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2026 Edition Planning Guide

MEXT Deadline & Timeline
The 12–18 Month Process

MEXT has one of the longest application timelines of any major scholarship. From first application to arriving in Japan can take 18 months. Here's the complete calendar so you can plan ahead.

MEXT Timeline & Deadlines

Feb–Mar

Start preparation

Contact embassy, begin research plan

Apr–May

Application deadline

Submit to embassy (varies by country)

Jun–Jul

Written exams + Interview

Aug–Jan

MEXT screening & placement

Months of silence. Do not email asking for updates.

Jan–Mar

Final result + visa

Arrive in Japan April

6–12 mo

Contact professors

Oct–Jan

University deadlines

Each university sets own deadline

2–4 mo

MEXT approval

85–95% approval rate after nomination

Ready to Start Your MEXT Application?

The best time to start preparing was 18 months ago. The second best time is today. Let us guide you through every step of the process.

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