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Pursuing postgraduate education in public policy, economics, or international relations in Tokyo is a transformative milestone for mid-career professionals and aspiring public leaders. Located in Roppongi, Tokyo, the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS) is one of Asia’s premier policy schools.
Through its extensive funding network—including MEXT University Recommendation, ADB-JSP, World Bank, and internal GRIPS Fellowships—the university ensures that high-achieving International Students receive financial backing. These awards provide Fully Funded support, covering 100% of Tuition fees alongside a generous monthly Stipend to cover Tokyo living expenses. Whether preparing your application for 2026 or planning ahead for 2027, understanding GRIPS funding tracks will maximize your admission success.
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GRIPS Fellowships & Scholarship Schemes Overview
GRIPS operates a matching system during the admissions process. Applicants do not need to apply to each scholarship individually; GRIPS automatically considers qualified candidates for various internal and external funding options.
| Scholarship Scheme | Financial Coverage | Monthly Living Stipend | Target Programs & Profiles |
| MEXT Scholarship (University Recommendation) | 100% Tuition Exemption + Admission Fee Exemption + Flight Tickets | Approx. 144,000 – 147,000 JPY / month | Master’s (MP1/MP2) and Ph.D. candidates with high academic standing |
| GRIPS Fellowship / Fund | 100% Tuition Waiver | Direct living stipend or academic grant | Outstanding self-funded international students selected by Academic Council |
| ADB-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP) | Full Tuition + Admission Fees + Books & Medical Insurance | Approx. 147,000 JPY / month + Housing Support | Candidates from ADB borrowing member countries with 2+ years work experience |
| Joint Japan/World Bank (JJ/WBGSP) | Full Tuition Coverage + Return Airfare | Monthly allowance covering housing & meals | Mid-career public officials in development-related policy fields |
Key Benefits & Financial Coverage
Securing a GRIPS fellowship or associated scholarship removes financial stress and opens doors to top-level public sector networks:
- Complete Tuition Relief: Full exemption from application fees (30,000 JPY), admission fees (282,000 JPY), and annual tuition fees (642,960 JPY).
- Monthly Living Stipend: Allowance provided directly to students to easily manage housing, food, and living expenses in Tokyo.
- International Travel Support: Roundtrip economy class airfare between your home country and Tokyo provided by partner grants.
- Global Executive Network: Study alongside public administrators, diplomats, and policy specialists from over 100 countries.
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
To qualify for postgraduate admission and scholarship consideration at GRIPS for the 2026/2027 cycle, candidates must meet the following parameters:
- Academic Credentials: Hold a recognized Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s programs) or Master’s degree (for Ph.D. programs) with superior academic performance.
- Work Experience: Preferred or mandatory professional experience (typically 2 to 5 years) in government, public administration, central banks, or international organizations.
- Visa Requirements: Must hold or be eligible to acquire a valid “Student” visa under Japanese immigration law.
- Target Demographics: Many partner scholarships (e.g., ADB-JSP, World Bank, JICA) prioritize mid-career professionals from developing countries.
Language Proficiency & “No IELTS” Options
All main international degree programs at GRIPS are conducted entirely in English. Language evaluation follows these guidelines:
- Standard Language Scores: Submission of valid TOEFL iBT (80+) or IELTS Academic (6.0+) test results.
- No IELTS Eligibility: Applicants who completed their prior degree program entirely at an institution where English was the primary Medium of Instruction (MOI) can submit an official Medium of Instruction certificate to waive standard IELTS requirements.
Step-by-Step Application Process
GRIPS uses a single-entry Application Process where applicants apply for both admission and scholarship consideration in one step.
| Step Number | Action Stage | Key Instructions |
| Step 1 | Choose Your Program | Select an eligible Master’s (MP1, MP2, MEP) or Doctoral program (PA, G-cube, STI). |
| Step 2 | Register on Entry Portal | Create an account on the GRIPS Online Application System during active intake windows. |
| Step 3 | Complete Application Form | Fill in academic/employment background and check the box requesting scholarship matching. |
| Step 4 | Upload Supporting Documents | Submit official transcripts, policy papers/proposals, recommendation letters, and language proof. |
| Step 5 | Screening & Award Notice | GRIPS evaluates applicants, matches them with suitable funding partners, and issues admission and scholarship results. |
Document Checklist for Applicants
- Completed GRIPS Online Application Form
- Official University Academic Transcripts and Graduation Certificates
- Statement of Purpose / Essay on Policy Target Areas
- Research Proposal (Mandatory for Doctoral applicants)
- Two Official Recommendation Letters (preferably from professional supervisors/professors)
- Proof of English Proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or English MOI Certificate)
- Certificate of Employment verifying relevant work experience
- Valid Passport Copy
Strategy for Admission Success
Because GRIPS focuses on policy creation and public leadership, tailoring your application to practical administrative impact is essential:
- Emphasize Public Impact: Clearly explain how the policy expertise gained at GRIPS will help solve administrative, economic, or social challenges in your home country upon graduation.
- Highlight Professional Record: Demonstrate concrete achievements and leadership potential within your ministry, government body, or organization.
- Apply Early: Prepare your documents well ahead of the November–December priority deadlines for 2026/2027 entry to maximize your eligibility across all matching scholarship pools.
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FAQs
What costs are covered by the GRIPS Fellowships and Scholarships?
Full scholarship awards at GRIPS cover 100% of the application, admission, and annual tuition fees, alongside a monthly living stipend (approx. 144,000–147,000 JPY) and roundtrip airfare.
Do I need to submit a separate application for the GRIPS scholarship?
No separate scholarship application is required. When you complete your standard online admission application to GRIPS, the university automatically screens you and matches you with the best eligible scholarship scheme (MEXT, ADB-JSP, World Bank, etc.).
Can I apply for GRIPS programs without an IELTS score?
Yes, if your prior undergraduate or postgraduate degree was completed entirely in English, you can submit an official Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate issued by your university instead of an IELTS score.
Final Tip From ScholarshipsHive
Your Policy Essay or Research Proposal is the single most important document in your GRIPS application! Because GRIPS is a specialized graduate institution designed to train public leaders, selection committees look for applicants with a clear, realistic vision of policy reform. Focus on presenting a well-structured research proposal that addresses a pressing policy issue in your country—this approach is often the deciding factor that secures a 100% Fully Funded seat!
Official Web Address for Admissions & Financial Support: GRIPS Admissions and Scholarships Portal
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