The United Nations University (UNU) offers the Japan Foundation for United Nations University (JFUNU) Scholarship for outstanding applicants from developing countries who want to pursue a Master’s degree in Sustainability at the UNU Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS) in Tokyo.

What are the Eligibility Requirements for the JFUNU Scholarship:

The eligibility requirements for the Japan Foundation for United Nations University (JFUNU) Scholarship may vary slightly depending on the specific program or degree being pursued. However, here are the general eligibility criteria for the JFUNU Scholarship:

• Nationality: Applicants must be nationals of developing countries listed in the latest OECD DAC list of ODA recipients.
• Academic Background: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a field related to sustainability studies, such as environmental studies, development studies, economics, business administration, natural sciences, social sciences, or other relevant disciplines.
• English Proficiency: Proficiency in English is required since the program is conducted in English. Applicants must provide proof of English language proficiency through a recognized English proficiency test (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) or a university degree conducted in English.
• Professional Experience: While not mandatory, work experience in a field related to sustainability or sustainable development is highly valued.
• Commitment to Sustainability: Applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainability and a clear vision of how their studies and future career goals will contribute to addressing sustainability challenges.

What is the total award for the JFUNU Scholarship:

The Japan Foundation for United Nations University (JFUNU) Scholarship provides financial assistance to selected students pursuing a Master’s degree in Sustainability at the United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS) in Tokyo. The scholarship includes the following benefits:

1. Full Tuition Waiver: The scholarship covers the full tuition fees for the Master’s degree program.
2. Monthly Stipend: Recipients of the JFUNU Scholarship receive a monthly allowance to cover living expenses during their study period in Tokyo. The specific amount of the stipend may vary and is subject to change, so it is advisable to check the latest information provided by UNU-IAS or JFUNU.
3. Travel Costs: The scholarship also includes a round-trip airfare to Japan. This is provided at the beginning and end of the scholarship period.
4. Research Grant: In addition to the tuition waiver and monthly stipend, JFUNU Scholarship recipients may be eligible for a research grant to support their research-related activities during the program.

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How do you apply for the JFUNU Scholarship:

To apply for the Japan Foundation for United Nations University (JFUNU) Scholarship, you will need to follow the application process set by the United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS). Here are the general steps involved in applying for the JFUNU Scholarship:

1. Review Eligibility Criteria: Familiarize yourself with the eligibility requirements for the JFUNU Scholarship, including nationality, academic background, English proficiency, and commitment to sustainability.
2. Research the Master’s Program: Explore the Master’s degree program in Sustainability offered by UNU-IAS and understand its curriculum, objectives, and admission requirements. Ensure that the program aligns with your academic and career goals.
3. Prepare Application Documents: Collect the necessary documents for the application, which typically include:
   • Completed application form (available on the UNU-IAS website)
   • Certified copy of academic transcripts and degree certificates
   • Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS scores)
   • Statement of Purpose explaining your motivation, academic background, research interests, and how the JFUNU Scholarship will contribute to your goals
   • Two letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees
   • CV/Resume
   • Any additional documents or portfolio required by UNU-IAS
4. Submit the Application: Follow the instructions provided by UNU-IAS to submit your application. Typically, applications are submitted online through the official UNU-IAS application portal. Ensure that you submit all the required documents within the specified deadline.
5. Selection and Interview: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview as part of the selection process. The interview may be conducted in person or through video conferencing.
6. Notification of Results: After the selection process, successful candidates will be notified of their acceptance and the award of the JFUNU Scholarship. Details about the scholarship, including the start date, stipend, and other benefits, will be communicated to the recipients.

How To Get a Student Visa for Japan

Here is a step-by-step overview of the process:

1. Secure Admission to an Educational Institution: Apply and get accepted into a recognized educational institution in Japan. This can be a university, language school, vocational school, or any other accredited institution.
2. Receive Certificate of Eligibility (CoE): The educational institution that accepted you will apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) on your behalf from the Immigration Bureau of Japan. This certificate serves as evidence that you meet the requirements for a student visa.
3. Gather Required Documents: Prepare the necessary documents for your visa application, which typically include:
   • Valid passport
   • Completed visa application form
   • Passport-size photos
   • Original CoE issued by the educational institution
   • Admission letter from the educational institution
   • Financial documents to prove you can support yourself financially during your stay in Japan (bank statements, scholarship letter, etc.)
   • Academic transcripts and certificates
   • Medical certificate (depending on the length of your stay)
4. Submit Visa Application: Submit your visa application and the required documents to the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country of residence. Check the specific requirements and procedures of the embassy/consulate where you will be applying.
5. Attend Visa Interview (if required): In some cases, the embassy/consulate may require you to attend an interview as part of the visa application process. Prepare yourself by being familiar with your educational plans and the reasons for studying in Japan.
6. Pay Visa Fee: Pay the required visa fee. The fee amount may vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for.
7. Wait for Visa Processing: The processing time for student visas can vary, so it’s important to apply well in advance. The embassy/consulate will inform you when your visa application has been processed.
8. Collect Your Visa: Once your visa is approved, you will receive a visa sticker in your passport. Collect your passport from the embassy/consulate or arrange for its delivery.
9. Enter Japan: With your visa, travel to Japan before the expiry date indicated on the visa sticker. Upon arrival in Japan, you will need to go through immigration and present your passport and visa to the immigration officer.

The Annual and Renewable Options For This Scholarship

This is an annual scholarship opportunity.

The deadline is February 27, 2024.

Other available scholarships to look at are Billy Blue College of Design Scholarship or $5,000 Coupontoaster Scholarship Program for International Students 2023.

All applicants should consult the contact webpage that is in the contact section of this page if a question has not been answered. Beforehand check the university’s FAQs page to see if anything can be answered right away.

All students should check with the university website about any delays or changes to the open submission window or deadline time frame. This is the best way to see if anything needs to be reviewed or changed before submitting their application. Anyone can sign up to receive a university website newsletter to stay updated on the latest information.

Any student unsure about the rules and guidelines meant to be followed by the recipient should consult the website link provided. Anyone looking for more information that is not found on the website should contact the email address.

We also suggest that all applicants read through the information guideline page that is available through the original scholarship link. This way, the individual can navigate the website correctly and identify the real scholarship online application. So far there has been no mention of any delays for this opportunity or any cancellations.