Degree Programs in Humanities and Social Sciences

Application Guidelines for Doctoral Programs

Humanities (Subprogram in Philosophy/ Subprogram in History and Anthropology/ Subprogram in Literature/ Subprogram in Linguistics/ Subprogram in Modern Culture Studies/ Subprogram in English Language Education)
    Enrollment in April 2027

  • July Selection Process (General Selection Process)
  • January to February Selection Process (General Selection Process)
International Public Policy
    Enrollment in October 2026

  • July Selection Process (Special Selection Process for Recommended Applicants)
    Enrollment in April 2027

  • January to February Selection Process (General Selection Process)*
International and Advanced Japanese Studies
    Enrollment in October 2026

  • July Selection Process (Special Selection Process for Recommended Applicants)
    Enrollment in April 2027

  • July Selection Process (Special Selection Process for Recommended Applicants)
  • October Selection Process (General Selection Process)
  • January to February Selection Process (General Selection Process / Special Selection Process for Working Individuals)*

*Applicants who take January to February Selection Process for the Doctoral program in International Public Policy or International and Advanced Japanese Studies may also choose to enroll in October 2026.

The following application guidelines apply to all of the programs listed above.

If you have any questions about the application process, please check the information in this application guideline before contacting us, and inquire at the contact information in “14. Contact Us”.

Security Export Control

The University of Tsukuba has established the University of Tsukuba Rules on Security Export Control in accordance with the Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act (FEFTA), and conducts strict examinations for acceptance of international students etc. International applicants who fall under any of the conditions set out in said regulations may be unable to enter their desired program.

[IMPORTANT] Procedures for “Deemed Export” for Security Export Control

In order to strengthen the prevention of leakage of sensitive technology related to security, “deemed export control” was clarified and related laws and regulations were revised (effective May 1, 2022).
As a result, our university has decided to require all applicants to our graduate school to confirm the applicability of Specific Categories.
Please review the link below and check the corresponding items on the web application system.

・Procedures for “Deemed Export” for Security Export Control

  • 0. Application Process Overview Chart
  • 1. Schedule
    July Selection Process October Selection Process January to February Selection Process Notes
    Deadline for application for eligibility screening and inquiries regarding eligibility May 20, 2026 August 25, 2026 November 24, 2026 See “3-2. Details of Eligibility Screening.”
    Deadline for requesting assistance due to disability See “9. Applicants Who Need Assistance.”
    Payment of examination fee May 22, 2026 – June 1, 2026 August 31, 2026 – September 10, 2026 November 30, 2026 – December 10, 2026 See “5. Examination Fee.”
    Web entry May 22, 2026 (from noon JST) – June 1, 2026 (by 3:00 p.m. JST) August 31, 2026 (from noon JST) – September 10, 2026 (by 3:00 p.m. JST) November 30, 2026 (from noon JST) – December 10, 2026 (by 3:00 p.m. JST) See “6. Details of Web Entry.”
    Documents submission
    (The documents must arrive at our office by the last day of the submission period)    		 May 22, 2026 – June 2, 2026 August 31, 2026 – September 11, 2026 November 30, 2026 – December 11, 2026 See “6. Details of Web Entry” and “7. Documents to Be Submitted, Reference Card etc..”
    Planned publication date of “Information and Instructions for Examinees” We will post “Information and Instructions for Examinees” in the “information” section on our website at least one week in advance. See “10. Information and Instructions for Taking the Examination.”
    Examination Dates The date and time differ depending on the desired program and selection process.
    See “8. Screening Criteria” for details.
    Announcement of acceptance July 21, 2026 (from 10:00 a.m. JST) October 30, 2026 (from 10:00 a.m. JST) February 15, 2027 (from 10:00 a.m. JST) See “11. Testing Location, Acceptance Announcement and Admission Procedure.”
    Sending of Admission Procedure Guide to successful applicants (email) July 21, 2026 October 30, 2026 February 15, 2027
    *Those who are October entrants are scheduled to be sent around late June 2027.
  • 2. Number of Students to Be Admitted
    Program Enrollment in October 2026 Enrollment in April 2027
    July Selection Process July Selection Process October Selection Process January to February Selection Process
    Humanities – A few students when appropriate – 38 ●
    International Public Policy A few students when appropriate – – 8 ●※
    International and Advanced Japanese Studies A few students when appropriate 3 5 ● 4 ※
    International and Advanced Japanese Studies
    (Special Selection Process for Working Individuals)    		 – – – A few students when appropriate ※

    ● In AY2027, the University is scheduled to establish a new graduate educational organization, the Graduate School of Integrative and Global Multidisciplinary Arena (G-SIGMA), under the system of a “basic organization for the delivery of inter-graduate school programs.” Entrance examinations for programs under G-SIGMA are scheduled to be held in the autumn and winter of AY2026. Under this system, enrollment quotas for the new organization will be allocated from existing degree programs, and accordingly, the number of students to be admitted to the relevant programs for the current academic year is scheduled to be revised as indicated above.
    Please note that the details are subject to change. Should any changes occur, the University will update the admissions guidelines in the autumn and publish a notice on the “Information” page of the University of Tsukuba Graduate Admissions website.
    https://eng.ap-graduate.tsukuba.ac.jp/
    ※ Applicants applying for the January to February Selection Process for the doctoral program in International Public Policy or International and Advanced Japanese Studies should choose the admission date (April 2027 or October 2027) when submitting the Web application. After applying, no changes can be made, so please consider this carefully before submitting your application.

