The Rotary Yoneyama Memorial Foundation Scholarship is one of Japan’s most prominent privately financed scholarships, intended to help international students pursue higher education in Japan. The Rotary Yoneyama Memorial Foundation funds this scholarship, which aims to foster mutual understanding and friendship between Japan and other countries by helping bright students achieve academic success.
The scholarship is available for both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, including master’s and doctoral programs, at reputable universities throughout Japan, particularly in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
Applicants must have a 3.0/4.0 GPA, demonstrate leadership, community involvement, and a strong dedication to global knowledge. Language proficiency is required for JLPT N2/N1 for Japanese-taught programs; IELTS 6.0+ / TOEFL 80+ for English-taught courses.
The scholarship provides a monthly stipend of ¥140,000-160,000 to cover tuition, housing, and living expenses, as well as a ¥200,000 settling-in allowance upon arrival. It is granted for 1-2 years and can be renewed based on performance.
Eligible applicants come from countries with active Rotary Clubs and demonstrate strong character, honesty, and dedication to peace and service. Candidates must apply from outside Japan and demonstrate a willingness to participate in cultural exchange and volunteer activities.
The Rotary Yoneyama Memorial Foundation Scholarship offers financial aid and the opportunity to make global connections through the Rotary network, allowing students to pursue quality education in Japan while encouraging cultural exchange and leadership.
MUST VISIT: Tokyo University of Technology (TUT) Scholarship 2026
Details About Rotary Yoneyama Memorial Foundation Scholarship
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Host Country: Japan
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Host Institution: Any recognized university in Japan
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Degree Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, and Doctoral programs
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Scholarship Type: Fully funded (monthly stipend + allowances)
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Monthly Allowance: ¥140,000–¥160,000 (USD 900–1,100)
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Settling-in Allowance: ¥200,000 (one-time payment)
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Duration: 1–2 years (renewable based on performance)
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Required CGPA: Minimum 3.0 out of 4.0 or equivalent
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Language Requirement:
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JLPT N2/N1 for Japanese-taught programs
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IELTS 6.0+ or TOEFL 80+ for English-taught programs
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- Application Condition: Applicants must apply from outside Japan
- Deadline: April 2026 (Spring term) or October 2026 (Fall term)
Available Fields
Here’s a list of available fields for the Rotary Yoneyama Memorial Foundation Scholarship (Undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD):
- Engineering
- Science
- Medicine
- Dentistry
- Veterinary Science
- Agriculture
- Arts
- Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Business & Economics
- Law
- Education
- Information Technology / Computer Science
- Environmental Studies
- International Relations
- Public Policy
- Communication & Media Studies
- Design & Architecture
- Psychology
- Biotechnology
ALSO SEE: JASSO Honors Scholarship in Japan 2026 Fully Funded
Financial Benefits
The Rotary Yoneyama Memorial Foundation Scholarship offers several financial benefits to support international students in Japan.
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Monthly allowance of ¥140,000–¥160,000 to cover living and study expenses in Japan.
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One-time settling-in allowance of ¥200,000 upon arrival to help with initial costs.
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Tuition fees are fully covered for the duration of the scholarship.
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Accommodation costs are included, either in university dormitories or through housing support.
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Daily living expenses such as food, transportation, and personal necessities are supported.
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Scholarship is renewable annually based on satisfactory academic performance.
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Covers health and medical insurance during the study period.
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Provides support for books, study materials, and research resources.
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Travel allowance may be provided for research, conferences, or fieldwork.
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Encourages participation in cultural activities, networking events, and student exchange programs.
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Access to university labs, libraries, and academic facilities for research purposes.
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Financial support extends for 1–2 years, depending on program type and performance.
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Mentorship and academic guidance are included as part of the scholarship benefits.
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Recognition for outstanding academic and research achievements may be provided.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, the applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria.
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Applicants must apply from outside Japan; on-site applications are not accepted.
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Must have a minimum CGPA of 3.0/4.0 or equivalent in previous studies.
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Open to students from countries with active Rotary Clubs.
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Must demonstrate strong leadership skills and active community involvement.
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Required Japanese (JLPT N2/N1) or English (IELTS 6.0+/TOEFL 80+) proficiency.
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Must plan to enroll in a recognized Japanese university.
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Should show commitment to cultural exchange, global understanding, and peacebuilding initiatives.
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Strong academic and personal references may be requested as part of the application.
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Candidates should be mentally and physically prepared for international study.
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Willingness to participate in Rotary-led workshops, events, and community programs.
Important Requirements
Applicants must fulfill the following eligibility requirements to apply for the Rotary Yoneyama Memorial Foundation Scholarship:
- Application Form
- Personal Statement
- Academic Transcripts
- Degree Certificate
- Admission Letter
- Recommendation Letter
- Language Certificate
- Study or Research Plan
- Passport Copy
- Photograph
- CV / Resume
- Medical Certificate
- Financial Statement
- Rotary Club Certificate
ALSO APPLY: Tokyo University of Social Welfare Scholarship 2026
Step-by-Step Application Process
Please follow the instructions below,
Here’s a polished, detailed one-line version of your application process with added clarity and flow:
- Review eligibility criteria, scholarship benefits, and application deadlines on the official website.
- Choose your preferred Japanese university and program that aligns with your academic goals.
- Check the university’s admission requirements for your chosen program and degree level.
- Gather all required documents, including transcripts, recommendation letters, language certificates, and a study plan.
- Prepare a compelling personal statement highlighting your motivation and research interests.
- Obtain recommendation letters from professors, mentors, or supervisors.
- Take necessary language proficiency tests, such as JLPT, IELTS, or TOEFL, if required.
- Complete the online application form and attach all required documents accurately.
- Submit your application from outside Japan before the official deadline.
- Attend interviews or screenings if requested by the university or scholarship committee.
- Wait for the selection results and scholarship evaluation by the committee.
- Confirm scholarship acceptance and begin the student visa application process.
- Arrange accommodation, health insurance, and travel to Japan.
- Submit the required arrival documents to the foundation or university.
- Start your studies in Japan and maintain strong academic performance for scholarship renewal eligibility.
REGISTER HERE
OFFICIAL LINK
FAQ-Rotary Yoneyama Memorial Foundation Scholarship
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Q: Who can apply?
A: International students from countries with active Rotary Clubs, applying from outside Japan. -
Q: What degrees are eligible?
A: Undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD programs. -
Q: What is the scholarship amount?
A: ¥140,000–¥160,000 monthly plus ¥200,000 settling-in allowance. -
Q: What is the language requirement?
A: JLPT N2/N1 for Japanese-taught programs; IELTS 6.0+ or TOEFL 80+ for English-taught programs. -
Q: What is the minimum CGPA?
A: 3.0 out of 4.0 or equivalent. -
Q: When is the deadline?
A: April 2026 (Spring term) or October 2026 (Fall term). -
Q: Are all fields of study allowed?
A: Yes, all academic fields are eligible. -
Q: Can I apply if I am already in Japan?
A: No, applicants must apply from outside Japan.