Introduction
Have you ever dreamed of studying in Japan—land of anime, technology, and amazing food—but thought, “It’s too expensive”? What if we told you there’s a scholarship that covers everything, from your college fees to your flight ticket?
Let’s talk about the Mitsui-Bussan Scholarship, a life-changing opportunity for Indian students who want to do their undergraduate studies in Japan—without putting financial pressure on their parents.
This blog will walk you through everything—what it is, who can apply, and how to get started. Even if you’re still in school, it’s good to know about it early!
What is the Mitsui-Bussan Scholarship?
Started by Mitsui & Co., Ltd., a big Japanese company, in collaboration with Japan’s Ministry of Education, this scholarship helps young Indians pursue a full-time bachelor’s degree in Japan.
The best part? It’s not just a discount—it’s full funding. That means your tuition, living costs, Japanese language course, even your travel—it’s all taken care of. You can just focus on studying and enjoying a whole new experience.
Who Can Apply?
Here’s a simple checklist to know if you can apply:
Nationality
- Must be a citizen of India.
Age & Marital Status
- Must be under 20 years of age as of April 1, 2025.
- Must be unmarried.
Education Background
- Science students should have studied:(Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry & English)
- Commerce students should have studied:(Mathematics, Economics, Business Studies & English)
- Minimum 80% aggregate in Class 12 (HSC) or Class 10 (if appearing for HSC), from CBSE or ICSE board.
Health & Character
- Fitness certificate from a doctor
- Character certificate from school
Japanese Language Requirement
- Preferably a JLPT N3 certificate
- If you’ve cleared N4 and are preparing for N3, that may also be considered, based on your language skills.
What’s Covered? [Scholarship Benefits]
This scholarship takes care of almost everything you need to live and study in Japan.
Duration: 5 years (No extension)
- Year 1 :- Japanese Language Study (12 months) at JASSO, Tokyo
- Year 2 to 5 :- Graduation course at a Japanese university (48 months)
Financial Support Includes :-
Item | Details |
Living Allowance | JPY 145,000/month |
Arrival Allowance | One-time JPY 50,000 |
Lodging Support | Year 1: JPY 5,000/month (dormitory at JASSO) Year 2–5: JPY 25,000/month for university stay |
Airfare | One-way economy ticket from Delhi to Tokyo (and return after program ends) |
Tuition Fees | 100% covered for Japanese language school and university |
Insurance | Travel & accident insurance covered by the program (National health insurance to be paid by students) |
Books | Cost of textbooks included |
🔹 Note :- Meals, local travel, and other personal expenses are not covered. But with JPY 145,000/month, you’ll be more than comfortable!
Application Timeline (2025–2027)
Planning to apply? Here’s what your journey would look like:
Timeline | Event |
May–June 2025 | Application window opens (01 May to 30 June) |
July–Sep 2025 | Documents screened, candidates shortlisted for selection process |
Nov 2025 | Finalists apply for Japanese Language Training at JASSO |
April 2026 | Departure to Japan for language course |
Nov 2026 | Appear for EJU (Japanese university entrance exam) |
April 2027 | Start of undergraduate course at Japanese university |
Basically, you’re studying abroad for 5 years without asking your parents for a single rupee.
Subjects Allowed Under this Program
You can apply for :-
🔹 Sciences & Engineering – Includes fields like mechanical, electrical, civil, IT, and more.
🔹 Social Sciences, Business & Commerce – Courses like economics, business studies, and international trade.
👉 To get more details about the eligible subjects, course structure and other details…
📘 Check out the official brochure here
How to Apply
Applications usually open between May and June every year. Here’s what the process looks like :-
🔹 Online application with academic documents
🔹 Written test (typically Maths, Science, English)
🔹 Personal interview – usually held in Delhi, Mumbai, and other big cities
🔹 Final selection – based on your overall performance
👉 Here is the official application form to apply for the Mitsui Scholarship:
Click here to apply for the scholarship
Why Indian Students Should Seriously Consider It
Japan is one of the safest, cleanest, and most technologically advanced countries in the world. It’s also full of culture, values, and discipline—something many Indian parents really appreciate.
And if you’re into engineering, robotics, business, or science, studying in Japan gives you global exposure plus chances to work at top companies—many of which love hiring Indian graduates!
This scholarship also helps many middle-class Indian families who can’t afford international education but have kids with big dreams.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
Here are some friendly suggestions to prepare well:
🔸 Study hard in Class 11 & 12—especially Science and English
🔸 Work on your communication and interview skills
🔸 Keep track of scholarship dates early (April–June)
🔸 Start exploring a bit of Japanese—you don’t need to master it, but showing interest helps
🔸 Be confident, honest, and show your willingness to live and learn in a new country
Final Thoughts: Your Japan Dream Could Start Now
The Mitsui-Bussan Scholarship isn’t just about studying abroad. It’s about opening doors—to new cultures, global opportunities, and a future you might not have imagined sitting in a small Indian classroom.
And remember—students just like you from all over India (big cities and small towns) have received this scholarship and are now building incredible lives in Japan. So if you have the dream and the dedication, why not go for it?
Want to Boost Your Chances of Getting Selected?
Knowing Japanese isn’t just helpful—it can seriously increase your chances of getting selected for the Mitsui Scholarship. It shows you’re serious about studying in Japan.
🌟 We’ve got a beginner-friendly JLPT N5 course designed especially for Indian students
👉 Start learning Japanese today – your scholarship journey begins here!
Want to Explore More Scholarships for Japan?
If you’re curious about other fully-funded and merit-based scholarships for Indian students, we’ve got you covered!
👉 Check out our complete guide to scholarships for Japan
Ganbatte! (Good luck!)
Hi i want it but i am a arts STUDENT. So what should i do for free education in Japan.