26 Sep, 2025

Study Environmental Sciences in Japan from Nepal: Complete Guide 2025

The world faces lots of unpredictable environmental challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss to pollution and resource depletion. Environmental science has emerged as one of the most critical fields of study in the 21st century.

For Nepali students seeking to make a meaningful impact on the planet's future, studying environmental sciences in Japan presents extraordinary opportunities. With Japan’s aging population creating numerous opportunities for skilled international professionals and the country's commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, environmental scientists trained in Japanese institutions are increasingly in demand both in Japan and globally.

This represents not just an educational opportunity, but a chance to build a career that can positively impact both Japan and Nepal's environmental future.

Table of Content

Why choose Japan for Environmental Science?
Environmental Sciences Courses in Japan
Types of Environmental Science Programs
Requirements for Environmental Sciences Courses in Japan for Nepali Students
1. Academic Eligibility
2. Language Requirements
Entrance exam and Application Process for Nepali Students
Visa Requirements for Nepali Students to Study Environmental Science
Visa Process for Nepali Students to Study Environmental Science in Japan
1. Required essential documents
2. Financial Requirement
3. Application Process Timeline
4. Visa Conditions and Regulations
Scholarships for Nepali Students in Japan
Cost of Studying Environmental Science in Japan
Top Universities in Japan for Environmental Sciences
1. Other Notable Universities
Career Opportunities After Environmental Sciences in Japan
1. Government and Public Sector Opportunities
2. Private Sector Opportunities
3. International Organizations
Environmental Sciences Salary in Japan
How to Start Your Environmental Sciences Career in Japan
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why choose Japan for Environmental Science?

Japan is committed to environmental protection, which runs deep, driven by both necessity and innovation. Japan encompasses some of the world's most advanced environmental technologies and policies. Japan is the global leader in sustainability and green innovation. There are several key areas that it leads globally. Such as:

Renewable Energy Technology: Japan consists of companies like Sharp and Kyocera which are investing in solar innovation, making Japan a pioneer in solar panel technology. Japan also has made investments in wind energy, geothermal power and hydrogen fuel cells.
Waste Management and Circular Economy: Japan's waste management system is one of the world's most efficient with recycling rates exceeding 80% in many categories. This country makes resources out of the waste. Japan offers valuable opportunities for students from developing countries like Nepal.
Environmental Policy and Governance: Japan’s environmental policies have influenced global standards. From the Kyoto Protocol to current carbon neutrality goals, Japan continues to shape international environmental discourse. Students studying here gain exposure to policy-making processes that can be adapted to their home countries.

Environmental Sciences Courses in Japan

Japan offers environmental science programs at various academic levels. Universities provide degree programs with strong theoretical foundations, while some institutions focus on practical, industry-specific training.

Course formats for undergraduate include four-year Bachelor's degrees in Environmental Sciences and for graduates include two-year Master's degrees with research focus and doctoral degrees consisting of three to five-year PhD programs.

The education approach emphasizes hands-on research experience from an early stage. The program consists of interdisciplinary learning which combines multiple scientific disciplines.

The program provides practical experience with its world-class technology and field work and practical application.

The program offers opportunities for internships with environmental organizations, field research in Japan’s diverse ecosystems, collaboration with international research networks and study abroad exchange with partner universities.

Types of Environmental Science Programs

Environmental Science and Technology

This program covers environmental chemistry, pollution control, environmental engineering and clean technological development. The core subject includes environmental chemistry and analysis, air and water pollution control, waste treatment technologies, environmental impact assessment and sustainable technology development.

Climate Change and Sustainability

This program focuses on climate science, renewable energy, sustainable development and carbon management. Its key areas include climate science and modeling, renewable energy systems, carbon capture and storage, climate policy and economics, and sustainable development practices.

Biodiversity and Conservation Biology

This program emphasizes ecosystem science, wildlife conservation, marine biology and biodiversity protection. It specializes in wildlife biology and conservation, marine and aquatic ecology, forest and terrestrial ecosystems, conservation genetics and protected area management.

Environmental Policy and Management

This program combines environmental science with policy analysis, environmental law and management principles. Its focus areas include environmental law and regulation, policy analysis and development, environmental economics, risk assessment and management, and international environmental agreements.

Marine and Coastal Environmental Science

This program specializes in ocean science, coastal management, marine pollution and fisheries science taking advantage of Japan's extensive coastal resources. Its study area includes marine chemistry and biology, coastal zone management, marine pollution and remediation, Fisheries and aquaculture science, and ocean climate systems.

