Ever wanted to study in Japan?

Applications are now open for the Daiwa Scholarship!

The Daiwa Anglo-Japanese Foundation is a UK charity, established in 1988 with the aim to support closer links between Japan and the United Kingdom. A big part of the work they do is the Daiwa Scholarship, a unique study and work abroad experience.

About the programme

The Daiwa Scholarship lasts approximately 20 months with this cohort starting in late July/August 2026 and finishing at the end of March 2028.

After a four-week Japanese langauge course in the UK, scholars move to Japan, where they are welcomed with an orientation in Tokyo. From September 2026 – August 2027, they will then undertake intensive Japanese language study, after which they are encouraged to sit Level N2 of the Japanese Langauge Proficiency test.

At the end of this first year, participants will then spend one month in a homestay with a family outside of Tokyo to help improve their language.

The final stage of the programme, from September 2027 – March 2028, will be work placements appropriate to the scholars’ individual career goals. Previously, these placements have been carried out at NGOs, universities, think-tanks, media companies, architecture practices and law firms.

The scholarship ends with a graduation ceremony in Tokyo.

The application process

Applicants for the Daiwa Scholarship must be British citizens and graduates (or due to graduate by September 2026) with a strong degree in any subject except Japanese language. In fact, no previous experience of Japan or Japanese is necessary.

In order to apply, complete the form found on the online portal which must include referral letters from three different referees. You will also need to upload a passport-sized photograph.

The deadline for the 2026 programme is Thursday 4 December.

For more information, including interviews with programme alumni, head to the Daiwa Scholarship webpage.