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B1 noun #4,000 most common 8 min read

奨学金

shougakukin Top 4,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 奨学金 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 奨学金 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to know that 奨学金 (shōgakukin) means 'money for school.' Think of it as 'school money' given to students who need help paying for their classes. You might hear it when talking about university or studying in Japan. At this stage, you can use it in very simple sentences like '奨学金がほしいです' (I want a scholarship) or '奨学金をもらいます' (I will get a scholarship). Don't worry about the different types or the kanji yet; just remember the sound 'shō-gaku-kin' and that it's related to university costs. It's a noun, so you can treat it like any other object like 'pen' or 'book' in your sentences. For example, 'これは私の奨学金です' (This is my scholarship).

At the A2 level, you should understand that 奨学金 is a formal word used in school environments. You should be able to use it with verbs like morau (receive) or mōshikomu (apply). You might encounter this word when reading about Japanese language schools or universities. You should also start recognizing the kanji characters: 奨 (encourage), 学 (study), and 金 (money). A typical A2 sentence would be: '奨学金を申し込むために、書類を準備します' (I will prepare documents to apply for a scholarship). You are beginning to see it as a necessary part of student life. You should also be aware that it's a long word, so practice the pronunciation 'shō-gaku-kin' clearly to avoid confusing it with other 'kin' (money) words like 'shōkin' (prize money).

At the B1 level (your current level), you need a more nuanced understanding of 奨学金. You should know that in Japan, this word often implies a loan that must be repaid. You should be comfortable using formal verbs like ukeru (receive) and kariru (borrow). You should also understand the difference between kyūfu-gata (grant) and taiyo-gata (loan). At this level, you can describe your financial situation or academic plans in more detail. For example: '将来のために、給付型の奨学金を探しています' (I am looking for a grant-type scholarship for my future). You should also be able to read and understand basic information on scholarship websites, such as deadlines and eligibility requirements. Understanding the social importance of scholarships in Japan is also expected at this level.

At the B2 level, you should be able to discuss the social and economic implications of 奨学金. You can use advanced vocabulary like hensai (repayment), rimawari (interest rate), and shinsa (screening/evaluation). You should be able to participate in a debate about whether scholarships should be non-repayable or if the current system puts too much burden on students. You can understand more complex sentence structures like '奨学金の返済が大きな負担になっている若者が増えている' (The number of young people for whom scholarship repayment is becoming a large burden is increasing). You should also be familiar with specific organizations like JASSO and the types of documents required for high-level applications, such as recommendation letters and income certificates.

At the C1 level, you should have a professional-level command of the term 奨学金. This includes understanding the legal and policy-driven nuances of different scholarship systems. You can use the word in academic writing or business contexts, such as discussing corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs that offer scholarships. You should be aware of the historical development of the scholarship system in Japan and how it differs from systems in other countries. You can use sophisticated phrasing like '奨学金制度の抜本的な見直しが求められている' (A fundamental review of the scholarship system is being called for). You should also be able to understand the fine print of scholarship contracts, including clauses about default, interest calculation, and co-signers (guarantors).

At the C2 level, you have a native-like mastery of the concept of 奨学金. You can analyze the word's role within the broader context of Japanese educational philosophy and economic policy. You can discuss the sociological impact of 'scholarship debt' on marriage rates and birth rates in Japan. You are capable of navigating the most complex bureaucratic processes related to educational funding and can critique the effectiveness of various scholarship programs with nuance and precision. You understand the subtle differences in register between academic, legal, and colloquial uses of the word. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a window into the structural complexities of Japanese society, and you can articulate those complexities with eloquence and depth.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

奨学金 in 30 Seconds

A term for financial aid (scholarships and student loans) used by students to pay for higher education in Japan.
Composed of kanji for 'encourage,' 'study,' and 'money,' reflecting its purpose of supporting academic pursuits.
Can be non-repayable (grant) or repayable (loan), with the latter being very common in the Japanese system.
Associated with verbs like apply (mōshikomu), receive (ukeru/morau), and repay (hensai suru/kaesu).

The word 奨学金 (しょうがくきん) is a cornerstone of the Japanese educational landscape, representing the financial bridge that allows students to pursue higher education. At its most basic level, it translates to 'scholarship' or 'student loan.' However, the cultural and economic nuance in Japan is significantly deeper than the English word 'scholarship' might initially suggest. In many Western countries, a scholarship is primarily viewed as a 'grant' that does not need to be repaid. In Japan, the term 奨学金 serves as an umbrella term that encompasses both non-repayable grants (給付型 - kyūfu-gata) and repayable loans (貸与型 - taiyo-gata). This distinction is vital for any learner or student living in Japan to understand, as the vast majority of Japanese 'scholarships' traditionally functioned as low-interest or interest-free loans.