  • 3-1. Eligibility for Application

    [Eligibility Screening is NOT required]

    • Individuals who have obtained a master’s degree or a professional degree in Japan or who are expected to obtain it by the month prior to enrollment. (Eligibility requirement (1))
    • Individuals who have been granted a degree equivalent to a master’s degree or a professional degree in a foreign country or who are expected to grant the degree by the month prior to enrollment. (Eligibility requirement (2))

    [Eligibility Screening is required]

    *See “3-2. Details of Eligibility Screening.”
    • Individuals who have graduated from a university and have been engaged in research at a university, research institute, etc. for two years or more, and who are recognized as having academic ability equivalent or superior to a master’s degree or a professional degree based on the results of their research. (Eligibility requirement (6-1); eligibility screening required)
    • Individuals who have completed 16 years of school education in a foreign country or 16 years of correspondence courses provided by a foreign school in Japan, and who have been engaged in research at a university or research institute for 2 years or more, and who are recognized as having academic ability equivalent or superior to a master’s or professional degree based on the results of said research. (Eligibility requirement (6-2); eligibility screening required)
    • Individuals who have reached 24 years of age or will reach 24 years of age by the month prior to enrollment, after being admitted to the university’s graduate school with academic ability equivalent or superior to a master’s degree or a professional degree through an individual admission eligibility screening conducted by the graduate school of the university. (Eligibility requirement (7); eligibility screening required)

    [Other eligibility requirements]

    Recommendation Requirements (Only for July Selection Process)

    International Public Policy

    Individuals who have recommended by the supervisor at the current university or an equivalent person, and who can guarantee enrollment if the applicant is accepted.

    International and Advanced Japanese Studies

    Individuals who have recommended by the supervisor or an equivalent person, and who can commit to enroll in the school if they passes the exam.

    ※The supervisor or an equivalent person is a university professor or other person with teaching experience in the candidate’s field of research.

    Requirements for “Special Selection Process for Working Individuals”

    Individuals who have the above eligibility for admission and have at least one year of full-time or part-time work experience by enrollment

  • 3-2. Details of Eligibility Screening

    How to Apply for Eligibility Screening

    The eligibility screening is conducted by the University of Tsukuba to confirm that the applicant has academic ability equivalent or superior to of those who earned a master’s degree or professional degree prior to application. Please check the details of Eligibility for Application at the official website of University of Tsukuba. Even if you have passed the eligibility screening in the past, you will need to undergo the screening again when you wish to apply for another selection process.

    If you pass the screening, you will receive a passcode to be entered into the Web Entry System.
    Please note that applicants must submit their original graduation certificate and academic transcript at the time of application even if they submit the PDF or JPEG files at the time of the screening for eligibility (See “Notes” of “7. Documents to Be Submitted, Reference Card etc.”).
    Deadlines:
    See “1. Schedule.”
    Place to Submit:

    Graduate Admissions, Academic Service Office for the Humanities and Social Sciences Area (See “14. Contact Us.”)

    How to Submit:

    Please submit your application by email by the application deadline.
    hass_admission@un.tsukuba.ac.jp

  • 4. Supervisor Assignment

    Obtaining Consent from Faculty Members before Applying

    • Humanities
      It is advisable to contact the faculty member from whom you wish to receive research guidance in advance.
    • International Public Policy
      Please be sure to contact the prospective supervisor before applying and obtain his/her informal consent to be your supervisor if you are accepted.
    • International and Advanced Japanese Studies
      It is advisable to contact the faculty member from whom you wish to receive research guidance in advance.

    Please see the List of Faculty Research Field for the list of faculty members and their research fields and keywords.
    If you have any questions about research field, contact your desired program or subprogram (See “13. Previous Examinations and Inquiry”).

  • 5. Examination Fee

    Examination Fee

    30,000 Japanese Yen (non-refundable)

    Exemptions of Examination Fee

    • The examination fees will not be charged for Japanese Government (Monbukagakusho: MEXT) Scholarship students.
    • Those who completed the University of Tsukuba Master’s Program and will continue on to the University Doctoral Program within one year of the completion date.

    The University of Tsukuba have the special measures of examination fee exemption for the victims of disasters in Japan. For details, see https://www.tsukuba.ac.jp/news/20200710152909.html.

    Payment Methods

    The examination fee can be paid by either of the following methods. In either case, administration fees are to be borne by the applicant.
    (1) Credit Card Payment (for all applicants)
    https://e-shiharai.net/english/ We accept Visa, MasterCard, JCB or AMERICAN EXPRESS.
    Credit card payment can be made at the final step of the Web Entry System or by visiting the website linked above. After the payment, you will be provided with the receipt number. Enter the receipt number in the input field displayed on the Web Entry System.
    Print out the payment complete screen and submit it along with other application documents.
    For details, see the payment instructions.
    (2) Convenience Store Payment (for applicants residing in Japan only)
    https://e-shiharai.net/ Payment can be made at convenience stores in Japan: LAWSON, SEVEN-ELEVEN, FamilyMart, or MINISTOP.
    Follow the instructions given at the final steps of the Web Entry System or at the website linked above (available in Japanese only) to apply for the convenience store payment.

    After going to the selected store and completing payment, please enter the required information into the Web Entry System: name of the convenience store that you used, the date of payment, and the payment number (The number of digit and the Japanese name of the payment number differ according to the store you used. See the description below).
    • SEVEN-ELEVEN: “払込票番号” 13 digits
    • LAWSON, FamilyMart, MINISTOP: “お客様番号” 11 digits
    Download the “Form for Submission of the Certificate of Payment of Application Fee” from the Web Entry System and print it out. Paste the receipt (certificate of payment) you received from the convenience store on the form. Submit the completed form along with other application documents.
    For details, see the payment instructions.
  • 6. Details of Web Entry

    6-1. Web Entry Flow

    Submit your application data through Web Entry System during the designated period (See “1. Schedule”).

