Hanjo Foundation Scholarship 2026 offers a prestigious opportunity for international students to study in Japan through fully funded Master’s and PhD programs. Supported by the Honjo International Scholarship Foundation, this program empowers talented scholars to advance their academic goals at top-ranked Japanese universities while experiencing one of the most innovative education systems in the world.
The Hanjo Foundation Scholarship 2026 aims to nurture future global leaders by providing comprehensive financial support, access to advanced research facilities, and a culturally enriching environment. Students selected for this scholarship gain not only academic excellence but also valuable cross-cultural experiences that prepare them to make a meaningful global impact.
Benefits of Hanjo Foundation Scholarship 2026
- Monthly stipend of ¥210,000 for 1–2 year programs.
- Monthly stipend of ¥190,000 for 3-year programs.
- Monthly stipend of ¥160,000 for 4–5 year programs.
- Participation in foundation-organized conferences and academic events.
- Travel grants for attending academic conferences in Japan or abroad.
Eligibility Criteria for the Hanjo Foundation Scholarship 2026
- Must not hold Japanese citizenship.
- Must be enrolled in a graduate program in Japan starting in September or October.
- Students in professional graduate schools are eligible if they submit a detailed research plan.
- Duration of enrollment must exceed 12 months.
- Age limit:
- Master’s applicants: 30 years or younger.
- PhD applicants: 35 years or younger.
- Must demonstrate a strong commitment to contributing to their home country’s development after graduation.
- Should show an understanding of international friendship and cooperation.
- Must have basic proficiency in Japanese sufficient for everyday communication.
- Applicants must not hold any other scholarship during the period of study.
Required Documents for the Hanjo Foundation Scholarship 2026
- Face photo in jpg or gif format (maximum size: 500 KB).
- 2-minute video presentation of the research plan in Japanese or English (mp4 or mov format, maximum size: 1 GB, face clearly visible).
- Academic transcripts from previous institutions.
- Detailed research proposal outlining intended research.
- Recommendation letter(s) from academic or professional referees.
- Admission letter or letter of acceptance from a Japanese university (if available).
How to Apply for the Hanjo Foundation Scholarship 2026
- Visit the official website: Hanjo Foundation Scholarship 2026
- Check and confirm eligibility requirements before applying.
- Complete the online application form carefully.
- Attach all required documents as mentioned in the guidelines.
- Submit your application before the official deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This FAQ covers who can apply (foreign students for master’s/PhD in Japan), application timeline (Sep 1–Oct 31), selection steps (document review + interview), stipend levels (¥230,000/¥210,000/¥180,000), restrictions on concurrent awards, required documents, language rules, interview format, coverage (only living stipend), and eligibility before university entry.
Who is eligible to apply for the scholarship?
This refers to the scholarship program open to foreign students aiming to study for a master’s or doctoral degree at a Japanese graduate school. All nationalities and research fields are welcome, and applicants may apply even before entering the university.
When is the application period for this scholarship?
The application window normally runs from September 1 to October 31 each year. Applications may be submitted online via the foundation’s system. The precise dates will be confirmed annually in the application guidelines.
What is the selection procedure once I apply?
Selection is done in two stages: first, a document screening; then, successful candidates will participate in interview(s). Interviews may be held in person in Tokyo or conducted online for those unable to attend in person.
What scholarship amount is provided and for how long?
The monthly stipend depends on the length of degree: ¥230,000 for 1–2 years, ¥210,000 for 3 years, and ¥180,000 for more than 3 years. The stipend is paid for the minimum required period to complete the degree.
Are combined scholarship awards allowed?
Generally, recipients are not allowed to receive other scholarships during the period, except for certain programs (such as the Japanese Government scholarship, Monbukagakusho honors scholarship, JSPS fellowship, or specific JST fellowships approved for concurrency).
What documents are required in the application?
You will need academic transcripts, a recommendation letter, curriculum vitae, a personal statement, a research plan (following a template) and a short video where the applicant speaks about their research. Also upload an admission or enrollment certificate if available.
In which language should the research plan be written?
The research plan must be written in Japanese. However, you may optionally attach an additional version in English if you are not confident in Japanese. The Japanese version is compulsory.
Will the interview be conducted in English?
No, the interview will be conducted in Japanese, not to test language skills, but to assess your research and motivation. Prepare to discuss your research and yourself in simple Japanese during the interview.
Does the scholarship cover tuition and travel costs?
No, this scholarship provides only a monthly stipend. It does not include payment of university tuition or one-time travel expenses such as airfares to Japan.
Can I apply if I’m not yet entered into a university?
Yes. If you plan to take an entrance examination to enter a Japanese university in Spring or Fall, you are eligible. In that case, indicate the anticipated result date since you may not be able to upload an acceptance letter before the deadline.
Discover more from Scholarship Union
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