Etymology and Kanji: The word is composed of three kanji characters: 奨 (shō) meaning 'encourage' or 'promote,' 学 (gaku) meaning 'study' or 'learning,' and 金 (kin) meaning 'money.' Together, they literally mean 'money to encourage learning.'

大学に行くために、日本学生支援機構の奨学金を借りました。
(I borrowed a scholarship from JASSO in order to go to university.)

Usage of this word is ubiquitous in discussions regarding university entrance, graduate school, and vocational training. You will find it in official government documents, university brochures, and daily conversations among students and parents. Because tuition fees in Japan, especially at private universities, can be quite high, the process of applying for a shōgakukin is a standard rite of passage for many young adults. The word carries a sense of responsibility and academic ambition. It is not merely a 'gift' but a financial tool that enables social mobility and specialized training.

Social Context: In Japanese society, receiving a scholarship is often seen as a sign of diligence and academic merit, even if it is a loan. It shows that the student is taking their education seriously enough to invest in their future.

成績が優秀だったので、給付型の奨学金を受けることができた。
(Because my grades were excellent, I was able to receive a grant-type scholarship.)

The term is also frequently mentioned in the news regarding the 'scholarship debt problem' (奨学金問題 - shōgakukin mondai), where graduates struggle to pay back their loans due to stagnant wages. This has led to a recent push for more grant-based systems. Therefore, the word is not just academic; it is deeply political and economic. Understanding 奨学金 is key to understanding the pressures and structures of Japanese youth and the education system at large.

Using 奨学金 correctly involves pairing it with specific verbs that describe the lifecycle of financial aid. The most common verbs are mōshikomu (to apply), ukeru (to receive/be a recipient), and kaesu or hensai suru (to repay). Because the word can mean a loan, the verb kariru (to borrow) is also very frequently used, which might sound strange to English speakers who 'get' scholarships rather than 'borrow' them.

The Application Phase: When you are in the process of trying to get a scholarship, you use 'mōshikomu' (申し込む) or 'shinsei suru' (申請する). These indicate the formal act of submitting paperwork.

来月、海外留学のための奨学金を申し込むつもりです。
(I plan to apply for a scholarship for studying abroad next month.)

Once the application is successful, the verbs change. To describe the state of having a scholarship, use ukeru (受ける) or morau (もらう - more informal). If you want to specify that it is a loan you are currently receiving, karite iru (借りている) is appropriate. This distinction is crucial for clarity in formal settings like job interviews or bank applications.

彼は奨学金だけで大学の学費を払っています。
(He is paying his university tuition solely with a scholarship.)

Repayment and Debt: For the loan type, you will eventually need to 'hensai suru' (返済する - formal) or 'kaesu' (返す - general). These terms are common in discussions about life after graduation.

Finally, the word can be modified by various prefixes to indicate the source or type. For example, minkan shōgakukin (private scholarship) or seifu shōgakukin (government scholarship). When writing an essay, ensure you use the formal kyūfu (provision) or taiyo (lending) to specify the nature of the funds. This demonstrates a high level of vocabulary mastery and cultural awareness.

You will encounter 奨学金 in a variety of real-world scenarios, ranging from the mundane to the life-changing. In the life of a Japanese high school student (kōkōsei), the word starts appearing frequently during the third year as they prepare for university entrance exams. Teachers will hold 'shōgakukin setsumeikai' (scholarship information sessions) to explain the different options available through JASSO (Japan Student Services Organization).

今日の放課後、奨学金の説明会があるから、一緒に行かない？
(There's a scholarship info session after school today, want to go together?)

In university settings, you'll hear it at the 'gakumu-ka' (academic affairs office) or 'gakusei-ka' (student affairs office). Bulletin boards are often plastered with notices about new scholarship opportunities from local municipalities or private foundations. For international students, the 'MEXT Scholarship' (Monbukagakushō Shōgakukin) is a prestigious topic of conversation, often discussed in Japanese language schools worldwide.

Beyond education, the word appears in news broadcasts and social media debates. You might hear the phrase shōgakukin-zuke (being 'soaked' in scholarship debt), a critical term used to describe the heavy financial burden on the younger generation. In documentaries, you might see interviews with graduates who are working multiple jobs to keep up with their shōgakukin no hensai (scholarship repayments).

