Japan Opens 2027 MEXT Scholarships for KCSE Graduates; How to Apply

The Government of Japan, through its Embassy in Kenya, has officially opened applications for the 2027 MEXT Scholarship for Kenyan students.

The scholarship, also known as the Monbukagakusho (MEXT) Scholarship, is available for KCSE graduates, college students, and postgraduate learners who wish to continue their studies in Japan.

The announcement was made on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, through the Embassy’s official communication channels, where they invited qualified Kenyan students to submit their applications.

According to the embassy, the programme aims to give bright Kenyan students a chance to study in Japan with full financial support.

“We are happy to announce that the 2027 MEXT Scholarship for Kenyan nationals is now open,” the embassy said.

Who Can Apply

To qualify for the scholarship, one must be a Kenyan citizen.

This includes citizenship by birth, marriage, adoption, legal residence, or naturalisation.

The scholarship is open under several categories, depending on the level of education.

Requirements for KCSE Graduates

For students applying under the undergraduate category, candidates must have excellent KCSE results.

Applicants are required to have a mean grade of A plain.

In addition, they must have scored an A plain in at least four subjects, including:

Mathematics
English
Kiswahili

This category is best suited for students who have just completed Form Four and wish to pursue university education in Japan.

College of Technology (KOSEN)

Japan also offers places under the College of Technology, commonly known as KOSEN.

These are specialised institutions that offer five-year technical courses mainly in engineering and science-related fields.

For this category, applicants must have:

A- mean grade
A- in Mathematics
A- in Physics
A- in Chemistry
At least a B+ in English

This option is ideal for students interested in technical and engineering courses.

Specialised Training Colleges

Another category available is the Specialised Training College, which offers practical courses lasting two to four years.

These colleges focus on hands-on skills in areas such as:

Information Technology
Engineering
Business
Fashion
Healthcare

For this category, applicants need:

Mean grade of B plain
At least B+ in Mathematics
At least B plain in English

This is a good opportunity for students who want practical career-based courses.

Postgraduate Category

The scholarship is also open to students seeking master’s or PhD studies.

For the master’s level, applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree with at least Second Class Upper Division from a recognised university in Kenya.

For PhD applicants, one must have already completed a master’s degree and thesis.