Ritsumeikan APU Scholarship Japan 2026: Up to 100% Tuition Waiver for International Students

Are you dreaming of studying in Japan without the financial burden? The Ritsumeikan APU Scholarship Japan 2026 offers international students an exceptional opportunity to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral degrees at one of Japan’s most globally recognized universities. With tuition reduction ranging from 30% to 100%, this scholarship has helped over 20,000 students from more than 170 countries complete their education at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU). In fact, over 90% of international students at APU receive some form of scholarship support, making this one of the most accessible study abroad opportunities in Japan.

About the Ritsumeikan APU Scholarship

Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University, located in Beppu, Oita Prefecture, Japan, stands as a pioneer in international education. Established in 2000, APU was Japan’s first truly international university, where approximately half of the student body comes from overseas. The university operates on a unique bilingual education system, allowing students to complete their entire degree in English or Japanese.

The Ritsumeikan APU Scholarship is designed to support outstanding international students who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need. This scholarship is funded through generous contributions from domestic and international companies, individual donors, and the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT).

What makes APU particularly attractive is its multicultural environment, often referred to as a “global village.” Students interact daily with peers from over 100 countries, gaining invaluable cross-cultural communication skills. The university holds prestigious international accreditations including AACSB and AMBA, ensuring world-class educational standards.

Ritsumeikan APU Scholarship Summary

Benefits of the Ritsumeikan APU Scholarship

The Ritsumeikan APU Scholarship offers substantial financial benefits that can significantly reduce or eliminate your educational expenses in Japan.

Tuition Reduction Benefits:

For first-year undergraduate students, the annual tuition is 1,300,000 JPY (approximately $8,500 USD). With scholarship support, your costs are reduced as follows:

• 30% Tuition Reduction: Annual scholarship of 390,000 JPY, student pays 910,000 JPY
• 50% Tuition Reduction: Annual scholarship of 650,000 JPY, student pays 650,000 JPY
• 65% Tuition Reduction: Annual scholarship of 845,000 JPY, student pays 455,000 JPY
• 80% Tuition Reduction: Annual scholarship of 1,040,000 JPY, student pays 260,000 JPY
• 100% Tuition Reduction: Annual scholarship of 1,300,000 JPY, student pays 0 JPY

Additional Benefits:

The scholarship covers the standard period until graduation, meaning you receive continuous support throughout your degree program as long as you maintain academic requirements. For undergraduate students, this covers all four years; for master’s students, two years; and for doctoral students, three years.

AP House Global Community Scholarship:

In addition to tuition support, first-year international students can apply for the AP House Global Community Scholarship, which provides a full waiver of on-campus housing rent for 11 months. AP House rent ranges from 50,000 to 52,000 JPY per month, so this additional scholarship can save you approximately 550,000 to 572,000 JPY in your first year.

Eligibility Criteria for Ritsumeikan APU Scholarship

General Eligibility Requirements:

To be considered for the Ritsumeikan APU Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Must apply as an international applicant for admission to APU
• Must intend to obtain and maintain a “Student” status of residence (visa) in Japan
• Must be willing to serve as a role model for other students
• Must maintain satisfactory academic performance throughout the scholarship period
• Must complete all responsibilities assigned by the university

For Undergraduate Applicants:

• Must have completed or be expected to complete a 12-year standard education curriculum
• Must meet English or Japanese language proficiency requirements
• Must submit all required application documents by the deadline

For Graduate Applicants (Master’s and Doctoral):

• Must hold or be expected to hold a bachelor’s degree (for master’s) or master’s degree (for doctoral) before enrollment
• Must demonstrate English proficiency as English is the language of instruction
• Must be from a MEXT designated country (includes most countries worldwide)
• For MEXT UR Scholarship applicants: Must have a minimum GPA of 2.30 on a 3.00 scale

Important Notes:

• The scholarship will be revoked if you cannot receive a “Student” status of residence by enrollment
• Academic performance and credit requirements are reviewed each semester for scholarship renewal
• Disciplinary action or inappropriate behavior may result in scholarship revocation

Required Documents for Ritsumeikan APU Scholarship Application

When applying for the Ritsumeikan APU Scholarship, you will need to prepare and submit the following documents through the online application system:

Essential Documents:

• Completed online application form
• Passport-style photograph (recent, clear image)
• High school or university transcripts (official copies)
• Graduation certificate or expected graduation certificate
• English or Japanese language proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, EIKEN, etc.)
• Scholarship application essay (200 words each for multiple prompts)
• Letter of recommendation from an instructor who has known you for at least six months

Financial Documentation:

• Detailed information about family household income and expenditures
• Financial statements or tax documents as proof of family financial situation
• Bank statements (if required)

Additional Documents:

• Recorded video interview (completed through the online application system)
• Statement of Purpose or Personal Statement
• Portfolio or supporting documents (for specific programs)
• MEXT scholarship application forms (for external scholarship applicants)

Document Specifications:

• All documents must be in English or Japanese, or accompanied by certified translations
• Original or certified copies are preferred
• Digital documents should be clear and legible scans
• Score reports that cannot be verified online must include original documents

Application Timeline for Ritsumeikan APU Scholarship

APU operates on a rolling admissions basis with multiple application periods throughout the year. The application portal opens on September 1, 2025 for 2026 enrollment.

