Kyushu University Scholarships for International Students 2026 – Complete Guide
Kyushu University, one of Japan’s top national universities, offers a wide range of scholarships to support international students in their academic journey. From government-funded programs to private foundations and on-campus selections, these scholarships help make studying in Japan affordable and accessible. This guide explains every major scholarship available at Kyushu University, including eligibility, monthly stipends, how to apply, and key deadlines for 2026.
Why Choose Kyushu University?
Located in Fukuoka, Kyushu University is known for its world-class research, diverse international community, and modern facilities. It provides full English-taught programs, extensive academic support, and strong industry connections. For international students, the university offers over 100 scholarship options—both before and after enrollment—making it one of the most financially accessible universities in Japan.
Types of Scholarships at Kyushu University
International students can apply for several types of financial support, depending on their enrollment status and funding source:
- On-Campus Selection Scholarships: You apply internally, and the university nominates you to private or public foundations.
- Direct Application Scholarships: You apply directly to the sponsoring organization or foundation.
- University Scholarships: Kyushu University itself offers the “Friendship Scholarship” and tuition exemptions.
- Government Scholarships: MEXT (Monbukagakusho) and JASSO programs provide generous stipends and fee waivers.
1. Kyushu University On-Campus Selection Scholarships
These scholarships are coordinated through the university’s International Student Exchange Division. Students submit applications internally, and successful candidates are nominated to the relevant scholarship foundations. This process ensures that only the most qualified students are recommended, increasing the chance of receiving funding.
Kawashima Shoji Memorial Scholarship Fund
- Monthly Stipend: ¥120,000 (around ¥1,440,000 annually)
- Eligible Students: 3rd and 4th-year undergraduates, master’s, and doctoral students
- Eligible Fields: Humanities, science, and engineering disciplines
- Duration: Up to 2 years (renewable annually)
- Application Deadline: October 28, 2025 (internal)
- Documents Required: Academic transcripts, essay, research plan, and recommendation letter
Kyushu University Friendship Scholarship
- Purpose: Supports privately funded international students who demonstrate excellent academic performance.
- Stipend: ¥80,000 per month for special research or double-degree students.
- Application Periods:
- For April–September intake: apply around February
- For October–March intake: apply around May
- Application Method: Apply through your academic department.
2. Direct Application Scholarships
Students can also apply directly to scholarship foundations. In this case, the university does not conduct internal screening, but may issue recommendation letters when required.
Tsuboi Ichiro and Noriko Scholarship
- Stipend: ¥500,000–¥1,000,000 per year for undergraduate students; ¥600,000–¥1,200,000 for graduate students.
- Eligibility: Includes foreign nationals and students with refugee or long-term resident status.
- Deadline: November 15, 2025.
- Application: Directly to the foundation.
SemMoto Scholarship
- Monthly Stipend: ¥120,000.
- Eligible Students: Undergraduate or first-year master’s students enrolled in a Japanese university.
- Application Period: October 3 – December 8, 2025.
- Selection Process: Based on academic excellence and personal statement.
3. Government Scholarships (MEXT and JASSO)
Many Kyushu University students also benefit from Japan’s national scholarship programs.
Monbukagakusho (MEXT) Scholarship
- Coverage: Full tuition, admission fee waiver, round-trip airfare, and monthly allowance.
- Allowance: ¥143,000 per month (for research students).
- Eligibility: Outstanding international students applying through embassy or university recommendation.
- Fields of Study: All academic disciplines offered at Kyushu University.
JASSO Scholarship (Japan Student Services Organization)
- Stipend: ¥48,000 per month.
- Eligibility: Exchange and privately funded students with excellent academic standing.
- Duration: 6 months to 1 year depending on program type.
4. Tuition Exemptions and Reductions
Kyushu University provides additional financial support through tuition exemptions for students facing financial hardship or achieving excellent academic results.
- Enrollment Fee Exemption/Deferment: Available for students with demonstrated need.
- Tuition Fee Reduction: Up to 100% exemption for high-performing students.
- Application: Through your faculty’s student support office.
Eligibility Criteria (General)
- Must hold a valid student visa and be enrolled at Kyushu University.
- Must not be receiving multiple scholarships exceeding ¥80,000–¥120,000 per month combined.
- Good academic record and strong personal statement or research plan.
- Some scholarships require Japanese language ability; others are open to English-taught programs.
- Students must submit updated scholarship forms (revised September 2025 version).
Application Process – Step by Step
- Check the Kyushu University scholarship list to confirm open programs.
- Download the latest application forms and confirm the submission route (on-campus or direct).
- Prepare your documents: transcripts, research plan, recommendation letters, and language certificates.
- Submit the application before the internal or external deadline.
- Attend interviews or respond to additional document requests if shortlisted.
Important Deadlines (2025–2026)
- Kawashima Shoji Scholarship: October 28, 2025
- Tsuboi Ichiro and Noriko Scholarship: November 15, 2025
- SemMoto Scholarship: December 8, 2025
- Friendship Scholarship (April intake): February 2026
- Friendship Scholarship (October intake): May 2026
Tips for Successful Application
- Start early and double-check eligibility before applying.
- Use official templates and forms from the university website.
- Clearly explain your study or research goals at Kyushu University.
- Proofread essays carefully; even minor errors can affect results.
- Request recommendation letters at least two weeks before submission.
- Keep digital copies of all submissions for your records.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply before being enrolled at Kyushu University?
Most on-campus selection scholarships require enrollment. However, some direct application scholarships accept pre-enrolled applicants who have received an admission offer.
2. Can I apply for multiple scholarships at once?
Yes, but the combined total of your monthly stipend usually cannot exceed ¥80,000–¥120,000. Always check each program’s regulations.
3. Are English-taught program students eligible?
Yes. Many scholarships are open to students in English-taught degree programs. Some may still require basic Japanese communication skills.
4. How do I know if my application is successful?
Successful candidates are notified through their academic department or email. Official results are usually announced between March and April.
5. Can I reapply if not selected?
Yes. Many scholarships are annual, and students can reapply the following academic year if they continue to meet the requirements.
Official Links and Contacts
- Kyushu University Scholarship Information (Official List)
- Scholarship Application Process (PDF)
- Fee Exemption and Support Programs
- Email: [email protected]
Official Source: https://www.isc.kyushu-u.ac.jp/intlweb/scholarship/view/list.php?lang=en