News and Media: Headlines like '奨学金の返済免除' (Exemption from scholarship repayment) or '給付型奨学金の拡充' (Expansion of grant-type scholarships) are common in political news.

政府は、低所得世帯向けの給付型奨学金を増やすと発表しました。
(The government announced it will increase grant-type scholarships for low-income households.)

Finally, in the workplace, your HR department might ask about your scholarship status if they offer a 'shōgakukin katagawari' (scholarship repayment support) program as a benefit. This shows how the word follows a person from their teenage years well into their professional career.

For English speakers, the primary pitfall is the assumption that 奨学金 always means 'free money.' In English, a student 'loan' and a 'scholarship' are linguistically distinct. In Japanese, if you tell someone 'I got a scholarship,' they might naturally ask, 'Is it the kind you have to pay back?' Using shōgakukin without realizing it might be a loan can lead to serious financial misunderstandings.

Confusion with 'Loan' (ローン): While 'shōgakukin' can be a loan, the word 'rōn' (ローン) in Japanese is usually reserved for bank loans, car loans, or mortgages (jūtaku rōn). Calling your student aid a 'kyōiku rōn' (education loan) usually refers to a bank product taken out by parents, whereas 'shōgakukin' is taken out by the student themselves.

✖ 銀行から奨学金を借りました。
〇銀行から教育ローンを借りました。
(You borrow a 'loan' from a bank, but a 'scholarship' usually comes from an organization/school.)

Another common error is with the verb particles. Beginners often use ni when they should use wo. You 'apply FOR' a scholarship in English, but in Japanese, you 'apply THE scholarship' (奨学金を申し込む). Also, confuse not shōgakukin with shōkin (賞金), which means 'prize money' or 'award money' for winning a contest. While both are money you 'win' or 'earn,' shōgakukin is strictly for academic purposes.

Finally, pay attention to the kanji. 奨 (shō) is a complex character with 13 strokes. It is often confused with 将 (shō - future/general). Writing '将来金' instead of '奨学金' is a common kanji mistake for learners, as both relate to the 'future' and 'money,' but the former is not a standard word.

Nuance of 'Borrowing': If you say '奨学金をもらっています' (I am receiving a scholarship), many Japanese people will assume it is a gift. If you say '奨学金を借りています' (I am borrowing a scholarship), they know it is a loan. Being vague can lead to confusion about your financial status.

Understanding the family of words related to financial aid will help you navigate Japanese bureaucracy and academic life more effectively. 奨学金 is the most common term, but depending on the source and purpose, other words might be more accurate.

奨学金 vs. 助成金 (Joseikin): Joseikin usually refers to 'subsidies' or 'grants' provided by the government or organizations to companies or research projects. While shōgakukin is for students, joseikin is for business or research activities.
奨学金 vs. 補助金 (Hojokin): Hojokin means 'subsidy.' This is often used for public works or specific social programs. It is rarely used for individual student aid.

研究者は国から研究助成金を受け取った。
(The researcher received a research grant from the state.)

For those looking for 'free' money specifically, the term kyūfu-kin (給付金) is often used. During the pandemic, the government issued 'tokubetsu teigaku kyūfukin' (special fixed-rate benefits). In an academic context, kyūfu-gata shōgakukin is the precise term for a non-repayable scholarship. Conversely, if you are strictly talking about a bank product, use kyōiku rōn (教育ローン).

Another interesting term is tokutaisai (特待生), which means 'honor student' or 'scholarship student.' If you are a 'tokutaisai,' your tuition might be waived entirely. This is different from receiving a sum of money; it's a status that grants financial exemption.

Summary of Alternatives: 1. 給付金 (Kyūfukin): General benefit/grant money.
2. 学資援助 (Gakushi enjo): Financial aid (broad term).
3. 育英金 (Ikueikin): Educational fund (older, more formal term).
4. 貸付金 (Kashitsukekin): Loan (very formal/legal term).

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

Before the current system, local lords (daimyo) sometimes provided similar support to talented samurai children, but the formal word 'shōgakukin' is a product of the Meiji era's educational reforms.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ʃoʊ.ɡæ.kuː.kiːn/

US /ʃoʊ.ɡæ.ku.kɪn/

Japanese has pitch accent rather than stress. In Standard Japanese (Tokyo), 'shōgakukin' is typically pronounced with a flat (Heiban) accent [0], meaning the pitch stays relatively level after an initial rise.

