International students currently enrolled at Japanese universities and graduate schools now have the chance to receive financial support from one of Japan’s most generous academic sponsors. The Tobe Maki Foundation has officially opened applications for its 2025 Scholarship Program, designed to assist talented, diligent, and financially struggling students pursuing studies in Japan.
Empowering Future Innovators and Leaders
The Tobe Maki Scholarship is a merit-based, need-aware program that supports undergraduate and graduate students conducting research in specific academic fields. The scholarship emphasizes academic excellence, strong character, and the potential for scholarly growth.
International students with “Student” visa status who are self-financed are encouraged to apply for this highly competitive opportunity, with only five international scholarships offered annually out of a total of 60 awards.
Tobe Maki Scholarship Amount & Duration
- Graduate students receive ¥70,000/month (¥840,000/year).
- Undergraduate students receive ¥60,000/month (¥720,000/year).
- The scholarship covers a two-year period, with a possibility of extension up to four years or longer for exceptional doctoral students.
- Scholarships are paid directly to recipients, with the first disbursement in July 2025, retroactively covering April through July.
Note: If recipients receive high-value scholarships elsewhere exceeding ¥2 million per year, the Tobe Maki Scholarship amount may be halved. However, JASSO scholarships and tuition exemptions will not impact the full benefit.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must:
- Be enrolled at a Japanese university or graduate school throughout the grant period (April 1, 2025 – March 31, 2027).
- Be pursuing studies in one of the following fields: Chemistry, Food Science, Art and Design, Physical Education or Sports Science, or Business Administration (including Public Management and Marketing)
- Be in their 3rd year or above (for undergraduates) or enrolled in a Master’s or Doctoral program.
- Be 30 years old or younger as of April 1, 2025 (exceptions possible for specific personal circumstances).
- Demonstrate strong academic records, eagerness to learn, and good conduct.
- Have documented difficulty in paying tuition fees.
Applicants may request funding for just one year (such as for a final year), and shorter durations between one and two years are also considered in cases like autumn enrollment.
How to Apply?
Applicants must complete both online submission and postal mailing of required documents.
Required Documents:
- Scholarship application form (Foundation format, filled in Japanese)
- Recommendation letter (with official seals and supervisor’s endorsement)
- Certificate of enrollment (post-April 1, 2025)
- Academic transcripts (undergraduate + graduate, including GPA)
- GPA certificate (if not stated on transcript)
- Residence certificate (no My Number)
- Recent photo data (front-facing, taken within 3 months)
- Additional materials (arts portfolio, presentation lists, etc., if applicable).
Apply: https://tobe-maki.or.jp/scholarship/
Application Deadline
- Online Submission Deadline: May 8, 2025 (23:59 JST)
- Postal Documents Deadline: Must Arrive by May 12, 2025.
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