Want a UN-branded degree in the heart of Tokyo without the financial stress? The United Nations University offers competitive scholarships for international students that can cover your tuition and living costs. If you are passionate about sustainability, global development, and real policy impact, this is a powerful launchpad.
The 2026/2027 scholarship intake targets outstanding applicants from around the world. You will study in an English-taught program, work with leading researchers, and connect directly with the UN ecosystem. Funding is limited and highly competitive, so prepare early and apply smart.
Why the United Nations University Scholarship Stands Out
UNU is the academic arm of the United Nations focused on research and postgraduate education. Studying here puts you at the intersection of science, policy, and practice. You build the skills employers and international organizations urgently need.
- UN network access – seminars, joint projects, and policy dialogues
- Location advantage – Tokyo is safe, innovative, and globally connected
- Career outcomes – alumni move into UN agencies, governments, NGOs, and top research roles
- Programs with purpose – every course maps to the SDGs and real-world impact
Programs You Can Target
Most scholarship opportunities are tied to UNU’s graduate degrees in Japan, especially at UNU Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS) in Tokyo.
- Master of Science in Sustainability
- PhD in Sustainability Science
Teaching is in English. You do not need Japanese to study, though learning basic Japanese will help with daily life and part-time work.
What the Scholarship Covers
Funding packages vary by award, but top offers are designed to make your studies in Japan affordable as a full-time international student. Typical coverage can include:
- Full tuition waiver for the standard duration of the degree
- Monthly stipend to support living expenses in Tokyo
- Health insurance coverage as required by the program
- Academic support – research supervision, fieldwork guidance, and access to UNU facilities
Important note: some awards do not include travel to Japan or relocation costs. Always verify exact coverage on the official scholarship page before you apply.
List of Scholarships 2026/2027
UNU updates funding offers each cycle. The following are commonly available or accepted pathways for the 2026/2027 intake:
- Japan Foundation for UNU (JFUNU) Scholarship – commonly supports high-achieving international Master’s students in Sustainability, with full tuition and a monthly living allowance. Priority is typically given to applicants from developing countries.
- UNU-IAS Donor-Funded Scholarships – competitive merit-based or need-based awards supported by institutional partners. Coverage and number of awards vary each year.
- External Funding Accepted – UNU accepts students who bring their own funding from government scholarships or international donors. Examples include home-country government awards and multilateral or foundation grants. Check eligibility directly with the funder.
Scholarship names, coverage, and eligibility can change each year. Always rely on the official UNU admissions and scholarship pages for final details.
Who Can Apply
Strong international applicants are encouraged to apply. Selection is competitive and holistic.
| Program | Who Can Apply | Academic Requirement | English Requirement | Funding Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Science in Sustainability | International students from any country. Scholarships often prioritize applicants from developing countries. | Recognized bachelor’s degree or equivalent with strong academic record and clear sustainability focus. | Proof of proficiency in English. Typical evidence includes IELTS or TOEFL. Some applicants may qualify for a waiver if prior degree was taught in English. | JFUNU and donor-funded awards are commonly offered. Coverage varies by award. |
| PhD in Sustainability Science | International applicants with advanced research potential and a strong match to UNU research themes. | Master’s degree or equivalent, research proposal aligned to UNU-IAS priorities, and evidence of research capacity. | English proficiency required. Test scores or waiver policies apply per program rules. | Competitive scholarships may be available. External sponsorships are accepted. |
Eligibility Criteria 2026/2027
- Citizenship – Open to international applicants. Some scholarships prioritize nationals of developing countries.
- Academic excellence – Consistent grades, strong references, and a focused statement of purpose.
- Program fit – Clear alignment with sustainability, SDGs, and UNU research areas.
- English language – Valid IELTS or TOEFL score unless eligible for a waiver based on prior study in English or other program rules.
- Financial need – Required for certain awards that are explicitly need-based.
- Full-time study – Willingness to study full time in Tokyo for the standard program duration.
Required Documents
Prepare clean, complete documents. Incomplete files are an easy rejection.
