The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology in Japan (MEXT) is now accepting applications for the 3rd round of Tobitate! Ryugaku Scholarships which again will be awarded to 500 Japanese senior high school (SHS) students (15-18 year olds) who will study abroad for between 2 weeks and 1 year. There is no major change to the 3^rd round from previous rounds. For the results of the 2^nd round, please visit: https://education-services.britishcouncil.org/news/market-news/latest-re...

The scholarship programme consists of 6 courses;

1. Academic Takeoff: 2-3 weeks of language study and cultural exchange experience
2. Academic Short: Academic study between 2 weeks and 3 months (e.g. summer school provided by high schools and universities)
3. Academic Long: Longer-term (4 months – 1 year) academic study at high schools
4. Professional: Practical training or internships to nurture specific knowledge and skills
5. Sports & Art: Skills training at a sports training centre, education institution or art school
6. International Volunteer: participation in volunteer activities to gain a better understanding in international cooperation

For detailed information on the latest scholarship programme, please see the attached PDF below. The deadline for application is early February 2017.

Analysis

Since the last round in 2015, the Japanese Yen has appreciated against the pound by approximately 45% (for example, scholarships for 2-3 week language study were worth 1,950 GBP last year, but are now worth 2,830 GBP), meaning the UK may be regarded as a more attractive options for applicants. However, UK institutions are advised to be aware that students may cancel their admission if their scholarship application is unsuccessful.

This has been the major reason why Japanese agents have been rather reluctant to work with this scholarship scheme. However, some agents have been proactive in supporting students who are applying for this scholarship and market the courses from a wide variety of destinations including the UK amongst Japanese schools and students.

This scholarship scheme has now increased its visibility amongst schools, parents and students in rural areas, so more enquiries may be made to agents for this round of applications. UK institutions are advised to discuss this opportunity with their partner agents.