Are you an international student dreaming of studying environmental science in Japan? The Hokkaido University MEXT Scholarship offers a fully funded chance to pursue a Master’s or Doctoral degree starting in October 2027. This program, backed by the Japanese government, targets students with strong academic records in fields linked to environmental conservation and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Scholarship Overview
The Hokkaido University MEXT Scholarship supports graduate students at the Graduate School of Environmental Science. It falls under the MEXT Japan Scholarships, which cover tuition, travel, and living costs. Open to applicants from all countries, this opportunity requires no IELTS if you meet other language criteria. The deadline is November 30, 2026.
Key facts include:
- Host country: Japan
- Level: Master’s (2 years) or Doctoral (3 years)
- Focus: Environmental Conservation Leadership for Post SDGs
- Stipend: 144,000 JPY monthly for Master’s; 145,000 JPY for Doctoral (about $11,709 per year at current rates)
This scholarship helps students tackle global challenges like climate change through research and leadership.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the Hokkaido University MEXT Scholarship 2027, meet these main requirements:
- Hold outstanding academic achievements at the graduate level.
- Be a new student entering Japan or already there.
- Maintain a GPA of 2.30 out of 3.00 (or higher) from your last degree or current studies.
- Prove language skills: Pass English tests at B2 level (CEFR) or complete a curriculum taught mainly in English that qualifies you for Japanese graduate admission.
Employed applicants must show they can keep this GPA during the scholarship. The program suits those ready to link their research to SDGs.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
This fully funded award provides strong support:
- Monthly stipend: 144,000 JPY for Master’s students; 145,000 JPY for Doctoral students.
- Travel costs: Round-trip tickets from your home country.
- Fees waived: No application, matriculation, or tuition charges.
The scholarship lasts the full program length, with no research student period before starting in October 2027. It frees you to focus on studies and research.
Required Documents
Prepare these items for your application:
- MEXT scholarship application form.
- Field of Study and Study Program (explain how it ties to SDGs).
- Passport copy or government ID from your country.
- Official transcripts from your last university, with grading scale.
- Graduation certificate or proof of upcoming graduation.
- Evidence of academic honors (if any).
- Recommendation letter from a dean or higher at your current school, addressed to Hokkaido University’s president.
- Thesis abstracts (keep them short and clear).
- Language proficiency proof meeting the criteria.
All documents go through your prospective supervisor.
Application Steps
Follow these steps to apply for the Hokkaido University MEXT Scholarship:
- Visit the official program page for details.
- Contact a potential supervisor at Hokkaido University to check your fit and get guidance.
- Send required documents by email via that supervisor before the deadline.
- If pre-approved, take the entrance exam in summer 2026.
- Begin your program in October 2027 upon final selection.
Start early to secure supervisor support, as it plays a key role. Check the Hokkaido University site for the latest updates. Deadline: November 30, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hokkaido University MEXT Scholarship?
It is a fully funded program by the Japanese government for Master’s or Doctoral students in environmental science at Hokkaido University, starting in October 2027, with a focus on SDGs and conservation.
Who can apply for this scholarship?
You need strong academic records with a GPA of at least 2.30 out of 3.00, proof of English skills at B2 level, and your research must link to environmental conservation and SDGs.
What does the scholarship cover?
It provides a monthly stipend of 144,000 JPY for Master’s or 145,000 JPY for Doctoral students, round-trip travel tickets, and full waiver of tuition and fees.
How do I apply and what is the deadline?
Contact a supervisor at Hokkaido University, submit documents through them by November 30, 2026, pass the entrance exam if pre-approved, and start in October 2027.

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