Why does ICU offer such an extensive range of scholarships?

ICU was founded at a time when Japan's post-War reconstruction had only just begun, by donations made by benefactors with a strong wish to cultivate people who would respect freedom and human rights and serve the peaceful development of human society.

That wish continues to be passed down today, with some scholarship programs maintained by the donations of alumni who also want to give more people the opportunity to experience learning at ICU. Additionally, ICU established the "Pay Forward Fund" in AY2024 with the goal of increasing the scholarship rate to 25 %, providing an opportunity for students in the world to receive our unique education. The endowment from this fund is used to offer various scholarships and financial programs ICU offers. These scholarships are mostly benefit-based, in order to actively support talented students with a drive to learn, and to ensure that students' education is not impeded by financial hardship.

The Japan ICU Foundation (JICUF), a public charity based in New York, is dedicated to supporting activities to advance the university's international commitments and nurture Christian spirit, in order to realize a true liberal arts education at ICU. JICUF is also playing a role in improving our scholarship system by offering its own scholarships (including those for refugees) and other programs for our students.