Do you dream of making a positive impact on your country’s development? Are you a passionate and promising young professional working in public administration? If so, the GRIPS Young Leaders Program (YLP) MEXT Scholarship in Japan might be the perfect opportunity for you. This fully-funded scholarship program offers exceptional young government officials from around the world the chance to pursue a Master’s degree in Public Policy at the prestigious National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS) in Tokyo.
What is the GRIPS Young Leaders Program (YLP)?
Established in 2001 by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), the YLP aims to cultivate future leaders in public policy from Asia and other regions. The program fosters:
- International cooperation and understanding
- Development of effective public policy skills
- Strong relationships between Japan and other participating countries
The YLP offers two program options focusing on Public Policy:
- School of Government (SOG): This program delves into the core principles of public policy, public administration, and international relations.
- School of Local Governance (SLG): This program explores the specific challenges and opportunities faced by local governments around the world.
Who is eligible to apply?
The YLP is highly competitive and seeks outstanding young professionals with the potential to become future leaders in their home countries. Here are the key eligibility requirements:
- Citizenship: Open to international students from countries with diplomatic relations with Japan.
- Age: Applicants must be younger than 35 years old by April 1, 2024.
- Education: A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant field is required.
- Experience: At least three years of full-time professional experience in public administration within your home country is mandatory.
- Language: Strong English language proficiency is essential. Applicants must demonstrate a minimum score of 6.0 on the IELTS exam or 79 on the TOEFL iBT exam.
- Potential: The selection process focuses on your potential to become a future leader, contribute to your country’s development, and foster positive relations between Japan and your home country.
What are the benefits of the scholarship?
The GRIPS YLP MEXT Scholarship offers a comprehensive package of benefits to support your studies in Japan:
- Full Tuition Coverage: The scholarship covers all tuition fees for your chosen Master’s program at GRIPS.
- Monthly Stipend: You will receive a monthly allowance of 242,000 JPY (approximately $2,200 USD as of April 2024) to cover your living expenses in Japan.
- Round-Trip Airfare: The scholarship provides economy-class airfare for a round trip between your home country and Japan – once at the beginning of your studies and again upon graduation.
- Research Opportunities: You will have the chance to participate in policy research projects with various institutions, including the Japanese government.
- Networking and Field Trips: The program includes opportunities to attend lectures and workshops with prominent figures in Japan, such as lawmakers, government officials, and business leaders. Additionally, field trips offer practical insights into policymaking in action.
- Global Network: As a YLP scholar, you will join a vibrant network of future leaders from around the world, fostering lifelong connections and collaboration opportunities.
What is GRIPS like?
The National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS) is a leading international graduate school dedicated to advancing democratic governance globally. Established in 1997, GRIPS offers an interdisciplinary learning environment that combines academic rigor with practical application. Here are some key features of GRIPS:
- International and Diverse: Approximately 70% of the student body and 20% of the faculty are international, fostering a truly global learning experience.
- Expert Faculty: GRIPS boasts a team of highly accomplished scholars and renowned professionals with extensive experience in public policy development and implementation.
- Program Offerings: In addition to the YLP, GRIPS offers various Master’s and Doctoral programs in Public Policy and related fields.
- Focus on Practical Skills: The curriculum emphasizes equipping students with the practical skills and knowledge needed to tackle complex policy challenges.
How to Apply
The application deadline for the 2024 YLP MEXT Scholarship is May 2nd, 2024. Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying:
- Download Application Materials: Visit the GRIPS website to download the application guide and forms.
- Read the Application Guide Carefully: Familiarize yourself with all eligibility requirements and application procedures.
- Complete the application forms.
- Fill out the application forms.
Online Registration Form
- Complete and submit the Online Registration Form.
Supplementary materials
- Submit the necessary supporting documentation to the Admissions Office by mail.
- To obtain additional information about the application procedure, please click on the following link.
