Introduction
The Rotary Yoneyama Scholarship 2026 is a prestigious, fully funded scholarship offered by the Rotary Yoneyama Memorial Foundation, supporting international students pursuing graduate studies (Master’s or PhD) at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU) in Japan. This scholarship covers tuition, monthly living stipends, and travel expenses, allowing recipients to focus fully on their academic and research goals. swiftscholarshipsadmissions.apu.ac.jp
Body: Program Details
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be:
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Non-Japanese citizens (dual nationals allowed if no Japanese citizenship)
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Residing outside Japan at application time, with previous total stay in Japan not exceeding 31 days (exceptions apply)
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Japanese language proficient (JLPT N4 or higher)
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Born on or after April 2, 1980 or 1981 (varies by source)
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First-time recipients of the Rotary Yoneyama Scholarship admissions.apu.ac.jpYouthExpatStudy in Japan
Benefits
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Monthly stipend: ¥140,000 for both Master’s and PhD students, for up to two years
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Travel reimbursement: Up to ¥250,000 to cover economy airfare and related expenses upon arrival in Japan admissions.apu.ac.jpswiftscholarshipsYouthExpat

Application Process & Deadlines
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Apply separately to APU (Master’s or PhD program) and indicate interest in the scholarship during your APU application.
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APU will issue a Letter of Recommendation for selected candidates after admissions results. Submit this to the Rotary Yoneyama Foundation.
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Deadlines:
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April 2026 intake: APU application and scholarship indication by October 20, 2025
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September 2026 intake: Deadline September 16, 2025 admissions.apu.ac.jpYouthExpatAlways Never Home
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Importance
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Financially comprehensive: Covers both tuition (via stipend) and travel, removing major barriers to studying abroad.
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Cultural immersion & community: Recipients gain local support through Rotary clubs, fostering international understanding and personal growth. Study in JapanInt’l Student Scholarships 2025-2026
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Enable academic focus: Provides stability and support, allowing scholars to fully engage in their graduate studies and research.
About the Program
Launched as part of Rotary’s global mission for peace and mutual understanding, the Yoneyama Scholarship has supported over 24,000 students from 133 countries since 1952. APU, known for its multicultural environment—50% of students are international—offers a bilingual curriculum in English and Japanese and enjoys strong global recognition (e.g., AACSB accreditation). Study in JapanWikipediaScholarshipPark.com
Conclusion
The Rotary Yoneyama Scholarship 2026 at APU offers a unique, fully funded pathway for international graduate students to pursue quality education in Japan’s vibrant multicultural academic setting. If you’re aiming for a research-driven graduate experience backed by financial and community support, this scholarship is a standout opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Question | Answer |
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1. Is the scholarship fully funded? | Yes—recipients receive ¥140,000/month for up to two years, plus ¥250,000 for travel reimbursement. swiftscholarshipsadmissions.apu.ac.jp |
2. Who is eligible? | Open to international students (no Japanese nationality), residing outside Japan, with JLPT N4+, born after April 1980/81, and not previous recipients. admissions.apu.ac.jpStudy in JapanYouthExpat |
3. How do I apply? | Apply to APU and indicate Yoneyama interest by the deadline, then submit the recommendation letter from APU to the foundation. admissions.apu.ac.jpAlways Never Home |
4. What are the deadlines? | April 2026 entry: October 20, 2025. September 2026 entry: September 16, 2025. YouthExpatadmissions.apu.ac.jp |
5. What documents are needed? | APU application, research/study plan, essay on Japan choice/future plans, Letter of Recommendation via APU, and possibly JLPT certificate. rotary-yoneyama.or.jpStudy in Japan |
6. What can disqualify me? | Holding other major scholarships during the Yoneyama period may disqualify you. Study in Japan |
7. What enrichment does Rotary offer? | Scholars engage with local Rotary clubs through cultural and mentoring activities, join alumni networks, and contribute to mutual understanding. Study in JapanInt’l Student Scholarships 2025-2026 |