    • Preparation
      • icon
        Email Settings

        Please verify your email settings to ensure you can receive emails from “entry.ap-graduate.tsukuba.ac.jp”.
        *We have confirmed instances emails to the “@au.com” and “@ezweb.ne.jp” domains are not being delivered. Please register a different email address or check your “Recipient List Settings” and “Spam Filter Settings” in advance.
        Also, please avoid using SMS and MMS as attachments may not be delivered.

      • icon
        Internet Environment

        Please ensure your PC's internet connection. (Smartphones and tablets are not recommended.)

      • icon
        ID Photo Data

        Please prepare your photo data. (only JPEG file, the file size must be 500 KB or less and less than 2,000 pixels in both width and height.)
        Please do not change the image of the person by editing or processing the image to make the eyes look larger, whitening the skin, or modifying facial features, moles, wrinkles, etc. Such modifications may prevent us from verifying the applicant’s identity using the photo on the reference card on the examination day.

      • icon
        Printer

        Please have a printer ready as there are documents that need to be printed.

    • Sign Up / Activation

      Create your own account on the Web Entry System. When you sign up, activation email will be sent to your registered email address. Click the activation URL on the email to activate your account.

    • My Page

      Click the “Application Form” button on “My Page” to start web entry. You can edit your login information or reset password on “My Page.”

    • Application Form

      Please enter the required information (See “6-2. Details of Information You Need for Web Entry”).

    • Payment

      Complete payment of the examination fee before submitting your application. The examination fee can be paid by either credit card or convenience store. For details, please check 5. Examination Fees.
      *The examination fee already paid is non-refundable.

    • Submission

      Once you click on the “Submit to Apply” button, the information you have entered will be sent to the university, and you will not be able to go back to edit. Please check carefully before proceeding. After submission, please make sure to check the confirmation email that will be sent to your registered email address.

    • Create PDF and Print Reference Card etc.

      After submitting the application data, you will be able to download the documents such as “Reference Card” and “Address Sheet” until the end of the application period. These files must be brought to the venue or mailed to the university. You must print your Reference card and bring it on the day of the examination. Please note that the files no longer be available for download after the end of the application period.

    Notes:
    • The Web Entry System does not allow you to apply to more than one programs from a single account. Also, it is not possible to register multiple accounts with one e-mail address. Therefore, for example, if applicants for the Dual Degree Program wish to apply to both the doctoral Program and the master’s Program at the same time, they must prepare two e-mail addresses, create accounts using each, and apply to each program from separate accounts.
    • The payment screen will not be displayed for students who do not have to pay the examination fee, i.e., the Japanese Government Scholarship students and students applying for a secondary program (master’s program) under the Dual Degree Program.
    • After the application period ends, you cannot change degree program and enrollment date.

    Handling of Personal Information

    Applicants’ personal information obtained from the application documents and the results of the entrance examination will be used for the affairs concerning admission and screening. The university may also process the information so that it is not personally identifiable and use it for research and study aimed at improvement of the admission procedure and the university education. If a successful applicant who has completed the admission procedures has applied for a JASSO scholarship, the information will be used as screening material in the scholarship selection process.

    6-2. Details of Information You Need for Web Entry

    With our Web Entry system, you can submit your application online. Read this section carefully before applying online.
    All certificates and other required documents for application must be submitted in their original form, either by registered mail or in person at the Graduate School Academic Affairs Counter of Academic Service Office for the Humanities and Social Sciences Area.

    The application counter is open Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and from 1:15 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., excluding public holidays (national holidays and substitute holidays) and the year-end and New Year holiday period.
    Applications will not be accepted after 5:00 p.m. on the final submission date.

    Information Required for Web Entry

    Information Required for Remarks
    1. Degree Program / Applicant’s Information All applicants Follow the instructions in the Web Entry system.
    You are required to upload a photograph for your Reference Card in JPEG format. The photograph must have been taken within the last three months and must not include hats or other head coverings. Please do not alter the photo.
    2. Supervisor – No entry required for this section in the Web Entry.
    3. Eligibility All applicants Follow the instructions in the Web Entry system.
    4. Educational Background All applicants Follow the instructions in the Web Entry system.
    Research Activities All applicants who have research history
    Employment Records All applicants who have employment history
    Examination Fees All applicants
    (*Refer to “5. Examination Fee.”)    		 Follow the instructions on the last page of the Web Entry system and pay your fees.
    The following payment methods are available.
    Credit Card (for all applicants):
    Pay your fees online. After payment, enter the receipt number into the box on the Web Entry system.
    Convenience Store (for domestic applicants only):
    Pay your fees at a convenience store in Japan. After payment, enter the name of the convenience store, the date of payment, and the number given by the store into the boxes on the Web Entry system.
  • 7. Documents to Be Submitted, Reference Card etc.

    Paper certificates and other documents required for application (See below) should be mailed (using registered mail) or brought in person. All required documents must be put in an envelope which fits unfolded A4 size paper with an Address Sheet attached. You can download your Address Sheet in PDF from the Web Entry System.
    The documents must arrive to our office by the deadline (See “1. Schedule”). If your documents fail to arrive by the deadline or any of the required documents is incomplete, invalid or missing, you will not be allowed to take the exam. Documents brought in after 5:00 p.m. JST on the last day of the submission period will not be accepted. The deadlines are strictly observed.
    In case of delays caused by the carrier, submit a written notice from the carrier indicating the situation.

