UNU-IAS MSc Scholarships 2026 – Study in Japan

United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS)

UNU-IAS MSc Scholarships

The UNU-IAS MSc Scholarships are for students who want to study sustainability in Japan. These scholarships help students with tuition fees and living costs. The scholarships are for students who are accepted to the MSc in Sustainability program at UNU-IAS. Students do not need a separate form for the scholarship; it is part of the main application. The scholarships are very competitive. Students must provide their personal information and documents when applying. Some scholarships give money for living, travel, and research. Students will also need to participate in some events and write short reports about their learning. These scholarships are a great chance for students to gain knowledge, experience, and a global network in sustainability studies.

Scholarship Details

  • Host Country: Japan
  • Host University: United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS)
  • Scholarship Name: UNU-IAS MSc Scholarships
  • Eligible Levels: Masters (MSc)
  • Gender: Both
  • English Language Requirement: Yes
  • Application Deadline: Varies by scholarship (check official site)
  • Type of Scholarship: Fully funded

Available Scholarship Types and Duration

  • Japan Foundation for UNU (jfUNU) Scholarship – 24 months
  • UNU Rector’s Scholarship – 24 months
  • Resona Bank Scholarship – 24 months
  • Asian Development Bank–Japan Scholarship Program (ADB–JSP) – 24 months

Eligible Programs

Masters (MSc)

  • Sustainability
  • Environmental Management
  • Climate Change Studies
  • Policy and Governance

(Note: UNU-IAS MSc Scholarships are mainly for Master’s level programs)

Scholarship Benefits

  • Monthly allowance (JPY 120,000 – 147,000 depending on scholarship)
  • Tuition fee coverage
  • Travel allowance to and from Japan
  • Research allowance
  • Medical and accident insurance (ADB–JSP only)
  • Books and instrumental allowance (ADB–JSP only)

Scholarship Exclusions

  • Visa fees
  • Health insurance (except ADB–JSP)
  • Personal expenses beyond monthly allowance

Eligible Applicants

  • Nationals of countries listed in OECD DAC ODA recipients
  • Students who need financial assistance
  • Students accepted to UNU-IAS MSc program
  • Students not enrolled in other postgraduate programs

Not Eligible

  • Students living in Japan on a working visa
  • Students already in another graduate program
  • Recipients of other scholarships concurrently

Required Documents

  • UNU-IAS application form
  • Passport copy
  • English language certificate
  • Work experience certificate (ADB–JSP only)
  • Income certificates (ADB–JSP only)

Tips to Get the Scholarship

  • Apply early and complete all forms
  • Show your need for financial support
  • Demonstrate interest in sustainability and UN goals
  • Write clear essays about your goals and learning
  • Follow all instructions carefully

Living Costs in Japan

ItemCost per Month (JPY)
Rent60,000 – 80,000
Food30,000 – 40,000
Transport10,000 – 15,000
Utilities & Internet5,000 – 10,000
Miscellaneous10,000 – 20,000

How to Apply

  1. Apply to the MSc in Sustainability program online
  2. Provide all required documents for scholarships
  3. Submit essays if needed
  4. Wait for admission and scholarship results

FAQ

Who can apply?
Students accepted to UNU-IAS MSc program from eligible countries.

Do I need to speak English?
Yes, an English certificate is required.

Can I get more than one scholarship?
No, concurrent scholarships are not allowed.

Is travel included?
Yes, some scholarships provide travel allowance.

Is insurance included?
Yes, some scholarships cover medical and accident insurance.

Apply Now

For more information, visit the official UNU-IAS MSc Scholarships website

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