GRIPS Fully Funded Scholarships 2026

The National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS) has officially begun accepting applications for the 2026–2027 academic year, presenting a noteworthy chance for aspiring public policy leaders, governance experts and economists across the globe.The new application cycle highlights the institute’s ongoing commitment to developing professionals capable of handling challenging policy issues by offering a variety of master’s and doctoral options.

Introduction of GRIPS

GRIPS, which was established in Tokyo and is well situated in the Roppongi neighborhood, has established itself as one of the top organizations in Japan with a focus on advanced professional training, governance studies and public policy research. The institute has developed over the years into an intellectual hub that draws scholars, policymakers, and government representatives from all around the world.

Every year, GRIPS welcomes international students from over 60 countries, maintaining a strong worldwide presence. The institution is widely acknowledged by governments, international organizations, and development agencies for its robust public-sector education model, even though typical worldwide ranking systems do not directly assess specialized policy institutes like GRIPS. Leading international partners, such as the World Bank, ADB,MEXT, JICA, WCO, and IMF, support its programs, strengthening GRIPS’ standing as a reliable global center for policy education.

GRIPS Scholars Reportedly Being Offered Sponsorship

For students looking for full financial help, the GRIPS scholarship benefits provide a very appealing route. For eligible applicants, scholarships supported by MEXT and several overseas organizations pay for all tuition, entrance fees, and application costs. Along with economy-class airfare to and from Japan upon enrollment and program completion, awardees also receive a monthly stipend, which can range from roughly JPY 147,000 to over JPY 300,000 depending on the program and scholarship type. In order to ensure that students may concentrate on their academic obligations without worrying about money, several scholarship programs include additional allowances like books, research materials, arrival assistance, and insurance coverage.

Study Topics Available

Public policy, public finance, macroeconomic policy, shipping safety and security, economics and planning, global governance, policy analysis, and science and innovation policy are just a few of the important topics covered by GRIPS’ extensive portfolio of degree programs that are taught exclusively in English. While doctoral pathways include the five-year G-cube Program, the Policy Analysis Program, and the three-year Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy Program, master’s programs include options like the One-Year Master’s in Public Policy (MP1), the Two-Year Master’s Program (MP2), the Macroeconomic Policy Program, and the Public Finance Program. Professionals in the sectors of governance, development, finance, security, and technological policy are intended to gain advanced competence through these programs.

Proof of Eligibility

A bachelor’s degree is typically required for all master’s programs and five-year doctoral studies, while a completed master’s degree is required for the three-year doctoral program. However, eligibility criteria vary depending on the program chosen. Depending on the scholarship sponsor, professional experience could be necessary, especially for programs connected to the IMF, World Bank, JICA, or WCO nominations. Unless they are excluded under GRIPS’ language waiver regulations, all applicants must prove their English ability using the TOEFL iBT or IELTS Academic. Candidates who live in Japan or intend to relocate there are subject to additional rules and may be categorized as domestic candidates under various submission processes.

The GRIPS 2026 application form, a photo, recommendation letters, a certificate of employment for candidates who are currently employed, official academic transcripts and degree certificates, English proficiency scores, a statement of purpose, and the financial statement for self-financed or externally funded applicants are among the necessary documents. All doctoral programs and two-year master’s programs demand additional resources like a research proposal and a master’s thesis or its equivalent. According to GRIPS’ stated submission guidelines, all documents must be original, written in English, and, if appropriate, sent in sealed envelopes.

Scholarship renewal is based upon an annual review of academic performance after enrollment. Before verifying the renewal of scholarship benefits, GRIPS assesses students’ academic progress, compliance with program conditions, and general behavior. As a reflection of GRIPS’s high standards for professionalism and academic performance, continuation is not automatic, and students must maintain excellent academic standing throughout their degree to receive full financial support.