Hokkaido University, one of Japan’s top research institutions, is now accepting applications for the MEXT Scholarship 2025 under its International Graduate Program (IGP). This fully funded opportunity supports talented international students pursuing Master’s or PhD degrees in the Life Sciences, starting in October 2026.
Program Overview
- University: Hokkaido University
- Program: International Graduate Program (IGP)
- Funding Body: MEXT (Government of Japan)
- Study Level: Master’s and PhD
- Field of Study: Life Sciences
- Enrollment: October 2026
- Location: Sapporo Campus, Japan
Program Duration and Available Slots
- PhD Program: 3 years (5 scholarships available)
- Master’s Program: 2 years (3 scholarships available)
Fields of Study
The IGP focuses on training global researchers in areas such as:
- Biotechnology
- Genetics and Genomics
- Environmental Life Sciences
- Health and Biomedical Sciences
- Molecular Biology
- Cellular and Structural Biology
The curriculum emphasizes:
- Advanced research methods
- Journal publication and proposal writing
- International conference participation
- Hands-on laboratory training
- English-based instruction and communication
Scholarship Benefits
This MEXT-funded scholarship is fully comprehensive and includes:
Monthly Stipend:
145,000 JPY for PhD students
144,000 JPY for Master’s students
- Full Tuition Waiver
- Admission Fee Waiver
- Round-Trip International Airfare
- Dormitory Housing: On-campus or near-campus accommodation options available
Apply Also
- Griffith University, Australia John Willett International Scholarship 2026
- Albukhary International University (AIU) Scholarship 2025 – 2026: Fully Funded Study Opportunity in Malaysia
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must:
- Be a non-Japanese international student
- Have a strong academic background in biological or life sciences
- Intend to conduct impactful, global-level research in science and sustainability
- Be proficient in English (TOEFL/IELTS scores may be required)
- Obtain approval from a potential supervising professor at Hokkaido University before applying
Application Process
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Find a Lab:
Browse the list of life science laboratories at Hokkaido University [Lab List Page]. - Contact a Supervisor:
Email the professor of your chosen lab to discuss research interests and supervision. - Secure Supervision:
Get confirmation from the professor who agrees to supervise your research. - Prepare Application Documents:
Required materials typically include:Application form
Academic transcripts and certificates
Recommendation letters
Proof of English proficiency
Research plan
Submit via Professor:
Your supervising professor will forward your completed documents to the IGP-MEXT office.
Application Deadline
Final Submission Date: December 10, 2025
All materials must be submitted through your supervising professor.
If you are ready to take your research career to the next level in Japan, start contacting your potential supervisors today and apply before December 10, 2025.