International Course of Life Sciences (ICLS)
GRADUATE SCHOOL OF LIFE SCIENCES, TOHOKU UNIVERSITY
1. Introduction
The International Course of Life Sciences (ICLS) was established in October 2015. This course allows international students to pursue their graduate studies and earn credits entirely in English.
2. Specializations
The Graduate School of Life Sciences focuses on two major themes: a comprehensive and integrated understanding of biological phenomena, and contributions to human welfare. Our three main specializations aim to encompass both themes while responding to societal needs, such as environmental sustainability, food supply, and advancements in health and medical care.
Our goal is to serve as a central hub for basic research in the life sciences, welcoming a diverse range of students from overseas and Japan to become researchers capable of working globally.
Our three fields of specialization are:
・Integrative Life Sciences: Focusing on the brain and understanding the systems by which cell populations control biology.
・Ecological Developmental Adaptability Life Sciences: Understanding complex biological phenomena, ranging from cells and individual entities to entire ecosystems.
・Molecular and Chemical Life Sciences: Understanding how molecules function within biological systems.
3. Curricula
As noted in the Introduction, the ICLS allows students who are not proficient in Japanese to earn credits by taking classes in English. However, because not all required subjects are offered in English, we strongly recommend that you meet with your academic advisor early to discuss your study and research plans.
Life Sciences syllabus and curriculum: https://www.lifesci.tohoku.ac.jp/en/curriculums/syllabus/
4. Academic Degree
To earn an academic degree, students must complete the required coursework and successfully defend a thesis or dissertation. The criteria for obtaining a degree are as follows:
(1) Master’s Program
・Standard Duration: 2 years
・Coursework: Students must complete the specified subjects and earn at least 30 credits.
・Research: Students must receive necessary research guidance, submit a Master's Thesis, and pass the thesis defense.
(2) Doctoral Program
・Standard Duration: 3 years
・Coursework: Students must complete the designated subjects and earn a minimum of 9 credits.
・Research: Students must receive necessary research guidance, submit a Doctoral Dissertation, and pass the dissertation defense.
Note: Publication in an academic journal is required prior to the dissertation defense. Students should discuss the details of this requirement with their academic advisor in advance.
5. Enrollment Periods and Fees
Enrollment Timing: Admission takes place on April 1 (Spring Semester) or October 1 (Fall Semester).
ICLS Fees (Current Estimates):
・Examination Fee: 30,000 JPY
・Admission Fee: 282,000 JPY
・Tuition: 267,900 JPY per semester (535,800 JPY per year)
・Insurance: Fees vary depending on the enrollment period.
Note: If the above amounts are revised, the new fees will apply from the time of revision.
Financial Aid & Living Expenses: Students may apply for scholarships and/or tuition waivers, though approval is not guaranteed. We estimate monthly living costs (housing, utilities, food, transportation, etc.) to be approximately 100,000–200,000 JPY, depending on lifestyle. Please make appropriate financial arrangements in advance.
Useful Resources:
・Tohoku University TU Support (Living in Japan guide): http://sup.bureau.tohoku.ac.jp/index_en.html
・Tohoku University Global Learning Center (Scholarship and financial aid): http://www.tohoku.ac.jp/en/admissions/financial_aid.html
・JASSO Student Guide to Japan: https://www.jasso.go.jp/en/index.html
・JASSO Scholarships: https://www.jasso.go.jp/en/ryugaku/scholarship_j/index.html
Language Note: While the ICLS is conducted in English, some knowledge of Japanese is helpful for daily life. We strongly recommend that students utilize learning opportunities after admission.
6. Entrance Examination
Admission to the Graduate School of Life Sciences is determined by an entrance examination. The application process is as follows:
(1) Find a Supervisor
Our faculty is diverse. Please search for a professor whose research interests match yours.
Integrative Life Sciences: https://www.lifesci.tohoku.ac.jp/en/research/fields/field1/
Ecological Developmental Adaptability Life Sciences: https://www.lifesci.tohoku.ac.jp/en/research/fields/field2/
Molecular and Chemical Life Sciences: https://www.lifesci.tohoku.ac.jp/en/research/fields/field3/
Note: Only Professors and Associate Professors can accept students.
(2) Contact the Faculty Member
Email the faculty member directly.
・Subject Line: Include "Admission" in the title.
・Body: Include your academic background, current status, and research interests.
(3) Application
If the faculty member agrees to consider your application, please check the Admissions Information Page and complete your application for the entrance examination. Feel free to contact the Academic Affairs Section with any questions.
(4) Examination
Entrance examinations are generally held online. The selection process typically includes a document review and an interview to assess communication skills, English proficiency, and research potential (oral presentation).
7. Contact
For academic administrative inquiries, please contact the Academic Affairs Section.
Graduate School of Life Sciences, Academic Affairs Section Email: lif-kyom@grp.tohoku.ac.jp
8. Enrollment Procedures (Example: Spring Enrollment)
Enrollment procedures are divided into three stages.
(1) Step 1: Early March
・Submission of Pledge, Written Oath and other documents.
・Payment of Admission Fee (282,000 JPY).
Note: Students applying for an Admission Fee Waiver/Deferral must submit documents to the Student Support Division (Kawauchi Campus) and the Graduate School Academic Affairs Section.
(2) Step 2: Early April
・Submission of student records.
・Registration of a Japanese bank account for tuition payment.
・Submission of required certificates.
・Enrollment in student health insurance.
・Submission of Residence Card copy and Residence Certificate (from the Ward Office/City Hall).
(3) Step 3: End of May
・Payment of First Semester Tuition.
Note: Applications for tuition waivers or monthly installment payments should be submitted to the Financial Support Section in May.
9. Orientation & Events
Entrance ceremonies, orientation sessions, and welcome meetings are held in early April. All new students are encouraged to attend.
GRADUATE SCHOOL OF LIFE SCIENCES,
TOHOKU UNIVERSITY
