Fully Funded DHET Japan Scholarship Programme at Tokyo Metropolitan University 2026 — The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) is offering fully-funded scholarships to South African students for Master’s and PhD studies at Tokyo Metropolitan University, Japan, starting in October 2026. This prestigious programme covers all expenses including travel, tuition, accommodation, and provides comprehensive support for academic success in Japan.
About the Scholarship Programme
The DHET Japan Scholarship Programme represents a significant investment in developing South Africa’s academic talent through international exposure at one of Japan’s leading universities. Tokyo Metropolitan University (TMU) is known for its excellence in science, engineering, and urban environmental studies, offering South African students world-class education and research opportunities.
The Department of Higher Education and Training manages the nomination and award process, ensuring that selected candidates represent South Africa’s best academic talent and contribute to the country’s development upon their return.
This is a fully-funded opportunity covering all major expenses for the duration of your studies in Japan.
Eligibility Criteria
- South African citizen in good health (medical examination required)
- Minimum 80% average in previous qualifications
- Master’s applicants: Bachelor’s degree or NQF Level 7 qualification
- PhD applicants: Master’s degree or NQF Level 9 qualification
- Available to commence studies in Japan from October 2026
- Interest in Japan and commitment to South Africa’s development
- Good moral character and willingness to comply with Japanese laws
- Proficient in English
Important: Preference will be given to previously disadvantaged applicants.
Available Fields of Study
Graduate School of Science
- Biological Sciences (PhD only)
Graduate School of Urban Environmental Sciences
- Geography (Master’s & PhD)
- Civil & Environmental Engineering (Master’s & PhD)
- Applied Chemistry for Environment (Master’s & PhD)
- Tourism Science (Master’s & PhD)
Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition fees covered
- Round-trip economy airfare
- Mid-term return economy airfare
- Monthly stipend (living expenses)
- Accommodation support
- Once-off settlement allowance
- Health & medical insurance
- Visa costs covered
- Pre-departure orientation
- Psychosocial support services
Duration: Master’s (2 years) | PhD (3 years). Successful candidates must return to South Africa after completion.
How to Apply
Application Deadline: 15 January 2026
Application Method: Complete the DHET Scholarship Application Form and submit via email to:
Required Documents
- South African ID copy
- Valid passport copy (by April 2026)
- Degree certificates
- Academic transcripts
- Research proposal
- Publication abstracts (if any)
- Letter of recommendation
- Nomination letter (if applicable)
- English proficiency proof
- Medical certificate
All documents must be in PDF format with clear filenames.
⏰ Deadline: 15 January 2026
Selection Process Timeline
- Stage 1: Initial screening for minimum requirements
- Stage 2: Ranking by academic performance
- Stage 3: Interviews for shortlisted candidates
- Stage 4: Final nomination by DHET
- Stage 5: Final admission decision by TMU
Successful applicants will be notified by end of June 2026 and must attend a mandatory pre-departure orientation in Tshwane. All scholarship recipients must sign a contract and return to South Africa after completing their studies.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the minimum academic requirement?
A minimum average of 80% in your previous qualification (Bachelor’s for Master’s, Master’s for PhD).
2. Is this scholarship really fully funded?
Yes! It covers tuition, airfare, monthly stipend, accommodation, insurance, visa costs, and provides a settlement allowance.
3. When does the programme start?
Studies commence in October 2026 at Tokyo Metropolitan University.
4. Do I need to know Japanese?
No, the programmes are taught in English. However, Japanese language support may be provided.
5. What is the application deadline?
All applications must be submitted by 15 January 2026.
6. Can I apply for both Master’s and PhD?
No, you must apply for either Master’s OR PhD based on your current qualification level.
7. What happens after I submit my application?
There’s a 5-stage selection process including screening, ranking, interviews, nomination, and final university admission.
8. When will I know if I’m successful?
Final notifications will be sent by the end of June 2026.
9. Do I need a passport to apply?
You need to provide a passport copy by April 2026. Apply for one now if you don’t have it.
10. What if I have more questions?
Email japanscholarships@dhet.gov.za or Internationalscholarships@dhet.gov.za. For more postgraduate opportunities, explore our postgraduate scholarships database or check other international study opportunities.
For more international scholarships and postgraduate funding, visit EduFunds.co.za
Department of Higher Education and Training – International Scholarships Division