Requirements for Environmental Sciences Courses in Japan for Nepali Students

Academic Eligibility

Undergraduate (Bachelors) Entry Requirement for Nepali Students

Criteria	Details
Academic Qualifications	Must complete 12 years of schooling at a recognized institution with good academic performance in science subjects.
Minimum GPA	The GPA must be 3.0+ on a 4.0 scale or equivalent.
Preferred Background	Strong foundation in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics.
Alternative Path	Some programs may require specific science course completion.

Post Graduate (Master’s) Entry Requirement for Nepali Students

Criteria	Details
Academic Qualification	Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, or related field.
Research Experience	Prior research experience, publications, or projects highly valued.
Minimum GPA	Typically 3.2+ on a 4.0 scale or equivalent are preferred for competitive programs.
Additional Advantages	Work experience in environmental organizations, internships, or relevant projects strengthen applications.

Doctorate (PhD) Entry Requirement for Nepali Students

Criteria	Details
Academic Qualifications	Master's degree with strong research background.
Research Proposal	Detailed research proposal aligned with faculty expertise required.
Publications	Previous publications in peer-reviewed journals preferred.
Supervisor Identification	Must identify potential supervisors before application.

Language Requirements

Undergraduate (Bachelors) Language Requirement for Nepali Students

Requirements	Details
English Proficiency	Most of the programs are offered in English. Typical requirements for TOEFL iBT is 80 to 100, IELTS Academic is 6.5 to 7.0 overall or TOEIC is 750+.
Japanese Proficiency	It is not mandatory for admission. It is helpful for part-time and daily life. JLPT N4 or N3 is recommended for daily life and part-time work.. Universities often provide Japanese language courses

Post Graduate / Doctorate (Master’s / PhD) Entry Requirement for Nepali Students

Requirements	Details
English Proficiency	Most Masters programs are taught in English. Typical requirements for TOEFL iBT is 90 to 105, IELTS Academic is 7.0 to 7.5 overall with section minimums or TOEIC is 850+.
Japanese Proficiency	It is usually not required for admission It is essential for full-time career opportunities in Japan after graduation. JLPT N2 or N1 certification is highly valued for research collaboration and career opportunities in Japan. Some programs may include minor Japanese language or cultural courses.
Research Communication	Strong academic English writing and presentation skills essential for research programs.

Entrance exam and Application Process for Nepali Students

Undergraduate (Bachelors) Entrance and Application

Some universities require a standard test score for admission to environmental science programs like SAT which is accepted by some universities for international students, EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission) is required for some programs, and certain institutions also conduct university-specific entrance exams.

Academic components are required for entrance and application which includes:

Academic Transcripts with certified translation.
High school graduation certificate.
2 to 3 Letters of Recommendation from teachers or professors.
Statements of Purpose (SOP) showing interest in environmental science.
English proficiency test score.
Passport copy.
Application fee payment proof.

Japanese university applications typically follow specific deadlines:

During April intake, applications due October-January of the previous year.
During October intake, applications due March-June of the same year.

Graduate (Master’s / PhD) Entrance and Application

Some universities require a standard test score for admission to environmental science programs like GRE or GMAT which is accepted by many universities for international students and certain institutions also conduct university-specific entrance exams.

Academic components are required for entrance and application which includes:

Bachelor’s / Master’s degree transcripts with certified translation.
2 to 3 Letters of Recommendation.
Detailed Research Proposal especially for PhD.
Statements of Purpose (SOP) showing interest in environmental science.
Portfolio of relevant projects or work experience.
Standard test scores.
Proof of English or Japanese language proficiency.
Research proposal.
Resume/CV with research experience.
Contact with potential supervisors is recommended.

Japanese university applications typically follow specific deadlines:

During April intake, applications due October-January of the previous year.
During October intake, applications due March-June of the same year.
PhD Programs often have multiple application deadlines throughout the year.

Visa Requirements for Nepali Students to Study Environmental Science

For environmental science studies, Nepali student need one of the following visa:

Specialized Training Visas are for those students attending specialized training colleges with duration of 1-3 years, focused on practical, industry-specific training.
College Student Visa are for undergraduate or postgraduate environmental science programs at universities, with duration matching the program length.

Visa Process for Nepali Students to Study Environmental Science in Japan

Required essential documents

Must have a valid Nepali passport with minimum 18 months validity.
Certificate of eligibility issued by the Japanese institution.
Complete visa application form with recent passport size photograph.
Academic transcripts and certificates from previous institutions.
Financial proof showing sufficient funds of minimum JPY 2,000,000 for a year.
Medical certificate showcasing good health.
Police clearance certificate from Nepal police.

