KUT Special Scholarship Program in Japan | Fully Funded

The KUT Special Scholarship Program (SSP) in Japan is a fully funded 3-year doctoral research program at Kochi University of Technology (KUT). Established in 2003, it aims to support advanced research by highly capable doctoral students from around the world. The program provides comprehensive education in a multidisciplinary environment, conducted entirely in English. Approximately 15 doctoral students are enrolled annually, with entry available in April and October.

This is a fully-funded scholarship. Scholars will receive: * Exemption from the 15,000 yen entrance examination fee. * Exemption from the 300,000 yen enrollment fee. * Exemption from the 535,800 yen annual tuition fee for three years. * A monthly scholarship of 150,000 yen for three years to cover living expenses. * International students living outside Japan who obtain Student residence status will receive an additional 150,000 yen for travel and initial living costs. * Accommodation options include the KUT International House (Kami Campus) or Takasone Dormitory C (Eikokuji Campus), subject to availability, or students can arrange private accommodation.

* Nationality: Open to applicants from all countries, including those from Africa. * Age: Applicants must be 35 years old or under at the time of enrollment. * Academic Background: Must have a master’s degree or an equivalent degree acquired after 18 years of education, or be scheduled to obtain such a degree before the KUT enrollment date. Applicants should have an excellent academic record and strong bachelor’s and master’s degrees from reputable universities. * Research Intent: Must have the intention, adequate knowledge, and research skills to study in the chosen research field. * English Proficiency: Must have high English proficiency. * Supervisor Permission: Applicants must obtain permission from their preferred supervisor at KUT to apply for this program. A list of available supervisors is on the official website.

For the formal application, the following documents are required: * A copy of the email or other communication showing that the preferred supervisor has given permission to apply for the SSP program. * Signed Pre-Application Request. * Original Bachelor’s and Master’s academic transcripts. * Original Master’s degree certificate. * A copy of the Master’s thesis written in English or an English summary if the thesis is written in another language. * Research outline. * Two signed recommendation letters. * Original health certificate. * English proficiency certificate. * A copy of the passport. * Rank certificate (if available). * Copies of previous publications (if available).

1. Fill out and submit the Online Pre-Application Request Form. 2. Applicants can choose a maximum of two supervisors from the SSP Supervisor List. 3. The pre-application request will be sent to the preferred supervisors, who will determine if the applicant meets their requirements. 4. If a preferred supervisor contacts the applicant, the applicant must respond promptly. 5. Only applicants who obtain permission from their preferred supervisor can formally apply for the SSP program. If permission is obtained from two supervisors, applicants must choose only one for the formal application. 6. Complete and submit the formal application along with all required documents to KUT by post. Do not send the application by email. 7. All required documents must reach KUT by the application deadline.

* The program is offered in various research fields including Intelligent Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Electronic and Photonic Engineering, Architecture and Infrastructure Design, Engineering Science, Informatics, Data and Innovation, and Economics and Management. * During each semester, students will submit a research plan and report. * First and second-year doctoral students will receive English research writing classes and Japanese language classes for everyday communication. * Tutors will assist new international students with academic and daily life matters. * Students will have opportunities to attend Japanese cultural activities. * To complete the degree, candidates must publish at least one research paper in a high-level peer-reviewed journal by the final defense. * No more than 3 SSP students can be enrolled concurrently for each supervisor.