    Place to Submit:

    Graduate Admissions, Academic Service Office for the Humanities and Social Sciences Area (See “14. Contact Us.”)

    Note:

    In principle, all documents submitted will not be returned to you. For certificates that cannot be reissued, please submit a copy certified by the issuer or an official institution (See below).
    If you are unable to obtain a photocopy that meets our requirement, please submit the original document with a return request.

    Documents Required for Application (Certificates etc. to be obtained by the applicant)

    (The original documents must be submitted by registered mail or bringing to the office. A copy of the original cannot be accepted.)

    The application counter is open Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and from 1:15 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., excluding public holidays (national holidays and substitute holidays) and the year-end and New Year holiday period.
    Applications will not be accepted after 5:00 p.m. on the final submission date.

    *If your current name is different from that on the documents you submit (e.g. because of marriage), submit proof of your name change (e.g. a copy of your marriage certificate).

    *Applicants must submit certificates with an original official seal (of the university that issued the document), signatures or authorization stamp.

    *Certificates must be issued in Japanese or English. If the university does not issue certificates in Japanese or English, please submit a translation certified by official institutions (embassy, notary public, etc.) together with the original certificate issued by the university.

    *If you wish to register under your maiden name, you can apply for the use of your maiden name during the enrolment procedure.

    Documents Who must submit Instructions
    Letter of Recommendation 【ONLY JULY SELECTION PROCESS】 After confirming the recommendation requirements, submit a strictly sealed document prepared by the supervisor at the current university or an equivalent person based on the designated form.
    ・International Public Policy
    ・International and Advanced Japanese Studies
    (Expected) Graduation Certificate* All applicants Submit a certificate of completion (or an attested document certifying that you will complete your current program) issued by a university or other educational institution that meets the application requirements for the Doctoral Programs of this Graduate School.
    (All documents must be in English or Japanese.)

    * If the certificate (original) is issued online by an overseas university graduate, a ‘copy of the page and the URL’ of the official website of the issuing institution (university) must be attached to the certificate to confirm that the certificate is an ‘online certificate = original’.

    * For graduates of Chinese universities, see ‘Note 2 and Note 3 below’.

    (Expected) Degree Certificate* Applicants who completed or will complete a graduate program outside Japan If you have completed or complete a graduate program outside Japan, submit a certificate (degree certificate etc.) verifying that you have received or expect to receive a master’s degree. All documents must be in English or Japanese.

    * Upload a JPEG file of your certificate to the Web Entry system.

    * If the certificate (original) is issued online, a ‘copy of the page and the URL’ of the official website of the issuing institution (university) must be attached to the certificate to confirm that the certificate is an ‘online certificate = original’.

    * For graduates of Chinese universities, see ‘Note 2 and Note 3 below’.

    Academic Transcript* All applicants Submit an academic transcript (the official record of your courses and grades etc.) issued by a university or other educational institution that meets the application requirements for the Doctoral Programs of this Graduate School. If any credits were transferred from another school, submit an academic transcript from that school too.
    (All documents must be in English or Japanese.)

    * If the certificate (original) is issued online by an overseas university graduate, a ‘copy of the page and the URL’ of the official website of the issuing institution (university) must be attached to the certificate to confirm that the certificate is an ‘online certificate = original’.

    * For graduates of Chinese universities, see ‘Note 2 and Note 3 below’.

    Research Plan All applicants Submit a research plan (no designated form) for what you would like to do after entering graduate school, following the instructions provided by your program of choice.
    Attach the designated cover page to your Research Plan.
    Information Sheet All applicants Fill in the required items and submit it.

    Click here for information about the research fields and faculty in your program of choice.

    Thesis All applicants Submit one of the following.

    1. Master’s thesis (Photocopies are acceptable).
    2. Applicants who completed a Master’s program in or prior to the previous academic year may submit a more recent paper instead of their Master’s thesis (photocopies are acceptable).
    3. Applicants who were not required to write a Master’s thesis may submit an equivalent paper instead.

    Attach a “Thesis Title Sheet” to the cover of your thesis.

    Abstract of Thesis (no designated form) If applicable If you submit a thesis written in a language other than Japanese or English, you must also submit an abstract written in Japanese (about 4,000 characters) or English (about 1,500 words). Any format is acceptable.
    Receipt Portion (Certificate of Payment) of Examination Fee Statement Applicants who make a convenience store payment
    (*Refer to “5. Examination Fee.”)    		 After payment, detach the Receipt Portion (Certificate of Payment) from the Examination Fee Statement given to you at the convenience store.
    Then affix the Receipt Portion to the designated form (a PDF you will create online and print out after you complete the Web Entry procedures) and submit the form.
    Copy of “Application Completed” Page for Examination Fee Payment by Credit Card Applicants who make a credit card payment
    (*Refer to “5. Examination Fee.”)    		 After online payment, print out the “Application Completed” page and submit it.
    Letter of Approval for Entrance Exam (no designated form) If applicable

    1. Individuals who are currently attending a university or graduate school
      *Except for October 2026 entry applicants who are expected to graduate by September 2026, April 2027 entry applicants who are expected to graduate by March 2027 and October 2027 entry applicants who are expected to graduate by September 2027
    2. Individuals who are currently working for a government agency, school, or company (except for part-time workers)
    1. Need to submit a letter of approval issued by the head of their university or graduate school (or the head of their department) allowing them to take the entrance examination or, submit a letter of application the applicant (stating that he/she will withdraw from the university before enrolment). Any format is acceptable, but the letter must be printed on A4 paper.
    2. Need to submit a letter of approval issued by a superior allowing them to take the entrance examination or a written self-declaration stating that attending the entrance examination will not adversely affect their duties. Any format is acceptable, but the letter must be printed on A4 paper.
    Certificate of Government-Sponsored (Japanese Government MEXT Scholarship) Foreign Student If applicable If you are enrolled in another university at the time of application, submit the certificate of the government-sponsored (Japanese Government MEXT Scholarship) foreign student issued by the university.

