Waiting is the hardest part. We break down the notification timeline for the First Screening and Second Screening.

Applied for MEXT? Here is the timeline you need to know.

Embassy Recommendation Timeline

• May: Application Deadline.
• June: Written Exams and Interviews.
• July (Late): First Screening Results. (You will get an email or call from the Embassy).
• August: Request "Letter of Provisional Acceptance" from universities.
• January/February (Next Year): Second Screening Results. (Official confirmation from MEXT Tokyo).

University Recommendation Timeline

• December/January: Application Deadline.
• February/March: University notifies you if they recommended you.
• June: Official confirmation from MEXT.

👉 Start Here: MEXT Scholarship 2026: The Ultimate Guide

What if I fail?

Don't give up. Many students apply 2 or 3 times before getting it. Use the feedback to improve your research proposal.

👉 Backup Plan: Study in Japan Without IELTS: Is it Possible?