Other Scholarships to Study Japanese Language in Japan

Dreaming of studying the Japanese language in Japan but worried about the cost? You’re not alone. While the MEXT Scholarship Japan is widely known, it's also highly competitive. Fortunately, there are other scholarships to study Japanese language in Japan that are more accessible — especially for Indian students and other international applicants.

This article covers alternative scholarship options, application tips, and answers to common questions about how to make your dream of studying Japanese in Japan a reality.

The Power of Immersion: Why Learning Japanese in Japan Makes a Difference

Immersing yourself in Japan is the most effective way to master the language. You’ll gain exposure to native speakers, cultural nuances, and daily practice, which is impossible to replicate in a classroom elsewhere. However, tuition, living expenses, and travel can add up quickly — and that’s where Japanese language scholarships in Japan come in.

JASSO Scholarship – Japan Student Services Organization

The JASSO (Japan Student Services Organization) offers one of the most accessible scholarships for international students in Japan. It is designed to support students enrolled in short-term and long-term programs.

Key Features:

• Monthly stipend of ¥48,000 
• Offered to students at language schools, universities, and colleges 
• Applicable to students enrolled in exchange or preparatory language programs

Eligibility:

• Must be accepted by a Japanese institution
• Good academic record
• Must not receive any other scholarships over ¥80,000/month

This is a great option for those looking to study Japanese for 6 months to 2 years.

https://www.jasso.go.jp/en/ryugaku/scholarship_j/index.html

Private Scholarships for International Students in Japan

Many private foundations and organizations offer Japanese language scholarships in Japan. These are less well-known than MEXT but more flexible.

Notable Examples:

• Rotary Yoneyama Memorial Scholarship
  
  • Offers monthly stipends and travel allowances
  • Requires basic Japanese proficiency
• Ashinaga Scholarship
  
  • For orphaned or underprivileged international students
  • Covers tuition and living expenses
• Honjo International Scholarship Foundation
  
  • Open to all nationalities
  • For graduate-level students, but some allow intensive language study before degree programs

Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria and deadlines, so it’s essential to check their official websites regularly.

If you're aiming for a diplomatic or international career, our detailed article on how to get a job in an embassy provides key insights into the qualifications, skills, and language requirements needed for such roles.

Scholarships Offered by Japanese Language Schools

Many Japanese language schools in Japan offer partial tuition waivers, discounts, or private sponsorships to attract international students.

Example Schools:

• KAI Japanese Language School (Tokyo) – merit-based discounts up to 30%
• YAMASA Institute (Okazaki) – offers internal scholarships and JASSO partnership
• Naganuma School (Tokyo) – provides tuition reductions for excellent academic performance

These are ideal for students who may not meet the stringent criteria of national scholarships but still need financial support.

https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/planning/scholarships/about-scholarships/

Local Government Scholarships

Prefectural and city governments in Japan sometimes offer fully funded scholarships in Japan for international students studying in their local schools to promote diversity and tourism.

Examples:

• Fukuoka International Student Scholarship
• Yokohama City Scholarship Program
• Osaka Language School Local Grants

These often support students in Japanese language schools for 6–12 months, covering part of their tuition and accommodation.

For students already studying in Japan, understanding the renewal process is crucial—refer to our Japan student visa extension guide for step-by-step assistance and documentation tips.

Scholarships for Indian Students to Study Japanese in Japan

There are growing ties between India and Japan, especially in the fields of language and technology. As a result, several scholarships for Indian students are now available.

Examples:

• TLS- The Japanese Language School – supports language teachers and researchers from India
• Sasakawa India Leprosy Foundation Scholarship – for social science students, sometimes supporting language study
• Private MoUs with Indian universities – Japanese universities sometimes sponsor top language students through campus tie-ups

If you're looking for other scholarships to study Japanese language in Japan for Indian students, keep an eye on announcements from the Embassy of Japan in India or your university’s language department.

