My name is Diaz Wigunnar Coco, and I am a proud graduate of Binus ASO, specializing in Automotive Robotics and Engineering, class of 2023. Currently, I am pursuing a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, supported by the MEXT scholarship, at Toyohashi University of Technology in Aichi, Japan.

Last year, in 2023, I completed an internship at ASO College in Fukuoka, where I worked on my undergraduate thesis for one year. My time living in Fukuoka made me eager to return to Japan, whether to further my studies or to work in the future.

I’ve long been fascinated by Japan, from anime, manga, and music to its rich culture. So when Ms. Winda informed me about the MEXT scholarship opportunity at Toyohashi University of Technology, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. With the help of recommendations from Prof. Fergy, Ms. Winda, and Mr. Sofyan, I applied through the university recommendation route.

The application process began around September 2023, when I started reaching out to my prospective professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, hoping they could support my scholarship application to Toyohashi University. After that, I had an interview with Uchiyama-sensei, who was to be my future supervisor at TUT. Once I passed, I was asked to submit several important documents, including:

1. A copy of the Letter of Acceptance (Only prospective supervisors at TUT can download the format).
2. 2024 Application form for the Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship.
3. Field of Study and Research Plan.
4. Official Academic Transcripts from both undergraduate and graduate schools (Originals or Certified Copies).
5. Certificate of Graduation or Provisional Certificate from both undergraduate and graduate schools (Originals or Certified Copies).
6. Publication list for MEXT Scholarship Application.
7. Abstract of Thesis (if completed) or a description of your thesis research in progress.
8. Proof of high academic performance or good achievement record.
9. Recommendation Letter.
10. Photograph.
11. Certificate of Language Proficiency.
12. CV (Any format, but it must include all academic and employment history).
13. Photocopy of Passport.
14. Declaration sheet for MEXT Scholarship Application.
15. Checklist of documents for the Japanese Government Scholarship.
16. Academic Performance Entry Sheet.

Since my program is taught in English, they required proof of my English proficiency, such as TOEIC, IELTS, or TOEFL. I took the IELTS to complete the necessary documentation. After submitting everything and passing the document screening phase, I had to take an examination. Upon successfully completing the exam, TUT sent me various documents to Indonesia, including the MEXT scholarship certificate, which I needed to bring to Japan, and other documents to fill out and send back from Indonesia.

Finally, on September 30th, I flew from Jakarta to Aichi to begin my two-year Master’s program, which will run until September 2026.

SDG 4, Quality Education.