Admissions

FAQs about entrance exams

Should I contact my potential supervisor before I apply?: Those who apply for the Doctoral program must do so.
We also recommend that applicants for a master's program contact a faculty member(s).
Click here for a list of faculty members.
https://www.sustainability.k.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/people/faculty/
How much is the tuition fee?: Please see the following website.
https://www.k.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/gsfs/tuition_fee/
What skills and academic background do I need to apply for the program?: GPSS does not require any specific academic background or discipline upon application.
Are there minimum scores for TOEFL and IELTS?: There is no minimum score for TOEFL and IELTS.
Since I graduated from the university many years ago, I do not have a university faculty member who can write my reference. Can I request a recommendation letter from someone outside of the university?: In principle, we accept recommendation letters from non-academics. However, we strongly encourage applicants to request recommendations from individuals who can evaluate their academic abilities, professional skills, and personal character. Ideally, these should include academic supervisors (such as professors or lecturers) who can provide a clear evaluation of your academic capabilities. Please be aware that if you get two recommendation letters from non-academics, it may negatively impact your screening process.
Does GPSS accept students with a MEXT scholarship with Embassy recommendation?: Yes. GPSS accepts applications from those applying for a MEXT scholarship with Embassy recommendation.
For details, please check this website.
https://www.k.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/exam/master/foreign_research_students/mext_scholarship/
Are there any GPA requirements?: GPA is not required. We will assess all your documents, including the transcript, in a comprehensive way.
I would like to know the course subjects and syllabus before enrollment.: You can see the course list on the following link.
https://www.k.u-tokyo.ac.jp/e/syllabus/ss/index.html
Please also refer to the "UTokyo Online Course Catalogue".
https://catalog.he.u-tokyo.ac.jp/?type=g&interface_language=en
Is it possible to study at GPSS while working full-time at a company?: (Master's Course)
GPSS is a full-time, in-person program, and combining it with full-time employment is generally not recommended. Students are required to attend classes and participate in other compulsory program activities in person. Work commitments cannot be accepted as a legitimate reason for missing classes or being exempted from other program requirements. Applicants should therefore ensure that they are able to prioritize their studies whenever their work schedule conflicts with academic obligations.

(Doctoral Course)
GPSS is not a program designed specifically for working professionals. Students are expected to participate fully in required classes and other program activities, which are held during regular weekday hours rather than in the evenings or on weekends. Applicants who wish to remain in full-time employment must ensure that their professional responsibilities will not interfere with their academic commitments, including participation in required program activities.
Before applying, they must discuss their plans with their potential supervisor and obtain the supervisor’s agreement to this arrangement.
They are also required to submit a Study–Work Balance Plan (Item ⑤ in the Entrance Examination Guidelines) explaining how they intend to balance their professional responsibilities with their doctoral studies and research. There is no prescribed format for this document.