The Kochi University of Technology (KUT) in Japan is offering an exciting opportunity for international students to pursue a PhD degree through their Special Scholarship Program (SSP) for 2024. This program is fully funded, meaning it covers most, if not all, of the costs associated with your studies in Japan.
Who can Apply?
The SSP is open to international students from all countries. There are no restrictions based on your nationality. To be eligible, you should:
- Have a strong academic background: You must hold a degree comparable to a master’s degree from a recognized university. This degree should be completed after 18 years of total education.
- Be young and ambitious: Ideally, you should be 35 years old or younger at the time you enroll in the program.
- Demonstrate academic excellence: Your bachelor’s and master’s degrees should be from reputable universities with strong grades.
- Be passionate about research: You should show a clear interest in a specific research project offered by KUT and have the necessary skills and knowledge to contribute to it.
- Be proficient in English: You will need to demonstrate strong English language skills through a test like TOEFL iBT (minimum score of 72), IELTS (minimum score of 5.5), or equivalent qualifications.
What are the Benefits?
The SSP offers a comprehensive scholarship package to support your studies and living expenses in Japan. Here’s what you’ll receive:
- Full Tuition Coverage: You won’t have to pay any entrance examination fees (around 30,000 yen), enrollment fees (around 300,000 yen), or annual tuition fees (around 535,800 yen).
- Monthly Stipend: KUT will provide you with a monthly salary of 150,000 yen to help cover your living expenses. Keep in mind that some taxes may be deducted from this amount.
- Travel and Initial Living Allowance: If you are an international student living outside of Japan and require a “Student” residence status, KUT will grant you an additional 150,000 yen to cover travel costs and initial living expenses when you first arrive in Japan.
What Research Projects are Available?
The SSP focuses on research projects in various engineering fields. To see the specific projects currently offered, you should visit the KUT website for the SSP Research Project List. It’s important to choose a project that aligns with your research interests and expertise.
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How to Apply
The application process for the SSP involves several steps:
- Carefully browse the SSP Research Project List and select a project that aligns with your academic background and research interests.
- Once you’ve chosen a project, reach out to the project leader through the KUT Online Pre-Application Request Form. You need to obtain their permission to apply for the SSP with their specific project.
- Prepare Your Application Documents: While you wait for the project leader’s approval, start gathering the required documents. These typically include:
- Completed application form
- Original transcripts of your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in English or Japanese
- Original certificate of your master’s degree in English or Japanese
- A copy of your master’s thesis in English
- A research outline
- Two recommendation letters from professors or experts in your field (written in English or Japanese)
- Proof of English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)
- Copy of your passport
- