Hanjo Foundation Scholarship 2027 in Japan (Funded). Apply for fully funded scholarships here. The Hanjo Foundation Scholarship 2027 in Japan (officially the Honjo International Scholarship Foundation, HISF) is one of the most generous fully funded scholarships open to international students. It supports master’s and PhD studies at any Japanese graduate school, in any field, with no nationality restriction.
This program stands out because students can apply directly to the foundation. A study visa sponsorship or university nomination is not required beforehand, which makes it accessible to international students applying from abroad.
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Below is a quick summary table covering the key facts about this fully funded scholarship for the 2027 intake.
Hanjo Foundation Scholarship 2027 Details:
| Offered by: | Hanjo Foundation |
| Degree level: | Master’s & PhD |
| Scholarship coverage: | Funded |
| Eligible nationality: | All Nationalities |
| Award country: | Japan |
| Last date: | 31 October 2026 |
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Financial Benefits
The Hanjo Foundation Scholarship offers one of the highest monthly stipends among Japan-based scholarships for international students. The amount depends on how long the degree programme takes to complete.
Along with the monthly allowance, scholars can also receive a travel grant to attend an international academic conference. This adds real value beyond just living costs.
| Benefit | Amount / Coverage |
|---|---|
| Monthly Stipend (1–2 year programs) | ¥230,000 per month |
| Monthly Stipend (3-year programs) | ¥210,000 per month |
| Monthly Stipend (beyond 3 years) | ¥180,000 per month |
| Conference Travel Grant | Provided for one international conference |
| Duration | Covers the full minimum period required for the degree |
| Tuition Fees | Not directly covered by this scholarship |
Because tuition is not included, applicants often combine this scholarship with a university tuition waiver or an education loan to cover full costs, especially at national universities where tuition support is common.
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Available Study Programs
Master’s Degree Programmes: Open to students already enrolled in or accepted to a Japanese graduate school. Typically lasts 1 to 2 years and covers any discipline, from engineering to social sciences.
Doctoral (PhD) Programmes: Designed for students pursuing advanced research degrees. Program length usually ranges from 3 to 5 years, and applicants must not exceed the foundation’s age limit.
Research-Based Programs: Since there is no restriction on academic field, students working on interdisciplinary or applied research projects are equally welcome to apply, as long as a clear research plan is submitted.
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Top Universities
The scholarship can be used at any accredited Japanese graduate school, but these top-ranked institutions are popular choices among Hanjo Foundation scholars because of their strong international student support and research facilities.
| University | City | World Ranking | Tuition Range (per year) | Scholarship Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Tokyo | Tokyo | Top 30 globally | ¥535,800 (national fee) | Available with tuition waiver options |
| Kyoto University | Kyoto | Top 60 globally | ¥535,800 (national fee) | Available, strong research funding |
| Osaka University | Osaka | Top 100 globally | ¥535,800 (national fee) | Available with partial tuition reduction |
Tuition figures above reflect the standard national university fee set by Japan’s education ministry; private universities may charge more. Always confirm current tuition on each university’s official admissions page.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Hanjo Foundation Scholarship 2027, applicants must meet several academic and personal requirements set by the foundation.
- Must not hold Japanese citizenship.
- Must be currently enrolled in, or have already secured admission to, a Japanese graduate school for a master’s or PhD programme.
- PhD applicants must be able to start the programme before turning 35 years old.
- Must not be receiving any other scholarship at the same time, apart from a short list of approved exceptions such as the MEXT Scholarship or JSPS Fellowship.
- Students enrolling in a professional graduate school are generally not eligible, unless they submit a formal research plan.
- A genuine intention to contribute to international friendship and to one’s home country after graduation is expected.
Since this is a fully funded scholarship aimed at serious researchers, a strong academic record and a well-written research proposal significantly improve an applicant’s chances during document screening.
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Required Documents
| Document | Required |
|---|---|
| Completed online application form | Yes |
| Passport-size photo | Yes |
| 2-minute self-introduction and research video | Yes |
| Academic transcripts | Yes |
| Certificate of graduation or expected graduation | Yes |
| Research plan (using the foundation’s template) | Yes |
| Letter of recommendation | Yes |
| Letter of acceptance from a Japanese graduate school (if already available) | Optional but recommended |
| Valid passport copy | Yes |
Application Process
Step 1: Confirm eligibility carefully, including nationality, age limit for PhD applicants, and enrolment status at a Japanese graduate school.
Step 2: Download the official application guideline and the research plan template from the foundation’s website before starting.
Step 3: Register on the foundation’s online web application system using a valid email address.
Step 4: Fill in personal, academic, and programme details accurately in the application form.
Step 5: Prepare your research plan following the required template and word limits.
Step 6: Record and upload the required 2-minute video introducing yourself and your research.
Step 7: Upload transcripts, recommendation letters, and all supporting documents in the correct file format.
Step 8: Submit the completed application before the October 31, 2026, deadline and save the generated PDF and application number.
