DHET Japan Scholarship Programme 2026
The 2026 DHET Japan Scholarship Programme for South Africans to Study Master’s and PhD in Japan at Tokyo Metropolitan University (Fully Funded) is now open.
The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) is inviting South African students to apply for a fully funded scholarship to pursue Master’s or PhD studies at Tokyo Metropolitan University (TMU), Japan, starting in October 2026.
This scholarship covers all major study and living costs, making it an excellent opportunity for academically strong students who wish to pursue postgraduate research abroad while contributing to South Africa’s development.
Update: How to Apply for the 2026 Chinese Government (CSC) Scholarship Programme
DHET JAPAN SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION ELIGIBILITY AND BENEFITS
Eligibility and Requirements
To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen in good health.
- Hold a strong academic record with at least 80% average in previous studies.
- Master’s applicants: Must hold a Bachelor’s degree / NQF Level 7 with a minimum of 80%.
- PhD applicants: Must hold a Master’s degree / NQF Level 9 with a minimum of 80%.
- Be willing to begin studies in Japan from October 2026.
- Show interest in Japan and a commitment to advancing South Africa.
- Demonstrate good moral character and willingness to abide by university and national regulations.
- Meet academic admission requirements for the chosen TMU programme.
- Be proficient in English.
- Preference will be given to previously disadvantaged applicants.
Fields of Study
Graduate School of Science
- Biological Sciences (PhD only)
Graduate School of Urban Environmental Sciences
- Geography (Master’s & PhD)
- Civil and Environmental Engineering (Master’s & PhD)
- Applied Chemistry for the Environment (Master’s & PhD)
- Tourism Science (Master’s & PhD)
Stipend / Bursary Benefits (Fully Funded)
Duration
- Master’s Degree: 2 years
- PhD: 3 years
Covered Benefits Include:
- Full tuition fees
- Round-trip economy airfare (arrival and return after completion)
- One mid-term return flight
- Monthly stipend (covers living costs, accommodation & transport)
- Once-off settlement allowance
- Medical and health insurance
- Visa application costs
- Pre-departure orientation
- Psychosocial support services
Scholarship recipients are required to return to South Africa upon completion.
HOW TO APPLY FOR DHET JAPAN SCHOLARSHIP
- Complete the DHET Scholarship Application Form.
- Prepare and compile all required supporting documents (PDF format).
- Email your complete application to: japanscholarships@dhet.gov.za
Supporting Documents Checklist (PDF)
- South African ID
- Valid passport (or proof that it will be available by April 2026)
- Degree certificates & academic transcripts
- Research proposal
- Publication abstracts (if applicable)
- Recommendation letter from university (Dean/Advisor)
- Nomination letter (if applicable)
- Proof of English proficiency
- Medical certificate (official format)
Selection Stages
- Eligibility screening
- Ranking based on academic performance
- Shortlisting & interviews
- DHET nomination
- Final admission decision by TMU
Successful candidates will be notified by June 2026 and must attend a pre-departure orientation in Tshwane.
CLOSING DATE FOR DHET JAPAN SCHOLARSHIP
Applications close: 09 January 2026
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