Application Guidelines for Master’s Programs | University of Tsukuba Graduate Admissions

Graduate School of Integrative and Global Multidisciplinary Arena

Application Guidelines for Master’s Programs

Innovative Legal Studies
    Enrollment in April or October 2027

  • October Selection Process (General Selection Process)
  • January to February Selection Process (General Selection Process)
Social Ecology
    Enrollment in April 2027

  • October Selection Process (General Selection Process)
  • January to February Selection Process (General Selection Process)
Co-creative Next-Generation Energy
    Enrollment in April or October 2027

  • October Selection Process (General Selection Process)
  • January to February Selection Process (General Selection Process)
Life Science Innovation
    Enrollment in April 2027

  • January to February Selection Process (General Selection Process)

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 “13. 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
    October Selection Process
    (Excluding Life Science Innovation)
    January to February Selection Process Notes
    Deadline for application for eligibility screening and inquiries regarding eligibility September 10, 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 September 1,2026 – September 30, 2026 November 30, 2026 – December 10, 2026 See “5. Examination Fee.”
    Web entry September 1, 2026 (from noon JST) – September 30, 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)
    September 1, 2026 –October1, 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” on the G-SIGMA website (https://g-sigma.edu.tsukuba.ac.jp/en/) 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 November 19, 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) November 19, 2026 February 15, 2027
  • 2. Number of Students to Be Admitted
    Program Enrollment in April 2027 Enrollment in October 2027
    October Selection Process January to February Selection Process October Selection Process January to February Selection Process
    Innovative Legal Studies 10
    (including a small number of students enrolling in October 2027)
    A few students when appropriate A few students when appropriate A few students when appropriate
    Social Ecology 6 A few students when appropriate
    Co-creative Next Generation Energy 7 3 A few students when appropriate
    Life Science Innovation A few students when appropriate
  • 3-1. Eligibility for Application

    [Eligibility Screening is NOT required]

    • Individuals who have graduated from a Japanese 4-year university or are expected to graduate by the month prior to enrollment. (Eligibility requirement (1))
    • Individuals who have been granted a bachelor’s degree or are expected to be granted it by the National Institution for Academic Degrees and Quality Enhancement of Higher Education the month prior to enrollment. (Eligibility requirement (2))
    • Individuals who have completed a 16-year program of school education in a foreign country or who are expected to complete by the month prior to enrollment. (Eligibility requirement (3))
    • Individuals who have granted or are expected to grant by the month prior to enrollment a degree equivalent to a bachelor’s degree by completing a course of not less than three years from a foreign university. (Eligibility requirement (6); prior confirmation of the eligibility required).

    Please contact Division of Admission (Graduate School) for prior confirmation of the eligibility before web entry by the deadline for application for eligibility screening. Please note that inquiries made after the deadline may not be able to proceed to the screening process if it is determined that screening is necessary.
    E-mail: admission.grad#@#un.tsukuba.ac.jp (Remove “#” from the above e-mail address before sending mail.)

    [Eligibility Screening is required]

    *See “3-2. Details of Eligibility Screening.”
    • Individuals who have reached 22 years of age or will reach 22 years of age by the month prior to enrollment, who have been admitted to the graduate school of the University with academic ability equivalent or superior to that of a university graduate through an individual admission eligibility screening conducted by the graduate school of the University. (Eligibility requirement (9); eligibility screening required)

    [Other eligibility requirements]

    Applicants who require eligibility screening must submit an application to SIGMA Office by the designated deadline. For details, please refer to “3-2. Details of Eligibility Screening”

  • 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 that of university graduates 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.

    Deadlines:

    See “1. Schedule.”

    Place to Submit:

    SIGMA Office, University of Tsukuba (See “13. Contact Us.”)

