Are you dreaming of studying in Japan at a world-class university without worrying about tuition or living expenses? The Hokkaido University MEXT Scholarships 2026 offer a life-changing opportunity for ambitious international students to pursue fully funded graduate degrees in one of Japan’s most prestigious institutions.
With comprehensive financial aid, a vibrant international community, and access to cutting-edge research, this scholarship is your gateway to academic excellence and personal growth in the heart of Sapporo. Whether you’re passionate about environmental science, engineering, or the humanities, Hokkaido University and the Japanese Government’s MEXT program can help you achieve your goals.
Read on to discover everything you need to know about the Hokkaido MEXT Scholarships including eligibility, benefits, application steps, deadlines, and expert tips to make your application stand out.
Overview: Hokkaido University Scholarships
The Hokkaido University MEXT Scholarships are prestigious, fully funded awards provided by the Japanese Government (MEXT) to outstanding international students who wish to pursue Master’s or Doctoral degrees at Hokkaido University in Japan. These scholarships are designed to foster global leaders, promote international academic exchange, and support research that addresses global challenges, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) .
Hokkaido University located in Sapporo, Hokkaido is one of Japan’s oldest and most respected national universities. With a legacy of academic excellence, a strong research culture, and a commitment to internationalization, Hokkaido University attracts students from over 99 countries and offers a wide range of English-taught graduate programs .
The MEXT Scholarships at Hokkaido University are available primarily through the University Recommendation route, which means you apply directly to the university and are nominated for the scholarship based on your academic merit and research potential .
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the HU MEXT Scholarships 2026, applicants must meet the following detailed requirements:
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan. Japanese nationals and dual citizens with Japanese nationality are not eligible .
- Degree Level: Applicants must be seeking admission to a Master’s or Doctoral program at Hokkaido University .
- Academic Background:
- For Master’s: Must have completed a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent (16 years of education).
- For Doctoral: Must have completed a Master’s degree or equivalent .
- Academic Performance: Minimum GPA of 2.30/3.00 in the most recent academic program, and must maintain this GPA during the scholarship period .
- Language Proficiency: Must meet one of the following (CEFR B2 or higher):
- TOEFL iBT: 72+ (with minimum sub-scores)
- IELTS (Academic): 5.5+ (with 5.5 in all skills)
- TOEIC L&R and S&W: Listening 400, Reading 385, Speaking 160, Writing 150
- Or proof of English-medium education .
- Health: Must be physically and mentally fit to pursue studies in Japan .
- Supervisor Agreement: Must secure the agreement of a prospective supervisor at Hokkaido University before applying .
- Other Requirements: Must not be receiving another Japanese government scholarship concurrently .
Coverage / Benefits: What the Funding Includes
The Hokkaido University MEXT Scholarships are among the most generous financial aid packages available to international students. Here’s what you’ll receive:
- Full Tuition Waiver: 100% exemption from all tuition and academic fees for the duration of your program .
- Monthly Stipend:
- Master’s: 144,000 JPY/month
- Doctoral: 145,000 JPY/month
- (Slightly higher in winter months due to cold region allowance) .
- Travel Expenses: Round-trip airfare from your home country to Japan, provided by MEXT .
- Application and Matriculation Fees: Fully waived .
- Comprehensive Support: Access to university housing, student support services, and Japanese language courses .
This funding covers all major expenses, allowing you to focus on your studies and research without financial stress.
Host Country & University Info
Why Study in Japan?
Japan is a global leader in education, technology, and innovation. As a study destination, it offers:
- World-class universities and research facilities
- Affordable education and generous scholarships
- A safe, clean, and vibrant environment
- Unique cultural experiences and opportunities for personal growth
- Strong career prospects and industry connections .
About Hokkaido University
- Location: Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
- Founded: 1876 (as Sapporo Agricultural College)
- Type: National (public) research university
- Students: 18,344 (including 2,057 international students)
- Reputation: Top 5–7 in Japan, QS World Ranking #170, renowned for research in environmental science, engineering, and more .
- Campus: Beautiful, spacious, and centrally located in Sapporo a city famous for its festivals, food, and natural beauty .
