FAQ

1. Do I need to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score?

Yes –unless you have graduated from a university located in a country where English is
the native language.
2. Can I apply for a scholarship?
Scholarship information is provided by the university to successful applicants, not
before, and are not guaranteed.
3. I want to begin study in April, can I?
The GPEM program begins in October every year for prospective students currently
residing overseas. If you are already residents in Japan, you can begin the programme
from April.
4. I haven’t graduated yet but will before October. What should I do?
Please provided the certificate of expected graduation from your present university.
5. Can I send copies of my documents?
No, your documents must be original.
6. Is there an examination for entrance into the course?
No, your application is reviewed by Tohoku University. You do not have to come to the
university for an exam.
7. I have a Japanese score, should I submit that?
No, it’s not a requirement of application.
8. I want to use the MEXT scholarship. What should I do?
Please follow the guidelines set out by the Japanese embassy in your country.
9. If I am accepted by MEXT do I automatically gain a place in the GPEM programme?
No, you must also apply for the GPEM programme at the beginning of the year for that
year’s October intake but you will travel to Japan in March to begin preparation from
April for 6 months.
10. I don’t have a TOEFL/IELTS score but will have one after the application period has
ended. Can I still apply?
No, you need all your documents in one application during the designated timeframe.
We recommend you begin preparing your documents as early as possible.
11. I want to study a master’s degree. Do I have to find a supervising teacher before I apply?
No, only doctoral students need to find a supervisor before application.
12. I am in the workforce now and can’t get a recommendation letter from my university.
Do you accept workplace recommendation letters?
Yes, we will accept letters of recommendation from your workplace but prefer at least
 one from your university.
13. My TOEFL/IELTS score is over 2 years old. Can I use that?
No, you must provide a valid certificate.
14. My university doesn’t provide documents in a sealed envelope. What should I do?
Please place the documents that are required to be in an envelope, seal it and then send
with your application.
15. I don’t have an undergraduate degree in economics. Can I still apply?
Yes, the GPEM programme is open to anyone who has completed any undergraduate
degree.
16. Do I have to submit my resident registration?
This refers to those students who are already residing in Japan and have residence.
17. If I apply in the first period do I have to wait until April to get my results?
No, you will be notified of your results after each application period. If you are
unsuccessful in the first period your application will be reviewed again in the second
period and again in the third. You will be notified of results after each period.
18. How much are the fees?
Please see the application guidelines.
19. Where do I send the application?
Please see the application guidelines.