    How to Submit:

    Please submit your application by email by the application deadline.
    g-sigma@un.tsukuba.ac.jp

  • 4. Consent of the Prospective Supervisor

    Obtaining Consent from Faculty Members before Applying

    • Innovative Legal Studies
      Applicants are required to contact their prospective supervisor before submitting their application and obtain consent that the faculty member will serve as their academic supervisor upon admission.
      Note: Obtaining the prospective supervisorʼs consent is mandatory. Applications submitted without prior consent may be rejected or withdrawn.
      For details regarding faculty members and their research areas, please refer to the Faculty Members.
      Email:ils-sigma@un.tsukuba.ac.jp

    • Social Ecology
      Applicants are encouraged to discuss their research plans with their prospective supervisor in advance and obtain the supervisor’s consent.
      For details regarding faculty members and their research areas, please refer to the Prospective Faculty Members.
      Email:se-sigma@un.tsukuba.ac.jp

    • Co-creative Next Generation Energy
      Applicants are required to consult with their prospective supervisor in advance and obtain the supervisor’s consent.
      For details regarding faculty members and their research areas, please refer to the Prospective Faculty Members.
      Email:nge-sigma@un.tsukuba.ac.jp

    • Life Science Innovation
      Applicants are required to consult with their prospective supervisor in advance and obtain the supervisor’s consent.
      For details regarding faculty members and their research areas, please refer to the Faculty Members.
      Email:tlsi-sigma@un.tsukuba.ac.jp

  • 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.

    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.
        If any image editing or manipulation is detected, it may be treated as misconduct.

      • 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.

    Information Required for Web Entry

    Information Required for Remarks
    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.
    Prospective Supervisor All applicants Enter the name of your prospective supervisor.
    Confirmation of TOEIC Official Score Certificate, TOEIC Digital Official Score Certificate, TOEFL Examinee Score Report, and IELTS Test Report Form
    【Score Validity Period】
    Admission Examination in October:
    Scores obtained in October 2024 or later
    Admission Examination in January–February:
    Scores obtained in January 2025 or later
    All applicants Please refer to the “Handling of External English Test Scores” before completing the online application. The relevant score certificate must also be submitted separately in addition to the online entry (see 【Required Application Documents】).

    *Applicants whose native language is English, or who have obtained or are expected to obtain a degree from an educational program in which English was the primary language of instruction, may be exempt from submitting an English test score report. For details, please contact SIGMA Office, University of Tsukuba.

    Language of the Entrance Examination Applicants to Innovative Legal Studies Select the language to be used for the entrance examination (oral examination).
    Eligibility All applicants Follow the instructions in the Web Entry system.
    Research Plan All applicants to Life Science Innovation

    (Applicants to Innovative Legal Studies, Social Ecology and Co-creative Next Generation Energy should refer to “7. Documents to Be Submitted, Reference Card etc.”

    〇 Life Science Innovation
    Describe your motivation for applying, your academic and extracurricular experiences that you would like to highlight, your research plan, and your future career plans in approximately 1,000 words in English.
    Request for Certificate Delivery by Email Applicants who have graduated or are expected to graduate from an overseas university and wish to receive the certificate by email. After reviewing the information under “7. Documents to Be Submitted, Reference Card etc” for【Applicants Who Have Graduated or Are Expected to Graduate from an Overseas University or Equivalent Institution】check this box if you wish to receive the certificate by email.
    Concurrent Applications to Other Degree Programs at the University of Tsukuba Applicable applicants If you are applying concurrently to another degree program, enter the details.
    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.
    【Applicants Who Have Graduated or Are Expected to Graduate from a Japanese University or Equivalent Institution】

    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.
    Note: If it is difficult to submit the original certificate(s) within the application period due to circumstances such as being overseas, please contact the office below in advance for consultation.

    Place to Submit:

    SIGMA Office, University of Tsukuba (See “13. Contact Us.”)