Rhymes With

金 (kin - money) 貯金 (chokin - savings) 年金 (nenkin - pension) 募金 (bokin - fundraising) 賃金 (chingin - wages) 入金 (nyūkin - deposit) 賞金 (shōkin - prize money) 現生 (namanama - slang for cash, though not a perfect rhyme)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'sho' instead of the long 'shō'.
Confusing 'kin' with 'gin' (silver).
Putting the stress on the wrong syllable like an English word.
Mixing up the 'gaku' and 'kaku' sounds.
Forgetting the 'n' sound at the very end.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The kanji are common but '奨' has many strokes and can be tricky for beginners.

Writing 4/5

Writing '奨' correctly requires practice with stroke order.

Speaking 2/5

The pronunciation is straightforward once you master the long 'o'.

Listening 2/5

Easily recognizable in academic and news contexts.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

大学 (daigaku) お金 (okane) 勉強 (benkyō) 学生 (gakusei) 払う (harau)

Learn Next

返済 (hensai) 申請 (shinsei) 免除 (menjo) 利子 (rishi) 保証人 (hoshōnin)

Advanced

教育格差 (kyōiku kakusa) 自己破産 (jiko hasan) 所得制限 (shotoku seigen) 日本学生支援機構 (JASSO)

Grammar to Know

Noun + のおかげで (Thanks to...)

奨学金のおかげで、留学することができました。

Verb (Dictionary form) + ために (In order to...)

奨学金をもらうために、毎日遅くまで勉強しています。

Verb (Te-form) + もらう (To receive the favor of...)

大学から奨学金を出してもらいました。

Noun + に基づいて (Based on...)

成績に基づいて、奨学金の受給者が決まります。

Noun + を通じて (Through...)

JASSOを通じて奨学金を申し込みました。

Examples by Level

奨学金がほしいです。

I want a scholarship.

Simple noun + particle 'ga' + 'hoshii' (want).

これは奨学金のお金です。

This is scholarship money.

Noun + 'no' + Noun structure.

奨学金をもらいます。

I will receive a scholarship.

Verb 'morau' indicates receiving something.

奨学金はいくらですか？

How much is the scholarship?

Asking for an amount using 'ikura'.

大学で奨学金を使います。

I use the scholarship at university.

Particle 'de' indicates location; 'wo' indicates the object.

奨学金、ありがとう。

Thank you for the scholarship.

Informal gratitude.

奨学金がありますか？

Is there a scholarship?

Checking for existence with 'arimasu ka'.

奨学金はいいですね。

Scholarships are good, aren't they?

Using 'ne' for agreement.

奨学金を申し込むつもりです。

I intend to apply for a scholarship.

V-dictionary form + 'tsumori' indicates intention.

奨学金をもらって、日本へ行きます。

I will get a scholarship and go to Japan.

Te-form to connect two actions chronologically.

奨学金の説明会はどこですか？

Where is the scholarship information session?

Compound noun 'shōgakukin setsumeikai'.

奨学金をもらうのは難しいです。

Getting a scholarship is difficult.

Nominalizing a verb with 'no' to make it a subject.

奨学金の書類を忘れました。

I forgot the scholarship documents.

Object 'shorui' (documents) with 'no' possessive.

奨学金を借りることができますか？

Is it possible to borrow a scholarship?

V-dictionary form + 'koto ga dekiru' (can do).

先生に奨学金のことを聞きました。

I asked the teacher about the scholarship.

Noun + 'no koto' (about something).

奨学金のおかげで勉強できます。

Thanks to the scholarship, I can study.

'Okage de' means 'thanks to' (positive cause).

給付型の奨学金を受けたいです。

I want to receive a grant-type scholarship.

Specific type 'kyūfu-gata' (non-repayable).

奨学金の申請には成績証明書が必要です。

A transcript is required for the scholarship application.

Particle 'ni wa' indicating requirements for a purpose.

卒業したら、奨学金を返さなければなりません。

I must pay back the scholarship once I graduate.

'-nakereba narimasen' indicates obligation.

奨学金の審査に通るか心配です。

I'm worried about whether I'll pass the scholarship screening.

'~ka shinpai' (worried about whether...).

彼は奨学金で学費をまかなっています。

He is covering his tuition with a scholarship.

Verb 'makanau' (to cover/manage expenses).

奨学金の募集要項をよく読んでください。

Please read the scholarship application guidelines carefully.