    (Note 1) In principle, all documents submitted will not be returned to you. For certificates that cannot be reissued, please submit a copy certified by the issuer or an official institution (See below).
    If you are unable to obtain a photocopy that meets our requirement, please submit the original document with a return request.

    (Note 2) Substitution of the original English version of the Academic Credentials verification report issued by the ‘China Higher education Information and Student Information (CHSI (Japan))’ is acceptable.

    (Note 3) For those who have completed the 「自学考試(本科)」and obtained a degree, the original transcript and degree certificate issued by the institution conducting the 「自学考試」must be submitted. Applications from applicants who have not yet completed the 「自学考試」are not accepted.

    PDF to Be Created After Completing Web Entry

    Documents Created for Remarks
    Reference Card All applicants Print out the Reference Card with your photograph and bring the card to the venue with you on the examination day.
    Address Sheet All applicants Attach the address sheet to your envelope and submit the originals of your required documents by registered mail or bringing them to the Graduate School Affairs, Academic Service Office for the Humanities and Social Sciences Area.

    【Due Dates】
    See “1. Schedule.”
    Note: If you bring your documents to the office, the closing time is 5:00 p.m. on each due date.

    Form for Submission of the Certificate of Payment of Application Fee Applicants who make a convenience store payment Attach the Receipt Portion (Certificate of Payment) of the Examination Fee Statement to this form and submit it to us by registered mail or bringing to the office.

    Results from the entrance examination, as well as personal information obtained by the University of Tsukuba from the application documents, will be used not only for affairs concerning admission and screening, but also research and study aimed at improvement of the admission procedure and the university education. We will carefully take care of the data not to be disclosed as a specific person. Also, we will use the data to screen students for scholarships from the Japan Student Services Organization, which are offered to individuals who have completed the enrollment procedures.

  • 8. Screening Criteria

    Candidates for admission will be selected on the basis of comprehensive assessment of the documents submitted and the examination results.

    Examination Schedule and the Subjects

    Refer to the schedule below:

    HumanitiesDoctoral

    July Selection Process (General Selection Process)
    Date Friday, July 3
    Subject Specialized Subject
    (150 points)    		 Oral Examination
    (150 points)
    Program Time 10:00-12:00 13:00-17:00
    Humanities Questions about your specialized fields, including specialized literature written in a foreign language. Individual Interview:
    Questions about your specialized field.
    【Selection at the time of application】
    • Select one from the language list below:
      Applicants CANNOT use dictionaries during examination.
    • Subprogram in Philosophy: English, German, French, Chinese, Chinese classics, or Japanese. If your mother tongue (first language) is Japanese, do not select Japanese.
    • Subprogram in History and Anthropology: English, German, French, or Chinese. If your mother tongue (first language) is not Japanese, select one from the above-mentioned languages and Japanese except your mother tongue.
    • Subprogram in Literature: English, German, French, Russian, Italian, Chinese, or classical languages (classical languages include Greek, Latin, and classical Chinese. If your mother tongue (first language) is not Japanese, select Japanese.
    • Subprogram in Linguistics: English, German, Russian, Chinese, or Korean. If your mother tongue (first language) is not Japanese, select Japanese.
    • Subprogram in Modern Culture Studies: English, German, French, or Spanish. If your mother tongue (first language) is not Japanese, select Japanese.
    • Subprogram in English Language Education: English. If your mother tongue (first language) is not Japanese, select Japanese.

    The “mother tongue (first language)” means your most proficient language in the four skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking. In other words, the language which you received your education with and have a good command of for expressing your opinion, thought, emotion, etc.

    January to February Selection Process (General Selection Process)
    Date Tuesday, January 26 Wednesday, January 27
    Subject Specialized Subject
    (150 points)    		 Oral Examination
    (150 points)
    Program Time 10:00-12:00 10:00-17:00
    Humanities Questions about your specialized fields, including specialized literature written in a foreign language. Individual Interview:
    Questions about your specialized field.
    【Selection at the time of application】
    • Select one from the language list below:
      Applicants CANNOT use dictionaries during examination.
    • Subprogram in Philosophy: English, German, French, Chinese, Chinese classics, or Japanese. If your mother tongue (first language) is Japanese, do not select Japanese.
    • Subprogram in History and Anthropology: English, German, French, or Chinese. If your mother tongue (first language) is not Japanese, select one from the above-mentioned languages and Japanese except your mother tongue.
    • Subprogram in Literature: English, German, French, Russian, Italian, Chinese, or classical languages (classical languages include Greek, Latin, and classical Chinese. If your mother tongue (first language) is not Japanese, select Japanese.
    • Subprogram in Linguistics: English, German, Russian, Chinese, or Korean. If your mother tongue (first language) is not Japanese, select Japanese.
    • Subprogram in Modern Culture Studies: English, German, French, or Spanish. If your mother tongue (first language) is not Japanese, select Japanese.
    • Subprogram in English Language Education: English. If your mother tongue (first language) is not Japanese, select Japanese.

    The “mother tongue (first language)” means your most proficient language in the four skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking. In other words, the language which you received your education with and have a good command of for expressing your opinion, thought, emotion, etc.

