Private Foundation Scholarships in Japan

Japan has many private foundation scholarships for international students, such as foundation, company and nonprofit awards. Some, such as Honjo International Scholarship Foundation, state that they support students from any country and field, subject to programme rules.

Required documents

• Foundation application form.
• Passport.
• Residence card, if already in Japan.
• Admission or enrolment certificate.
• Academic transcripts.
• Degree certificate.
• CV.
• Research proposal or study plan.
• Recommendation letters.
• Financial need statement.
• Language certificate.
• Essay on future goals or contribution to society.

Eligible nationalities

• Varies by foundation.
• Some are open to all countries.
• Some target Asian students.
• Some target specific fields or universities.
• Some require applicants to be already enrolled in Japan.
• Some require Japanese language ability.

How to apply

• Search university scholarship lists.
• Check foundation websites.
• Confirm whether direct application is allowed.
• Some require university nomination.
• Submit documents and attend interview if shortlisted.

Usual timeline

• Start preparing: 6 months before application.
• Calls: often spring or autumn.
• Results: 1 to 4 months after deadline.
• Start: usually next semester or academic year.
• Payment: monthly after confirmation.