Fuji Seal Foundation Japan Engineering Scholarship: ¥100,000 Monthly Funding for Future Packaging Innovators

Packaging decides whether a product delights the shopper or ends up in the discount bin. Few firms know that better than Fuji Seal International, a century-old leader in shrink-sleeve labels and spouted pouches. Through its philanthropic arm—the Fuji Seal Foundation—the company now invests in bright minds worldwide, offering scholarships that fund research in materials science, mechanical and electrical engineering, and design. For students who dream of studying in Japan, the headline opportunity is the Japan (Engineering) Course, paying up to ¥100,000 per month. This article unpacks that flagship track first, then explains two companion courses for those studying in the United States/Europe or Thailand/Vietnam.

From Label Maker to Global Benefactor

Fuji Seal’s journey began in 1897 as a Kyoto stationery shop producing celluloid labels. Over the decades the firm pioneered heat-shrink technology, lightweight PET bottles, and eco-friendly label films. In 2006 that legacy gave birth to the Fuji Seal Foundation, whose mission is to “support human resources and R&D that improve the functional and display roles of packaging.” The foundation views packaging not as waste but as a conduit of value—protecting products, conveying information, and reducing environmental impact. More than 400 scholars have benefited so far, and alumni now work at multinationals from Nestlé to Toyota or pursue PhDs at Kyoto U. and ETH Zurich.

Who Is Eligible? Focus on the Japan (Engineering) Course

Eligibility is tied to where you study und what you study—not your passport. Because Isami Dojo readers aim to enroll in Japan, we start with the course most relevant to you.

1. Japan (Engineering) Course — ¥100,000/month

Designed for privately financed international students already studying in Japan—typically third-year undergrads or first-year master’s candidates in mechanical, electrical, materials, or design disciplines. Applicants need a Japanese university’s recommendation and a concise research plan showing how their work will advance sustainable packaging.

2. USA & Europe Course — ¥70,000/month

Open to any nationality enrolled at a U.S. or European university (undergraduate 2–3 year or master’s 1 year). Scholars act as bridges between Fuji Seal’s overseas plants and its Kyoto R&D hub.

3. Thailand & Vietnam Course — ¥30,000/month

Targeted at third-year undergraduates studying in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Ho Chi Minh City, or Hanoi—cities where Fuji Seal operates high-volume production lines.

Funding & Duration at a Glance

Course Track (Study Region)	Who Can Apply?	Monthly Stipend	Typical Duration
Japan (Engineering)	International undergrad 3 yr / master 1 yr students in Japan	¥100,000	12–24 months
USA & Europe	Bachelor 2–3 yr / master 1 yr students of any nationality	¥70,000	24 months
Thailand & Vietnam	Bachelor 3 yr students of any nationality	¥30,000	24 months

Living costs in Tokyo dwarf those in Chiang Mai. Fuji Seal calibrates stipends accordingly, letting scholars focus on research rather than rent.

Mentoring, Workshops & Career Leverage

Japan-track scholars join an annual Packaging Innovation Workshop at Fuji Seal’s Osaka HQ. Travel costs are covered, and sessions pair students with senior engineers who critique prototypes. Photos from the 2024 cohort appear on LinkedIn. Alumni run Slack channels and often co-author papers; a Vietnam scholar recently co-designed a low-carbon shrink film now piloted in Yamanashi.

Step-by-Step Application Guide (Japan Track)

1. Download forms: Get the latest application and essay prompt from the official site.
2. Secure a university recommendation: One letter, on headed paper and signed.
3. Write a 1,000-word essay: Show how your research could slash packaging waste or enhance usability.
4. Submit before March 24, 2026: Late entries are rejected without review.
5. Prepare for an online interview: Be ready to outline one packaging problem you would solve with unlimited resources.