Financial Requirement

Nepali students must demonstrate financial capacity so that they can cover tuition fees, living expenses and other living costs. Financial proof includes bank statements consisting of balance, fixed deposit certificates, scholarship award letter, sponsor’s income documentation and guarantee letter, property ownership documents if applicable, and sponsor's income documentation.

The estimated annual cost for Environmental Science study in Japan ranges from JPY 2,000,000 to JPY 3,000,000 which includes tuition fees, accommodation, meals, emergency funds, health insurance and personal expenses.

Application Process Timeline

Step 1: Institution Acceptance

Apply to chosen environmental science program 3-6 months prior to the intended start. The chosen environmental science institution will then apply for your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) on your behalf.

Step 2: COE processing

The Japanese Immigration Bureau processes the COE application. The COE confirms your eligibility to receive a visa and the institution forwards the COE to students.

Step3: Visa Application (2-4 weeks)

Submit the visa application at the Japanese embassy in Kathmandu with all of the required documents and COE. Processing time typically takes 5-10 working days.

Step 4: Pre-departure Preparation

Before departure, arrange accommodation and book a flight. Most of the environmental science institutes offer dormitory facilities or assist with housing arrangements.

Visa Conditions and Regulations

Students can work part-time up to 28 hours per week with a proper work permit.
Students must maintain full-time enrollments and satisfactory academic progress.
Both institutions and immigration authorities monitor regular attendance and academic performance.
The initial student visa is granted for one year but can be renewed based on academic progress and continued enrollment in environmental science programs.

Scholarships for Nepali Students in Japan

Japan offers numerous scholarship opportunities to Nepali students which makes quality education more affordable. These programs significantly reduce the burden of education costs. Some of the major scholarships popular among Nepali students are:

MEXT (Monbukgakusho) scholarship: This scholarship is offered by the Japanese government, covers full tuition fee, provides a monthly allowance JPY 117,000 for undergraduate,and JPY 144,000 for graduate with round-trip airfare between Nepal and Japan. No repayment is required for this scholarship.

Students having strong academic performance with 3.5+ GPA, Research proposal aligned with Japanese university strengths, Under 25 for undergraduate, and Under 35 for graduate are eligible for this scholarship.

One can apply through the Japanese Embassy in Kathmandu. Document screening and written examinations are taken. Interviews of candidates are taken focusing on research plan and motivation. At last medical examination is one for successful candidates.

JASSO (Japan Student Service Organization) Scholarship: This scholarship is a short-term exchange program scholarship. It is a student exchange support program and honors scholarships for international students.

For the Student Exchange Support Program it provides a monthly allowance of JPY 80,000 for 6-12 months to students and has merit-based selection.

For the JASSO Honors Scholarship it provides a monthly allowance of JPY 48,000. It provides scholarships for students with outstanding academic performance. This scholarship is renewable based on continued excellence.

Most of the Japanese universities also offer their own scholarship programs. For example, the University of Tokyo provides international student special scholarships, Waseda University provides Waseda University scholarship and so on.
Several private organizations and foundations also fund and support international students. Some of the notable foundations that provide scholarship are: Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarship, Asian Development Bank Japan Scholarship Program, Toyota Foundation international Grant Program, etc.

Cost of Studying Environmental Science in Japan

Public Universities

Fee Requirement	Amount in JPY	Amount in NPR
Application Fee	JPY 17,000	NPR 15,300
First Year Admission Fee	JPY 282,000	NPR 253,800
Annual Tuition Fee	JPY 535,800	NPR 482,220
Total for First Year	JPY 834,800	NPR 751,320

Private University

Fee Requirement	Amount in JPY	Amount in NPR
Application Fee	JPY 20,000 to JPY 50,000	NPR 18,000 to NPR 45,000
First Year Admission Fee	JPY 200,000 to JPY 500,000	NPR 180,000 to NPR 450,000
Annual Tuition Fee	JPY 800,000 to JPY 2,000,000	NPR 720,000 to NPR 1,800,000
Laboratory and Equipment Fee	JPY 50,000 to JPY 200,000	NPR 45,000.00 to NPR 180,000
Total for First Year	JPY 1,070,000 to JPY 2,750,000	NPR 963,000 to NPR 2,475,000

