Are you a budding researcher dreaming of pursuing a PhD in a high-tech, globally advanced environment? Do you envision your doctoral journey backed by full funding, international mentorship, and a lifestyle surrounded by Japan’s serene innovation hubs? Then Kochi University of Technology (KUT) has just opened your door to opportunity!
The Japanese Special Scholarship Program (SSP) 2026 at KUT is now open to highly qualified international applicants for a fully funded doctoral program in engineering — conducted entirely in English. This is not just another PhD, it’s an elite research experience with financial freedom and academic prestige.
What Makes the SSP at KUT So Special?
The Special Scholarship Program (SSP) is a three-year doctoral research opportunity at the Graduate School of Engineering, KUT. It’s designed exclusively for international applicants with a strong research background who wish to work under a specific professor’s guidance in cutting-edge labs across a range of engineering fields.
But here’s the real kicker — you get paid to do your PhD! Yes, you read that right.
KUT-SSP Scholarship Benefits — What You Get
- 150,000 JPY/month for living expenses (for 3 years)
- Full tuition waiver (535,800 JPY/year)
- Waiver of enrollment & exam fees (approx. 315,000 JPY)
- Relocation support of 150,000 JPY (for those outside Japan)
- Research supervision by professors from the SSP Supervisor List
You not only study tuition-free, but KUT supports your entire stay — so you can focus on world-class research without financial worries.
Who Can Apply for KUT-SSP 2026 Scholarship?
You’re eligible to apply if you:
- Hold (or are about to hold) a master’s degree (18+ years of education)
- Are 35 years old or younger at the time of enrollment
- Have a strong academic record and technical research background
- Can demonstrate English proficiency:
- TOEFL iBT 72+ (Writing 17)
- IELTS 5.5+ (Writing 5.5)
- Or equivalent qualifications.
First Step: Get Supervisor Approval!
Unlike most scholarships, the first step is critical: You must obtain permission from a KUT professor to submit your full application.
How?
- Visit the SSP Supervisor List
- Choose up to 2 supervisors
- Fill the Online Pre-Application Request Form and wait for response
- If your selected professor agrees, you’re cleared to apply officially
If you don’t hear back in 2 weeks, consider your request rejected.
Tip: Send your pre-application request at least 8 weeks before the application deadline!
Application Timeline for 2026 Intake
For international applicants aiming to enroll in the October 2026 intake (Second Round) of the Special Scholarship Program (SSP) at Kochi University of Technology (KUT), the application deadline is April 10, 2026.
The screening process, which includes interviews and examinations in the specialized subject, will take place between April and May 2026. Successful candidates will be notified of their admission results by mid-June 2026, and the final registration deadline is set for July 10, 2026.