    【Applicants Who Have Graduated or Are Expected to Graduate from an Overseas University or Equivalent Institution】

    Applicants who have graduated or are expected to graduate from an overseas university or equivalent institution and who have difficulty submitting the required documents by mail may be permitted to take the entrance examination by submitting PDF files of the following documents by email: transcripts, certificates of graduation, certificates of degree completion (including expected degree completion certificates), TOEIC/TOEFL/IELTS or other official score reports, and proof of payment of the examination fee.
    Applicants who wish to submit certificates and other documents by email must check the designated box in the Web Application System and send the PDF files of the required documents to the following contact address.
    Submission Address: g-sigma@un.tsukuba.ac.jp (SIGMA Office, University of Tsukuba)

    Note: The original copies of the transcripts, certificates of graduation, and certificates of degree completion must be submitted. Please submit the original documents by mail or in person to the office below before completing the enrollment procedures. Applicants whose original documents cannot be verified before the enrollment procedures cannot be admitted as enrolled students.

    Mailing Address:
    1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan
    Contact: SIGMA Office, University of Tsukuba
    Location: 7th Floor, General Research Building A, Area 2, Central Area
    Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–12:15 p.m. and 1:15 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
    (Excluding national holidays, substitute holidays, and the year-end/New Year holiday period.)

    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 obtains by the applicant)

    Submission of original documents by registered mail or in person
    (Note: For applicants from overseas universities or equivalent institutions who have difficulty submitting documents by mail, submission of PDF files of certificates and other required documents by email is permitted.)

    Note:

    *If any certificate is issued in a language other than English, the applicant must obtain a certificate in Japanese or English from the issuing institution. If the issuing institution is unable to provide such a certificate, the applicant must submit both the original certificate issued by the institution and a Japanese or English translation certified by an official authority (e.g., an embassy or a notary public).

    *If the applicant’s name on the certificate differs from the current name due to marriage or any other reason, a copy of the applicant’s family register extract (Koseki Shohon) or an individual family register certificate (Koseki Kojin Jiko Shomeisho) verifying the name change must be submitted. 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 Applicants to Innovative Legal Studies The letter of recommendation must be prepared responsibly by the applicant’s academic supervisor at their current university/institution or by a person who is able to evaluate the applicant’s academic qualifications, and must be submitted in a sealed envelope.
    Letter of Recommendation (Legal) M
    * If the recommender (e.g., academic supervisor) submits the letter of recommendation directly, submission by email is permitted. Please send the document to the following email address:
    ils-sigma@un.tsukuba.ac.jp(SIGMA Office, University of Tsukuba)
    (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’.

    *Applicants who have graduated or are expected to graduate from an overseas university or equivalent institution and wish to submit certificates by email (PDF format) must follow the procedures described under“7. Documents to Be Submitted, Reference Card etc” for【Applicants Who Have Graduated or Are Expected to Graduate from an Overseas University or Equivalent Institution】

    *If the relevant certificate is not issued by an overseas university or equivalent institution, please request the university to issue the certificate using the form provided below.

    Expected Graduation Certificate Sample

    * 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’

    *Applicants who wish to submit certificates by email (PDF format) are required to follow the procedures described under“7. Documents to Be Submitted, Reference Card etc” for【Applicants Who Have Graduated or Are Expected to Graduate from an Overseas University or Equivalent Institution】

    *If the relevant certificate is not issued by an overseas university or equivalent institution, please request the university to issue the certificate using the form provided below.

    Expected Degree Certificate Sample

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

    Academic Transcript* All applicants
    1. 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 Master’s Programs of this Graduate School.
      * Even if applicants have already obtained a master’s or doctoral degree, certificates issued by the university from which they obtained their bachelor’s degree are still required.
    2. Applicants who have completed or are expected to complete a graduate program are also required to submit an academic transcript issued by their graduate school.
      *Applicants who have graduated or are expected to graduate from an overseas university or equivalent institution and wish to submit certificates by email (PDF format) must follow the procedures described under“7. Documents to Be Submitted, Reference Card etc” for【Applicants Who Have Graduated or Are Expected to Graduate from an Overseas University or Equivalent Institution】

    * 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’.

