Are you an aspiring researcher interested in pursuing a fully funded PhD in a high-tech environment? Kochi University of Technology (KUT) is offering the Japanese Special Scholarship Program (SSP) 2026 for international applicants in a doctoral programme in engineering, conducted entirely in English, providing an elite research experience with international mentorship and financial support.
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When is the Application Deadline:
April 10, 2026 (for October 2026 enrolment)
Tip: Send your pre-application request at least 8 weeks before the deadline.
Get Up to $100,000 Student Loan for Your Master in US or Canada.
Tell Me About The Award:
The Special Scholarship Program (SSP) at Kochi University of Technology (KUT), Japan, offers a fully funded PhD opportunity for outstanding international students in engineering fields. The programme is designed for highly motivated researchers who wish to work under the supervision of KUT professors in cutting-edge laboratories.
This prestigious programme not only covers tuition but also provides a monthly salary and relocation allowance, enabling scholars to focus fully on research and innovation.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Engineering and related disciplines under the Graduate School of Engineering at KUT.
(Applicants must select research topics under supervisors listed in the official SSP Supervisor List.)
Type:
Fully Funded PhD Scholarship
Who can Apply?
Applicants who:
- Hold (or are about to hold) a Master’s degree (18+ years of education)
- Are 35 years old or younger at the time of enrolment
- Have a strong academic and research background
- Can demonstrate English proficiency (TOEFL iBT ≥72, IELTS ≥5.5, or equivalent)
- Obtain supervisor approval from KUT before applying formally.
How are Applicants Selected?
- Must first submit a Pre-Application Request up to two supervisors.
- Receive approval from one supervisor to apply formally.
- Selection is based on document screening, online interview, and specialised subject examination.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
All international applicants (non-Japanese citizens)
Where will the Award be Taken?
Kochi University of Technology (KUT), Kochi, Japan
How Many Awards?
Up to 3 SSP students can be enrolled under each supervisor concurrently
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Monthly stipend: 150,000 JPY for living expenses (3 years)
- Full tuition waiver: 535,800 JPY/year
- Exemption from enrolment and examination fees (approx. 315,000 JPY)
- Relocation support: 150,000 JPY (for students relocating from outside Japan)
- Research supervision by professors from the SSP Supervisor List
How Long Will the Award Last?
Three (3) years – the standard duration of the doctoral programme
How to Apply:
- Visit the KUT SSP Supervisor List and identify up to two potential supervisors.
- Submit the Online Pre-Application Request Form to your preferred supervisors.
- Wait for a response (within 2 weeks). If approved, proceed with the formal application.
- Prepare and post all required documents to KUT before the deadline.
- Attend interviews and specialised exams (usually conducted online).
Visit the Award Webpage for Details:
👉 Kochi University of Technology SSP PhD Scholarship 2026 – Official Page
