The United Nations University Sustainability Scholarship 2026 offers a prestigious opportunity for international students from developing countries to pursue fully funded postgraduate studies in Japan. Hosted by the United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS), the programme is designed to train future leaders, researchers, and policymakers committed to solving global sustainability challenges.

Through an interdisciplinary academic framework, the scholarship integrates natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities to address real-world sustainability problems. With applications now open, qualified candidates are encouraged to take advantage of this unique study opportunity within the United Nations academic system.

Scholarship Overview

The United Nations University Sustainability Scholarship is a fully funded postgraduate programme offered at UNU-IAS in Tokyo, Japan. It supports Master’s and PhD students whose academic interests align with sustainability science, policy development, and global environmental governance.

Studying at UNU-IAS provides scholars with direct exposure to UN-led research initiatives, collaborative learning environments, and international policy discussions. The programme is ideal for graduates and professionals seeking careers in governments, NGOs, international organisations, and research institutions.

Scholarship Summary

Scholarship Benefits

The United Nations University Sustainability Scholarship is a fully funded award designed to remove financial barriers for outstanding international students pursuing sustainability-focused postgraduate studies.

• Full tuition fee coverage for the entire study duration

• Monthly living allowance of JPY 130,000

• Round-trip international travel support

• Comprehensive health and accident insurance

• Research allowance and academic support

Scholars also benefit from studying in central Tokyo, engaging in collaborative UN-based research, and building global professional networks within the sustainability sector.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the 2026 United Nations University Sustainability Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Must be a citizen of a developing country

• Must demonstrate financial need

• Must not be living in Japan under a work visa

• Must not be enrolled in another postgraduate programme

• Must not hold another scholarship concurrently

For Master’s Applicants:

• Bachelor’s degree in a sustainability-related field

• Minimum GPA of 2.8 on a 4.0 scale

• English language proficiency

For PhD Applicants:

• Master’s degree in a relevant discipline

• At least two years of related professional experience

• Minimum GPA of 2.8 on a 4.0 scale

• English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS waived for native speakers)

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Follow the steps below to apply for the United Nations University Sustainability Scholarship 2026:

• Visit the official UNU-IAS programme webpage

• Select either the Master’s or PhD programme

• Review the checklist and prepare all required documents

• Register online once the application portal opens

• Complete and submit the online application form

• Receive confirmation of submission via email

There is no separate scholarship application. Eligible applicants are automatically considered for funding during the admission process.

Begin Application

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