    Confirmation of TOEIC Official Score Certificate, TOEIC Digital Official Score Certificate, TOEFL Examinee Score Report, and IELTS Test Report Form
    【Score Validity Period】
    Admission Examination in October:
    Scores obtained in October 2024 or later
    Admission Examination in January–February:
    Scores obtained in January 2025 or later
    All applicants
    (If English is your native language or if you have received higher education in English, the requirements in the left column apply.)
    Please refer to “Handling of External English Test Scores” and submit a valid score report.
    The score report does not need to be attached to the designated sheet when submitted.

    *Applicants whose native language is English, or who have obtained or are expected to obtain a degree from an educational program in which English was the primary language of instruction, may be exempt from submitting an English test score report. For details, please contact SIGMA Office, University of Tsukuba.
    *Among applicants who have graduated from an overseas university or equivalent institution, those who wish to submit certificates by email (PDF format) may also submit their English test score reports by email.

    Research Plan Applicants to the Innovative Legal Studies, Social Ecology and Co-creative Next Generation Energy 〇Applicants to Innovative Legal Studies and Social Ecology Master’s need to prepare the research plan according to the preparation guidelines for their desired degree program provided on the designated cover sheet and submit it with the designated cover sheet attached.
    *The main text of the research plan may be prepared in any format. The research plan must be submitted as a PDF file, including the cover sheet.

    Research Plan Cover Sheet

    〇Applicants to Co-creative Next-Generation Energy need to complete the designated form (approximately 2,000 Japanese characters or 1,000 English words) and submit it by mail together with the certificates and other required documents.
    (However, among applicants who have graduated from an overseas university or equivalent institution, those who wish to submit certificates by email (PDF format) may also submit their research plan by email.)

    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.
    *For graduates of overseas universities who wish to have their certificates (PDF) sent via email, proof of payment of the examination fee may also be sent via email.
    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.

    Moushitate Sample

    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.
    (The PDF can be generated only during the online application entry period. Please make sure to print all required documents before the deadline.)
    See “1. Schedule.”
    Address Sheet Applicants Submitting Application Documents by Post Attach the address sheet to your envelope and submit the originals of your required documents by registered mail or by bringing them to SIGMA Office, University of Tsukuba.
    【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 by bringing to SIGMA Office, University of Tsukuba.

    *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.

    *Applicants who have any questions regarding the application process should contact the office indicated in “13. Contact Us.”

    *If any false information or falsification is discovered in the application documents, or if there is clear evidence of misconduct during the examination, the applicant’s acceptance may be revoked and admission may be cancelled.

  • 8. Screening Criteria
    Selection Process

    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.

    Innovative Legal StudiesMaster’s

    October Selection Process, January to February Selection Process (General Selection Process (Online))
    Date Tuesday, October 27, and Wednesday, October 28
    Thursday, January 28, and Friday, January 29
    Examination Subject (Points) Oral Examination (100 points)
    Time 9:00-17:00 (JST, UTC+09:00)
    Examination Details An individual interview will be conducted online. Applicants will be evaluated through the interview and submitted documents with regard to their research plan, knowledge of related fields, English language proficiency, and other relevant abilities.
    Language(s) Used Applicants who wish to receive research supervision in Japanese:
    The interview will be conducted in Japanese and English. A portion of the interview may be conducted in English to assess the applicant’s English-language proficiency.
    Applicants who wish to receive research supervision in English:
    The interview will be conducted in English. If necessary, Japanese and/or other languages required for conducting research may also be used.
    * The language(s) to be used must be specified in advance through the online application system.

    A connection test will be conducted in advance. The date, time, and other details of the connection test will be provided after the completion of the application process.

    Social EcologyMaster’s

    *The entrance examination will be conducted at the University’s designated examination venue.