Step 9: Wait for the document screening result, expected around January 31, 2027.
Step 10: If shortlisted, attend the interview in Tokyo or online in February 2027, then await the final result in March 2027.
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Student Visa Guide
International students admitted to a Japanese graduate school must apply for a college student visa, known locally as the “Ryugaku” visa, before entering Japan.
The process starts with a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), which your university applies for on your behalf. Once issued, you convert the COE into an actual student visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Certificate of Eligibility (COE) | Applied for by the university; takes about 1–3 months |
| Visa Processing Time | 3–10 working days after COE is converted at the embassy |
| Financial Proof | Approximately ¥2,000,000 in bank statements or scholarship award letter |
| Biometrics | A photograph and, in some countries, fingerprints collected at the visa centre. |
| Visa Fee | ¥3,000 (single entry) or ¥6,000 (multiple entry) |
| Required Documents | Passport, COE, admission letter, financial proof, photos, application form |
Because this scholarship award letter can serve as financial proof, admitted Hanjo Foundation scholars often find their student visa sponsorship process smoother than self-funded applicants.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory for all international students staying in Japan for more than three months. Students must enrol in Japan’s National Health Insurance (NHI) system.
Registration happens at the local ward office within 14 days of arrival, alongside residence registration. Coverage typically pays 70% of medical costs, with students responsible for the remaining 30%.
Estimated NHI premiums run around ¥1,500 to ¥2,000 per month for most students, though the exact amount depends on your municipality and income status. University health centres also offer basic checkups at low or no cost.
Accommodation & Living Costs
Most universities offer international student dormitories, which are the cheapest and most convenient option, especially in the first year. Private rentals become common after students settle in.
- University dormitories: ¥20,000–¥40,000 per month, often including utilities.
- Private shared apartments: ¥40,000–¥60,000 per month depending on the city.
- Private studio apartments: ¥60,000–¥100,000 per month in cities like Tokyo or Osaka.
Beyond rent, students should budget for food, transportation, and daily expenses. A reasonable monthly living cost estimate, excluding rent, is around ¥60,000 to ¥90,000, though the stipend from this scholarship comfortably covers these needs.
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Post-Study Work Opportunities
Japan offers international graduates a designated activities visa that allows job hunting for up to one year after graduation. This is a well-known work permit after-study pathway for students who want to stay in Japan.
Once employed, graduates typically switch to a work visa tied to their job category, such as Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services. Average starting salaries for foreign graduates in Japan range from ¥250,000 to ¥350,000 per month, depending on the industry and role.
Major hiring industries include technology, manufacturing, finance, and education. Many multinational and Japanese companies actively recruit international graduates for their language skills and global perspective, which also supports a long-term PR pathway for those who stay several years.
Frequently Asked Questions (Latest Google FAQs)
Is the Hanjo Foundation Scholarship really fully funded?
It provides a generous monthly stipend and a conference travel grant, but tuition fees are not directly covered, so applicants should also check university tuition waivers.
Can I apply without already being admitted to a Japanese university?
You must be either enrolled in or have secured admission to a Japanese graduate school before applying for this scholarship.
Does this scholarship require Japanese language proficiency?
No specific language test score is mandated by the foundation, though your chosen graduate programme may have its own language requirements.
What is the age limit for PhD applicants?
PhD applicants must be able to begin their programme before turning 35 years old.
Can I hold another scholarship alongside this one?
Generally no, except for a few approved programmes like the MEXT Scholarship, Monbukagakusho Honours Scholarship, or JSPS International Fellowship.
How competitive is the selection process?
Only around 10 scholarships are awarded each cycle, so the process is highly competitive and includes both document screening and an interview.
Is a student visa sponsorship guaranteed after winning this scholarship?
Winning the scholarship does not automatically grant a visa; you still need a valid Certificate of Eligibility and standard student visa approval.
Can I work part-time while on this scholarship?
Yes, international students in Japan may request permission for part-time work up to 28 hours per week during term time.
This is general educational information about studying and living in Japan. It is not immigration or legal advice, so always confirm current rules with an authorised immigration consultant or the relevant government office.
Conclusion
The Hanjo Foundation Scholarship 2027 in Japan is a genuine, fully funded opportunity for international students pursuing master’s or PhD studies, offering a strong monthly stipend and direct access without university nomination.
Because spots are limited to around 10 scholars per year, applicants should prepare their research plan, documents, and video early. Always apply and verify deadlines only through the foundation’s official website listed below.
Official Resources
| Website Type | Official Website | Latest Application Deadline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Official Scholarship | Honjo International Scholarship Foundation – Scholarship for Foreign Students | October 31, 2026 | Expected to Open (Next Intake) — Check Official Website |
| University Admissions | Study in Japan (JASSO Official Portal) | Varies by Program | Official |
| Official Admissions (Example University) | University of Tokyo Admissions | Varies by Program | Official |
| Student Visa | Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan – Visa Information | N/A | Official |
| Immigration | Immigration Services Agency of Japan | N/A | Official |