Fully Funded PhD Scholarship in Japan 2025 (No IELTS) – Kochi University of Technology (SSP Program)
If you’re looking for a fully funded PhD in Japan for international students, the Special Scholarship Program (SSP) at Kochi University of Technology (KUT) is one of the best opportunities available in 2025. This competitive program supports outstanding researchers who want to study in Japan while conducting high-level research in science, engineering, and related fields.
Established in 2003, the SSP has already produced more than 200 PhD graduates from around the world - and you could be next.
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Why Study at Kochi University of Technology?
KUT is located in Kochi Prefecture, a region known for its natural beauty and innovative spirit. More importantly, it has become a hub for international PhD students in Japan thanks to its strong research environment and generous support.
Every year, about 15 highly qualified doctoral students are selected. With expert supervision, full financial assistance, and access to cutting-edge facilities, KUT ensures scholars are prepared for careers in academia or industry worldwide.
💡 Did You Know? Unlike many other Japanese universities, the SSP program is fully taught in English, making it accessible even if you don’t speak Japanese fluently.
Program Overview:
- Degree: PhD (Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering or related fields)
- Duration: 3 years
- Language: English
- Enrollment: April or October
- Supervision: Each professor can supervise up to 3 SSP students
Fields of Research:
- Intelligent Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
- Electronic and Photonic Engineering
- Architecture and Infrastructure Design
- Engineering Science
- Informatics
- Data and Innovation
- Economics and Management
This broad range ensures that students from various backgrounds can find the right match for their research goals.
Scholarship Benefits:
The Kochi University PhD Scholarship is one of the few truly fully funded PhD opportunities in Japan. Benefits include:
- Full tuition waiver (exam fee, enrollment fee, and tuition)
- Monthly stipend: 150,000 yen (~USD 1,000) for living expenses
- Relocation allowance: 150,000 yen for international students arriving from abroad
- Support services: English research writing courses, Japanese language classes, cultural activities, and accommodation guidance
📌 Pro Tip: Unlike some scholarships, the SSP requires students to be active researchers. Publishing multiple papers in top journals is expected - making this ideal for those serious about an academic career.
Eligibility Criteria:
To apply for this PhD scholarship in Japan 2025, you must:
- Secure permission from a preferred supervisor at KUT
- Hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent after 18 years of education)
- Be 35 years old or younger at the time of enrollment
- Have strong academic performance at the Bachelor’s and Master’s level
- Show high English proficiency (TOEFL iBT 72+, IELTS 5.5+, or equivalent)
- Exemptions from English test scores may apply if your previous education was conducted fully in English. You will have to get a certificate from your university to show proof.
Application Process:
The application has two main steps:
- Pre-Application: Submit an online request to up to two supervisors from the SSP supervisor list. If approved, you will be invited for formal application. For the supervisors list - Click Here.
- Formal Application: Once your supervisor agrees, submit the required documents by post to KUT. Only applicants with supervisor approval can apply.
Important Note: Pre-application should be submitted at least 8 weeks before the deadline.
Required Documents:
If you’re applying for the Kochi University of Technology Special Scholarship Program (SSP), make sure you prepare your documents carefully. Remember, formal applications are only accepted after supervisor approval, and everything must be sent by post to Japan - no email submissions. This is one of the most important steps if you want to secure a fully funded PhD in Japan 2025.
Here is the complete list of documents required for formal application:
- Supervisor’s Permission Letter – Proof that your chosen KUT professor has approved your pre-application.
- Signed Pre-Application Form – The PDF you receive after submitting your online request must be printed and signed.
- Bachelor’s Degree Transcript – Official transcript in English or Japanese, showing grades, courses, and grading system.
- Master’s Degree Transcript – Verified original or provisional if you’re still studying. Required for all PhD applicants in Japan.
- Master’s Degree Certificate – The official final certificate. If pending, use KUT’s SSP Form No.1 for expected graduation.
- Master’s Thesis (or Abstract in English) – Essential for international students. Current students can submit a progress report.
- Research Outline – A detailed one-page research plan describing your goals for the three years in Japan.
- Two Recommendation Letters – Written in English or Japanese, one must be from your Master’s supervisor.
- Health Certificate – Issued within six months, proving fitness to study in Japan.
- English Proficiency Test Results – TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, CET-6, or WSK. Exemptions apply for degrees taught in English.
Optional (but Highly Recommended)
- Academic ranking certificate
- Past research publications
- Passport copy or ID
📌 Pro Tip for International Students: Since documents must arrive by post in Japan, allow at least two weeks for delivery. Many applicants miss deadlines because they rely on email submissions, which KUT does not accept. Sending everything early increases your chances of success.
Key Deadlines for October 2026 Enrollment
- First Deadline: October 17, 2025 → Results in December 2025 → Registration January 9, 2026
- Second Deadline: April 10, 2026 → Results in June 2026 → Registration July 10, 2026
Since preparing documents takes time, applicants are encouraged to start their pre-application at least 8 weeks before the deadline.
