Kochi University Of Technology (KUT) Special Scholarship Program (SSP) 2026 Opportunity For Doctoral International Students In Japan -

About the Kochi University of Technology Special Scholarship Program

Applications are now open for the Kochi University of Technology (KUT) Special Scholarship Program (SSP) 2026 for doctoral international students. This unique three-year program in the Graduate School of Engineering, Department of Engineering is designed to combine cutting-edge research with financial support, offering outstanding students an opportunity to pursue a PhD in Japan with full funding.

Established in 2003, the SSP recruits highly capable international doctoral candidates twice a year—in April and October—to work on specific research projects at KUT. While pursuing their doctoral degree in English (for non-Japanese students), SSP scholars contribute to their host professor’s research as Research Assistants (RAs). This dual structure supports advanced research while fostering international collaboration and academic excellence.

Eligible Fields

Doctoral Program (3 years)
Department of Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering
Candidates must select a specific research project from the SSP Research Project List when applying.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the KUT Special Scholarship Program 2026, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

Academic Qualification:
- Hold a master’s degree or be scheduled to complete it before enrollment (April or October 2026).
Age Limit:
- Be 35 years old or younger at the time of enrollment.
Academic Excellence:
- Have an outstanding academic record with strong bachelor’s and master’s degrees from reputable universities.
Research Skills and Intent:
- Demonstrate adequate knowledge and research ability to work on one of KUT’s designated projects.
Language Proficiency:
- Possess high English proficiency sufficient for doctoral-level research and communication.

Obligations of Scholarship Holders

Research Assistance:
- SSP students must work 50 hours per month on their selected research project.
Reporting Requirements:
- At the end of every semester, scholars must submit a detailed study and research achievement report to the Dean of the Graduate School of Engineering.
- The dean evaluates these reports to ensure academic and research progress.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be reviewed based on:

Academic background and research experience relevant to the project.
Quality of research proposal and alignment with the chosen project.
Recommendation from the project leader (mandatory pre-approval).
English communication skills and potential to contribute to KUT’s research goals.

Eligible Countries

Open to all international applicants (non-Japanese citizens).

Documents Required

Applicants must prepare and submit:

Completed Pre-Application Request Form to the project leader.
Curriculum Vitae (CV) with full academic details.
Certified transcripts and degree certificates (bachelor’s and master’s).
Research proposal or statement of purpose aligned with the chosen project.
Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent).
Recommendation letters (if requested by the project leader).

Benefits of the Kochi University of Technology Special Scholarship Program

The SSP provides comprehensive financial support, including:

Full tuition and fee waiver:
- Entrance examination fee (¥30,000) – exempted
- Enrollment fee (¥300,000) – exempted
- Annual tuition fee (¥535,800/year) – exempted
Monthly stipend:
- ¥150,000 per month for living expenses in exchange for research project work.
Relocation support:
- ¥150,000 travel and initial living allowance (for international students entering Japan with “Student” residence status).

How to Apply

Choose a research project from the KUT SSP Research Project List.
Send a Pre-Application Request by email to the leader of your preferred project.
- Only one request per enrollment period is allowed.
- If approved, the project leader will grant permission to proceed.
Obtain pre-approval from the project leader (required to submit a full application).
Complete the full application package and send it by post to KUT.
- All documents must arrive by the deadline: 17 October 2025.
Address all inquiries and applications to:

International Relations Section
Kochi University of Technology
Tosayamada, Kami City,
Kochi 782-8502, JAPAN
Tel: +81-887-53-1130
E-mail: international@ml.kochi-tech.ac.jp

Final Thoughts

The KUT Special Scholarship Program (SSP) 2026 offers exceptional international students a fully funded path to doctoral studies in Japan, combining advanced research, financial support, and global academic networking. Scholars gain not only world-class education but also hands-on research experience as part of KUT’s efforts to drive innovation and strengthen global partnerships.

Application Deadline: 17 October 2025
Visit the Official KUT Scholarship Webpage for more details.