MEXT Scholarship 2027 for Pakistanis: Japan Research Round Closed, Prepare for the Next
Japan's government funds some of the most generous scholarships in Asia, and the MEXT (Monbukagakusho) Research Scholarship is the one most Pakistani postgraduates ask about. The Embassy of Japan in Islamabad has announced that applications for the 2027 intake are closed: the last date to apply was 26 May 2026, and shortlisted candidates have already been contacted. If you missed it, the best move is to prepare now for the next round.
What the 2027 round looked like
The embassy accepted paper applications for the Research Scholarship (Master's and PhD level). Applicants in Islamabad and the north posted their file to the Embassy's Public Affairs Section, while candidates from Karachi and Balochistan sent theirs to the Consulate General in Karachi. Only shortlisted candidates are called for a written test and interview, and the embassy does not confirm receipt of documents or explain why a candidate was not shortlisted.
Documents the embassy asked for
- Mark sheet form and the application form (original).
- A research plan.
- Attested degree certificate and transcripts from your last university, with the university's attestation.
- A recommendation letter from your president, dean or academic advisor (original).
- Thesis abstract, if applicable.
- A recommendation letter from your present employer, if applicable.
The embassy stressed that files must be complete, printed on A4, held together with a paper clip only (no staples), and that submitted documents are not returned. Certificates not on the list are not considered, so do not pad your file.
How to prepare for the next round
Start with documents, because attestation takes the longest. Our guide to HEC degree attestation online explains the process, and the attestation services page covers related documents. Next, write a focused research plan and identify a Japanese professor whose work matches yours; a clear plan matters more than a long one. Ask referees early for strong, specific letters, and keep your English transcripts and marks consistent across all documents.
Official eligibility rules, such as age limits, minimum grades and the stipend and benefits, are published in the application guidelines on the Study in Japan website and can change each year, so read the new guidelines the day they are released. Do not rely on third-party blogs for exact figures.
Other funded options meanwhile
MEXT is competitive, so apply to more than one programme. See our guides to Stipendium Hungaricum and fully funded scholarships for Pakistani students. If you would rather go to Japan to work, read about the Japan SSW visa, and see all options on our visas page.
Avoid scams
MEXT applications to the embassy are free. Be wary of agents who promise a guaranteed seat or ask for payment to "secure" a scholarship. Check every announcement on the Embassy of Japan's official website.
Hijrat helps with document attestation, translation and application files for scholarship and study visas. Message us on WhatsApp for a free first assessment.
Disclaimer: Scholarship dates and rules change every year and decisions rest solely with the Government of Japan and the Embassy of Japan. This article is general information based on the Embassy notice available on October 13, 2026, not legal or admission advice. Always confirm on the official embassy and Study in Japan websites.