Deadline:
January 29, 2026
Location(s)
Japan United Kingdom
Overview
The Daiwa Scholarship is a unique 19-month programme of language study, work placement and homestay in Japan, following a month of Japanese language tuition in the UK. Daiwa Scholarships offer outstanding British citizens with strong leadership potential, the opportunity to acquire Japanese language skills, and to access expertise and knowledge relevant to their career goals. Daiwa Scholarships are provided by the Foundation to encourage better understanding between both countries.
Details
215 Daiwa Scholars – including scientists, artists, academics, lawyers, and architects – have completed the Daiwa Scholarship programme.
No previous experience of Japan or Japanese is necessary.
The deadline for applications for the 2026 Daiwa Scholarship programme is 4 December 2025.
The first round interviews will be held from 9 to 12 February, the second round will be held on 19 February and the final interviews are likely to be held on 12 and 13 March 2026.
The Foundation is also happy to provide advice about possible applications – please contact scholarships@dajf.org.uk.
Daiwa Scholarships 2026 will begin in late July/August 2026 and will finish on 31 March 2028 (tbc).
- The first-round interviews are scheduled to take place from 9 to 12 February 2026.
- The second stage is scheduled for 19 February 2026.
- The final interviews, conducted by a panel made up of our trustees , is scheduled for 12 and 13 March 2026 (subject to change)
Up to eight Scholars will be selected in 2026.
The selected Daiwa Scholars will undertake a one-month intensive, residential Japanese language course in the UK from late July/early August 2026 and will move to Japan for the rest of the Scholarship in early to mid September. There is also a short orientation on arrival in Tokyo.
Opportunity is About
Eligibility
Candidates should be from:
Description of Ideal Candidate
Candidates for the Daiwa Scholarships in Japanese Studies must be:
- UK citizens who hold or are completing a degree in Japanese Studies, defined as a course focussing primarily on the study of Japan, and containing a substantial Japanese language component. Applicants who hold (or are completing) combined honours courses where Japanese Studies accounts for at least 50% of the course are also eligible to apply. The Scholarship would be to cover a further course of study related to Japanese Studies.
- enrolled* or enrolling in a further course of study related to Japanese Studies in either Japan or the UK.
*Please note that Scholarships will not be granted in arrears.
Strong Japanese language ability will be a key selection criterion.
Scholarships will not be awarded to former recipients of Daiwa Scholarships or to the same individual more than once.
Dates
Deadline: January 29, 2026
Cost/funding for participants
The Foundation covers travel to Japan, accommodation in Tokyo whilst the Scholar is seeking a flat, all tuition and examination costs, a living allowance for the duration of the Scholarship which is to cover accommodation and living costs for a single person: Yen 280,000 per month (rent is around Yen 80,000 per month), private medical insurance, and support from the Daiwa Anglo-Japanese Foundation’s Liaison Office in Tokyo.
Un-save Opportunity
Internships, scholarships, student conferences and competitions.
