Kochi University Special Scholarship Program

The Kochi University Special Scholarship Program (SSP) is a highly prestigious, fully funded opportunity aimed at attracting exceptional international students to pursue doctoral studies at Kochi University in Japan.

Host Country	Japan
Host Institute	Kochi University
Level	PhD
Eligible Nationality	International
Fellowship Type	Fully Funded
Benefits	Tuition, stipend, Travel costs, and many more
Duration	1-year (extendable up to 3 years)
Closing Date	1st deadline: October 17,2025 2nd deadline: April 10,2026

Table of Contents

About Kochi University of Technology (KUT)

Founded in 1997 in Kochi, Japan, Kochi University of Technology (KUT) has built a strong reputation for its commitment to technical innovation and high-quality research. Despite being a relatively young institution, KUT has rapidly gained recognition for its cutting-edge research programs and emphasis on practical, multidisciplinary education. Offering a wide range of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs, the university focuses on engineering, environmental science, and information technology. KUT’s mission is to nurture globally minded leaders and researchers who can significantly contribute to technological advancement and societal progress.

Overview Of Kochi University Special Scholarship Program (SSP)

Kochi University Special Scholarship Program (SSP) offers international students the opportunity to engage in advanced research with full financial support. This prestigious program enables participants to work on cutting-edge projects while benefiting from comprehensive funding, including coverage of travel and living expenses, a monthly stipend, and full tuition exemption. By bringing together talented individuals from diverse academic backgrounds, the SSP fosters global collaboration, drives innovation, and advances research excellence at Kochi University of Technology.

Main Advantages of the SSP

The fully funded SSP is a highly sought-after scholarship for PhD studies, offering a range of attractive benefits to its recipients:

Examination and Enrollment Fee Waiver: The program removes the financial burden of the 30,000 yen entrance examination fee and the 300,000 yen enrollment fee.
Full Tuition Coverage: The annual tuition fee of 535,800 yen is completely waived, allowing students to focus entirely on their research and studies.
Monthly Living Stipend: Recipients receive a monthly allowance of 150,000 yen to cover rent, food, and other living expenses.
Travel and Initial Settlement Support: International students arriving from outside Japan are awarded a one-time grant of 150,000 yen to assist with travel and initial living costs.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the Kochi University Special Scholarship Program , applicants must meet the following criteria:

Age Limit: Must be 35 years old or younger at the time of enrollment.
Educational Qualification: Must hold a master’s degree or an equivalent qualification from an accredited institution, with a strong academic record.
Research Alignment: Should demonstrate a clear interest in the chosen research project, possess relevant knowledge in the field, and have the necessary research skills.
English Language Proficiency: Must have strong English skills, proven by standardized test scores such as a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 72, IELTS score of 5.5, CEFR B2 level, or CET6.

Step-by-Step Application Process for the SSP

The SSP application process involves several stages, each requiring careful attention and timely submission of documents. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Choosing a Research Project

Begin by selecting a project from the SSP Research Project List available on the KUT website. This list features a wide range of initiatives led by KUT faculty, covering diverse academic fields. Applicants should thoroughly review the project descriptions and choose one that aligns closely with their academic background, research interests, and expertise.

Step 2: Submitting a Pre-Application Request

Once a suitable project is identified, the next step is to send a pre-application request to the project leader via the KUT Online Pre-Application Request Form. This must be done at least six weeks before the official application deadline. The pre-application request should include:

A detailed explanation of why the applicant is interested in the selected project.
An overview of the applicant’s academic background and research experience.
Any relevant publications or scientific achievements.

Note: Applicants may submit only one pre-application request per application period. After reviewing the submission, the project leader will decide whether to approve the applicant to proceed with the formal application.

Step 3: Submitting the Official Application

If the project leader approves the pre-application request, the applicant can proceed with the official application. The following documents must be prepared and sent to KUT by post:

Master’s Degree Certificate: A certified copy of the applicant’s master’s degree certificate, translated into English or Japanese if necessary.
Master’s Thesis: A copy of the applicant’s master’s thesis or an equivalent research work in English.
Research Proposal: A detailed description of the intended research project, including objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
Recommendation Letters: Two signed letters of recommendation from academic or research professionals supporting the applicant’s academic and research capabilities.
Proof of English Proficiency: Valid test scores from TOEFL iBT, IELTS, CEFR B2, or CET6.
Passport Copy: A photocopy of the applicant’s passport.
Publications: Hard copies of any relevant published works by the applicant.
Pre-Application Approval: A copy of the email or correspondence from the project leader granting permission to submit the SSP application.

All official application documents must arrive at KUT before the deadline:

First Application Deadline (for 2026 enrollment): October 17, 2025
Second Application Deadline: April 10, 2026

For complete details and the latest updates, visit the official KUT SSP website.

Living and Conducting Research at Kochi University of Technology

For international students, life and research at Kochi University of Technology (KUT) offer a dynamic and supportive setting. With state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and a collaborative research culture, the university creates an ideal environment for both academic growth and personal development.

Research Opportunities at Kochi University of Technology

KUT is well known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation. Through the SSP program, students work closely with leading experts on cutting-edge projects, gaining hands-on experience and contributing to groundbreaking discoveries. The university conducts research across diverse fields, including engineering, environmental science, information technology, and more, allowing students to select projects that align with their interests and career goals.

Student Support Services

KUT provides a range of support services to help international students adapt to life in Japan and succeed academically. These include:

Orientation Programs: Comprehensive sessions introducing students to the university, its facilities, and local customs.
Language Support: Japanese language classes and assistance to improve communication skills and foster community integration.
Counseling Services: Access to counseling and mental health resources to support student well-being.
Career Services: Guidance for securing internships, employment, and professional development opportunities.

Cultural and Recreational Programs

Alongside academic pursuits, KUT actively encourages students to engage in cultural and recreational activities. Throughout the year, the university organizes a variety of events that allow students to experience Japanese culture, build connections, and create lasting memories. Surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of Kochi, students also have ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring historical sites.

Summary

The Special Scholarship Program at Kochi University of Technology offers an exceptional opportunity for international students to advance their research careers. With comprehensive financial support, world-class research facilities, and a welcoming academic community, KUT provides an ideal environment for both personal and intellectual growth. By meeting the eligibility requirements and following the application process diligently, aspiring scholars can embark on a rewarding journey of innovation and discovery at one of Japan’s leading technological universities.