Additional living expenses

Expense Category	Monthly Cost (JPY)	Monthly Cost (NPR)	Annual Cost (NPR)
Accommodation	JPY 40,000 to JPY 80,000	NPR 38,312 to NPR 76,624	NPR 459,744 to NPR 919,488
Food & Meals	JPY 30,000 to JPY 50,000	NPR 28,734 to NPR 47,890	NPR 344,808 to NPR 574,680
Transportation	JPY 10,000 to JPY 15,000	NPR 9,578 to NPR 14,367	NPR 114,936 to NPR 172,404
Personal Expenses	JPY 15,000 to JPY 25,000	NPR 14,367 to NPR 23,945	NPR 172,404 to NPR 287,340
Total Monthly	JPY 95,000 to JPY 170,000	NPR 90,991 to NPR 162,826	NPR 1,091,892 to NPR 1,953,912

Top Universities in Japan for Environmental Sciences

University	Japan’s Rank	Global Rank
University of Tokyo	1	33
Kyoto University	2	85
Hokkaido University	3	101-150
Tokyo Institute of Technology	4	101-150
Tohoku University	5	151-200

Other Notable Universities

University	Location	Special Focus
Tsukuba University	Ibaraki	Environmental biology, ecosystem science
Nagoya University	Nagoya	Atmospheric science, climate research
Hiroshima University	Hiroshima	Marine environmental science
Yokohama National University	Yokohama	Urban environmental management

Career Opportunities After Environmental Sciences in Japan

Japan creates diverse career opportunities across multiple sectors for environmental science graduates.

Government and Public Sector Opportunities

The Ministry of Environment plays a leading role in environmental policies, implementing sustainability programs and promoting international cooperation. Graduates can contribute to projects such as climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation and national adaptation planning.
Local government level provides opportunities in environmental planning and management, waste management system optimization, and the development of local climate action strategies.
Japan consists of world-renowned research institutions. The National institute for Environmental Studies (NIES) focuses on climate change, air quality and sustainable development. JAMSTEC conducts cutting-edge research in oceanography and earth sciences. RIKEN research centers and the Forest and Forest Products Research Institute provide opportunities for graduates to work in biodiversity, forest and environmental conservation.

Private Sector Opportunities

The private sector in Japan offers diverse career paths for environmental science graduates.

Technological companies in Japan create opportunities in environmental monitoring technologies, smart city solutions, environmental data analytics and IoT-based applications for sustainable urban management.
Manufacturing and industrial sectors require experts in environmental compliance, corporate sustainability reporting, clean technology department and circular economy implementation.
The renewable energy sector in Japan creates demand for expertise in solar and wind energy project development, energy efficiency solutions, smart grid technologies and hydrogen fuel cell innovations.

International Organizations

Graduates in environmental science can also pursue careers with UN agencies and international organizations based in Japan such as UNEP, UNESCO, FAO, UNDP, etc.

Apart from UN agencies, there are several international research organizations and NGOs such as Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research, IIASA, WWF Japan, Greenpeace Japan, etc that provide opportunities in advocacy, conservation and sustainable policy implementation.

Environmental Sciences Salary in Japan

Entry-Level Position (0-2 years of experience)

Position	Annual Salary (JPY)	Annual Salary (NPR)
Research Assistant	JPY 2,800,000 to JPY 3,500,000	NPR 2,520,000 to NPR 3,150,000
Environmental Consultant (Junior)	JPY 3,200,000 to JPY 4,000,000	NPR 2,880,000 to NPR 3,600,000
Government Environmental Officer	JPY 3,000,000 to JPY 3,800,000	NPR 2,700,000 to NPR 3,420,000
Laboratory Technician	JPY 2,500,000 to JPY 3,200,000	NPR 2,250,000 to NPR 2,880,000

Mid-Level Position (3-7 years of experience)

Position	Annual Salary (JPY)	Annual Salary (NPR)
Environmental Scientist	JPY 4,500,000 to JPY 6,500,000	NPR 4,050,000 to NPR 5,850,000
Project Manager	JPY 5,000,000 to JPY 7,500,000	NPR 4,500,000 to NPR 6,750,000
Sustainability Manager	JPY 5,500,000 to JPY 8,000,000	NPR 4,950,000 to NPR 7,200,000
Research Scientist	JPY 4,800,000 to JPY 7,000,000	NPR 4,320,000 to NPR 6,300,000

Senior-Level Position (8+ years of experience)

Position	Annual Salary (JPY)	Annual Salary (NPR)
Senior Environmental Consultant	JPY 7,000,000 to JPY 12,000,000	NPR 6,300,000 to NPR 10,800,000
Research Director	JPY 8,000,000 to JPY 15,000,000	NPR 7,200,000 to NPR 13,500,000
Corporate Environmental Director	JPY 10,000,000 to JPY 18,000,000	NPR 9,000,000 to NPR 16,200,000
University Professor	JPY 6,000,000 to JPY 12,000,000	NPR 5,400,000 to NPR 10,800,000

