A golden opportunity has opened for students from developing or non-space-faring nations to reach for the stars—literally. The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and the Government of Japan, in collaboration with the Kyushu Institute of Technology (Kyutech), have announced that applications are now open for the 2026 round of the Post-Graduate Study on Nano-Satellite Technologies (PNST) Fellowship Programme.
This fellowship offers an exceptional chance for selected scholars to earn Master’s (2 years) or Doctoral (3 years) degrees in nano-satellite systems while gaining hands-on experience using Japan’s cutting-edge satellite development and testing facilities at Kyutech. The initiative is designed to empower individuals from non-space-faring nations to develop essential technical skills, helping them build and advance their countries’ space programs and related industries.
What this scholarship Offers?
Through the PNST Programme, up to three students each will be chosen for both the Master’s and Doctoral tracks. Successful candidates will enroll in Kyutech’s Space Engineering International Course (SEIC), where they’ll conduct advanced research and thesis work under expert supervision.
Each selected fellow will receive a Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship, covering:
- A monthly allowance of approximately 144,000 JPY for living expenses (housing, food, local transport).
- Full tuition, entrance, and matriculation fee coverage by Kyutech.
- Round-trip airfare between the candidate’s home country and Japan.
By the end of the program, participants will not only hold an advanced degree but also the expertise to contribute meaningfully to their nation’s growing space economy.
Applications must be submitted online through the official PNST registration form. Once registered, applicants will receive access to downloadable application forms and further submission instructions. For those facing regional access issues to Microsoft services, applications can be coordinated via email with the PNST Administration at [email protected].
This fellowship represents more than just a degree — it’s a chance to become part of the next generation of engineers driving global space innovation from developing nations.
This UN-Japan fellowship program opens on 20 August 2025 and accepts applications until 30 November 2025 (23:59 JST).