    October Selection Process, January to February Selection Process (General Selection Process)
    Date Tuesday, October 27, and Wednesday, October 28
    Thursday, January 28, and Friday, January 29
    Subject Document Screening (100 points) Oral Examination (200 points)
    Time 9:00-17:00 (JST, UTC+09:00)
    Examination Details Applicants will be evaluated based on their basic academic abilities, intellectual curiosity and interest in pursuing innovation in the social sciences, motivation for
    research, and other relevant attributes.
    Through an individual interview, applicants will be evaluated with regard to their communication skills, the appropriateness and logical coherence of their research plan, motivation for research, basic academic abilities, and other relevant attributes.
    Language(s) Used Japanese or English
    • The oral examination consists of a presentation of approximately 5 minutes and a question-and-answer session.
    • A computer for the presentation will be provided by the University.
    • Applicants must submit their presentation materials (PDF-format slides) in advance. Details regarding the submission method, deadline, and other requirements will be announced separately after the completion of the application process.

    Co-creative Next-Generation EnergyMaster’s

    *The entrance examination will be conducted at the University’s designated examination venue.
    However, an online entrance examination will be available for applicants residing overseas. Applicants who wish to take the online examination must submit the “Declaration Form Regarding the Online Entrance Examination for Applicants Residing Overseas” within the application period.

    October Selection Process, January to February Selection Process (General Selection Process)
    Date Tuesday, October 27, and Wednesday, October 28
    Friday, January 29
    Subject Oral Examination (500 points)
    Time 9:00-17:00 (JST, UTC+09:00)
    Examination Details English Language (100 points); Individual Interview (400 points)
    English proficiency will be evaluated based on TOEIC, TOEFL iBT, TOEFL iBT Home Edition, IELTS scores, and performance in the oral examination.
    The individual interview will assess applicants’ research plans, basic academic abilities, specialized knowledge, and other relevant competencies.
    Language(s) Used Japanese or English.

    During the oral examination, applicants will give a presentation of approximately 10 minutes, followed by a question-and-answer session.
    Applicants must bring their own computer containing the presentation materials on the day of the examination.

    Life Science Innovation Master’s

    *The entrance examination will be conducted at the University’s designated examination venue.
    However, an online entrance examination will be available for applicants residing overseas. Applicants who wish to take the online examination must submit the “Declaration Form Regarding the Online Entrance Examination for Applicants Residing Overseas” within the application period.

    January to February Selection Process (General Selection Process)
    Date Tuesday, January 26 to Thursday, January 28
    Subject Foreign Language (100 points) Oral Examination (100 points)
    Examination Details English proficiency will be evaluated based on the submitted English language test scores.

    *As this program is conducted entirely in English, applicants are expected to possess English proficiency at or above CEFR B2 level (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).

    An oral presentation on the applicant’s research plan will be conducted in English.
    *English language proficiency will also be evaluated.
  • 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 G-SIGMA Website at least one week in advance.

  • 11. Testing Location, Acceptance Announcement and Admission Procedure

    Testing Location

    University of Tsukuba (1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan)
    For details, please refer to “Information and Instructions for Examinees”in “10.Instructions for Taking the Examination.”
    Note: The entrance examination for the Master’s and Doctoral Programs in Innovative Legal Studies will be conducted online. Applicants must prepare a private room, a stable internet connection, and a personal computer prior to the scheduled connection test.

    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.

    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:
      1) Individuals who missed at one or more subject(s)
      2) Individuals who took the Online Entrance Examinations for Those Living Abroad
      3) Individuals who failed the first round of the two-stage selection process
    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. Contact Us

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

    1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan
    SIGMA Office, University of Tsukuba
    Office Location: 7th Floor, General Research Building A, Area 2
    E-mail: g-sigma@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.
  • 14. 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 (three or four years) rather than the standard two 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 two 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

    Other

    Applicants who wish to use the System for Extending the Period of Registration should contact the SIGMA Office at g-sigma@un.tsukuba.ac.jp.
    (For details, see the “Q&A on the Long-Term Study Program.”長期履修に関する Q&A

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

    Working Professionals, Please Read the Following.

    Education provided under special provision

    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.

1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577 Japan

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