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Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Applications are now open for the 2025 Mitsui Educational Foundation (MEF) Study Tour of Japan! This prestigious 21-day program offers Australian undergraduate students a unique opportunity to experience the culture, history, and innovation of Japan through a thoughtfully curated itinerary.

About the MEF Study Tour

Since its establishment in 1971, MEF has aimed to strengthen ties between Australia and Japan by introducing Australian students to Japanese culture, history, and contemporary life. The program offers participants a chance to:

• Visit historical sites such as Kyoto, Nara, and Hiroshima.
• Tour Japanese companies and factories.
• Stay with a Japanese family as part of a homestay.
• Engage with Japanese university students preparing for their careers at Mitsui.
• Attend a lecture at a Japanese university.
• Meet the Australian Ambassador to Japan.
• Experience Japan's natural beauty, including Hakone and Miyajima Island.
• Immerse in traditions such as hot springs, kimono fitting, and tea ceremonies.
• Explore iconic tourist destinations in Tokyo, including temples, shrines, and museums.

Application and Selection Criteria

To apply, students must meet the following criteria:

• Be a full-time, on-campus undergraduate student in their second year or above at the time of application (Honours students treated as undergraduates are also eligible).
• Be an Australian citizen (permanent residents are not eligible).

Applicants will be selected based on:

1. Academic capability, though high academic achievement is not the sole criterion.
2. A demonstrated interest in learning broadly about Japan.
3. The potential to benefit significantly from the MEF experience (students with extensive prior experience in Japan may not be selected).
4. The ability to act as an outstanding ambassador for their university, state, and Australia during the program.
5. No prior study of Japan or the Japanese language is required.

Universities will shortlist four candidates, and MEF will conduct interviews to select one student from each participating institution.

This program is not just about sightseeing - MEF is a transformative experience. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture, forge meaningful connections, and develop as a global citizen. Plus, you’ll represent your university and Australia as an outstanding ambassador!

After the Program

Successful participants will be required to:

• Submit a 3,000-word report detailing their impressions of Japan.
• Present their experiences at a debriefing session held at Mitsui’s Melbourne office.

These contributions allow participants to reflect on their journey and share insights with MEF trustees, Mitsui staff, and future program participants. Graduates of the program will also become members of the MEF alumni association, joining a network of like-minded individuals committed to fostering ties between Australia and Japan.

Key Dates for the 2025 Program

• Application Deadline: 4 July 2025
• Interviews: August 2025
• Study Tour Dates: 18 November – 9 December 2025
• Post-Program Report Due: 12 January 2026

Participating Universities for 2025

• Australian National University 
• Curtin University
• Macquarie University 
• Monash University 
• RMIT University 
• University of Newcastle 
• University of Sydney 
• University of Wollongong 

Ready to Start Your Journey?

If you’re interested, keep an eye out for updates and promotional materials from your university. Applications close on 4 July 2025, so don’t miss this incredible opportunity to explore Japan and create unforgettable memories.

For further details, contact student.life@anu.edu.au or visit the .