Hokkaido University MEXT Scholarship 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded

Posted by: Smart || Categories: Scholarship

Graduate School of Environmental Science – Post-SDGs Leadership Program

📅 Application Deadline: December 4, 2025 (via prospective supervisor)
🎓 Program Commencement: October 2026

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Overview

Hokkaido University, Japan, invites outstanding international students to apply for the 2026 Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship (University Recommendation) – Special Selection: Graduate Program for Environmental Conservation Leadership for Post-SDGs.

This prestigious, fully funded scholarship aims to nurture the next generation of global environmental leaders who will advance sustainability and conservation in the post-SDGs era.

All applicants must first obtain consent from a prospective supervisor before applying. Submission of application documents should be made through the supervisor.

📍 To find a supervisor, refer to Hokkaido University’s official Staff Information Page.

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Scholarship Slots

• Master’s Program: 3 positions

• Doctoral Program: 4 positions

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Eligibility Criteria

1. General Requirements

• Applicants must be international students with strong academic records who wish to study in Japan as new students (including those currently residing in Japan).

• Applicants must have a GPA of 2.30/3.00 or higher and maintain this standard during the scholarship period.

• Candidates must meet the required English language proficiency listed below.

2. Language Proficiency

Applicants must meet one of the following:

Option 1 – English Test Scores (CEFR B2 or higher):

• TOEFL iBT: 72 (minimum: R18, L17, S20, W17)

• IELTS Academic: 5.5 overall (minimum 5.5 per skill)

• TOEIC L&R: 400 Listening, 385 Reading

• TOEIC S&W: 160 Speaking, 150 Writing

Option 2 – English-Taught Program:

• Completion of a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree program entirely in English that meets Japanese graduate admission requirements.

3. Other Requirements

• Additional eligibility conditions may apply depending on the chosen supervisor and department.
  Applicants are strongly advised to confirm details with their prospective supervisor.

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Scholarship Benefits

Duration

• Master’s Program: 2 years

• Doctoral Program: 3 years

Monthly Stipend

• Master’s Students: ¥144,000/month

• Doctoral Students: ¥145,000/month

Additional Benefits

• Airfare: Round-trip flight between your home country and Japan (covered by MEXT).

• Academic Fees:

  • Application Fee – Exempted

  • Matriculation Fee – Exempted

  • Tuition Fee – Exempted

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Selection Timeline

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Required Documents

1. Documents for Internal Screening

Submit the following via email through your prospective supervisor:

• MEXT Scholarship Application Form

• Field of Study and Study Program (highlighting SDG and sustainability relevance)

• Passport copy or national ID

• Official academic transcripts (with grading scale)

• Certificate of (prospective) graduation or diploma

• Proof of academic excellence (if available)

• Recommendation letter from your dean (addressed to the President of Hokkaido University)

• Abstract of thesis (concise version)

• Proof of English proficiency (test score or Medium of Instruction certificate)

• Career plan statement

2. Documents for Final Submission (Successful Candidates Only)

Applicants selected after internal screening must send original hard copies by post:

• MEXT Application Form (original)

• Official transcripts and degree certificates (originals)

• Pledge form (original, signed)

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Admission Process

Selected candidates must pass an entrance examination to officially enroll in the Graduate School of Environmental Science.

A pre-arrival online admission option may be available for specific departments. Applicants should follow the instructions provided by their supervisors and check the official admission guidelines released in mid-February 2026.

🎓 Successful applicants will begin their Master’s or Doctoral programs in October 2026.
Note: There will be no preparatory “research student” period before enrollment.

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Contact Information

Academic Affairs Section
Graduate School of Environmental Science, Hokkaido University
Kita 10, Nishi 5, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
📧 Email: kyomu@ees.hokudai.ac.jp

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the MEXT Scholarship (University Recommendation)?
It is a fully funded Japanese Government scholarship that allows universities to nominate exceptional international students for postgraduate study in Japan.

2. Who can apply for the Hokkaido University MEXT Scholarship 2026?
International students with strong academic records and English proficiency (CEFR B2 or higher) are eligible.

3. Is IELTS or TOEFL mandatory?
Yes, unless you completed your previous degree entirely in English and can provide a Medium of Instruction certificate.

4. How many positions are available in 2026?
There are 3 positions for Master’s and 4 for Doctoral programs.

5. What financial support does the scholarship cover?
Full tuition waiver, monthly allowance (¥144,000–¥145,000), and round-trip airfare.

6. When will results be announced?
Final results are expected in late May 2026.

7. Must I contact a supervisor before applying?
Yes. Contact and obtain approval from a prospective supervisor before submitting your application.

8. Can students currently in Japan apply?
Yes, applicants residing in Japan are eligible.

9. What research areas are preferred?
Research related to environmental conservation, sustainability, and Post-SDGs initiatives is prioritized.

10. When does the academic program begin?
Classes commence in October 2026 at Hokkaido University.

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