| Organiser | Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Japan |
| Level of Study | Master’s, PhD |
| Funding | Fully Funded |
| Deadline | November 5, 2026 |
| Program Duration | Master’s: 1.5-2 years; Doctorate: 3-4 years |
| Eligibility | MEXT-designated countries, born on or after April 2, 1992, GPA ≥ 2.30 (3.00 scale) |
For international students aspiring to pursue advanced degrees in Japan, the Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University Scholarships 2027 offer an exceptional opportunity. These scholarships provide full financial coverage for master’s and doctoral programs at Japan’s first truly international university. Recipients benefit from tuition waiver, monthly living allowances, and travel expenses, allowing them to focus fully on their studies in a multicultural environment with a curriculum taught entirely in English. Supported by Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), this scholarship aims to enhance global academic exchange and develop international competitiveness.
A notable point for applicants is that eligibility depends on being recommended by APU and must meet specific academic and nationality criteria defined by MEXT.
- Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarships for International Students
- JASSO Scholarships for Study in Japan
- Monbukagakusho Honors Scholarship for Privately-Financed International Students
- Asian Development Bank-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP)
Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University Scholarships Summary
- Level of Study: Master’s and PhD
- Institution: Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU)
- Host Country: Japan
- Funding: Fully Funded (tuition, admission fee, monthly allowance, travel expenses)
- Deadline: November 5, 2026
- Program Duration: Master’s: 1.5-2 years; Doctorate: 3-4 years
The three scholarships covered in this guide are:
- Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University Master’s Scholarship
- Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University PhD Scholarship
- Dual Degree International Material Flow Management (IMAT) Program Scholarship
Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University Scholarships Deadline
The application deadline for all Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University Scholarships is fixed, so prospective applicants should ensure submissions are complete by November 5, 2026. Meeting this deadline is critical as late applications are not accepted.
Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University Master’s and PhD Scholarships Deadline
Both the master’s and doctoral degree scholarship applications share the same deadline of November 5, 2026. Candidates are encouraged to prepare their documentation and application materials well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
Dual Degree IMAT Program Scholarship Deadline
The dual degree IMAT program also follows the November 5, 2026 deadline. Interested students should carefully review the specific application requirements for this program early on.
Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University Scholarship Coverage
Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University Scholarships
The scholarships provide extensive financial support to selected international students, covering multiple areas essential for study and living in Japan.
- Full waiver of admission fees
- Complete tuition fee coverage
- Monthly living allowance of 144,000 JPY (amount includes housing costs)
- Round-trip economy-class airfare between the student’s home country and APU at both the start and end of the program
Eligibility Criteria for Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University Scholarships
Applicants must satisfy both the university admission requirements and the scholarship-specific criteria set by MEXT and APU. Both academic and personal qualifications are assessed.
Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University Scholarships Eligibility
- Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English or Japanese.
- Applicants must be nationals of a MEXT-designated country.
- Applicants must intend to study abroad in Japan from overseas.
- Birth date must be on or after April 2, 1992.
- Minimum GPA of 2.30 on a 3.00 scale at the most recent university attended.
- Applicants currently serving active military duty or working as civilian military staff are ineligible.
- Previous recipients of a MEXT scholarship are generally ineligible unless more than three years have passed since the completion of their program or under specified exceptions.
- Recipients must not hold other scholarships that conflict with acceptance of the MEXT scholarship.
- Successful candidates must obtain and maintain “Student” residence status (visa) in Japan.
How to Apply for Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University Scholarships?
The application process involves multiple steps, including university recommendation and submission of documents to MEXT. The procedure requires careful attention to detail and timely submission.
How to Apply for the Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University Scholarships?
- Create an online application account here.
- Thoroughly review the application guidelines available here.
- Begin your application by selecting “STEP 1” from the menu to register your details.
- APU will assess all applications and select outstanding candidates to recommend to MEXT.
- Recommended applicants will be notified of their acceptance by APU and must then submit additional MEXT-specific documents.
- MEXT finalizes scholarship awards based on recommendations and submitted documents.
Documents Required for Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University Scholarships
Required documents vary by program but generally include academic transcripts, certificates, language proficiency evidence, and identification. Applicants should consult official guidelines for complete lists.
Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University Scholarships Documents
- Academic transcripts and diplomas from previous institutions.
- Proof of language proficiency in English or Japanese.
- Birth certificate or passport copy to confirm date of birth and nationality.
- Curriculum vitae or resume.
- Letters of recommendation, if required by APU.
- Completed application form submitted online.
- Additional documents requested by MEXT after university recommendation.
Tuition Fees for International Graduate Students at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University
| Program | Tuition Fee (JPY per year) |
|---|---|
| Master’s and PhD Programs | 1,455,000 |
These tuition fees are fully covered by the MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship, making it a fully funded opportunity for international graduate students.
APU MBA Program and Costs
Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University also offers a two-year MBA program with tuition fees of 1,455,000 JPY per year. This program is eligible for various scholarships, including the MEXT scholarship if the applicant meets the criteria.
Living Costs and Monthly Allowance
The MEXT scholarship provides a monthly subsistence allowance of 144,000 JPY, which includes housing costs. This allowance helps cover living expenses, allowing students to focus on their studies without financial stress.
Funding Options and Scholarships at APU
- Tuition Reduction Scholarship for International Students: Offers tuition fee reductions ranging from 30% to 100% based on financial need and academic performance.
- Ryoichi Sasakawa Young Leaders Fellowship Fund (Sylff) Program: Provides 1,500,000 JPY annually (125,000 JPY per month) to students demonstrating leadership potential and commitment to social development.
- Asian Development Bank-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP): Covers full admission and tuition fees, monthly allowance, books, medical insurance, and travel expenses for students from ADB member countries pursuing development-related studies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University Scholarships?
International students from MEXT-designated countries born on or after April 2, 1992, with a minimum GPA of 2.30 on a 3.00 scale, intending to study in Japan from overseas are eligible.
Are the scholarships fully funded?
Yes, the scholarships cover full tuition, admission fees, a monthly living allowance of 144,000 JPY including housing, and round-trip airfare.
Can I apply if I am currently in Japan?
No, applicants must intend to study abroad in Japan from outside the country.
Is proficiency in Japanese mandatory?
No, applicants can demonstrate proficiency in either English or Japanese.
Can current military personnel apply?
No, individuals currently serving active military duty or employed as civilian military staff are not eligible.
What is the age limit for applicants?
Applicants must have been born on or after April 2, 1992.
How is the selection process conducted?
APU reviews applications and recommends outstanding candidates to MEXT, which makes the final scholarship award decisions.
Software Engineer & Scholarship Consultant at Travel Travegisa, committed to empowering students worldwide with accurate, accessible scholarship information.
Software Engineer and Scholarship Consultant at Scholarship Roar, focusing on international student mobility, academic opportunities, and scholarship advisory to help students achieve their educational goals abroad.
Reviewed by Muhammad Faizan, PhD Researcher · Last verified June 2024. The information provided is accurate as of the last update but applicants should always refer to official sources for the latest details.
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