Applications for admission to the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS) for the 2026–2027 academic year have officially opened, marking a significant opportunity for future public policy leaders, economists, and governance specialists worldwide.
The announcement signals the beginning of a competitive and highly respected selection process through which GRIPS seeks exceptional candidates committed to contributing to national and global public policy development. With multiple master’s and doctoral pathways available, the new application cycle emphasizes the institute’s continued dedication to nurturing professionals capable of addressing complex policy challenges.
About GRIPS
Founded in Tokyo and strategically located in the Roppongi district, GRIPS has built a distinguished reputation as one of Japan’s leading institutions specializing in public policy research, advanced professional training, and governance studies. Over the decades, the institute has become an academic center that attracts government officials, policymakers, and researchers from around the world. Its focus on practical policy solutions, high-level academic rigor, and government-service alignment has made GRIPS a preferred destination for future public-sector leaders.
GRIPS maintains a strong global presence by consistently welcoming international students from more than 60 countries each year. While traditional global ranking systems do not directly evaluate specialized policy institutes such as GRIPS, the university is widely recognized by governments, international organizations, and development agencies for its strong public-sector education model. Its programs are supported by leading global partners—including MEXT, the World Bank, ADB, JICA, WCO, and IMF—reinforcing GRIPS’ status as an internationally trusted hub for policy education.
Sponsorship Being Offered for GRIPS Scholars
The GRIPS scholarship benefits available through GRIPS create a highly attractive pathway for students seeking full financial support. Scholarships funded by MEXT and several international organizations cover application fees, admission fees, and full tuition for selected candidates. In addition, recipients receive a monthly stipend—ranging from approximately JPY 147,000 to over JPY 300,000 depending on the program and scholarship type—alongside economy-class air travel to and from Japan upon enrollment and program completion. Some scholarship schemes include further allowances such as books, research materials, arrival support, and insurance coverage, ensuring students can focus on their academic responsibilities without financial stress.
Available Subject Areas of Study
GRIPS supports a wide portfolio of degree programs taught entirely in English, covering key areas such as public policy, macroeconomic policy, public finance, maritime safety and security, economics and planning, global governance, policy analysis, and science and innovation policy. Master’s programs include options such as the One-Year Master’s in Public Policy (MP1), the Two-Year Master’s Program (MP2), the Macroeconomic Policy Program, and the Public Finance Program, while doctoral pathways include the five-year G-cube Program, the Policy Analysis Program, and the three-year Science, Technology and Innovation Policy Program. These programs are designed to build advanced expertise for professionals in government, development, finance, security, and technical policy fields.
Eligibility Checks
Eligibility requirements depend on the selected program but generally require a bachelor’s degree for all master’s programs and five-year doctoral tracks, while the three-year doctoral program requires a completed master’s degree. Professional experience may be required depending on the scholarship provider, particularly for programs linked to IMF, World Bank, JICA, or WCO nominations. All applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL iBT or IELTS Academic unless exempted under GRIPS’ language waiver rules. Additional guidelines apply to applicants residing in Japan or planning to move to Japan, who may be classified as domestic applicants under different submission procedures.
Required documents include the GRIPS 2026 application form, photograph, letters of recommendation, certificate of employment for currently employed candidates, official academic transcripts and degree certificates, English proficiency scores, a statement of purpose, and the financial statement for self-financed or externally funded applicants. Additional materials such as a research proposal and a master’s thesis or equivalent are required for two-year master’s and all doctoral programs. All documents must be original, in English, and submitted in sealed envelopes where applicable, in line with GRIPS’ official submission standards.
Once enrolled, scholarship continuation depends on an annual academic performance review. GRIPS evaluates students’ academic progress, adherence to program requirements, and overall conduct before confirming the renewal of scholarship benefits. Continuation is not automatic, and students are required to maintain satisfactory academic standing throughout their degree to retain full financial support, reflecting GRIPS’ high expectations for professionalism and academic excellence.