Other private foundation and local government scholarships (JASSO list) 2027: eligibility, funding, deadline and how to apply

🇯🇵 Japan · Offered by Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) · For Bachelor's, Master's, PhD, Research student applicants.

Updated 10 November 2026 · Researched from the sources listed at the end. Confirm current details on the official website before you apply.

Country: 🇯🇵 Japan
Provider: Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO)
Degree levels: Bachelor's, Master's, PhD, Research student
Funding: Private foundation and local government scholarships: monthly living stipend (grant, no repayment). Tuition is not covered.
Deadline: Many foundations recruit in Mar–Apr and Sep–Nov through universities.
Expected opening: Each April and autumn (university notices)
Duration: Usually 1–2 years.
Professor contact: Not required to apply.

Official website

About the Private Foundation Scholarships in Japan (JASSO list)

JASSO's booklet lists about 100 more: e.g. Asahi Glass, Kubota, KDDI, Mitsubishi UFJ, Sojitz, Takase, TEPCO Memorial, Watanuki, CWAJ (women), and city/prefecture schemes (Kyoto, Kobe, Fukuoka, Hiroshima and others). Most are applied for through your university after you arrive.

Eligibility

Who can apply

International students enrolled at Japanese universities (180+ foundations; most require enrolment and some Japanese).

Academic requirements

Enrolled (or admitted) as a privately financed regular student at a Japanese university; good grades. Usually cannot hold another scholarship at the same time.

Language requirements

English or Japanese, as the university and foundation require.

What the scholarship covers

Private foundation and local government scholarships: monthly living stipend (grant, no repayment). Tuition is not covered.

Tuition: Not covered (combine with a university tuition waiver).
Stipend and benefits: Usually JPY 30,000–250,000/month depending on the foundation (e.g. Docomo, JEES, local prefecture scholarships).
Duration: Usually 1–2 years.

Deadline and opening date

Many foundations recruit in Mar–Apr and Sep–Nov through universities.

Expected opening: Each April and autumn (university notices).

Required documents

Foundation application form
University recommendation (if nominated through the university)
Transcripts
Certificate of enrolment or admission
Essay / research plan
Residence card copy
Photo

How to apply

Check your university's international office list and the JASSO scholarship guide; most go through university nomination.

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Frequently asked questions

Who can apply for the Private Foundation Scholarships in Japan (JASSO list)?

International students enrolled at Japanese universities (180+ foundations; most require enrolment and some Japanese). Enrolled (or admitted) as a privately financed regular student at a Japanese university; good grades. Usually cannot hold another scholarship at the same time.

What does the Private Foundation Scholarships in Japan (JASSO list) cover?

Private foundation and local government scholarships: monthly living stipend (grant, no repayment). Tuition is not covered. Usually JPY 30,000–250,000/month depending on the foundation (e.g. Docomo, JEES, local prefecture scholarships).

What is the Private Foundation Scholarships in Japan (JASSO list) deadline?

Many foundations recruit in Mar–Apr and Sep–Nov through universities. Expected opening: Each April and autumn (university notices).

Is IELTS required for the Private Foundation Scholarships in Japan (JASSO list)?

English or Japanese, as the university and foundation require.

Do I need a supervisor or professor's acceptance for the Private Foundation Scholarships in Japan (JASSO list)?

Not required to apply.

How do I apply for the Private Foundation Scholarships in Japan (JASSO list)?