#Japan #Tokyo #Study Abroad #Global Talent #Tokyo Global Passport

Introduction

Starting December 1, 2025, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government will commence the application process for its study abroad support program, aptly named the "Tokyo Global Passport." Aimed at nurturing global talent, this initiative will assist university students in gaining invaluable international experiences abroad, with programs set to begin in the summer of 2026.

Overview of the Program

The Tokyo Global Passport program is specifically designed for students currently enrolled in universities or higher education institutions in Japan. The program aims to cover part of the expenses needed for students to study abroad at educational institutions in various countries and regions.

Program Features

The program includes both short-term (summer study abroad) and mid- to long-term study opportunities, providing an accessible pathway for young individuals who may not have previous study abroad experience. Key highlights of the program are:

• - Substantial Support: Given the rising costs associated with studying abroad, the program offers robust financial aid, potentially covering up to 900,000 JPY for short-term programs and 3,150,000 JPY for long-term programs (up to 12 months).
• - No Income Restrictions: This initiative is designed to broadly support motivated individuals without imposing any income restrictions, thus ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder ambitious students.

Desired Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate for the Tokyo Global Passport program will possess a proactive attitude and the willingness to tackle unknown challenges while aspiring to become a global talent in the future.

Application Overview

Applications will be accepted for two types of courses:

• - Short-term Course (Summer Study Abroad):

- Number of Participants: 250
- Selection: Candidates will be evaluated via document screening.
- Program Duration: 28 days to under 4 months, with a return deadline of March 31, 2027.

• - Mid- to Long-term Course:

- Number of Participants: 100
- Selection: Candidates will go through a document review followed by an interview.
- Program Duration: 4 months to 1 year, with a similar return deadline.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• - Hold Japanese nationality during the application and study period.
• - Be enrolled in a domestic university or equivalent institution.
• - Have a permanent resident of Tokyo with at least one year before the application date.
• - Be under 30 years of age on April 1, 2026.
• - Demonstrate certain academic and language proficiency.
• - Have a study plan that aligns with their goals and includes research activities.
• - Note that language study alone is not eligible for funding.
• - Participants cannot simultaneously access other study abroad support systems.

Important Notes

Students interested in applying should consult their respective universities for all application procedures and potential inquiries. For those who will become first-year university students in April 2026, applications will commence in the same month.

Application Timeline

• - Application Opens: December 1, 2025, at 10:00 AM
• - Application Deadline: February 27, 2026, at 5:00 PM
• - Result Notifications: Document screening results for the mid- to long-term course will be notified by late April, followed by interviews in mid-May.
• - Final Notifications: Results will be communicated at the beginning of June for the short-term course and by the end of June for the mid- to long-term course.

Next Steps

Once selected, details regarding the study abroad arrangement will be provided. The program will culminate in a preparatory meeting and training sessions before the programs commence.

Contact Information

For inquiries, please reach out to the Tokyo Global Passport Office via the inquiry form on their official website. Students must ensure to go through their academic institutions for all queries.

For more information, please visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government's website. This initiative is part of the "Tokyo 2050 Strategy," aimed at supporting young people's ambitious endeavors to thrive globally.