Fully Funded PhD in Japan 2025 | Kochi University of Technology Special Scholarship Program (SSP)

Scholarship Overview

The Special Scholarship Program (SSP) at Kochi University of Technology (KUT), Japan, offers fully funded doctoral study opportunities in the Department of Engineering. Designed for highly motivated international students, the SSP provides tuition waivers, monthly living stipends, and research opportunities under the direct supervision of world-class professors.

Location: Kochi University of Technology (KUT), Japan
Degree: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD, 3 years)
Language of Instruction: English
Enrollment: April or October

Scholarship Benefits

• Full tuition waiver (Entrance exam, enrollment, and tuition fees waived)

• Monthly stipend: ¥150,000 for living expenses (3 years)

• Travel & initial living allowance: ¥150,000 (for international students entering Japan)

• Research opportunities under world-class faculty supervision

• Accommodation support in International House or Dormitory (subject to availability)

Fully Funded PhD in Japan 2025: Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Obtain permission from a KUT supervisor before applying

• Hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent, 18 years of education)

• Be 35 years old or under at the time of enrollment (in principle)

• Have a strong academic background with excellent Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees

• Demonstrate English proficiency:

  • TOEFL iBT ≥ 72 (Writing ≥ 17) OR IELTS ≥ 5.5 (Writing ≥ 5.5)

  • Proof of English as the medium of instruction may also be accepted

Fully Funded PhD in Japan 2025: Application Process

1. Pre-Application

   • Choose up to two supervisors from the SSP supervisor list.

   • Submit the Online Pre-Application Request Form via KUT’s portal.

   • Await supervisor response (if no reply in 2 weeks, request is considered rejected).

   • Respond promptly if contacted.

2. Formal Application

   • Once permission is granted, select one supervisor.

   • Prepare and submit all required documents by post to KUT before the deadline.

   • Admission decision will be based on document screening, interview, and subject exam (can be online).

Key Application Deadlines

October 2025 Enrollment (Second Deadline)

• Application Deadline: April 11, 2025

• Notification of Results: Mid-June 2025

• Registration Deadline: July 4, 2025

April 2026 Enrollment (First Deadline)

• Application Deadline: April 11, 2025

• Notification of Results: Mid-June 2025

• Registration Deadline: July 4, 2025

April 2026 Enrollment (Second Deadline)

• Application Deadline: October 17, 2025

• Notification of Results: Mid-December 2025

• Registration Deadline: January 9, 2026

October 2026 Enrollment (First Deadline)

• Application Deadline: October 17, 2025

• Notification of Results: Mid-December 2025

• Registration Deadline: January 9, 2026

October 2026 Enrollment (Second Deadline)

• Application Deadline: April 10, 2026

• Notification of Results: Mid-June 2026

• Registration Deadline: July 10, 2026

Required Documents

• Completed Application Form

• Research Proposal / Concept Note

• Official transcripts & degree certificates

• Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS or medium of instruction letter)

• Supervisor’s permission confirmation

• Other supporting documents as requested

For more information and application: 

Visit the official website of the Fully Funded PhD in Japan 2025 | Kochi University of Technology Special Scholarship Program (SSP)