Undergraduate Scholarships in Japan for International Students

Though not language-specific, some undergraduate programs allow students to study Japanese intensively before beginning their major. These programs often provide scholarships, like:

• G30 Programs – English-based undergraduate programs with Japanese language training
• Asia Bridge Program – Offers Japanese language foundation courses along with scholarships
• University-specific scholarships – like those from the University of Tokyo, Waseda, or Sophia University

These are ideal if you're planning to build a career in Japan and want to combine language and academics.

Start Your Japanese Journey with TLS – The Japanese Language School

While scholarships can open doors to study in Japan, a solid foundation in the language and culture will significantly boost your chances of selection. That’s where TLS – The Japanese Language School comes in.

TLS offers both online and offline Japanese language programs designed to prepare students for academic, cultural, and professional life in Japan. Whether you aim to apply for the MEXT scholarship, JASSO, or private scholarships, TLS can help you:

• Build a strong command over grammar, vocabulary, and speaking 
• Prepare for JLPT levels N5 to N1 
• Understand scholarship application procedures 
• Get personalized guidance from expert instructors 
• Improve your chances of studying and working in Japan

Japan Visa Assistance – Team Language Services

This link points directly to the Japan Visa Assistance page on Team Language Services’ official site. It provides professional, end-to-end support for different visa types, including student, work, spouse, and business visas, tailored for applicants from India.

For students who dream of studying in Japan but don’t know where to begin, TLS is the perfect launchpad. Equip yourself with the skills, confidence, and clarity you need — and let your journey to Japan begin with TLS.

To get a glimpse into real-life experiences of MEXT scholars in Japan, don’t miss our blog on MEXT scholar life experiences, where students share their personal journeys, challenges, and achievements.

FAQs on Studying Japanese Language in Japan

1. How to get a scholarship to study Japanese in Japan?

To get a scholarship:

• Apply to recognized Japanese language schools
• Maintain good academic performance
• Prepare your documents (statement of purpose, recommendation letters)
• Apply for JASSO or private scholarships once accepted
• Check embassies and local Japanese foundations for opportunities

2. How to study Japanese in Japan for free?

While fully funded scholarships in Japan are rare, combining:

• A tuition waiver from a language school
• A monthly stipend (e.g., JASSO)
• Part-time work (up to 28 hours/week allowed for student visa holders)
  Can help you study in Japan with almost no personal expense.

3. Is Japanese language necessary for MEXT scholarship?

It depends on the program.

• For undergraduate MEXT programs, a basic Japanese test may be required.
• For graduate programs, English is often acceptable, though Japanese proficiency is a plus.

Some MEXT recipients are also given 6 months of Japanese language training before their main course.

4. Can I go to Japan to study Japanese language?

Yes, absolutely. Thousands of students go to Japan each year on a student visa to attend Japanese language schools, which typically offer 6-month to 2-year programs. Scholarships and part-time jobs make it affordable.

5. Can I get a job in Japan if I speak Japanese?

Yes. Fluency in Japanese (usually JLPT N2 level or higher) is a key requirement for most jobs, especially outside international companies. Many industries in Japan — including IT, tourism, teaching, and hospitality — are eager to hire bilingual professionals.

6. Is 16 too late to learn Japanese?

Not at all. Many students begin learning Japanese in their teens or twenties. With dedication, you can become fluent in 2–3 years. Age is not a barrier, especially when you study in Japan and immerse yourself in the language.

If you're planning to pursue higher education in Japan with full financial support, explore our complete breakdown of the MEXT scholarship for undergraduate students and how to apply successfully.

Final Thoughts

While the MEXT Scholarship Japan is a fantastic opportunity, it's far from your only option. Whether you're looking for private scholarships for international students in Japan, support from language schools, or government grants, there are multiple paths to explore.

If you’re committed to mastering Japanese, take the time to research, prepare, and apply to the programs that best suit your goals. The experience of studying in Japan is worth every effort — both culturally and academically.

Want structured guidance in your Japanese journey?
Visit TLS – The Japanese Language School, where expert instructors help you master the Japanese language and assist with study-abroad planning and scholarship support.