Overview
The Special Scholarship Program (SSP) established in 2003 at Kochi University of Technology, Japan is a three year doctorate program based on the fundamental and engineering sciences. Founded in 2003, SSP is committed to conducting high-level engineering research in English-taught courses. Around 15 talented students are selected every year to participate in the projects of host professors, have access to modern facilities and equipment, and receive full financial supports.
Why Apply?
• Tuition, fees and living stiped fully funded
• Prospectus anything in English only
• Exposure to state-of-art labs and expert mentoring
• Campus is peaceful and surrounded by a coconut-island in coastal Kochi
Who Is Eligible?
Applicants must: -be eligible for an April 2026 enrollment.
• Have (or expect to complete) a master’s degree at the time of enrollment
• Be 35 or younger at admission
• Display an excellent academic history and evidence of research related ability
• Current proficiency in the English language (such as TOEFL iBT 72 with Writing 17, IELTS 5.5 with Writing 5.5)
• Get approval from a KUT professor (the project leader) whose research you are interested in
Scholarship Benefits
• A monthly stipend of ¥150,000 to be used for living expenses
• Exc Composite stipend award of ¥535,800 per annum (Approximate to full tuition waiver)
• Exemption from admission and examination fees (¥65,000 x 5 times)
• Relocation Assistance of ¥150,000 for international hire
• State of the art research facilities and seminars
How to Apply
Pre-Application & Supervisor Approval
• Check out the SSP Research Project List.
• Get into touch with, and secure written consent from a Project Leader of your selecting.
• Send in your pre-application at least six weeks ahead of the formal deadline.
Formal Application
• Submit the entire package by registered post to: International Relations Section, KUT
• Deadline: Application documents should be posted no later than April 15, 2026.
• Applications that are incomplete or have not been approved will not be reviewed.
Required Documents
• Written approval of the project leader (email or letter)
• Pre-application form completed and signed
• Original transcripts (bachelor’s and master’s) in English or Japanese
• Master degree diploma or scheduled to obtain the master before taking up new position
• English translation of master’s thesis
• 3–4 pg research proposal that fits within an SSP project
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Evidence of English language skills (TOEFL, IELTS or equivalent)
• Two academic/professional recommendation letters
• Photocopy of valid passport (if available)
• Any other materials provided by your supervisor or KUT
Program Structure & Degree Requirements
Year 1
• Conduct and contribute to creating a research plan, seminars, interdisciplinary courses etc.
• Take a class in English writing for academics
Year 2
• Prospective research with mid-term assessments and evaluations
• Finish remaining coursework and take prelims.
Year 3
• Finalize and submit dissertation
• Have one or more peer-reviewed publication(s) centres – for example, Uganda,
• Defend your doctoral thesis
Graduation requirements: A minimum of three years’ registration, minimum 10 doctoral credits, passed pre-doctoral assessment and a public defence. Types of degree awarded: Ph.D. or Dr.-Eng.
Fields of Research
Engineering domains covered by SSP projects include:
• Smart Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering
• Electronic & Photonic Engineering
• Architecture & Infrastructure Design
• Environmental Systems Engineering
• Information and Data Systems Engineering
• Engineering Economics & Management
Grants for Masters Degrees: Fully Funded Germany–CGIAR Scholarship Programme 2025–26
Apply Now
Opportunity for hops and crop research in Japan. If you are a researcher with more than zero years of experience then you are eligible to apply! Obtain supervisor approval, compile documents and submit your application by April 15, 2026.
Official Website & Application
https://www.kochi-tech.ac.jp/english/admission/ssp/
Inquiries should be made to the International Relations Section, Kochi University of Technology.