Compound noun 'boshū yōkō' (application guidelines).

奨学金の種類はいろいろあります。

There are various types of scholarships.

Topic 'shurui' (types) + 'iroiro' (various).

奨学金を継続するためには成績を維持する必要があります。

To continue the scholarship, you need to maintain your grades.

'~tame ni wa' (in order to...) + 'hitsuyō ga aru' (need to).

奨学金の返済免除制度について調べています。

I'm researching the scholarship repayment exemption system.

Complex compound 'hensai menjo seido' (repayment exemption system).

奨学金は学生にとって大きな経済的支えです。

Scholarships are a great economic support for students.

'~ni totte' (for / from the perspective of).

貸与型の奨学金には利子がつく場合があります。

In some cases, interest is added to loan-type scholarships.

'~baai ga aru' (there are cases where...).

奨学金を申請する際、理由書を書かなければなりません。

When applying for a scholarship, you must write a statement of purpose.

'-sai' (formal word for 'when').

奨学金の延滞金が発生しないように注意してください。

Be careful not to incur late fees for the scholarship.

'~yō ni' (so that / in order to) + 'chuui suru'.

彼は民間の団体から奨学金を受けています。

He is receiving a scholarship from a private organization.

'Minkan no dantai' (private organization).

奨学金制度の充実が、教育格差の解消につながります。

Enhancing the scholarship system leads to the elimination of educational inequality.

Abstract nouns like 'jūjitsu' (enhancement) and 'kaishō' (elimination).

奨学金が打ち切られないように、出席率に気をつけます。

I will be careful with my attendance rate so that the scholarship is not cut off.

Passive verb 'uchikirareru' (to be discontinued/cut off).

奨学金債務の増大が若年層の消費を抑制しているという指摘がある。

It is pointed out that the increase in scholarship debt is suppressing consumption among the youth.

Academic tone with 'yokusei' (suppress) and 'shiteki' (point out).

給付型奨学金の対象範囲を拡大する政策が議論されている。

Policies to expand the scope of grant-type scholarships are being discussed.

Formal compound 'taishō han'i' (target scope).

奨学金の返済が滞ると、個人信用情報に影響を及ぼす恐れがある。

If scholarship repayment is delayed, there is a risk it will affect personal credit information.

'~osore ga aru' (there is a fear/risk that...).

海外の大学院に進学するため、返済不要の奨学金を獲得した。

I obtained a non-repayable scholarship to proceed to a graduate school abroad.

'Hensai fuyō' (repayment not required) - very formal.

奨学金制度は、機会均等の原則に基づき運用されるべきだ。

The scholarship system should be operated based on the principle of equal opportunity.

'~ni motozuki' (based on).

多くの学生が奨学金という名の「借金」を背負って社会に出る。

Many students enter society carrying 'debt' under the name of a scholarship.

Metaphorical use of '背負う' (to carry on one's back).

地方自治体独自の奨学金返済支援策が注目を集めている。

Scholarship repayment support measures unique to local governments are attracting attention.

'Chihō jichitai' (local government).

奨学金の受給要件が厳格化され、困窮する学生が増えている。

As scholarship eligibility requirements become stricter, the number of students in need is increasing.

'~ka sareru' (to be made into/to become - formal process).

奨学金制度の構造的問題は、日本の高等教育の公的支援の低さに起因している。

The structural problems of the scholarship system stem from the low level of public support for higher education in Japan.

'~ni kiin suru' (to stem from/be caused by - highly formal).

教育の機会均等を実現するためには、奨学金の給付化が不可欠な課題である。

To achieve equal opportunity in education, making scholarships grant-based is an indispensable challenge.

'Fukaketsu' (indispensable) + 'kadai' (issue/task).

奨学金返済負担の軽減は、少子化対策の一環としても極めて重要である。

Reducing the burden of scholarship repayment is extremely important as part of measures against the declining birthrate.

'~no ikkan to shite' (as part of).

学生は奨学金という将来の所得を担保にした金融契約を締結しているに等しい。

Students are essentially entering into a financial contract that uses their future income as collateral, under the guise of a scholarship.

'~ni hitoshii' (equivalent to).

日本の奨学金制度は、実質的には学生ローンとしての側面が強く、名称と実態の乖離が指摘される。

The Japanese scholarship system effectively has a strong aspect as a student loan, and a divergence between its name and reality is pointed out.

'Kairi' (divergence/gap) - highly academic term.