Hokkaido University is committed to internationalization, offering English-taught programs, extensive student support, and a welcoming community for students from around the world .
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
Applying for the Hokkaido University MEXT Scholarships is a multi-stage process. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide:
- Identify Your Program and Supervisor
- Research graduate programs at Hokkaido University.
- Find a prospective supervisor whose research aligns with your interests.
- Contact the supervisor to discuss your suitability and obtain their agreement .
- Prepare Application Documents
- MEXT scholarship application form
- Field of Study and Study Program statement (including SDGs relevance)
- Passport or government-issued ID
- Official academic transcripts (with grading scale)
- Certificate of (prospective) graduation or diploma
- Recommendation letter from the dean (or higher)
- Abstracts of theses (if applicable)
- Proof of English proficiency
- Career plan .
- Submit Application via Supervisor
- Send all documents to your prospective supervisor, who will forward them to the graduate school office .
- Internal Screening
- The graduate school reviews applications and nominates top candidates to MEXT .
- Entrance Examination
- Shortlisted candidates must pass the university’s entrance exam (often available online for international applicants) .
- Final Selection by MEXT
- MEXT reviews university nominations and announces final results .
- Enrollment
- Successful candidates arrive in Japan and begin their studies in October 2026 .
Important Deadlines
- Contact Prospective Supervisor: By November 10, 2025 (varies by program)
- Application Submission to Supervisor: By December 4, 2025
- Internal Notification: Mid-January 2026 (tentative)
- Submission of Additional Documents: Late January 2026 (for shortlisted candidates)
- Final Results Notification: Late May 2026 (tentative)
- Program Start: October 2026 .
Always confirm deadlines with your specific graduate school, as dates may vary slightly.
Tips for Applicants: How to Stand Out
Securing a MEXT scholarship is highly competitive. Here are expert-backed tips to boost your chances:
- Craft a Strong Research Proposal: Clearly define your topic, objectives, and methodology. Show how your research aligns with Hokkaido University’s strengths and Japan’s academic priorities .
- Demonstrate Preparation: Research your field, the university, and your supervisor’s work. Tailor your application to their expertise .
- Write a Compelling Motivation Letter: Explain why you want to study in Japan and at Hokkaido University. Connect your goals to the MEXT program’s mission .
- Highlight Impact: Choose a research topic that addresses current issues and has potential benefits for both Japan and your home country .
- Avoid Common Mistakes: Submit complete, error-free documents. Follow all guidelines and formats precisely .
- Show Language Commitment: Even if not required, learning basic Japanese demonstrates your dedication to integrating into Japanese society .
- Seek Feedback: Ask mentors or previous MEXT scholars to review your application .
- Start Early: Give yourself plenty of time to prepare, revise, and gather recommendations.
Conclusion
The Hokkaido University MEXT Scholarships 2026 are more than just financial aid they are a launchpad for your academic, professional, and personal growth. With full funding, access to world-class research, and the chance to experience life in Japan, this scholarship is your ticket to a brighter future.
Don’t let this opportunity pass you by. Start preparing your application today, reach out to your prospective supervisor, and take the first step toward joining a global community of scholars at Hokkaido University. And if you know someone who could benefit from this life-changing opportunity, share this article and help them achieve their dreams too!
FAQ:
Q1: Can I apply for the MEXT scholarship if I don’t speak Japanese?
Yes, many graduate programs at Hokkaido University are offered in English; Japanese is not required .
Q2: What does the MEXT scholarship cover at Hokkaido University?
It covers full tuition, a monthly stipend, and round-trip airfare to and from Japan .
Q3: Do I need to contact a supervisor before applying?
Yes, you must secure the agreement of a prospective supervisor before submitting your application .
Q4: What is the application deadline for 2026 intake?
Supervisor nomination deadline is December 4, 2025; other deadlines follow in early 2026 .
Q5: Can I apply if I am already in Japan?
Yes, both new international students and those already in Japan are eligible to apply .
Q6: Is there an entrance exam for the scholarship?
Yes, shortlisted candidates must pass the university’s entrance examination, often available online .
Your journey to academic excellence in Japan starts here. Be ambitious, be prepared, and take the leap!