- Online application form
- Academic transcripts and degree certificate
- Curriculum vitae or resume
- Statement of purpose highlighting goals, SDG impact, and program fit
- Research proposal or study plan, especially for PhD
- Two or more recommendation letters
- Passport bio page
- English proficiency test score or waiver request
- Scholarship interest statement and any financial-need evidence if asked
How to Apply for the United Nations University Scholarships
- Choose your program – Review degree options and research areas at unu.edu/academics/degrees.
- Check funding pages – Confirm which scholarships are open for 2026/2027 and read the fine print on coverage and eligibility at ias.unu.edu/en/admissions.
- Create a strong application – Draft a focused statement of purpose and a targeted research proposal that speaks to UNU’s sustainability mission.
- Prepare English proof – Book IELTS or TOEFL early if you need scores. If you qualify for a waiver, gather official proof that your prior degree was taught in English.
- Apply online – Complete the UNU application portal for your chosen program and indicate that you wish to be considered for available scholarships. Upload all documents as instructed.
- References – Notify referees early. Ensure they submit on time and speak to your research, leadership, and impact potential.
- Interview, if invited – Prepare for research-focused questions and how your work advances the SDGs.
- Scholarship outcome – If selected, review your award letter carefully for coverage, conditions, and start year.
Deadline for 2026/2027 Intake
Check the official website for the latest deadline.
Admissions and scholarship timelines can differ by program. Applications typically open well before the intake year, so start preparing now.
Selection Criteria
- Academic strength – grades, research capacity, and relevant coursework
- Research fit – alignment with UNU-IAS themes and faculty expertise
- Impact and leadership – evidence you can drive SDG results in your home country or region
- Communication – clear, compelling writing and interview performance
- Diversity and equity – many awards seek geographic and socio-economic balance
Student Visa and Arrival in Japan
Admitted and funded students receive instructions from UNU to secure a Japanese student visa.
- Certificate of Eligibility – Issued through the university after you accept the offer
- Visa application – Submit at the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate with required documents
- Arrival – Attend orientation, register your residence, and enroll in National Health Insurance
Would You Like To Apply For This Jobs/Sponsorship?
Enter Your Email Address HERE & You Will Receive a Notification About Your Application. If it shows "Subscribed" CLICK HERE to follow on Telegram for updatesInternational students in Japan may work part time up to a legal limit with a proper work permit. Balance work with study to remain in good standing.
Tips to Make Your Application Stand Out
- Link your goals to specific SDG targets and UNU research themes
- Show concrete impact from past projects, not just intentions
- Use data and evidence in your statement of purpose
- Tailor your proposal to a potential supervisor’s expertise
- Submit early – last-minute uploads risk technical errors
FAQs
Is the scholarship really fully funded?
Top awards can fully cover tuition and provide a monthly living stipend. Some scholarships are partial. Always verify the exact coverage on the official UNU scholarship page for 2026/2027.
Do I need Japanese language skills?
No. The programs are taught in English. Basic Japanese is helpful for daily life and part-time work, but it is not an admission requirement.
Can I apply without IELTS or TOEFL?
English proof is required unless you qualify for a waiver. Waivers usually apply if your last degree was taught in English and your institution issues official confirmation. Check program rules.
Are travel costs to Japan covered?
Often not. Many awards cover tuition and living stipends but exclude airfare. Review your offer carefully.
Is there an age limit?
No strict age limit is typically stated. Selection focuses on academic merit, research fit, and potential for impact.
Can I bring dependents?
It is possible under Japan’s immigration rules, but the scholarship usually does not cover dependent costs. Plan carefully and consult the embassy for visa specifics.
Ready to Apply?
This is your chance to study in Japan with a UN institution behind you. If you are serious about sustainability and policy impact, start your 2026/2027 application now. Review the degree pages at unu.edu/academics/degrees and confirm current scholarships and deadlines at ias.unu.edu/en/admissions. Secure your documents, craft a sharp proposal, and hit submit. Apply now and take your next step toward a global career.
