Yokohama National University (Japan)| Step-by-Step Scholarship Admission Guide

Yokohama National University (YNU) is a national (public) university in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It has undergraduate and graduate programs and accepts international students from around the world. 

Choose Your Study Level

Decide which program you are applying for:

  • Undergraduate

  • Master’s

  • PhD / Research Student

Scholarship routes and requirements differ by level.


Select Scholarship Route

Most international students apply through one of these:

  • Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship – Embassy Recommendation

  • Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship – University Recommendation

  • Other Government / Sponsored Scholarships (JICA, World Bank, etc.)

MEXT is the most common and fully funded option.


Check Eligibility

You must generally meet the following:

  • Strong academic record (high GPA)

  • Completed required previous degree

  • Age limit (varies by scholarship, especially MEXT)

  • Good health

  • Willingness to comply with Japanese laws and university regulations

  • English or Japanese proficiency (depending on program language)


Prepare Required Documents

Common documents include:

  1. Academic transcripts (all semesters)

  2. Degree certificates (or provisional certificates)

  3. Study plan / Research proposal

  4. Statement of Purpose / Motivation letter

  5. Letters of Recommendation (1–2 academic referees)

  6. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

  7. Passport copy

  8. Medical certificate (for MEXT)

  9. Language proficiency proof (English or Japanese, if required)

All documents should be clear, accurate, and well-organized.


Contact a Supervisor (For Master’s/PhD)

  • Identify a faculty member whose research matches your interests.

  • Email them with:

    • Short introduction

    • Research interests

    • CV

    • Draft research proposal

Supervisor approval greatly strengthens scholarship chances.


Apply for Scholarship

Embassy Recommendation:

  • Submit documents to the Japanese embassy in your country.

  • Pass document screening, written tests, and interview.

  • Shortlisted candidates are recommended to YNU.

University Recommendation:

  • Apply directly to YNU.

  • University evaluates and recommends candidates to MEXT.


University Screening

  • YNU reviews academic background and research proposal.

  • Faculty and departments assess your suitability.

  • Selected candidates are forwarded for final scholarship approval.


Final Selection & Acceptance

  • Scholarship authority issues final approval.

  • You receive an official admission and scholarship offer.

  • Confirm acceptance within the given deadline.


Visa & Enrollment Preparation

  • Receive Certificate of Eligibility

  • Apply for student visa

  • Prepare for travel and accommodation

  • Attend orientation after arrival in Japan


What the Scholarship Covers

  • Full tuition fee waiver

  • Monthly living allowance

  • Travel expenses (for government scholarships)

  • Health insurance


Important Tips for Success

  • Start preparation at least 1 year in advance

  • Write a clear and realistic study plan

  • Align research interests with YNU faculty

  • Follow document instructions carefully

  • Apply early to avoid mistakes


With careful planning, strong academic preparation, and the right scholarship route, studying at Yokohama National University can be a life-changing opportunity for international students ready to pursue excellence in Japan.

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