My MEXT Interview Experience

I had my MEXT research interview today and I want to share my experience.

This was my second application. I failed the written exam last year. I didn't have much hope for this year either, but I passed the exam and found out 10 days ago that I'll be accepted for an interview.

I am a Japanese Language&Literature student, and my research is related to Japanese Literature. I studied in Japan for a year and have an N2 certificate, so I expected the interview to be entirely in Japanese and prepared accordingly. Also, English is my first foreign language, and I believe that I can speak it fluently.

The interview jury consisted of four people, two of whom were my university professors. This was both good and bad for me. While it was comforting and familiar to see my professors' faces, I felt the pressure and anticipation more intensely.

I received four main questions. My answers to these questions also raised some minor questions. The interview lasted a total of 10 minutes. If you ask me, it's too short, but it wasn't just me; everyone's was 10 minutes.

The four main questions were as follows:

Why do you want to go to Japan?

Do you plan to return to your country?

Can you tell us more about the books that explain the theory on which your research is based?

How will this study benefit Japan and your country?

I felt that I struggled to give the expected answers to some questions, that my language skills were lacking in places, and that the jury did not find the topic interesting or valuable enough. The third question was particularly difficult because I had trouble hearing the jury member asking it, and there was a slight misunderstanding. While trying to explain my methodology, I got carried away with excitement and the jury member, who was also my professor, asked me if I had learned about this theory and method by watching videos. I felt so humiliated, I told that I'd read the books right away, but I didn't feel like he believed me. Apart from that it wasn't a terrible interview, both sides understood each other clearly, it felt like a casual conversation at times, but still, something didn't feel right. I wouldn't be surprised if I wasn't accepted.

I believe they made the final decision by evaluating not only the interview, but all stages from the application form to the exam performance, as well as our educational background. This gives me some hope because I have a very good educational background and a strong application.

Regardless of the outcome, I have no intention of giving up on my dream. Reaching the interview stage was very important to me. I know I can do it again if necessary.

What were your interview experiences like? Are there any who felt their interviews went very badly but still won the scholarship?

I wish everyone good luck🙏🏻