Pursuing a PhD abroad is a life-changing opportunity. But for many international students, the high cost of tuition, living expenses, and lack of financial aid can be major obstacles. If you’re a motivated scholar with a passion for research and innovation then a great opportunity is waiting.
The Kochi University of Technology Scholarship 2026 (KUT) in Japan offers a rare and valuable chance to earn your doctoral degree completely free of cost.
This is a fully funded PhD program known as the Special Scholarship Program (SSP) which is designed to attract outstanding international students to join ongoing research projects under expert supervision at one of Japan’s leading science and technology universities.
The scholarship covers everything like tuition fees, monthly living stipends, and even relocation costs that making it one of the most generous PhD opportunities in Asia.
Whether you come from an engineering, science, informatics, or management background, this scholarship allows you to be part of real-world research while building a solid academic and professional foundation in a global learning environment. ‘
All research activities are conducted in English, and you’ll be mentored by experienced faculty on advanced projects aligned with your interests and expertise.
Interested candidates can fill the online application form before the deadline October 17, 2025.
In this article, you will find every details regarding this Kochi University of Technology Scholarship 2026.
Kochi University of Technology Scholarship 2026 – Overview
| Host Country | Japan |
| Host University | Kochi University of Technology (KUT) |
| Program Name | Special Scholarship Program (SSP) 2026 |
| Degree Level | PhD (Doctoral) |
| Program Duration | 3 Years |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Application Deadline | October 17, 2025 |
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded |
This scholarship is open to applicants from all nationalities. No Japanese language skills are required to apply.
Financial Benefits
The KUT SSP 2026 offers full financial support throughout the three-year PhD program:
Full Tuition and Fee Waiver:
- Entrance exam fee: Waived (15,000 yen)
- Enrollment fee: Waived (300,000 yen)
- Annual tuition: Waived (535,800 yen per year for 3 years)
Monthly Stipend:
- 150,000 yen per month to cover living expenses, accommodation, and personal costs
Relocation Grant:
- A one-time grant of 150,000 yen for international relocation and settling in Japan
Additional Support:
- Professional English research writing course by native-speaking instructors
- Basic Japanese language classes to help with daily communication and cultural integration
- Opportunities to participate in local cultural events and academic networking
- One-on-one mentorship with faculty members in your selected research area
ALSO READ: Kyoto University ADB Scholarship Japan 2025
Fields of Research
Applicants must select a research project from the official SSP Research Project List and obtain approval from the supervising professor before submitting their application.
Major Fields of Study:
- Intelligent Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
- Architecture and Infrastructure Design
- Electronic and Photonic Engineering
- Engineering Science
- Data and Innovation
- Informatics
- Economics and Management
Campuses: Kami Campus and Eikokuji Campus
Note: Visit the official KUT SSP page for detailed descriptions of research projects and available supervisors.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the KUT Special Scholarship Program 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Supervisor Approval
- Must obtain consent from the professor supervising your selected research project before submitting your application.
- Educational Background
- Must hold a Master’s degree or equivalent (18 years of formal education) by the time of enrollment.
- Age Limit
- Must be 35 years old or younger at the time of enrollment.
- Academic Record
- Strong academic performance in both Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs from recognized institutions.
- Research Ability
- Demonstrated experience and technical skills relevant to your chosen research area.
- Language Proficiency
- High-level English proficiency is required, as all research and coursework are conducted in English. A valid IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent English certificate must be submitted.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Copies of published research papers (optional)
- Research proposal aligned with the chosen SSP project
- Class rank certificate (optional)
- Completed Pre-Application Request Form (from the KUT SSP website)
- Copy of valid passport
- Any additional documents requested by your chosen supervisor or KUT
- Official transcripts and certificates from Bachelor’s and Master’s programs
- Valid English language proficiency certificate
- Two letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees
- Proof of supervisor approval (email or signed document)
How to Apply
Follow this step-by-step guide to apply for the KUT SSP 2026:
- Visit the Official Website
- Go to the KUT SSP webpage to access program details and the supervisor/project list.
- Select a Supervisor
- Choose up to two potential supervisors whose research aligns with your background and interests.
- Submit a Pre-Application Request
- Fill out and send the online Pre-Application Request Form to your selected supervisors.
- Obtain Supervisor Consent
- If accepted, you will receive approval from one supervisor. Proceed with that supervisor only.
- Prepare Application Documents
- Collect all required documents as per the guidelines.
- Submit Final Application by Post
- Mail the complete application package to the university before the October 17, 2025 deadline.
- Follow Official Guidelines
- Refer to the KUT SSP 2026 Application Guidelines for detailed instructions and mailing information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Do I need to know Japanese to apply for Kochi University of Technology Scholarship?
No. The entire PhD program, including research and communication, is conducted in English. Basic Japanese language training is provided after enrollment.
Q2. Is IELTS or TOEFL mandatory?
Yes. A valid certificate of English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent) is required to demonstrate your ability to study in English.
Q3. Are there any application or processing fees?
No. There is no fee for the pre-application. If selected, all tuition and related academic fees are fully waived.
Q4. How competitive is this scholarship?
It is highly competitive. Only a few students are selected per professor to maintain high-quality mentorship and focused research for Kochi University of Technology Scholarship.