    International Public PolicyDoctoral

    July Selection Process (Special Selection Process for Recommended Applicants)
    Date Friday, July 3
    Subject Essay
    (100 points)    		 Oral Examination
    (200 points)
    Program Time 10:00-11:00
    (JST, UTC+09:00)     		13:00-17:00
    (JST, UTC+09:00)
    International Public Policy Select one Essay subject from International Relations (including International Law), Social Development, Anthropology, Political Science, Sociology, Economics or Area Studies closely related to your specialty and research plan. (Note 1-4) An approximately 15-minute Individual Interview:
    Questions about your specialized field and Research Plan. (Note 5)
    【Selection at the time of application】
    1. International Relations (including International Law), Social Development, Anthropology, Political Science: Questions are given in both English and Japanese and must be answered in either English or Japanese.
    2. Sociology: Questions are given and must be answered in Japanese.
    3. Economics: Questions are given and must be answered in English.
    4. Area Studies: At the time of your application, select one question from “Politics and Economy,” “Geography and History,” or “Society and Culture.” Questions of “Politics and Economy,” “Geography and History,” and “Society and Culture” are given in both English and Japanese and must be answered in either English or Japanese.
    5. During the oral examination, applicants are not allowed to read from their research proposals or other prepared materials.
    January to February Selection Process (General Selection Process)
    Date Tuesday, January 26 Wednesday, January 27
    Subject Foreign Language
    (100 points)    		 Specialized Subject
    (100 points)     		Oral Examination
    (200 points)
    Program Time 10:00-11:00
    (JST, UTC+09:00)    		 12:00-13:00
    (JST, UTC+09:00)    		 13:00-17:00
    (JST, UTC+09:00)
    International Public Policy Japanese or English
    (Note 1)    		 Select one subject from International Relations (including International Law), Social Development, Anthropology, Political Science, Sociology, Economics or Area Studies.
    (Note 2)     		An approximately 15-minute Individual Interview:
    Questions about your specialized field and Research Plan.
    (Note 3)
    【Selection at the time of application】 【Selection at the time of application】
    1. English: Questions must be answered in either English or Japanese.
      Japanese: Questions must be answered in Japanese.
      Applicants CANNOT select their mother language (first language) as their chosen foreign language. Applicants CANNOT use dictionaries during this examination. If the following languages―Chinese, Russian, Spanish, or Portuguese―are highly relevant to the applicant’s research theme which they plan to study in our program, applicants can select one of these languages as their chosen language for the foreign-language examination. If applicants want to designate one of the languages noted above, they must inform the office by December 4, 2026 by providing a statement (within 1200 letters in Japanese or 400 words in English) explaining the relationship between their chosen research area, research plan, and designated foreign language. For detail, please consult with our office (ipp-office@un.tsukuba.ac.jp).
    2. International Relations (including International Law), Social Development, Anthropology, Political Science: Questions are given in both English and Japanese and must be answered in either English or Japanese.
      Sociology: Questions are given and must be answered in Japanese.
      Economics: Questions are given and must be answered in English.
      Area Studies: At the time of your application, select one question from “Politics and Economy,” “Geography and History,” or “Society and Culture.” Questions of “Politics and Economy,” “Geography and History,” and “Society and Culture” are given in both English and Japanese and must be answered in either English or Japanese.
    3. During the oral examination, applicants are not allowed to read from their research proposals or other prepared materials.

    International and Advanced Japanese StudiesDoctoral

    July Selection Process (Special Selection Process for Recommended Applicants)
    Date Friday, July 3
    Subject Essay
    (100 points)    		 Oral Examination
    (200 points)
    Program Time 10:00-11:00
    (JST, UTC+09:00)    		 13:00-17:00
    (JST, UTC+09:00)
    International and Advanced Japanese Studies Select one from among the following 7 specialized subjects (questions): Politics; Economics; Literature/Culture/Philosophy; Law; Society/Media/Information; Linguistics; and Research in Japanese Language Education.

    Questions for Politics, Economics, Literature/Culture/Philosophy, Law, Society/Media/Information, and Linguistics will be given in both Japanese and English. Applicants can answer either in Japanese or English.

    Questions for Research in Japanese Language Education will be given in Japanese only. Applicants must answer in Japanese.

    		An approximately 30-minute interview per person about their research proposal (see Note 2).
    【Select at the time of application】
    (see Note 1).
    1. Applicants are not allowed to change the subjects selected at the time of application on the day of the examination. Also, the use of a dictionary or other reference materials is not allowed during the examination.
    2. During the oral examination, applicants are not allowed to read from their research proposals or other prepared materials.
    October Selection Process (General Selection Process)
    Date Thursday, October 8
    Subject Specialized Subject
    (100 points)    		 Oral Examination
    (200 points)
    Program Time 10:00-11:00
    (JST, UTC+09:00)    		 13:00-17:00
    (JST, UTC+09:00)
    International and Advanced Japanese Studies Select one from among the following 7 specialized subjects (questions): Politics; Economics; Literature/Culture/Philosophy; Law; Society/Media/Information; Linguistics; and Research in Japanese Language Education.

    Questions for Politics, Economics, Literature/Culture/Philosophy, Law, Society/Media/Information, and Linguistics will be given in both Japanese and English. Applicants can answer either in Japanese or English.

    Questions for Research in Japanese Language Education will be given in Japanese only. Applicants must answer in Japanese.