Specialized High-demand Roles

Position	Annual Salary (JPY)	Annual Salary (NPR)
Climate Change Specialist	JPY 6,000,000 to JPY 10,000,000	NPR 5,400,000 to NPR 9,000,000
Renewable Energy Engineer	JPY 5,500,000 to JPY 11,000,000	NPR 4,950,000 to NPR 9,900,000
Environmental Data Scientist	JPY 6,500,000 to JPY 12,000,000	NPR 5,850,000 to NPR 10,800,000
International Env. Policy Advisor	JPY 7,000,000 to JPY 13,000,000	NPR 6,300,000 to NPR 11,700,000

How to Start Your Environmental Sciences Career in Japan

Research programs carefully. Consider curriculum content, industry connections, language of instruction and graduate employment rates.
Maintain a high GPA throughout studies and engage in research projects and publications.
Develop strong relationships with professors and advisors.
Consider your career goals when selecting between university degrees and vocational training.
Internships are critical for gaining practical experience and building professional networks.
Graduates from Japanese institutions can apply for a job-hunting visa which provides time to secure employment.
Employers typically assist with visa applications for hire graduates.
Understanding visa requirements and renewal process helps ensure long term career stability in Japan.
Begin Japanese study before arriving in Japan. Basic conversation skills ease daily life and demonstrate commitment to employers.

Conclusion

Japan presents exceptional opportunities for Nepali students seeking to build meaningful careers in environmental sciences. From world-class education and research facilities to diverse career opportunities and competitive salaries, Japan offers a comprehensive pathway to environmental science excellence.

The country's unique position as an environmental technology leader, combined with its commitment to sustainability and international cooperation, creates an ideal environment for students to develop expertise that can benefit both Japan and Nepal's environmental challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why should Nepali students study Environmental Sciences in Japan?
Japan is a global leader in sustainability, renewable energy, waste management, and environmental policies. Nepali students benefit from world-class education, hands-on research, and diverse career opportunities in Japan and internationally.

What are the requirements to study Environmental Sciences in Japan from Nepal?
For undergraduate programs, students must complete 12 years of schooling with a science background and a minimum GPA of 3.0. For master’s and PhD programs, a strong academic record, research experience, and English or Japanese language proficiency are required.

Do Nepali students need to know Japanese to study Environmental Sciences in Japan?
Most environmental science programs are offered in English, so Japanese is not mandatory for admission. However, learning Japanese such as JLPT N3 for daily life or JLPT N2/N1 for career opportunities is highly recommended.

What is the total cost of studying Environmental Sciences in Japan for Nepali students?
The total annual cost ranges from JPY 2,000,000 to JPY 3,000,000 or NPR 1,800,000 to NPR 2,700,000 including tuition, living expenses, accommodation, food, and personal expenses. Public universities are more affordable compared to private universities.

Are scholarships available for Nepali students in Japan?
Yes. The most popular is the MEXT Scholarship, which covers tuition, monthly allowance, and airfare. Other options include JASSO Scholarships, university-specific scholarships, and private foundations such as the Rotary Foundation and ADB-Japan Scholarship Program.

What is the process for obtaining a Japanese student visa from Nepal?
Students need an admission letter, Certificate of Eligibility (COE), valid passport, proof of funds with minimum JPY 2,000,000, medical certificate, and police clearance. The College Student Visa is the most common type, valid for the program duration.

What career opportunities are available after completing Environmental Sciences in Japan?
Graduates can work in government agencies such as Ministry of Environment, local governments, research institutes such as NIES, JAMSTEC, RIKEN, private sector roles such as consulting, renewable energy, smart city solutions, and international organizations such as UNEP, UNESCO, WWF Japan, Greenpeace Japan.

How much salary can an Environmental Science graduate earn in Japan?

After completion of environmental science in Japan one can expect a salary ranging from JPY 2.5 million to JPY 13 million or NPR 2.25 million to NPR 11.7 million depending on the position and area of expertise.

Can Nepali students work while studying Environmental Sciences in Japan?
Yes. With a part-time work permit, students can work up to 28 hours per week during semesters and up to 40 hours per week during holidays.

Is Japan a good long-term career destination for Environmental Science graduates?
Yes. With Japan’s commitment to carbon neutrality by 2050, the demand for environmental scientists is rising. Graduates can secure long-term careers in Japan or use their Japanese degree to pursue global opportunities.

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