Study in Japan | UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2026

November 14, 2025 10:18 am

Study in Japan | UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2026

The University of Tokyo (UTokyo) has officially launched applications for the UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2026, an eight-week fully funded summer research experience for undergraduate students across Asia and beyond. Sponsored by the Amgen Foundation, this world-renowned initiative offers talented students the chance to work on advanced research projects in biomedical and life sciences at one of Japan’s most prestigious universities.

Program Overview

Since its launch in 2015, the Amgen Scholars Program at UTokyo has united aspiring scientists from diverse backgrounds with some of Japan’s leading researchers. The 2026 edition of the program will run from June 4 to August 6, 2026, providing a hands-on research experience in modern laboratories alongside academic seminars, Japanese language lessons, cultural exchange activities, and the regional Amgen Scholars Asia Symposium.

This program is designed to inspire and prepare young researchers for future PhD studies or research careers. Scholars will be placed in top UTokyo departments, including:

Graduate School of Medicine
Graduate School of Engineering
Graduate School of Science
Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences
Institute of Industrial Science

Research areas include molecular biology, neuroscience, biotechnology, nanotechnology, robotics, and renewable energy systems, among others. Participants will gain exposure to Japan’s innovative research environment and build lasting international collaborations.

Financial Coverage – What the Scholarship Offers

The UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2026 provides full financial support, ensuring students can focus entirely on their research experience. The award includes:

Free accommodation near the UTokyo Hongo or Yayoi campus.
Round-trip economy airfare (or domestic train fare within Japan).
A stipend of 280,000 JPY for meals, local transportation, and personal expenses.

However, students must secure their own private health and travel insurance for the duration of the program.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2026, applicants must meet the following conditions:

Be enrolled in an undergraduate program at a recognized university in Asia.
Have completed at least one year of study but not be graduating before the program begins.
Show strong academic performance and genuine interest in research.
Demonstrate English proficiency with one of the following (if English is not the first language):
- TOEFL iBT: 72 or higher
- IELTS: 5.5 or higher
- Cambridge FCE or equivalent certification
Commit fully to all activities, including lab research, seminars, poster sessions, and final presentations.
Not hold other jobs or take additional courses during the program.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the TAO (The Admissions Office) online system. To complete your application:

Create a TAO account using your full legal name.
Upload all required documents before submission, including:
- A recent passport photo
- Passport or student ID copy
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency
- CV (maximum 500 words)
- Two recommendation letters, including one from a faculty member familiar with your academic record.

Click Here to Apply

Important: Once submitted, applications cannot be edited. Incomplete or late applications will not be reviewed.

Application Timeline

Application Portal Opens: November 1, 2025
Deadline to Apply: February 1, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. (Japan Standard Time)
Program Duration: June 4 – August 6, 2026
Amgen Scholars Asia Symposium: August 4–6, 2026, hosted at UTokyo

Final Thoughts

The UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2026 is more than a summer internship—it’s a life-changing experience that connects driven undergraduates with top scientists, groundbreaking research, and an international network of future innovators.

If you’re passionate about research and ready to explore new frontiers in science, apply early and secure your place in this prestigious fully funded summer program in Japan.