United Nations University Sustainability Scholarship 2026
The 2026 United Nations University Sustainability Scholarship is now open for applications from qualified candidates in developing countries who wish to pursue Master’s or PhD studies in Sustainability Science in Japan.
This prestigious scholarship, offered by the United Nations University (UNU-IAS), is fully funded and covers tuition fees, travel costs, health insurance, and a monthly living allowance of up to 130,000 JPY for a maximum of 24 months.
In this guide, you will find the full details of the United Nations University Sustainability Scholarship, including eligibility requirements, benefits, and a step-by-step application process.
United Nations University Sustainability Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: Japan
- Study Abroad: Study in Asia
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Master’s Scholarships | PhD Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: Developing Countries
- Reward: Full Scholarship | 130,000 JPY Monthly Stipend | Travel & Visa Costs
- Deadline: February 11, 2026
- Scholarship Alerts: To receive Scholarship Alerts on WhatsApp, click HERE
The 2026 United Nations University Sustainability Scholarship is designed to train future policymakers, sustainability leaders, and researchers who will contribute to solving global environmental and development challenges.
The program is hosted at UNU-IAS in Tokyo and adopts an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
Students benefit from:
- A global university embedded within the UN system
- Collaborative research and practical learning
- An international academic environment in central Tokyo
This scholarship is suitable for recent graduates, professionals, and practitioners committed to sustainability and global development.

Eligibility Requirements for United Nations University Sustainability Scholarship 2026
To be eligible for the United Nations University Sustainability Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of a developing country
- Demonstrate financial need
- Not be residing in Japan on a working visa
- Not be enrolled in another postgraduate degree program
- Not be receiving another scholarship concurrently
For Master’s (MSc) Applicants
Applicants must have:
- A completed Bachelor’s degree in a sustainability-related field
- A minimum GPA of 2.8/4.0
- Proof of English language proficiency
For PhD Applicants
Applicants must have:
- A completed Master’s degree in a relevant field
- At least two years of professional experience related to sustainability
- A minimum GPA of 2.8/4.0
- English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL waived for English-speaking countries)
Benefits of the 2026 United Nations University Sustainability Scholarship
The United Nations University Sustainability Scholarship includes multiple funding options:
UNU Rector’s Scholarship:
- Full tuition coverage
- 130,000 JPY monthly allowance (up to 24 months)
- Travel costs to and from Japan
- Health insurance and research allowance
Resona Bank Scholarship:
-
Same benefits as the UNU Rector’s Scholarship
Japan Foundation for UNU (jfUNU) Scholarship:
- 120,000 JPY monthly allowance
- Possible tuition fee waiver
ADB-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP):
- Full tuition
- Monthly allowance of up to 147,000 JPY
- Housing, research, books, and medical insurance
- Economy-class return airfare
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How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps carefully to apply for the 2026 United Nations University Sustainability Scholarship:
- Visit the official UNU-IAS program webpage
- Select whether you are applying for a Master’s or PhD program
- Review the application checklist and prepare your documents
- Register online when the application portal opens
- Receive an email from the UNU-IAS Admissions Office
- Complete and submit the official application form
- Receive confirmation of submission via email
*Note: There is no separate scholarship application. Scholarship consideration is integrated into the main admission application.
Why Apply for the United Nations University Sustainability Scholarship?
The 2026 United Nations University Sustainability Scholarship offers:
- World-class education within the UN system
- Generous financial support
- International exposure and networking
- Career opportunities in global sustainability, policy, and research
Deadline: February 11, 2026
Visit HERE to see more scholarship opportunities
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