United States · 2026–27 special academic programs
American University Sakura Scholars essays
Sakura Scholars is AU's joint international relations degree with Ritsumeikan University in Japan. Its two essays ask why the U.S.–Japan study route fits the applicant's goals and how a past unexpected challenge prepared them for intercultural adaptation. Applicants submit this separate program form through the Future Eagle portal.
Writing format
Two program essays, no more than 500 words each
What to prepare
- 1Connect your academic interests and goals to specific parts of the joint degree, including study in both countries and the Japanese-language component.
- 2Describe one genuine challenge, the action you took, and what you learned about adapting when expectations changed.
- 3Explain how that learning could help in the program without claiming that one experience makes you an expert in another culture.
How to approach the writing
- Keep the goals essay and challenge essay distinct; one explains program fit, the other shows how you respond under uncertainty.
- Complete the AU application first, then use the Future Eagle portal for the Sakura form.
Before you submit
For Early Decision I, AU says both the university and Sakura applications must arrive by November 1. Early Action, Early Decision II, and Regular Decision Sakura applicants have a December 1 program deadline. Confirm the dates and prompts in the 2026–27 portal before submitting.
Read American University 2026–27 Sakura Scholars application questions ↗Official source checked 2026-09-26.