    		An approximately 30-minute interview per person about their research proposal (see Note 2).
    【Select at the time of application】
    (see Note 1.)
    1. Applicants are not allowed to change the subjects selected at the time of application on the day of the examination. Also, the use of a dictionary or other reference materials is not allowed during the examination.
    2. During the oral examination, applicants are not allowed to read from their research proposals or other prepared materials.
    January to February Selection Process (General Selection Process)
    Date Tuesday, January 26
    Subject Specialized Subject
    (100 points)    		 Oral Examination
    (200 points)
    Program Time 10:00-11:00 13:00-17:00
    International and Advanced Japanese Studies Select one from among the following 7 specialized subjects (questions): Politics; Economics; Literature/Culture/Philosophy; Law; Society/Media/Information; Linguistics; and Research in Japanese Language Education.

    Questions for Politics, Economics, Literature/Culture/Philosophy, Law, Society/Media/Information, and Linguistics will be given in both Japanese and English. Applicants can answer either in Japanese or English.

    Questions for Research in Japanese Language Education will be given in Japanese only. Applicants must answer in Japanese.

    		An approximately 30-minute interview per person about their research proposal (see Note 2).
    【Select at the time of application】
    (see Note 1.)
    1. Applicants are not allowed to change the subjects selected at the time of application on the day of the examination. Also, the use of a dictionary or other reference materials is not allowed during the examination.
    2. During the oral examination, applicants are not allowed to read from their research proposals or other prepared materials.
    January to February Selection Process (Special Selection Process for Working Individuals)
    Date Tuesday, January 26
    Subject Specialized Subject
    (100 points)    		 Oral Examination
    (200 points)
    Program Time 10:00-11:00 13:00-17:00
    International and Advanced Japanese Studies Select one from among the following 7 specialized subjects (questions): Politics; Economics; Literature/Culture/Philosophy; Law; Society/Media/Information; Linguistics; and Research in Japanese Language Education.

    Questions for Politics, Economics, Literature/Culture/Philosophy, Law, Society/Media/Information, and Linguistics will be given in both Japanese and English. Applicants can answer either in Japanese or English.

    Questions for Research in Japanese Language Education will be given in Japanese only. Applicants must answer in Japanese.

    		An approximately 30-minute interview per person about their research proposal (see Note 2).
    【Select at the time of application】
    (see Note 1)
    1. Applicants are not allowed to change the subjects selected at the time of application on the day of the examination. Also, the use of a dictionary or other reference materials is not allowed during the examination.
    2. During the oral examination, applicants are not allowed to read from their research proposals or other prepared materials.
  • 9. Applicants Who Need Assistance
    Applicants who need assistance due to disability must submit a designated application form, a doctor’s certificate, and a copy of their disability certificate to the Division of Admission, Department of Educational Promotion (1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki) by the following dates:
    * We may not be able to accommodate your request for consideration.
    【Due Dates】
    See “1. Schedule.”
    Examples of Assistance:
    • Extended exam time, separate testing room, preferred seating location, etc.
    • Braille and other accessible formats
    • Use of a computer for writing, vision aid, hearing aid, and other aids
    • Sign language interpreter and other assistants
    To request these accommodations, applicants must submit documents to prove the necessity.
  • 10. Information and Instructions for Taking the Examination
    Read through and follow the instructions in the “Information and Instructions for Examinees” to take the examination.
    “Information and Instructions for Examinees” will be posted on the top page of this website at least one week in advance.
  • 11. Testing Location, Acceptance Announcement and Admission Procedure

    Testing Location

    University of Tsukuba (1-1-1 Tennoudai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki-ken)
    [Refer to the “Information and Instructions for Examinees” in “10.Instructions for Taking the Examination” for details.]

    Acceptance Announcement

    Date of Acceptance Announcement:

    See “1. Schedule.”

    The examinee numbers of the successful applicants will be posted on the website.
    Letter of Acceptance will be issued online. An email will be sent to the email address registered for the application from 10:00 a.m. on the day of acceptance announcement sequentially. Please follow the instructions in that email to download Letter of Acceptance.
    *It may take up to an hour from the announcement to receive the email.

    In some cases, additional admissions will be offered to applicants who took the entrance examination administered in January to February Selection Process. Applicants will be notified by phone (or e-mail in exceptional cases) around mid-March 2027 for April 2027 admissions.

    Admission Procedure

    1. Notice of Admission Procedure Guide
      The information on Admission Procedure will be provided to successful applicants to the email address registered for the application.
      Please follow the instructions in that email to conduct the admission procedure. Admission will be permitted upon completion of the prescribed admission procedure.
      Date to send email:
      See “1. Schedule.”
    2. Expenses Required upon Entrance
      1. (a)Admission fee
        282,000 Japanese yen (non-refundable)
      2. (b)Tuition fee
        **the payment made after enrollment.
        You will need to register a Japanese bank account.
        Please note that tuition fee is different depending on whether you are an international student or not.
          Tuition fee（Except international students)
        • The first term (April – September): 267,900 Japanese yen
        • The second term (October – March): 267,900 Japanese yen (Annual: 535,800 Japanese yen)
          Tuition fee（For international students)
        • The first term (April – September): 304,400 Japanese yen
        • The second term (October – March): 304,400 Japanese yen (Annual: 608,800 Japanese yen)
        * International students refer to individuals residing in Japan under the ‘Student’ residence status as specified in Table (4) of Appended Table I of the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act (Cabinet Order No. 319 of 1951).
      3. *1：If fees are revised before admission or while enrolled in thee university, the revised amount of fees will apply.
      4. *2：Tuition exemption applications will be processed after enrollment.
    3. All applicants who have a full-time job must submit a document or a letter (e.g. an order to attend a training course, a letter of leave of absence or an approval letter) issued by the employer to prove that you are approved to enroll in the university.
    4. Applicants with foreign nationality must acquire a status of residence which is suitable for admission, in accordance with the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act (Cabinet Order No. 319 of 1951), before beginning enrollment procedures. Those who wish to enroll in the university as an international student must obtain a “Student” visa and enter Japan with a residence status of “Student.”
  • 12. Disclosure of Admission Examination Results

    For those who fail the admission examination, the result of the examination will be disclosed as follows.