For Undergraduate Students (April 2026 Enrollment):

The application schedule varies by country of residence. Key deadlines include:

• AP House Global Community Scholarship deadline: August 27, 2025
• Final application deadlines extend to early 2026 (varies by region)

For Undergraduate Students (September 2026 Enrollment):

• AP House Global Community Scholarship deadline: December 17, 2025
• Multiple application rounds available throughout 2026

For Graduate Students (April 2026 Enrollment):

• General Application 1: September 16, 2025
• General Application 2: October 20, 2025
• General Application 3: December 3, 2025

For Graduate Students (September 2026 Enrollment):

• General Application 1: September 16, 2025
• MEXT UR Scholarship: November 12, 2025
• General Application 3: January 9, 2026
• General Application 4: March 25, 2026
• Final Application: May 20, 2026

Pro Tip: Applicants who apply earlier have a greater chance of receiving higher scholarship percentages. Do not wait until the final deadline to submit your application.

How to Apply for the Ritsumeikan APU Scholarship

Follow these step-by-step instructions to submit your application for the Ritsumeikan APU Scholarship:

Step 1: Create an Account

Visit the APU Online Application System and create your applicant account. You will need a valid email address to receive important communications.

Step 2: Determine Your Eligibility

Use the eligibility checker on the APU website to confirm you meet all requirements for your desired program. Check specific language proficiency requirements for your chosen basis (English or Japanese).

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Gather all required documents before starting your application. Ensure language test scores are valid (taken within the specified timeframe) and official transcripts are properly certified.

Step 4: Complete the Online Application

Fill in all sections of the online application form carefully. For scholarship consideration, you must provide detailed information about your family’s financial situation.

Step 5: Write Your Essays

Complete the scholarship essays within the 200-word limit for each prompt. Focus on demonstrating how you embody APU’s mission of contributing to freedom, peace, humanity, and international mutual understanding.

Step 6: Arrange Your Letter of Recommendation

Enter your recommender’s contact information in the system. APU will send them a digital form to complete and submit directly.

Step 7: Record Your Interview

Complete the recorded video interview before the deadline. Practice beforehand and ensure you have a quiet space with good lighting.

Step 8: Pay Application Fee and Submit

Pay the required application fee and submit your completed application before the deadline. Deadlines are strictly enforced and will not be extended.

Tips for a Successful Application:

• Apply as early as possible for better scholarship chances
• Be genuine and specific in your essays
• Ensure all documents are complete and accurate
• Double-check your application before final submission
• Keep copies of all submitted materials

FAQs about the Ritsumeikan APU Scholarship

Who is eligible for the APU Tuition Reduction Scholarship?

All international students who apply for admission to APU and intend to hold a “Student” status of residence in Japan are eligible. There are no nationality restrictions, and students from over 170 countries have received this scholarship.

Is IELTS required for the APU Scholarship?

IELTS is not mandatory. APU accepts multiple English proficiency tests including TOEFL iBT (minimum 61), IELTS (minimum 5.5), Duolingo English Test (minimum 95), TOEIC, Cambridge English, and EIKEN. Applicants from English-speaking countries or those educated in English may be exempt from this requirement.

Can I apply for multiple scholarships at APU?

Yes, you can apply for both the Ritsumeikan APU Scholarship and the AP House Global Community Scholarship simultaneously through the online application. Additionally, APU accepts students on external scholarship programs like MEXT, ADB-JSP, AfDB-JADS, Honjo, Rotary Yoneyama, and others.

When will scholarship results be announced?

Scholarship results are released together with admission results on the designated notification date for your application period. Results are posted on the admissions website, and you will receive email notification on how to view them.

What percentage of students receive scholarships at APU?

Over 90% of international students at APU receive some form of scholarship support. APU has supported more than 20,000 students from 170+ countries through various scholarship programs.

Final Thoughts on the Ritsumeikan APU Scholarship

The Ritsumeikan APU Scholarship Japan 2026 represents one of the best opportunities for international students seeking quality education in Japan without overwhelming financial burden. With tuition reductions of up to 100%, combined housing support through the AP House scholarship, and a truly multicultural learning environment, APU offers everything you need to launch your global career.

The application process is straightforward and entirely online, making it accessible to students worldwide. Remember that early applicants have better chances of receiving higher scholarship percentages, so start preparing your documents now.

Whether you are interested in Asia Pacific Studies, International Management, Sustainability and Tourism, or pursuing an MBA, APU provides world-class education backed by prestigious international accreditations. Join the ranks of over 20,000 alumni from 170 countries who have transformed their futures through APU.

Submit Your Application Today

Do not miss this chance to study in Japan with up to 100% tuition coverage. Submit your application through the official portal before the deadline closes.

Official Application Link: https://admissions.apu.ac.jp/apply_online/

Need Help With Your Application?

Applying for international scholarships can be complex and competitive. ScholyHub Consultancy offers expert support to help you succeed with application strategy, statement of purpose writing, document preparation, and interview preparation.

Visit ScholyHub Consultants to request professional consultancy services and maximize your chances of success.