The Aichi Scholarship Program offers an exceptional opportunity for talented international students who want to study in Japan and build a career in one of the country’s strongest industrial hubs. Designed to support graduate-level education and long term employment, this scholarship is funded by the Aichi Prefectural Government and focuses on fields that contribute to Aichi’s advanced manufacturing and technology sectors. With full financial support that includes living allowance, tuition coverage and travel expenses, this program provides a structured pathway from research student status to a master’s degree and future employment in Aichi.
This guide explains every part of the Aichi Scholarship Program 2026 from benefits and eligibility to application steps, timeline and FAQs so students can navigate the process confidently. Whether you are exploring opportunities to study in Japan or seeking a career focused scholarship in a globally recognized industrial region, this program offers one of the most practical routes for international students.
Benefits of the Aichi Scholarship Program
The Aichi Scholarship Program is designed to attract students who want to study in Japan and contribute to Aichi Prefecture’s industry. Aichi is home to some of Japan’s most influential companies including major automotive, robotics and aerospace manufacturers. The scholarship is structured to support your financial needs, academic growth and long term professional development.
Financial Support
- Monthly living allowance of 150,000 yen starting from arrival in Japan. This ensures students can live comfortably while focusing on research and coursework. A temporary reduction to 100,000 yen applies only if JLPT N4 is not achieved by March 2027, and it returns to 150,000 yen immediately after submitting proof of passing.
- Travel expenses to Japan including airfare from the nearest international airport to Chubu Centrair International Airport with approval.
- Full coverage of school expenses such as entrance examination fees, enrollment fees and tuition for both research student period and master’s program.
Academic and Career Advantages
- Guaranteed placement as a research student followed by entry into a master’s program upon passing the entrance exam.
- Internship opportunities at Aichi based companies that connect students with industry professionals.
- Support from universities to improve Japanese language proficiency so students can study and later seek employment in Japan.
- Direct pathway to employment in Aichi Prefecture’s globally recognized manufacturing and technology sectors.
Aichi is known for its automotive ecosystem, advanced robotics manufacturing and aerospace research, making it an ideal destination for students aiming for innovation driven careers.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the Aichi Scholarship Program 2026, applicants must meet strict criteria because the scholarship is highly selective and aims to match students who can study in Japan and later work within Aichi’s industries. Below are the official requirements.
- Citizenship: Applicants must live outside Japan and hold citizenship of a United Nations Member State except Japan and North Korea. Candidates from Taiwan, Vatican City, Kosovo, Niue and Cook Islands are also eligible.
- Age Limit: Applicants must be under 35 as of April 1, 2026.
- Educational Background: A bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification is required.
- Field of Study: Research plans must be related to Aichi’s industries such as automotive engineering, robotics, AI, smart manufacturing, aerospace technology or chemistry.
- Health Status: Applicants must be physically and mentally healthy to complete the 2.5 year program.
- Japanese Language Ability: Applicants must demonstrate Japanese proficiency or have potential to acquire it. JLPT N2 or equivalent test scores are advantageous but not mandatory at application.
- Commitment to Work: After graduation, students must intend to seek employment at a company headquartered or operating in Aichi Prefecture.
- Internship Participation: Students must join internship programs during the first year of master’s study.
- No Other Scholarships: Applicants cannot receive financial aid from any other organization.
Submitting incomplete or false documents can result in immediate disqualification from the scholarship.
Field of Study
Aichi Prefecture is one of Japan’s strongest industrial regions. Because the scholarship focuses on supporting local development, applicants must choose fields directly related to Aichi’s industry needs. These fields provide excellent career prospects for international students aiming to work in Japan.
Key Fields Supported by the Scholarship
- Automotive engineering and mobility technology
- Robotics and automation
- Mechanical engineering
- Material sciences and chemistry
- Aerospace technology
- Artificial intelligence and smart manufacturing systems
Applicants must clearly explain how their proposed research will contribute to Aichi’s industries. For example, a student researching autonomous vehicle safety systems or advanced robotics for production lines aligns perfectly with the prefecture’s focus.
How to Apply for the Aichi Scholarship Program
Applying to the Aichi Scholarship Program requires coordination with a graduate school in Aichi. The entire application must be submitted through the university not directly to the government. Below is a simplified overview of the process.
- Identify a graduate school in Aichi that matches your research interest.
- Contact professors in your field and secure their willingness to recommend you.
- Prepare required documents including academic records, research plan, health certificate and identification documents.
- Submit all documents to your chosen university within their internal deadline.
- The university submits your application to the Aichi Prefectural Government.
- If selected, you will be notified by June and start your research student program in October.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare several documents in English or Japanese. These include:
- Application form
- Pledge form
- Certificate of health issued within the past 6 months
- Proof of graduation or expected graduation
- Academic transcripts and GPA
- Copy of passport or birth certificate
- Recommendation letters from academic supervisors
- Three recent photographs (4cm × 3cm)
For applicants submitting their study plan or work plan in English, universities must attach Japanese translations. Documents will not be returned, so applicants should keep copies.
Application Timeline and Deadlines
The Aichi Scholarship Program follows a yearly schedule. For the 2026 cycle, applicants can expect a similar flow of events.
| Stage | Timeline | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Application Period | March to May | Universities accept and process applications. |
| Selection | June | Governor selects scholarship recipients. |
| Arrival in Japan | October to March | Students begin research student status. |
| Master’s Program Start | April next year | Students enter graduate school after passing exam. |
| Internship Period | August to September | Students complete industrial internships. |
The scholarship period ends in March two and a half years after arrival. Students are expected to secure employment by January of the final year.
FAQs
Is Japanese language proficiency mandatory for the Aichi Scholarship?
Applicants must show the ability to study in Japan, either through existing Japanese skills or a clear plan to learn. Higher proficiency increases selection chances and supports integrating into Aichi industries.
Can I apply directly without contacting a university?
No. Applications must be submitted through an eligible graduate school in Aichi. The prefectural government does not accept direct applications from students.
What types of research fields are prioritized?
Fields linked to Aichi’s manufacturing and technology sectors are prioritized including automotive engineering, robotics, aerospace, AI and materials science.
Does the scholarship cover living costs fully?
The monthly allowance of 150,000 yen can cover typical living expenses for a student in Aichi. Tuition, travel and administrative fees are also provided.
Is employment in Japan required after graduation?
The program is designed for students who intend to seek full time positions at companies based in Aichi Prefecture.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with others who want to study in Japan or are exploring scholarship opportunities. What part of the Aichi Scholarship Program interests you the most?