    1. Information to Be Disclosed
      Total score of the applicant who failed the examination
      However, the following information will not be disclosed:
      Individuals who missed at one or more subject(s)
    2. Who Can Apply
      The applicant himself/herself
    3. How to Request
      Please send the following by mail. If you live abroad, please contact the office in charge via e-mail before submitting your request.
      1) Request Form for Disclosure of Admission Information
      2) Reference Card (To be returned to the applicant at the time of disclosure. If you have lost the Reference Card, submit a photocopy of your student ID card, driver’s license or other identification documents.)
      3) Return envelope (Use 120 mm x 235 mm size envelope. Write your full name and address on the envelope with 460 yen postal stamp affixed.)
      However, if you are an Overseas Resident, Please Inquire by E-mail to the Billing Office.
    4. Request Acceptance Period
      May 1, 2027 – May 31, 2027
    5. Disclosure Method
      Information to be disclosed will be mailed to the requestor after the request acceptance period closed.
    6. Office in Charge
      1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan
      Graduate Admission Office, Division of Admission, University of Tsukuba
      admission.grad#@#un.tsukuba.ac.jp (replace #@# with @)
  • 13. Previous Examinations and Inquiry

    *Please replace # with @ in contact information.

    Program Contact (Note 1) URL
    Philosophy
    (Note 2)    		 Office of Subprogram in Philosophy +81 29.853.4198 https://pub.logos.tsukuba.ac.jp/%e5%85%a5%e8%a9%a6%e6%83%85%e5%a0%b1/
    History and Anthropology
    (Note 3)    		 Office of Subprogram in History and Anthropology +81 29.853.4403 https://www.histanth.tsukuba.ac.jp/en/admission/
    Literature
    (Note 4)    		 Office of Subprogram in Literature +81 29.853.4340 https://literature.hass.tsukuba.ac.jp/en/admission_en/
    Linguistics
    (Note 5)    		 Office of Subprogram in Linguistics +81 29.853.4340 https://linguistics.hass.tsukuba.ac.jp/en/admission_en/
    Modern Culture Studies
    (Note 6)    		 Office of Subprogram in Modern Culture Studies gengen#un.tsukuba.ac.jp https://spcul.modernlc.tsukuba.ac.jp/page/dir000009.html
    English Language Education
    (Note 7)    		 Office of Subprogram in English Language Education gengen#un.tsukuba.ac.jp https://ele.modernlc.tsukuba.ac.jp/page/page000142.html
    International Public Policy
    (Note 8)    		 Office of Master’s & Doctoral Program in International Public Policy +81 29.853.4593 https://www.ipp.tsukuba.ac.jp/en/exam/information/
    International and Advanced Japanese Studies
    (Note 9)    		 Office of Master’s & Doctoral Program in International and Advanced Japanese Studies +81 29.853.4037 https://japan.tsukuba.ac.jp/_publication_for_past_examinations/
  • 14. Contact Us

    If you have any questions about the application guidelines, contact us at:

    Graduate School Affairs, Academic Service Office for the Humanities and Social Sciences Area,
    University of Tsukuba
    1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8571 Japan
    E-mail: hass_admission@un.tsukuba.ac.jp

    Hours: 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and 1:15 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday through Friday except national holidays and the year-end/New year holiday.

  • 15. System for Extending the Period of Registration

    Aim of the System for Extending the Period of Registration

    With the aim of further increasing opportunities for diverse students to learn, the system allows a student to follow a degree program in a planned manner when they apply to complete the program over an extended period of time (four or five years) rather than the standard three years after an individual review.

    Eligible applicants

    A student who falls under any of the following and wishes to complete a degree program in a planned manner over a period longer than the standard three years due to associated difficulties.

    (1) Having an occupation
    (2) Needing to take care of family members, such as children or the elderly
    (3) Having a disability
    (4) Any other person when it is considered that there is a justifiable reason to apply

    Application Period

    Consult the Chair of your program as well as your supervisor for approval of application.
    Submit required documents within the application period presented on the following website.
    https://www.hass.tsukuba.ac.jp/en

  • 16. Special Provision on Educational Method Stipulated in Article 14 of the Standards for Establishment of Graduate Schools

    Education provided under special provision

    1. Along with the progress of science technology and the sophistication of society, there are increasing demands for re-education of working individuals at graduate schools. In response to these demands, Article 14 of the Standards for Establishment of Graduate Schools stipulates that graduate schools may, if necessary from an educational standpoint, provide education through appropriate means, which include conducting classes or research guidance in the evening and other certain hours and periods.

      This stipulation provides more working individuals with opportunities to receive graduate school education while in employment and to develop the knowledge and skills to assume leadership roles in educational research and practice. Under Article 14 of the Standards for Establishment of Graduate Schools, master’s and doctoral programs in the University of Tsukuba Graduate Schools, which has achieved in fostering skilled professionals and re-educating working individuals, has introduced a day/evening course system to enhance education and research activities.

    2. Requirements to complete the program
      For those who would like to benefit from the above-mentioned stipulation, details are available at: http://japan.tsukuba.ac.jp/.