GRIPS MP1: One-Year Master of Public Policy in Tokyo for Global Changemakers

Tokyo’s National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS) sits at the nexus of Asia‑Pacific policymaking. Its intensive Master of Public Policy (MP1) program, taught entirely in English, compresses world‑class training into a single year—an irresistible prospect for ambitious change‑makers. The overview below unpacks what makes MP1 a launch‑pad for global public leaders.

Why GRIPS MP1 Stands Out

Compact yet comprehensive. MP1 packs core analytics, leadership training, and a policy report into 12 months. Mid‑career officials gain fast, actionable skills without a long career break (official MP1 page).

Central Tokyo location. The Roppongi campus places you beside ministries, embassies, and think‑tanks—ideal for networking and fieldwork. Daily life mixes Japan’s safety with cosmopolitan flair.

Elite faculty & fellows. Recent appointments such as former Bank of Japan governor Haruhiko Kuroda as distinguished fellow add real‑world gravitas (Japan Times report).

Curriculum & Concentrations

All students complete common core courses (economics, data science, policy debate) before specializing in one of four concentrations:

• Economic Policy
• International Development Studies
• International Relations
• Public Policy

Team‑Based Summer Workshop

In July–August, multinational teams tackle live policy problems for Japanese ministries or international organizations, sharpening cross‑cultural collaboration.

Capstone Policy Report

Each student produces an evidence‑based report—often published or presented to home‑country ministries—building a portfolio that travels well beyond Tokyo.

Admissions Snapshot

Aspect	ความต้องการ
Program Length	1 academic year (Oct–Sept)
Application Deadline	Early January (varies by scholarship)
Degree Needed	Bachelor’s or equivalent
English Proficiency	TOEFL iBT 79 / IELTS 6.0 minimum
Professional Experience	3+ years in public sector preferred

GRIPS conducts a holistic review—academic record, leadership potential, and alignment with public‑service goals all matter. There is no written entrance exam; shortlisted candidates interview online.

Tuition & Scholarship Pathways

For self‑financed students the annual cost is:

• Application fee: ￥30,000
• Admission fee: ￥282,000
• Tuition: ￥642,960 (payable in two installments)

Most MP1 candidates, however, secure full scholarships-MEXT, ADB‑JSP, JICA, JISPA and others—which cover tuition, a monthly stipend, and airfare.

Tip: Indicate scholarship interest in the online application; GRIPS matches eligible applicants automatically, so no separate forms are needed.

Student Life & Global Alumni Network

GRIPS hosts over 60 nationalities each year, fostering peer learning that mirrors multilateral workplaces. Affordable dorms sit 15 minutes from campus; a subway pass is often cheaper than Tokyo rent.

After graduation, you join an alumni network of 5,000+ professionals in 120 countries—now supported by the new GRIPS Alumni Platform, easing mentorship and job leads.

Living in Tokyo on a Scholarship Stipend

• Monthly scholarship (~￥147,000) covers rent, food, transport, and modest travel.
• Campus clubs: policy hackathons, Japanese language circles, futsal league.
• Free counseling & career workshops prepare you for multilateral recruitment.

Graduates take roles at central banks, UN agencies, and ministries—evidence that one transformative year at GRIPS echoes through decades of public service.