Hokkaido University invites international students to apply for the Global Education Program for AgriScience Frontiers Master’s Course for the 2025 academic year. This Japanese University agricultural scholarship program, conducted entirely in English, is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge in agriculture, sustainability, and food sciences. The program is hosted by the Graduate School of Agriculture, a leading institution (Hokkaido University) in Japan’s agricultural sciences.
Scholarship Benefits
Selected students under the Japanese Government Scholarship (MEXT) receive comprehensive benefits, including:
- Full Tuition Coverage: Exemption from admission and tuition fees.
- Monthly Stipend: To cover living expenses in Japan.
- Travel Support: Economy-class airfare to and from Japan.
- Health Insurance: Coverage for intra- and extra-curricular activities.
- Research Opportunities: Access to world-class facilities and faculty at Hokkaido University.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the scholarship, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Nationality: Non-Japanese citizens from countries eligible for MEXT scholarships.
- Age: Under 35 years old as of April 1, 2025 (born after April 2, 1990).
- Academic Qualifications:
- Completion of 16 years of formal education or equivalent (bachelor’s degree).
- Minimum GPA of 2.30 out of 3.00 in the most recent degree program.
- Language Proficiency:
- English proficiency equivalent to CEFR B2 or higher (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).
- Candidates with degrees taught entirely in English may also qualify.
- Health: Certified as physically and mentally fit by a recognized physician.
Application Process
- Preliminary Contact: Applicants must first contact an academic advisor from the Graduate School of Agriculture and obtain their endorsement. Applications without prior consultation will not be considered.
- Required Documents:
- Completed application forms for the program and MEXT Scholarship.
- Academic transcripts and certificates (bachelor’s degree and any advanced degrees).
- Certificate of English proficiency.
- Research plan endorsed by the academic advisor.
- Letter of recommendation to the university president.
- Medical certificate.
- Submission Portal: https://www.agr.hokudai.ac.jp/spgp/2024/08/application-for-april-2025-is-now-opened-and-application-forms-can-be-downloaded-from-the-below/.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: December 27, 2024
- Selection Results: July 2025
- Program Start: September 2025.
Study Areas
Applicants can choose from three divisions under the program:
- Frontiers in Biosciences: Advancing biological research in agriculture.
- Frontiers in Production Sciences: Innovative agricultural production techniques.
- Frontiers in Environmental Sciences: Sustainable agricultural practices.