高度専門職人材の育成において、返済免除型奨学金が果たす役割は極めて大きい。

In the cultivation of highly specialized human resources, the role played by repayment-exempt scholarships is extremely significant.

Focus on 'ikusei' (cultivation) and 'hatasu yakuwari' (role played).

奨学金の滞納問題に対し、法的な救済措置の拡充が急務となっている。

In response to the problem of scholarship arrears, the expansion of legal relief measures has become an urgent matter.

'Kyūmu' (urgent task).

経済的困窮が教育達成度に及ぼす負の影響を排除するため、奨学金制度の抜本的な再構築が不可欠だ。

To eliminate the negative impact that economic hardship has on educational attainment, a fundamental restructuring of the scholarship system is essential.

'Bapponteki' (fundamental/radical) + 'saikōchiku' (restructuring).

Synonyms

学資金給付金スカラシップ

Antonyms

学費授業料

Common Collocations

奨学金を受ける

奨学金を申し込む

奨学金を返す

奨学金制度

給付型奨学金

貸与型奨学金

奨学金の審査

奨学金の返済

奨学金をもらう

奨学金を借りる

Common Phrases

奨学金の申請書

— The application form for a scholarship. It is the first step in the process.

奨学金の申請書に理由を詳しく書く。

奨学金希望者

— A person who wishes to receive a scholarship. Used in formal notices.

奨学金希望者は会議室に集まってください。

奨学金受給者

— A scholarship recipient. Used in official statistics or reports.

奨学金受給者の割合が増加している。

奨学金案内

— Scholarship information/guide. Often found on university websites.

奨学金案内を読んで、自分に合うものを探す。

奨学金枠

— A scholarship 'slot' or quota. Refers to the limited number of recipients.

この奨学金は枠が少ないので競争が激しい。

奨学金免除

— Scholarship exemption. Usually means not having to pay back a loan due to merit.

優れた業績により、奨学金が全額免除された。

奨学金返済支援

— Support for scholarship repayment. Often a benefit provided by companies.

奨学金返済支援がある会社に就職したい。

無利子奨学金

— An interest-free scholarship loan. Highly sought after.

運良く無利子奨学金を借りることができた。

有利子奨学金

— A scholarship loan with interest. Common but more expensive to repay.

有利子奨学金は、将来の利息に注意が必要だ。

奨学金問題

— The 'scholarship problem.' Refers to the social issue of student debt.

ニュースで奨学金問題が大きく取り上げられた。

Often Confused With

奨学金 vs 賞金 (Shōkin)

This is prize money for a contest. Shōgakukin is for study.

奨学金 vs 助成金 (Joseikin)

This is a grant for a company or project, not an individual student.

奨学金 vs 教育ローン (Kyōiku Rōn)

This is a bank loan usually taken by parents, not the student aid system.

Idioms & Expressions

"奨学金で首が回らない"

— To be overwhelmed by scholarship debt to the point of financial paralysis. 'Kubi ga mawaranai' means being deep in debt.

奨学金の返済で首が回らない状態だ。

Colloquial

"奨学金を食いつぶす"

— To waste scholarship money on things other than education, like gambling or luxury. 'Kuitsubusu' means to consume everything.

彼は奨学金を遊びで食いつぶしてしまった。

Critical/Informal

"奨学金が命綱"

— The scholarship is a lifeline. Without it, the student cannot survive or study.

貧しい彼にとって、奨学金はまさに命綱だ。

Metaphorical

"奨学金のおこぼれ"

— Small leftover amounts from a scholarship after paying tuition. 'Okobore' means crumbs or leftovers.

奨学金のおこぼれで新しい参考書を買った。

Informal

"奨学金にすがる"

— To cling to a scholarship for survival. 'Sugaru' implies desperation.

親の援助がないので、奨学金にすがるしかない。

Emotional

"奨学金という名の重荷"

— A burden named 'scholarship.' Highlights the heavy weight of the debt.

卒業と同時に、奨学金という名の重荷を背負うことになる。

Literary/Journalistic

"奨学金で身を立てる"

— To establish oneself in the world using a scholarship as the foundation.

彼は奨学金で身を立て、立派な学者になった。

Positive/Formal

"奨学金が打ち切りになる"

— For a scholarship to be suddenly stopped. 'Uchikiri' means termination.

成績不振で奨学金が打ち切りになった。

Standard

"奨学金を工面する"

— To manage or scrape together scholarship funds. 'Kumen' means to find a way to get money.

なんとか奨学金を工面して留学を決めた。

Standard

"奨学金に恥じない"

— To live up to the scholarship. To study hard enough to justify receiving the money.

