Hey everyone, I'm a final-year undergrad in Computer Science and Engineering with about 4 months left until I graduate. My CGPA is around 7.6-7.7/10, though I had 2 arrears earlier in my degree due to health issues, but I cleared them. I've got some research under my belt: two papers published in IEEE conferences on AI/ML and Quantum Computing. My IELTS is 7.5, and I've passed JLPT N4 to get a head start on Japanese. I'm really excited about shifting my career toward Machine Learning and AI, and I'm eyeing a Master's in Japan because of their strong programs in tech and AI research. Ideally, I'd love to apply for the MEXT scholarship to fund it, but if that doesn't pan out, I'm open to self-funding with part-time jobs I'd arrive with about $10k USD saved up.
A few questions I'm hoping to get advice on:
- Based on my profile (CGPA, publications, skills), do I have a realistic chance at MEXT or other scholarships like JASSO, Rotary Yoneyama, ADB-Japan, or university-specific waivers? Any tips on strengthening my application?
- For admissions: Are mid-tier unis like Osaka or Nagoya good for AI/ML research and job prospects? How important is professor endorsement, and when should I start emailing them?
- Job market after graduation: As an international student, what's the reality for entry-level ML/AI roles in Japan? I know Japanese language is key I'm planning to progress to N2/N1 during my studies. Any experiences from fresh grads?
- Living on a budget: If no full scholarship, is $10k + part-time work enough to cover living costs + tuition in cities like Osaka?
I'd appreciate any insights from current/former students, especially internationals who've gone through this. Thanks in advance!
by yeonjunswife69