YBB – Looking for a fully funded PhD scholarship in Japan? The KUT Special Scholarship Program (SSP) 2027 is now accepting applications from international students worldwide. Offered by Kochi University of Technology (KUT), this scholarship supports outstanding students who want to pursue a three-year doctoral research program in Japan.
The scholarship covers all major study expenses, including tuition fees, monthly living support, and travel assistance. Students will also conduct research under the supervision of leading professors while studying in an international academic environment.
Program Overview
- Host Country: Japan
- Host University: Kochi University of Technology (KUT)
- Program: Special Scholarship Program (SSP)
- Degree Level: PhD (Doctoral Research)
- Duration: 3 Years
- Campus: Kami Campus or Eikokuji Campus
- Application Deadlines:
- April 2027 Intake: 16 October 2026
- October 2027 Intake (First Round): 16 October 2026
- October 2027 Intake (Second Round): 9 April 2027
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive comprehensive financial support throughout the program, including:
- Full exemption from the entrance examination fee, enrollment fee, and tuition fee for three years
- Monthly stipend of 150,000 yen for living expenses
- 150,000 yen for travel and initial settlement costs for students arriving from outside Japan
- Access to university accommodation, subject to availability
- Academic support from supervisors and tutors
- Japanese language classes for daily communication
- English academic writing classes during the first two years
- Opportunities to join cultural activities and exchange programs
Also read: University of Melbourne RTP Scholarship 2026: A Fully Funded Research Opportunity in Australia
Available Research Fields
Applicants can conduct research in various disciplines, including:
- Intelligent Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
- Electronic and Photonic Engineering
- Architecture and Infrastructure Design
- Engineering Science
- Informatics
- Data and Innovation
- Economics and Management
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Open to applicants from all countries.
- Be 35 years old or younger at the time of enrollment.
- Hold or expect to obtain a master’s degree before enrollment.
- Have completed at least 18 years of education.
- Obtain approval from a KUT supervisor before submitting the formal application.
- Demonstrate an excellent academic record.
- Have research experience and a strong interest in the selected research field.
- Meet the university’s English language requirements.
Required Documents
Applicants need to prepare the following documents:
- Proof of supervisor approval
- Signed pre-application request
- Bachelor’s and master’s academic transcripts
- Master’s degree certificate
- Master’s thesis or an English summary
- Research outline
- Two recommendation letters
- Health certificate
- English proficiency certificate
- Passport copy
- Rank certificate (if available)
- Previous publications (if available)
How to Apply
The application process consists of two stages:
- First, complete the online pre-application form and select up to two preferred supervisors. If a supervisor agrees to support your application, you may proceed with the formal application.
- Next, prepare all required documents and submit the complete application package by post to Kochi University of Technology before the relevant deadline. Applications submitted by email will not be accepted.
For detailed information: https://www.kochi-tech.ac.jp/english/admission/ssp/outline.html
Conclusion
The KUT Special Scholarship Program 2027 is an excellent opportunity for international students who want to pursue fully funded doctoral research in Japan. In addition to full financial support, scholars will receive academic mentoring, language training, and access to advanced research facilities while building an international research career. If you are planning to earn a PhD in Japan, make sure to secure a supervisor’s approval and submit your application before the deadline.
Also read: Bright Scholarship Universiti Malaya 2027: Fully Funded PhD Scholarship in Malaysia