奨学金に恥じないよう、精一杯勉強します。

Formal/Determined

Easily Confused

奨学金 vs 給付 (Kyūfu)

Often used within scholarship names.

Kyūfu means 'provision' or 'grant' (no repayment), whereas Taiyo means 'lending' (must repay).

給付型奨学金は返さなくていい。

奨学金 vs 貸与 (Taiyo)

It's the technical term for the loan part of a scholarship.

Taiyo is a formal word for borrowing; Shōgakukin is the generic term for the money itself.

この奨学金は貸与型です。

奨学金 vs 免除 (Menjo)

Related to not paying.

Menjo means 'exemption' (e.g., from tuition or repayment). Shōgakukin is the money provided.

奨学金の返済を免除された。

奨学金 vs 受給 (Jukyū)

Formal verb for receiving.

Jukyū specifically refers to receiving benefits/funds; Morau is general 'getting.'

奨学金を受給している学生。

奨学金 vs 申請 (Shinsei)

Process of getting the money.

Shinsei is 'application' (the act); Shōgakukin is the money (the object).

奨学金の申請は終わりましたか？

Sentence Patterns

[Noun] がほしいです。

奨学金がほしいです。

[Noun] を [Verb-masu].

奨学金を申し込みます。

[Noun] のおかげで [Sentence].

奨学金のおかげで大学に行けます。

[Verb-dict] ために [Noun] を借りる。

留学するために奨学金を借りる。

[Noun] によって [Verb-passive].

奨学金は成績によって決定されます。

[Noun] に対する [Noun].

奨学金に対する考え方は人それぞれだ。

[Noun] を踏まえた [Noun].

経済状況を踏まえた奨学金制度の構築。

[Noun] に起因する [Noun].

奨学金返済に起因する生活苦。

Word Family

Nouns

奨学 (shōgaku - encouragement of learning)

奨励 (shōrei - encouragement)

学生 (gakusei - student)

資金 (shikin - funds)

Verbs

奨励する (shōrei suru - to encourage)

学ぶ (manabu - to learn)

金を使う (kane wo tsukau - to use money)

Adjectives

奨学的な (shōgakuteki na - scholarly/educational)

大学 (daigaku - university)

学費 (gakuhi - tuition)

返済 (hensai - repayment)

申請 (shinsei - application)

審査 (shinsa - screening)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in academic and financial planning contexts.

Common Mistakes

Using 'shōkin' instead of 'shōgakukin'. → 奨学金 (shōgakukin)
Shōkin is a prize for winning something. Shōgakukin is for education.
Assuming all shōgakukin are grants. → Check if it is 'kyūfu' or 'taiyo'.
In English, scholarship implies a gift. In Japanese, it often implies a loan.
Saying 'shōgakukin wo mōshikomu ni'. → 奨学金を申し込む (shōgakukin wo mōshikomu)
You apply 'the' scholarship in Japanese grammar, not 'to' the scholarship.
Confusing 'shō' (奨) with 'shō' (将). → 奨学金
While they look similar, the radical at the bottom is different. '奨' has '大'.
Using 'rōn' for all student aid. → 奨学金 (shōgakukin)
'Rōn' usually refers to commercial bank products, not the student aid system.

Tips

Verbs Matter

Remember to use 'kariru' (borrow) if you are talking about a loan-type scholarship. It sounds more natural to Japanese ears.

Stroke Order

The kanji '奨' is complex. Practice the top part '将' and the bottom part '大' separately to get the balance right.

JASSO is Key

If you are in Japan, you will hear 'JASSO' more than 'shōgakukin.' They are almost synonymous in daily student life.

Check the Type

When looking at lists, always look for '給付' (grant) or '貸与' (loan) first. This is the most important piece of information.

Formal Situations

In interviews, use '奨学金を受給しております' to sound like a sophisticated student.

Catch the 'Kin'

Many words end in 'kin' (money). Context is everything. If you hear 'daigaku' and 'kin,' it's probably 'shōgakukin.'

Related Words

Learn 'menjo' (exemption) along with 'shōgakukin' as they often go together in financial aid discussions.

Encouragement

The first kanji '奨' means encouragement. Think of a scholarship as the school encouraging you to keep going!

Sensitive Topic

Don't brag about scholarships, as some students might be struggling with the debt aspect of theirs.

Application Essays

When writing a reason for applying, use phrases like '学業に専念するため' (in order to devote myself to my studies).

