Are you passionate about life sciences and dream of studying in Japan? The Hokkaido University MEXT Scholarship 2026 could be the perfect opportunity for you. Offered under the International Graduate Program (IGP), this fully funded scholarship supports exceptional international students in pursuing their Master’s or PhD degrees in life sciences. With world-class faculty, an English-only curriculum, and cutting-edge laboratories, you’ll be trained as a global leader ready to tackle pressing scientific and global issues.

Whether you’re aiming for the Transdisciplinary Life Science Course, Biosystems Science Course, or the Division of Soft Matter, Hokkaido University provides the academic and financial support to turn your aspirations into reality.

Apply early to secure one of the limited MEXT scholarship slots — only 3 Master’s and 5 PhD seats are available!

About Hokkaido University

Hokkaido University is one of Japan’s top research institutions and a member of the elite former imperial universities. Ranked among the Top 150 in QS World Rankings and known for its rich history in scientific innovation, HU offers cutting-edge resources and a culturally vibrant campus in Sapporo. Its Graduate School of Life Science is internationally recognized for its pioneering contributions in biology, soft matter, and biosystems.

With the Life Science Researcher Training Program for Solving Global Issues, HU aims to produce scientists who can lead global initiatives in life science research, particularly in solving environmental, medical, and societal problems.

Hokkaido University MEXT Scholarship 2026 Overview

Field	Details
Scholarship Name	MEXT Scholarship (IGP Special Quota) 2026
Host University	Hokkaido University
Program	Life Science Researcher Training Program
Degree Level	Master’s (2 years) and PhD (3 years)
Language of Instruction	English
Eligible Courses	Transdisciplinary Life Science, Biosystems Science, Division of Soft Matter
Financial Coverage	Fully Funded
Application Deadline	December 10, 2025 (contact supervisor by November 10, 2025)
Host Country	Japan

Scholarship Benefits

• Monthly stipend of 145,000 JPY (PhD) and 144,000 JPY (Master’s)
• Full tuition waiver throughout the program
• Admission fee waiver
• Airfare to and from Japan covered
• Dormitory rooms with internet access, linen, and student support
• English-only curriculum and international faculty
• Funding for international conferences and publications
• Training in grant writing and research proposal submission

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the MEXT Scholarship 2026 at Hokkaido University, applicants must:

1. Be international students from any country outside Japan.
2. Hold (or expect to hold) a relevant Bachelor’s degree for Master’s, or a Master’s degree for PhD.
3. Apply to one of the three eligible divisions in the Graduate School of Life Science.
4. Demonstrate strong academic background and English proficiency.
5. Obtain agreement from a prospective supervisor at Hokkaido University.
6. Submit all required documents via the supervisor by December 10, 2025.

Application Process

Follow these simple steps to apply:

• Step 1: Browse the list of laboratories and find a professor who aligns with your research interests.
• Step 2: Contact the professor via email before November 10, 2025, and request to be considered for the IGP MEXT scholarship.
• Step 3: Upon receiving approval, prepare the required documents (ask your supervisor for templates and format).
• Step 4: Send your full application package directly to your supervisor.
• Step 5: The supervisor will forward your application to the IGP office by December 10, 2025.
• Step 6: Wait for document screening and final selection by the IGP committee.
• Step 7: Successful candidates will be recommended to MEXT in March 2026.

Required Documents

• Completed MEXT Scholarship Application Form
• Field of Study and Study Program form
• Letter of Recommendation
• Valid Passport Copy
• Academic Transcripts
• Certificate of Graduation or Expected Graduation
• English Proficiency Proof (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent)
• Summary of Master’s thesis (for PhD applicants)
• Objective indicators of academic excellence (e.g., awards, GPA)

Comparison with Similar Opportunities

Program Name	Host Country	Degree	Funding	Language	Deadline
MEXT IGP at Hokkaido University	Japan	MS/PhD	Fully Funded	English	Dec 10, 2025
MEXT University Recommendation (UTokyo)	Japan	MS/PhD	Fully Funded	English	Dec 1, 2025
KAIST International Scholarship	South Korea	MS/PhD	Fully Funded	English	Sept 2025 (TBA)
Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)	China	MS/PhD	Fully Funded	English	Dec–March (varies)
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship	France	MS/PhD	Fully Funded	English/French	Jan 2026

FAQs About Hokkaido University MEXT Scholarship 2026

1. What is the MEXT scholarship at Hokkaido University?
   It’s a fully funded scholarship for international Master’s and PhD students in the life sciences under the IGP program.
2. How many seats are available for 2026?
   3 seats for Master’s and 5 for PhD students.
3. Can I apply without contacting a professor first?
   No, you’ll need approval from a supervisor before you can submit your application.
4. Is IELTS or TOEFL required?
   Yes. Proof of English proficiency is mandatory, but minimum scores may vary.
5. Are students from all countries eligible?
   Yes, students from any nationality (except Japan) can apply.
6. Is Japanese language proficiency required?
   No. The entire program is conducted in English.
7. Can I apply for any other scholarship simultaneously?
   MEXT generally requires that applicants not be receiving other Japanese government scholarships simultaneously.
8. Are there any age restrictions for Hokkaido University MEXT 2026?
   MEXT generally prefers applicants under 35 years of age for graduate studies.
9. Can I choose any course under the Graduate School?
   Only the three divisions mentioned in the IGP Life Science Program are eligible.

If you really wanna pursue cutting-edge life sciences research and wish to be part of Japan’s prestigious Hokkaido University, now is your time. Begin by contacting your future supervisor today and submit your application before the deadline. This scholarship offers not only funding but also a path toward becoming a globally recognized scientist. APPLY NOW.

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