- Fully FundedFunding Status
- PhD in EngineeringDegree Level
- 3 yearsDuration
- ~JPY 150,000/monthMonthly Stipend
- English-taught programLanguage of Instruction
- Up to ~JPY 650,800/yearAnnual Value
At a glance
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Funding
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Max amount
Rolling
Deadline
All countries
Country
Kochi University of Technology
Provider
The Kochi University of Technology (KUT) Special Scholarship Program (SSP) is a fully funded doctoral research opportunity for international students pursuing a three-year PhD in Engineering. Established to support advanced research by highly capable doctoral students, the program is conducted entirely in English at KUT’s Graduate School of Engineering in Japan. It admits students for both April and October enrollment, providing a structured pathway for academic and research development. Successful SSP applicants receive comprehensive financial support, including a full waiver of the ¥15,000 entrance examination fee, ¥300,000 enrollment fee, and annual tuition of ¥535,800 for three years. Additionally, a monthly scholarship of ¥150,000 is provided for three years, totaling ¥5.4 million in living support. International students residing outside Japan may also receive a one-time ¥150,000 allowance for travel and initial living expenses. The university further supports students with Japanese-language classes, academic and daily-life assistance from tutors, and help with accommodation arrangements. To apply, prospective students must first secure permission from a KUT SSP supervisor. For the 2027 intake, the application deadline for both April 2027 enrollment and the first October 2027 enrollment round is October 16, 2026. Treat the figures and dates here as estimates and confirm current-cycle details on the official website.
What's covered
- Entrance Examination Fee — Full waiver of the ~JPY 15,000 fee.
- Enrollment Fee — Full waiver of the ~JPY 300,000 fee.
- Tuition Fees — Full waiver of the annual tuition fee of ~JPY 535,800 for three years.
- Monthly Scholarship — A monthly scholarship of ~JPY 150,000 for living expenses, totaling ~JPY 5.4 million over three years.
- Travel and Initial Living Allowance — A one-time allowance of ~JPY 150,000 for international students living outside Japan.
- Additional Support — Includes Japanese-language classes, academic and daily-life assistance from tutors, and help finding accommodation.
How to apply
Applying for the KUT Special Scholarship Program involves several key steps, starting with securing a supervisor and then submitting a formal application. It is recommended to begin the process well in advance of the deadlines.
- Identify a Supervisor — Prospective students must first obtain permission from a KUT SSP supervisor. You can approach up to two supervisors through KUT's online pre-application process, but must select one for the formal application. Start this process at least eight weeks before the formal application deadline.
- Prepare Application Documents — Gather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, degree certificates, research proposal, recommendation letters, and English proficiency test scores.
- Submit Formal Application — Complete the official application form and submit all required documents by the specified deadline. Applications must reach KUT by the deadline.
- Undergo Interview and Examination — Interviews and specialized-subject examinations are generally conducted online for shortlisted candidates.
Eligibility
Study LevelApplicants must hold a master's degree or an equivalent qualification, or be on track to obtain one before enrollment.
Age LimitCandidates must normally be 35 years old or younger at the time of enrollment.
Academic & Research AbilityApplicants must demonstrate strong academic and research abilities relevant to their chosen field in engineering.
English Language ProficiencyMust meet KUT's English language requirements, typically TOEFL iBT 72 (writing score 17) or IELTS 5.5 (writing score 5.5). Exemptions may apply.
Supervisor PermissionCrucially, applicants must obtain prior permission from a preferred KUT SSP supervisor before formal application.
The program emphasizes research capability and the ability to contribute to the university's advanced research initiatives. Applicants should carefully review the specific requirements for their chosen research area and ensure they meet all criteria before applying.
Eligible countries
All countries
Deadlines
April 2027 enrollment and October 2027 (Round 1) enrollment2026-10-16
October 2027 (Round 2) enrollment2027-04-09
Selection
Recipients for the KUT SSP are selected based on a comprehensive evaluation of their academic and research abilities, the strength of their research proposal, and the recommendation of their prospective supervisor. Candidates are also assessed through online interviews and specialized-subject examinations. The university aims to identify highly capable doctoral students who can significantly contribute to its research environment.
Verified sources
- Kochi University of Technology Special Scholarship Program (SSP)kochi-tech.ac.jpofficial
About the provider
Kochi University of Technology (KUT) is a public university located in Tosa, Kochi Prefecture, Japan. Established in 1997, it focuses on advanced engineering research and education, providing a challenging academic environment for its students.
Frequently asked questions
Answers below are best-effort estimates from the most recent application cycle. Values marked ~ or (est.) may shift year-to-year — confirm specifics on the official scholarship page.
What is the KUT Special Scholarship Program (SSP)?
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The KUT SSP is a fully funded doctoral program offered by Kochi University of Technology in Japan. It supports international students pursuing a three-year PhD in Engineering, with all studies conducted in English.
What does the KUT SSP scholarship cover?
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The scholarship covers the entrance examination fee, enrollment fee, and full tuition for three years. It also provides a monthly living stipend and a one-time allowance for travel and initial living expenses for international students from outside Japan.
What is the value of the KUT SSP scholarship?
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The scholarship waives a ~JPY 15,000 entrance examination fee, a ~JPY 300,000 enrollment fee, and ~JPY 535,800 in annual tuition. It also provides a ~JPY 150,000 monthly scholarship, totaling ~JPY 5.4 million over three years, plus a ~JPY 150,000 relocation allowance if applicable.
Who is eligible to apply for the KUT SSP?
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International students with a master's degree or equivalent, who are generally 35 years old or younger at enrollment, and possess strong academic and research abilities are eligible. English language proficiency is also required.
Which countries are eligible for the KUT SSP?
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The KUT SSP is open to international students from all countries. There are no specific country restrictions mentioned in the eligibility criteria.
What study levels are covered by this scholarship?
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The KUT SSP is exclusively for students pursuing a doctoral (PhD) degree in Engineering.
What are the application deadlines for the KUT SSP?
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For the 2027 intake, the deadline for April 2027 and the first October 2027 enrollment is October 16, 2026. A second deadline for October 2027 enrollment is April 9, 2027.
How do I apply for the KUT SSP?
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The application process requires obtaining permission from a KUT SSP supervisor first. After securing a supervisor, you must submit a formal application along with all required documents by the specified deadline.
What documents are required for the KUT SSP application?
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Required documents typically include master's degree certificate/transcripts, a research proposal, recommendation letters, English proficiency test scores (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS), and a CV.
How are KUT SSP recipients selected?
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Selection is based on academic record, research proposal, supervisor's recommendation, and performance in online interviews and specialized-subject examinations. The university seeks highly capable research students.
What is the duration of the scholarship and can it be renewed?
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The scholarship is for three years, which is the standard duration for the doctoral program. Renewal details are not explicitly mentioned, but the funding is typically tied to satisfactory academic progress within this period.
Where can I confirm the details for the KUT SSP?
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You should confirm all current-cycle details, including specific requirements and deadlines, on the official Kochi University of Technology Special Scholarship Program website.