Germany) is a golden opportunity for students seeking a fully funded STEM degree in Germany under Japan’s prestigious scholarship program. With no Japanese language requirement and access to top German universities, this is a rare chance to study in Europe with full financial support.
Start preparing early, ensure eligibility, and submit a strong application to secure your spot!
Need Help Applying?
For further details, check the official MEXT website or contact the Japanese Embassy in your country.
