The 2026 MEXT Scholarship at Hokkaido University offers international students a prestigious, fully funded opportunity to pursue Master’s or Doctoral programs in Japan. This program, titled “Graduate Program for Environmental Conservation Leadership for Post-SDGs,” supports future environmental leaders in contributing to global sustainability and innovation. Sponsored by the Japanese Government (MEXT), this scholarship covers tuition, travel, and living expenses — enabling talented students worldwide to focus entirely on their academic and research goals. With Japan’s global reputation for research excellence and Hokkaido University’s commitment to sustainability, this scholarship is ideal for those passionate about shaping a greener and more sustainable future.

About Hokkaido University

Hokkaido University, located in Sapporo, Japan, is one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious institutions. Ranked #202 in QS World University Rankings 2025, it is globally recognized for research in environmental science, agriculture, and engineering. The Graduate School of Environmental Science leads Japan’s sustainability-driven academic movement by promoting multidisciplinary education and international collaboration. The university emphasizes innovation through its Post-SDGs environmental leadership program, training graduates who can address the world’s most pressing environmental challenges.

Overview of the 2026 MEXT Scholarship at Hokkaido University

Detail	Information
Scholarship Name	Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship 2026 [University Recommendation – Special Selection]
Program Name	Graduate Program for Environmental Conservation Leadership for Post-SDGs
Host University	Hokkaido University, Japan
Degree Levels	Master’s (2 years) and Doctoral (3 years)
Scholarship Type	Fully Funded
Eligibility	Outstanding international students with GPA ≥ 2.30/3.00
Language Requirement	English proficiency (CEFR B2 or higher)
Monthly Stipend	¥144,000 (Master’s), ¥145,000 (Doctoral)
Additional Benefits	Tuition, application & matriculation fee exemption, travel tickets
Application Deadline (Nomination)	December 4, 2025
Intake	October 2026

Scholarship Benefits

Successful applicants will receive the following comprehensive benefits under the 2026 MEXT Scholarship:

• Full exemption from application, matriculation, and tuition fees
• Monthly allowance:
  • ¥144,000 for Master’s students
  • ¥145,000 for Doctoral students
• Round-trip airfare from home country to Japan
• Research and academic guidance under world-class faculty
• Access to laboratories and research facilities dedicated to environmental studies
• Pre-arrival online admission option for selected candidates
• Opportunity to contribute to Japan’s Post-SDGs environmental leadership program

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Hokkaido University MEXT Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following conditions:

1. Nationality:
   • Must be an international student eligible to study in Japan (new or currently residing in Japan).
2. Academic Record:
   • Minimum GPA of 2.30/3.00 in the most recent degree program.
   • Must maintain this GPA during the scholarship period.
3. Language Proficiency:
   Applicants must fulfill one of the following:
   • Obtain scores equivalent to CEFR B2 or higher, such as:
   • TOEFL iBT: 72+ (minimum scores: R18, L17, S20, W17)
   • IELTS Academic: 5.5+
   • TOEIC: L400, R385, S160, W150
   • OR have completed prior education in English medium.
4. Supervisor Agreement:
   • Applicants must contact and obtain approval from a prospective supervisor before applying.
   • All application materials must be submitted through the supervisor.
5. Other Requirements:
   • Recommendation letter from Dean or equivalent authority.
   • Clear research alignment with environmental conservation and SDG-related goals.

Application Process

Follow these essential steps to apply successfully:

1. Step 1: Visit the official scholarship page
2. Step 2: Explore faculty profiles
   Contact potential supervisors from the faculty list
3. Step 3: Prepare the required documents**
   • Application Form
   • Study and Research Plan (aligned with SDGs)
   • Passport Copy
   • Academic Transcripts
   • Degree Certificate
   • Recommendation Letter from Dean/Head
   • Abstract of Thesis
   • English Language Proof
   • Career Plan
4. Step 4: Submit documents** via your prospective supervisor by email before their internal deadline.
5. Step 5: Internal Screening and Nomination**
   • Supervisors nominate shortlisted candidates by December 4, 2025.
   • Internal results released by mid-January 2026.
6. Step 6: Final Selection**
   • MEXT announces final results by late May 2026.
   • Successful candidates begin studies in October 2026.

Comparison Table: MEXT vs Other Scholarships in Japan

Feature	MEXT (Hokkaido University)	ADB-Japan Scholarship (Tokyo University)	JASSO Honors Scholarship
Funding Type	Fully Funded	Fully Funded	Partial
Tuition Fees	Fully Covered	Fully Covered	Not Covered
Monthly Stipend	¥144,000–¥145,000	¥147,000	¥48,000
Travel Allowance	Included (round-trip)	Included	Not Included
Eligibility	GPA ≥ 2.30, CEFR B2	Bachelor’s degree, 2 years experience	Enrolled international students
Degree Levels	Master’s & Doctoral	Master’s	Undergraduate/Graduate
Focus Area	Environmental Conservation	Development Economics, Engineering	Any
Host Universities	Hokkaido University	Tokyo University	Various Japanese Universities

FAQs About MEXT Scholarship 2026 at Hokkaido University

1. What is the focus of the Hokkaido University MEXT Scholarship 2026?
   It focuses on environmental leadership for the post-SDGs era, preparing researchers and policymakers to solve sustainability challenges.
2. Can current international students in Japan apply?
   Yes, current international students already in Japan are eligible to apply.
3. Is Japanese language proficiency required?
   No, the program is fully taught in English, but basic Japanese communication skills are beneficial for daily life.
4. Can I apply without contacting a supervisor?
   No. You must secure approval from a prospective supervisor before submitting your application.
5. What is the GPA requirement?
   A minimum GPA of 2.30/3.00 or equivalent is required.
6. What English test scores are accepted?
   TOEFL iBT (72+), IELTS (5.5+), TOEIC, or proof of English-medium education.
7. When will results be announced?
   Final selection results are expected in late May 2026.
8. How many slots are available for Hokkaido University MEXT Scholarship 2026?
   There are 3 Master’s and 4 Doctoral slots available.
9. What expenses does the scholarship cover?
   It covers tuition, application fees, monthly stipend, and round-trip airfare.
10. When do classes start for Hokkaido University MEXT Scholarship 2026?
    Successful candidates begin their program in October 2026.

If you’re passionate about environmental leadership and sustainability, this is your opportunity to study in Japan under one of the world’s most generous scholarship schemes. Contact your prospective supervisor early, prepare your documents carefully, and begin your application journey today. APPLY NOW.

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