The Embassy of Japan in Cuba issued an urgent reminder for those wishing to apply for the MEXT scholarships, an opportunity that includes professional training in Japan and travel, but with one key detail: the deadline is about to close.
Through a social media post, the diplomatic mission warned that there are only a few days left to apply for these scholarships, aimed at teachers, students connected to Japanese culture and language, as well as descendants of Japanese individuals (Nikkei).
"Greetings everyone! We remind you that we are in the final days to apply for the MEXT Scholarships… Don't miss the opportunity to travel to Japan and advance your career!" wrote the embassy.
According to the information released, the application deadline is Monday, February 9, 2026, so those interested must act quickly if they wish to submit their application.
One of the modalities is aimed at descendants of Japanese people residing in Cuba, especially those whose studies are focused on Japanese culture and languages.
Among the published basic requirements are:
- Have completed university studies (at least one year completed)
- Do not exceed 30 years of age
- Apply between January 26 and February 9, 2026
- Attend scheduled exams on February 25 and 26 at the Embassy of Japan in Cuba
Cuban professors can also apply
Another option is open to Cuban teachers, provided they hold a university degree or teaching qualification and work in primary, secondary, pre-university educational institutions, or teacher training centers, excluding universities.
In this case, the applicants must meet additional requirements:
- Do not exceed 35 years
- Being employed by an educational institution
- Count on the endorsement of the relevant regulatory body
Opportunity for university students
Japan also offers scholarships for Cuban students pursuing degrees focused on Japanese culture and language, including those studying Japanese as a second language at the Faculty of Foreign Languages (FLEX) at the University of Havana.
For this category, the age limit is also 30 years.
Travel, enrollment, and financial support: the appeal of MEXT scholarships
Beyond academic prestige, the main appeal of these scholarships lies in what they represent for many Cubans as a genuine opportunity for professional advancement outside the Island and the concrete possibility of traveling to one of the countries most admired for its technological and cultural development.
The MEXT scholarships cover the time required to complete the program, which can extend from October 2026 to March 2028, with no possibility of extension.
According to information published by the Embassy of Japan in Colombia and cited by El Nuevo Herald, in the case of teachers, the monthly support can reach 143,000 yen (about 910 dollars), in addition to covering tuition, entrance exams, registration, and round-trip tickets.
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