Hokkaido University MEXT Fully-Funded Scholarships 2026 in Japan

The Government of Japan has officially opened applications for the 2026 Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship [University Recommendation – Special Selection] under the Graduate Program for Environmental Conservation Leadership for Post-SDGs at Hokkaido University.

This fully funded Japanese scholarship is designed to cultivate the next generation of international environmental leaders capable of addressing the world’s most pressing sustainability challenges beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Students admitted under this special selection will join the Graduate School of Environmental Science at Hokkaido University, one of Japan’s top research institutions known for cutting-edge advancements in environmental science and conservation.

About the Hokkaido University Scholarship Program

The “Graduate Program for Environmental Conservation Leadership for Post-SDGs” aims to foster skilled researchers and practitioners who can contribute globally to environmental sustainability, climate change mitigation, and resource conservation. This program integrates multidisciplinary learning—ranging from environmental engineering and ecosystem management to climate policy—allowing international students to gain both scientific and policy-oriented perspectives.

Applicants must contact a prospective supervisor before applying and secure their consent for supervision. Applications must be submitted via the prospective supervisor after receiving approval. Candidates are strongly encouraged to explore the faculty list on the Staff Information page to identify a supervisor whose research aligns with their proposed study area.

Scholarship Overview

The MEXT Scholarship (University Recommendation – Special Selection) offers a comprehensive funding package designed to eliminate financial barriers for talented international students pursuing graduate studies in Japan. This scholarship not only covers all major academic expenses but also provides a generous monthly stipend and travel allowance, ensuring that recipients can dedicate themselves fully to their research and studies in environmental sustainability.

The program begins in October 2026 and allows direct admission into either the master’s or doctoral course without a research student period.

Through this fully funded scholarship, selected candidates can study in Japan without financial strain and focus on conducting research that contributes to global environmental conservation and post-SDG sustainability leadership.

Eligibility Criteria

1# General Eligibility: Applicants must be:

• • International students with excellent academic records (GPA of 2.30/3.00 or higher), either applying to Japan as new students or currently residing in Japan.
  • Capable of maintaining their GPA level throughout the scholarship period.
  • Supported by a prospective supervisor at Hokkaido University who endorses their application.

2# Language Proficiency Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency equivalent to CEFR B2 level through one of the following options:

• • TOEFL iBT: 72 or higher (minimum scores: Reading 18, Listening 17, Speaking 20, Writing 17)
  • IELTS Academic: Overall band score 5.5 or higher (with all individual skills meeting the requirement)
  • TOEIC L&R: 400 (Listening) + 385 (Reading) and TOEIC S&W: 160 (Speaking) + 150 (Writing)
  • OR completion of a bachelor’s or master’s degree program taught in English.

Applicants must also ensure that their research topic clearly demonstrates relevance to the SDGs or contributes to post-SDG environmental goals.

Following Documents Needed for MEXT 2026 Scholarship in Japan

Documents for Internal Screening: All applications must be submitted via the prospective supervisor by email. The required documents include:

1. MEXT Scholarship Application Form
2. Field of Study and Study Program (must highlight the research relevance to SDGs)
3. Copy of Passport or National ID
4. Official Academic Transcripts (with grading scale)
5. Certificate of Graduation or Expected Graduation
6. Proof of Academic Excellence (if applicable)
7. Recommendation Letter from the Dean or higher authority addressed to the President of Hokkaido University
8. Abstracts of Theses or Research Papers
9. Proof of English Language Proficiency (test scores or medium of instruction certificate)
10. Career Plan or Research Vision

Additional Documents (for shortlisted candidates): Shortlisted applicants will later be required to submit original copies by post, including:

• Official transcripts and degree certificates
• Pledge Form (provided by the university)
• Updated MEXT Application Form.

Application Timeline

The application process for the 2026 MEXT Scholarship [University Recommendation – Special Selection] follows a structured multi-stage timeline. Interested applicants must first contact and secure approval from a prospective supervisor at Hokkaido University before submitting their application, as all documents must be sent through the supervisor.

The application submission deadline should be confirmed directly with the chosen supervisor. Once submitted, supervisors are required to forward nominations by December 4, 2025. The results of the internal screening are expected to be announced in mid-January 2026 (tentative).

Candidates who successfully pass this stage will be requested to submit additional original documents by late January 2026. The final selection results, determined by MEXT, are anticipated to be released in late May 2026 (tentative). Applicants are strongly encouraged to prepare all materials early and maintain close communication with their prospective supervisors throughout the process.

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