Birkbeck, University of London is delighted to announce the Mimizuku Award in Japanese Studies for the academic year 2026. This undergraduate scholarship is designed to support students enrolled in BA Japanese Studies programmes within the School of Creative Arts, Culture and Communication who demonstrate financial need.
Birkbeck University of London was founded in 1823 by Dr George Birkbeck to provide education to working people who could not study during the day. It began as the London Mechanics’ Institute and later became part of the University of London in 1920. Birkbeck is known for its evening teaching model, allowing students to work and study at the same time. Today, it is a respected public research university located in Bloomsbury, London, offering flexible higher education to students from diverse backgrounds.
Table of Briefs
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Birkbeck Mimizuku Award in Japanese Studies |
| Level of Study | Undergraduate |
| Eligible Courses | BA Japanese Studies including Foundation Year & International Experience |
| Study Mode | Full-time or Part-time |
| Tuition Fee Status | Home and International |
| Award Value | £5,000 |
| Number of Awards | Two |
| Campus Requirement | Bloomsbury campus, London including online programmes |
| Deadline | 31 July 2026 |
| Use of Funds | Tuition fees only |
Background
Birkbeck has long been recognised for its inclusive education model, offering flexible learning opportunities to both traditional and non-traditional students. The Mimizuku Award in Japanese Studies is designed to promote academic excellence in Japanese language, culture, and society studies while supporting students who demonstrate financial need.
By offering targeted funding at key progression points Year 2 and Final Year, the award ensures that students can focus on their studies without the burden of financial strain.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for this scholarship, students must meet the following requirements:
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Be enrolled in one of the eligible programmes:
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BA Japanese Studies
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BA Japanese Studies with Foundation Year
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BA Japanese Studies with International Experience
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Be studying within the School of Creative Arts, Culture and Communication
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Be a registered Birkbeck student based at the Bloomsbury campus including online programmes
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Demonstrate financial need normally household income below £42,875 per year supporting evidence required
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Be progressing to Year 2 or the final year
If more candidates qualify than awards available, academic performance may be considered.
Students may apply in consecutive years if their financial and academic circumstances justify continued support.
Benefits
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Total Awards: Two scholarships
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Value: £5,000 each
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Purpose: Tuition fees only
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Payment Structure:
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If the programme spans multiple years, the award will be split across those years.
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Important note:
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Students may receive only one Birkbeck scholarship.
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If eligible for multiple awards, the student will receive the highest-value scholarship only.
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Scholarships are subject to funding availability.
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Birkbeck reserves the right to amend or withdraw the scholarship without prior notice.
Application Process
To apply:
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Complete the online application form via Birkbeck’s official scholarship page.
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Submit supporting documentation proving financial need.
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Ensure academic records are up to date.
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Apply before the deadline 31 July 2026.
I strongly recommend applying well before the deadline to avoid technical issues and to allow time for document verification.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 31 July 2026.
Conclusion
The Birkbeck Mimizuku Award in Japanese Studies represents far more than a financial contribution of £5,000 it is an investment in your academic continuity, intellectual development, and professional future. For students progressing into Year 2 or their final year at Birkbeck, University of London, this scholarship arrives at a crucial stage of study.