Kochi University of Technology Special Scholarship Program 2025 – Fully Funded PhD in Japan

The Special Scholarship Program (SSP) 2025 at Kochi University of Technology (KUT) is a prestigious fully funded doctoral scholarship for exceptional research talents from around the world. This competitive program offers three years of advanced research opportunities in engineering, a complete tuition fee waiver, and generous financial support.

Degree Level

• Doctoral Program (PhD) – Duration: 3 Years

• Department of Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering

Available Fields of Study

Applicants can pursue research in diverse engineering fields under the Graduate School of Engineering. Candidates must select a research area from the SSP Supervisor List, which may include (but is not limited to):

• Mechanical Engineering

• Electrical & Electronic Engineering

• Environmental Systems

• Information Systems

• Material Science

• Biotechnology & Bioengineering

Scholarship Benefits

Successful SSP scholars will receive:

• Full tuition waiver (535,800 yen/year)

• Exemption from entrance exam fee (15,000 yen) and enrollment fee (300,000 yen)

• Monthly stipend of 150,000 yen for living expenses (for 3 years)

• Travel & initial living allowance of 150,000 yen (for international students residing outside Japan with “Student” residence status)

Eligible Nationalities

• Open to all international students from any country.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Obtain prior permission from a preferred SSP supervisor before applying

• Hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent after 18 years of education) OR be scheduled to graduate before enrollment

• Be 35 years old or younger at enrollment (in principle)

• Have an excellent academic record in both bachelor’s and master’s degrees

• Possess relevant research skills and strong commitment to their chosen field

• Meet English proficiency requirements:

  • TOEFL iBT: Minimum 72 (Writing 17)

  • IELTS: Minimum 5.5 (Writing 5.5)

  • CET-6 or WSK (PETS-5) also accepted
    (English test exemption may apply in certain cases)

Application Process

Step 1 – Pre-Application

1. Choose up to 2 supervisors from the SSP Supervisor List

2. Submit the Online Pre-Application Request Form via KUT’s website

3. Wait for supervisor’s reply (within 2 weeks)

4. If accepted by both, select only one for the formal application

Step 2 – Formal Application

• Prepare all required SSP application documents

• Submit your application by post to KUT before the deadline

• Only applicants with supervisor approval may apply

Step 3 – Screening & Admission

• Includes document review, interview, and a specialized subject exam (usually online)

• Successful candidates will be notified and must complete registration

Key Deadlines – Admission Schedule

For April 2026 Enrollment (Second Deadline)

• Application Deadline: October 17, 2025

• Screening: October – November 2025

• Results: Mid-December 2025

• Registration Deadline: January 9, 2026

For October 2026 Enrollment (First Deadline)

• Application Deadline: October 17, 2025

• Screening: October – November 2025

• Results: Mid-December 2025

• Registration Deadline: January 9, 2026

Why Apply for the KUT SSP?

• Fully funded PhD opportunity in Japan

• Conduct cutting-edge research under world-class supervision

• Receive generous financial support for living and travel expenses

• Study in a globally recognized Japanese engineering institution

Apply Now