Study in Japan | Hokkaido University MEXT Fully-Funded Scholarships 2026
The Japanese Government has formally launched the application process for the 2026 MEXT Scholarship [University Recommendation – Special Selection] for the Graduate Program on Environmental Conservation Leadership for Post-SDGs at Hokkaido University.
This comprehensive Japanese scholarship aims to nurture the upcoming generation of global environmental leaders who can tackle the most urgent sustainability issues, surpassing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Students selected through this special process will become part of the Graduate School of Environmental Science at Hokkaido University, a leading research institution in Japan recognized for its innovative progress in environmental science and conservation.
About the Hokkaido University Scholarship Program
The “Graduate Program in Environmental Conservation Leadership for Post-SDGs” seeks to develop proficient researchers and professionals capable of making global contributions to sustainability, climate change reduction, and resource preservation. This program combines various fields of study, spanning environmental engineering, ecosystem management, and climate policy, enabling international students to acquire both scientific insights and policy-focused viewpoints.
Candidates must reach out to a potential supervisor prior to applying and obtain their approval for supervision. Applications need to be submitted through the potential supervisor once approval has been granted. Applicants are highly urged to review the faculty directory on the Staff Information page to find a supervisor whose research corresponds with their intended field of study.
Overview of Scholarships
The MEXT Scholarship (University Recommendation – Special Selection) provides an all-inclusive funding opportunity aimed at removing financial obstacles for exceptional international students seeking graduate education in Japan. This scholarship covers all significant academic costs and offers a substantial monthly stipend along with a travel allowance, enabling recipients to focus entirely on their studies and research in environmental sustainability.
Applicants should also make sure that their research topic clearly shows relevance to the SDGs or aids in post-SDG environmental objectives.
The program starts in October 2026 and permits direct entry into the master’s or doctoral program without a period as a research student.
Eligibility Requirements
1. General Eligibility: Candidates must be:
- International students who have outstanding academic achievements (GPA of 2.30/3.00 or above), whether applying to Japan as newcomers or already living in Japan.
- Able to sustain their GPA during the duration of the scholarship.
- Backed by a future supervisor at Hokkaido University who supports their application.
2. Language Proficiency Criteria:
Candidates are required to show English proficiency at a CEFR B2 level through one of the following methods:
- TOEFL iBT: 72 or above (minimum scores: Reading 18, Listening 17, Speaking 20, Writing 17)
- IELTS Academic: Total band score of 5.5 or above (with each individual skill meeting the criteria)
- TOEIC L&R: 400 (Listening) + 385 (Reading) and TOEIC S&W: 160 (Speaking) + 150 (Writing)
- OR obtaining a bachelor’s or master’s degree program delivered in English.
Required Documents
Internal Screening Documents: Every application must be emailed to the potential supervisor. The necessary paperwork consists of:
- MEXT Scholarship Application Document
- Area of Study and Academic Program (should emphasize the research importance to SDGs)
- Duplicate of Passport or National Identification Card
- Authenticated Academic Records (including grading scale)
- Diploma of Completion or Anticipated Graduation
- Evidence of Academic Achievement (if relevant)
- Letter of Recommendation from the Dean or senior official directed to the President of Hokkaido University
- Summaries of Dissertations or Research Articles
- Evidence of English Language Proficiency (test results or certificate of instruction medium)
- Career Plan or Research Vision
Supplementary Documents (for selected candidates): Candidates who are shortlisted will eventually need to send original copies by mail, which include:
- Certified transcripts and diploma certificates
- Commitment Document (supplied by the university)
- Revised MEXT Application Document.
How to Apply
Schedule for Applications
The 2026 MEXT Scholarship [University Recommendation – Special Selection] follows a structured process. Applicants must first contact and obtain consent from a potential supervisor at Hokkaido University, as all materials are submitted through them.
Deadlines should be confirmed with the supervisor, who must submit nominations by December 4, 2025. Internal review results are expected in mid-January 2026, and shortlisted candidates will submit additional documents by late January.
The final results from MEXT are expected to be announced in late May 2026. Applicants should organize their documents in advance and maintain regular communication with their supervisors throughout the application process.
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