Study in Japan: Scholarships for Bangladeshi Students

০৩ জুলাই ২০২৫, ১৫:৩৮

Japan is a global - Studying in Japan offers Bangladeshi students access to world-class education, cutting-edge research, and a vibrant cultural experience. Financial constraints can be a barrier for many, but several prestigious scholarships funded by the Japanese government and private organizations make this dream achievable. In this second part of our series, we focus on scholarships outside university-specific funding, including the MEXT Scholarship, the ADB–Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP), and the Nitori International Scholarship Foundation. These programs provide comprehensive support, covering tuition, living expenses, and travel, enabling Bangladeshi students to focus on academic and personal growth. With deadlines approaching, such as Nitori’s on May 21, 2025, now is the time to explore these opportunities.

1. MEXT Scholarship

The MEXT Scholarship, administered by Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), is one of the most prestigious awards for international students. It supports high-achieving Bangladeshi students pursuing undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral studies, fostering academic excellence and international exchange.

Eligibility

Undergraduate Programs: Applicants must have completed 12 years of formal education (e.g., Higher Secondary Certificate) and be aged 17–21 as of April 1 of the arrival year.
Research Programs (Master’s/PhD): Requires a bachelor’s degree or higher, with applicants born on or after April 2, 1990, for the 2025 intake.
General Requirements: Bangladeshi citizenship, good health, and proficiency in English or Japanese (exams test both languages).

Application Process

Embassy Recommendation Track: Coordinated by Bangladesh’s Ministry of Education and the Japanese Embassy in Dhaka. Applications typically open in April, with written exams and interviews in June, selections finalized by December, and departure in March or April.
University Recommendation Track: Apply directly to Japanese universities, with institutions recommending candidates to MEXT.
Documents Needed: Application forms, health certificate, recommendation letter, and academic transcripts, submitted to the Japanese Embassy or university.

Financial Support

Monthly Allowance: Approximately 242,000 yen for research students, covering living expenses.
Additional Benefits: Full tuition waiver, round-trip airfare, and a one-year preparatory course (including Japanese language training) for undergraduate and certain programs.
Duration: 4–6 years for undergraduates, 2+ years for research programs, and 3–4 years for specialized training.

The MEXT Scholarship’s comprehensive support eliminates financial barriers, allowing students to immerse themselves in Japan’s academic and cultural environment. Its flexibility across study levels makes it accessible to a wide range of applicants.

2. ADB–Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP)

The ADB–Japan Scholarship Program, funded by the Asian Development Bank and the Government of Japan, supports postgraduate studies in development-related fields such as economics, management, science, and technology. It targets Bangladeshi students committed to contributing to their home country’s socioeconomic development.

Eligibility

Citizenship: Must be a national of an ADB borrowing member country (Bangladesh qualifies) without dual citizenship in a developed nation.
Academic and Professional Background: Bachelor’s degree with a strong academic record and at least two years of full-time professional work experience post-graduation.
Age and Health: Under 35 at the time of application (waivers possible in exceptional cases) and in good health.
Language: Proficiency in written and spoken English, as most programs are English-taught.
Post-Study Commitment: Must return to Bangladesh for at least two years to apply skills to national development.

Application Process

Step 1: Secure admission to an approved master’s program at a designated institution (e.g., University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, Asian Institute of Technology).
Step 2: Submit the ADB-JSP application form and required documents to the institution at least six months before the program start date.
Deadlines: Vary by institution; check specific university websites for details.
Financial Support

Tuition and Fees: Full coverage for the program duration (up to two years).
Monthly Stipend: Approximately 147,000 JPY for living and housing expenses.
Additional Benefits: Book allowance (1,000 USD every two years), medical insurance, round-trip airfare, visa costs, and a 1,000 USD research grant for thesis work.
Extension: Initially awarded for one year, extendable to a second year based on academic performance.

The ADB-JSP aligns with Bangladesh’s development goals, offering Bangladeshi students a chance to gain expertise in critical fields and contribute to national progress. Its focus on postgraduate studies makes it perfect for professionals seeking advanced qualifications.

3. Nitori International Scholarship Foundation

The Nitori International Scholarship Foundation provides financial aid to international students, including Bangladeshis, already enrolled in Japanese universities. It supports both undergraduate and postgraduate students, emphasizing academic excellence and cultural integration.

Eligibility

Enrollment Status: Must be enrolled in a Japanese university with a - Must hold a valid “College Student” visa and not receive other scholarships.
Age Limits: Undergraduates (four-year programs) must be 24 or younger; postgraduates and six-year program students must be 26 or younger.
Academic Performance: Minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
Language Proficiency: At least JLPT N3 level Japanese proficiency for basic communication and interviews.

Application Process

Submission: Apply directly through the foundation’s website (Nitori Scholarship).
Deadline: For the 2025 academic year, applications are due by 1:00 PM JST on May 21, 2025 (MyPage registration until 13:00, primary selection until 23:59).
Steps: Online application, web-based assessment, document screening, and a Japanese-language interview.

Financial Support

Monthly Stipend: 50,000–80,000 JPY (approximately Tk 36,000–58,000), awarded for one year with possible renewal.
Additional Benefits: Optional housing support and exchange events for networking.

The Nitori Scholarship is accessible to students already in Japan, offering financial relief without requiring a university nomination. Its direct application process empowers proactive students, and the upcoming May 21, 2025, deadline makes it a timely opportunity.

Additional Resources and Tips

Start Early: Application timelines are tight. For MEXT, begin in April; for Nitori, act before May 21, 2025. ADB-JSP requires admission first, so plan.
Language Preparation: While English suffices for many programs, Japanese proficiency (e.g., JLPT N3 for Nitori) enhances applications and daily life in Japan.
Seek Guidance: Contact the Japanese Embassy in Dhaka or the university's international offices for tailored advice.

The MEXT Scholarship, ADB-JSP, and Nitori International Scholarship Foundation offer transformative opportunities for Bangladeshi students to study in Japan. Each caters to different needs: MEXT’s broad scope, ADB-JSP’s development focus, and Nitori’s support for enrolled students. With careful planning and timely applications, Bangladeshi students can access world-class education and contribute to both personal and national growth. Don’t miss the Nitori deadline on May 21, 2025, and start preparing for MEXT and ADB-JSP now. Your journey to Japan begins today!