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Study in Japan | Kochi University of Technology Special Scholarship Program 2026

November 15, 2025 10:30 am

Study in Japan | Kochi University of Technology Special Scholarship Program 2026

Are you a passionate researcher dreaming of earning a fully funded PhD in a world-class environment surrounded by innovation, technology, and tranquility? The Kochi University of Technology (KUT) in Japan has officially opened applications for its Special Scholarship Program (SSP) 2026, a prestigious doctoral opportunity for international students who want to combine advanced research with financial independence.

This exclusive program welcomes exceptional candidates from around the world to pursue a PhD in Engineering, taught entirely in English, at one of Japan’s most innovative and research-driven universities.

Why Choose the KUT SSP Program?

The Special Scholarship Program (SSP) is a unique three-year PhD opportunity offered by KUT’s Graduate School of Engineering. Designed specifically for highly motivated international students, it enables them to work closely with a chosen professor on advanced research projects in cutting-edge engineering fields.

But what truly sets this program apart is its full financial support — you not only receive a tuition waiver but also a monthly salary to support your studies and living expenses. It’s a rare chance to earn while you research in Japan’s high-tech academic environment.

KUT SSP 2026 Scholarship Benefits

Successful candidates will receive a comprehensive support package, including:

Monthly stipend: 150,000 JPY for living expenses (for 3 years)
Full tuition waiver: Worth 535,800 JPY per year
Enrollment and examination fee waiver: Approximately 315,000 JPY
Relocation allowance: 150,000 JPY for international students arriving from outside Japan
Research supervision: One-on-one mentorship under professors from the SSP Supervisor List

These benefits allow you to pursue your PhD without financial stress, giving you full freedom to focus on high-impact research and academic growth.

Who Can Apply for KUT SSP 2026?

To be eligible for the Kochi University of Technology Special Scholarship Program 2026, applicants must:

Hold or expect to hold a Master’s degree (or have completed at least 18 years of education).
Be 35 years old or younger at the time of enrollment.
Demonstrate strong academic excellence and technical research experience.
Prove English language proficiency with one of the following:
TOEFL iBT: 72 or higher (Writing 17+)
IELTS: 5.5 or higher (Writing 5.5+)
Equivalent English qualifications are also accepted.

This program is ideal for ambitious researchers ready to contribute to global innovation in areas like robotics, nanotechnology, environmental engineering, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy systems.

How to Apply for the SSP 2026 Program

The first and most important step is to obtain approval from a potential supervisor before submitting your official application.

Here’s how to start:

Visit the official SSP Supervisor List on KUT’s website.
Select up to two professors whose research aligns with your interests.
Submit an Online Pre-Application Request Form to your chosen professor(s).
Wait for a response — if the professor approves, you can proceed to the formal application stage.

If you do not receive a reply within two weeks, consider your request declined.

Click Here to Apply

Pro Tip: Send your pre-application at least 8 weeks before the deadline to allow enough time for communication and preparation.

Application Timeline: October 2026 Intake
Application Deadline: April 10, 2026
Screening & Interviews: April to May 2026
Results Announcement: Mid-June 2026
Final Registration Deadline: July 10, 2026

Why Study at Kochi University of Technology?

KUT is known for its research excellence, international collaboration, and innovation-driven learning environment. Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art laboratories, personalized mentorship, and the chance to publish in leading scientific journals.

By joining the KUT SSP 2026, you’re not only earning a PhD — you’re stepping into a community that values creativity, global impact, and sustainable technological development.