NON-MEXT scholarship options.

[Emoni]

I'm starting this thread because I think it wouldn't just help me, but also those who did not get the MEXT scholarship and are looking for other options that many of us know "exist" but don't really know how to get or what process to expect.

MEXT and JASSO seem to be the main scholarships, but there are numerous other scholarships as well varying greatly in size and length. Even a couple I've heard that out-do the MEXT scholarship (supposedly). Using Waseda as one example, there are numerous scholarships that can be applied for on the board in the office, there are tuition waivers, and possibly more. However, finding information on the process, selection, and the mechanics behind the scene is very difficult.

Here is what limited information I know, specifically related to graduate level students. I want to stress this is information I've heard or been told, as it is very difficult to confirm any of this for me.

Many students who do not go on a MEXT scholarship often get other scholarships that kick in to help with costs, but this is only after acceptance into the program and arrival in Japan. Later, some actually get MEXT scholarships and such after a year in the graduate program or later when they jump into a Ph.D. program. The problem here is surviving/affording the first couple months. Plane ticket, living, tuition, and that stuff called FOOD. I was told by one administrator that around $8,000 is generally needed to survive this period or so. That was his best rough estimate.

It seems that these scholarships are available ONLY after you are accepted into the program. When I say available, I mean that you cannot even apply for them or find much information prior to acceptance. My Japanese level is still low on reading detailed information on such issues, so what little information sometimes exists is very difficult to find or read for me. Others may have found more information.

To summarize, "What scholarships and processes exist for those going to Japan for graduate school who are NOT on MEXT or JASSO? How does the process work and what can be expected?" Even for those who expect to get the MEXT scholarship might find this information valuable, as it is critical to have a back up.

Thank you to anyone who has information they wish to share. Especially those who HAVE gone this more difficult route.

 

[kshoo]

Try the individual universities. Liaise with their international students office, who would have a full list of scholarships available for application.

 

[NeWbY]

Might wanna add "Undergraduate students" as well, for people (like me) wanting to do a undergraduate program at a Japanese university.

So far I figured that the JASSO (sry) scholarship gives you 5万 a month if you have scores above average on your EJU examination.
Just like you said, they say on their website there are many more (smaller) scholarships available from private school's and company's, but that's all it says. So it's hard to find out where to get those smaller scholarships from or how to apply for it.

If you're not living in Japan it's hard to gain information about specific things :/

 

[Emoni]

Yeah, we might as well mention the undergraduate scholarships as well. They probably follow similar avenues to receive them.

It seems there is VERY little info on any scholarship processes or paying for graduate school outside of MEXT or JASSO, so I figure that this is something many of us need to find out about since scholarships do exist.

 

[lukechamber]

Can I register for scholarship too?
I am just diploma, with average skill and academic record.
but, have strong will to continue my study.
I am from Indonesia,27 years old.
I have been searching for scholarship for almost a year and still did not find one that suit me.