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'SHOW GAKU KIN'. You want to SHOW your study (GAKU) results to get the money (KIN).

Visual Association

Imagine a student holding a gold coin (KIN) while pointing at a school building (GAKU) with a cheerleader (SHŌ) encouraging them.

Word Web

Money University Loan Grant JASSO Application Tuition Future

Challenge

Try to find 3 different scholarship names online in Japan and write them down. Then, identify if they are 'kyūfu' or 'taiyo'.

Word Origin

The term was coined in the late 19th or early 20th century during the modernization of the Japanese education system. It combined traditional kanji to describe a modern financial concept.

Original meaning: Money intended to promote and support academic study.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Cultural Context

Be sensitive when asking others about their scholarship; for some, it is a reminder of financial hardship or a heavy debt burden.

In the US/UK, 'scholarship' almost always means free money. In Japan, it usually means a loan. This is the biggest cultural hurdle for English speakers.

The Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) is the most famous provider. The MEXT (Monbukagakushō) scholarship is the holy grail for international students. Various anime like 'Blue Period' touch on the financial stress of art school and scholarships.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

University Orientation

奨学金の説明会
申請期限を守る
必要書類を提出する
成績基準を確認する

Job Interview

奨学金を返済中である
返済支援制度の有無
学費を自力で工面した
奨学金のおかげで学べた

News Report

奨学金債務の増大
給付型への転換
若者の経済的負担
返済猶予の申請

Talking with Friends

奨学金借りてる？
返すの大変だよね
どこの奨学金？
審査通った！

Administrative Office

奨学金の継続手続き
振込日の確認
住所変更の届け出
辞退の手続き

Conversation Starters

"大学時代、奨学金を利用していましたか？ (Did you use a scholarship during your university days?)"

"日本の奨学金制度についてどう思いますか？ (What do you think about the Japanese scholarship system?)"

"海外留学のための奨学金を探しているのですが、アドバイスはありますか？ (I'm looking for a scholarship to study abroad; do you have any advice?)"

"奨学金の返済は、日本の若者にとって大きな問題だと思いますか？ (Do you think scholarship repayment is a big problem for Japanese youth?)"

"もし奨学金がもらえなかったら、大学に行けましたか？ (If you hadn't received a scholarship, could you have gone to university?)"

Journal Prompts

もし自分が奨学金を運営するなら、どのような学生に一番お金をあげたいですか？その理由を書いてください。 (If you ran a scholarship, what kind of student would you want to give money to the most? Write the reason.)

奨学金をもらうことのメリットとデメリットについて、あなたの考えを述べてください。 (State your thoughts on the merits and demerits of receiving a scholarship.)

自分の国と日本の奨学金制度を比較して、どのような違いがあるか説明してください。 (Compare the scholarship system in your country with Japan's and explain the differences.)

奨学金の返済が免除されるとしたら、あなたはどのような社会貢献をしたいですか？ (If your scholarship repayment were waived, what kind of social contribution would you want to make?)

教育はすべて無料であるべきだと思いますか、それとも奨学金のような制度が必要だと思いますか？ (Do you think education should be completely free, or are systems like scholarships necessary?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, it depends on the type. 'Kyūfu-gata' (grant-type) does not need to be repaid, while 'Taiyo-gata' (loan-type) must be paid back after graduation, sometimes with interest.

Yes, there are many scholarships specifically for international students, such as the MEXT scholarship, JASSO honors scholarship, and private foundation grants.

Requirements usually include academic performance (GPA), household income levels, and sometimes a character evaluation or an essay.

For Japanese students, applications often start in high school. For international students, it can be before arriving in Japan or once enrolled in a school.

JASSO stands for Japan Student Services Organization. It is the largest provider of scholarships (loans and grants) in Japan.

Not exactly. While loan-type scholarships must be repaid, they usually have much lower interest rates and better repayment terms than standard bank loans.

It depends on the rules of each scholarship. Some allow 'heiyō' (combined use), while others strictly forbid receiving money from other sources.

You can apply for 'hensai yūyo' (repayment postponement) or 'gen'gaku hensai' (reduced repayment amount) if you have financial difficulties.

It varies wildly. Some cover just a small part of living costs (e.g., 20,000 yen/month), while others cover full tuition plus living expenses (e.g., 150,000 yen/month).

Traditionally yes, you needed a 'hoshōnin' (guarantor), usually a parent. Now, many systems allow you to use an 'institutional guarantee' by paying a small fee.