The Kochi University of Technology (KUT) has opened applications for its Special Scholarship Program (SSP) 2027. This fully funded 3-year doctoral opportunity supports international students pursuing advanced doctoral research conducted entirely in English within the Graduate School of Engineering. The program offers full tuition waivers, living allowances, and travel/relocation support.

Designation

  • Program: Doctoral (PhD) Researcher / SSP Doctoral Scholar
  • Degree Level: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) – 3-Year Program

Overview Table

FeatureDetails
Host InstitutionKochi University of Technology (KUT)
Degree LevelPhD (Doctoral Degree)
Funding CoverageFully Funded
Eligible NationalitiesAll International Applicants
Host CountryJapan
Language of InstructionEnglish
Primary DeadlineOctober 16, 2026 (for April/October 2027 intake)

Research Area

  • Graduate School: Graduate School of Engineering
  • Fields of Study: Advanced engineering disciplines, science, technology, and interdisciplinary research projects supervised by KUT faculty.

Location

  • Institution: Kochi University of Technology (KUT)
  • Location: Kochi Prefecture, Japan

Eligibility & Qualifications

To qualify for the KUT Special Scholarship Program, applicants must satisfy the following criteria:

  • Academic Background: Hold or expect to obtain a Master’s degree (equivalent to at least 18 years of formal education).
  • Age Limit: 35 years old or younger at the time of enrollment.
  • Academic Record: Strong academic performance, background knowledge, and proven research capability.
  • Language Proficiency: Demonstrated English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL iBT 72+, IELTS 5.5+, or equivalent test score).

Scholarship Description & Benefits

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The SSP provides comprehensive financial coverage for the duration of the 3-year PhD program:

  • Monthly Stipend: 150,000 JPY per month to cover living and research expenses.
  • Tuition Exemption: Full tuition fee waiver (535,800 JPY per year).
  • Fee Waivers: Exemption from the entrance examination fee and enrollment fee (up to 315,000 JPY).
  • Relocation Support: 150,000 JPY one-time allowance for travel and initial setup costs (for international applicants arriving from outside Japan).

Required Documents

  • Pre-application confirmation from an approved KUT supervisor
  • Motivation letter (maximum 2 pages, signed and dated)
  • Curriculum Vitae (Europass format preferred)
  • Official Bachelor’s and Master’s degree certificates and transcripts (with certified English or Japanese translations)
  • Explanation of grading system
  • Proof of English language proficiency
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Copy of a valid passport or national ID

How to Apply

  1. Find a Supervisor: Review the official SSP project/supervisor list on KUT’s portal to identify a research match.
  2. Submit Pre-Application: Complete and submit the online pre-application form to up to two supervisors at least 8 weeks before the deadline.
  3. Obtain Supervisor Consent: Wait for supervisor evaluation. If a supervisor agrees to host the candidate, proceed to the formal application. (Note: If no response is received within two weeks, the request is deemed declined.)
  4. Formal Online Application: Submit the complete application package, required documents, and supervisor confirmation before the closing date.

Last Date to Apply

  • April 2027 Enrollment (Second Call) & October 2027 Enrollment (First Call):
    • Application Deadline: October 16, 2026
    • Interviews / Screening: October – November 2026
    • Result Announcement: Mid-December 2026
  • October 2027 Enrollment (Second Call):
    • Application Deadline: April 10, 2027
    • Interviews / Screening: April – May 2027
    • Result Announcement: Mid-June 2027
Details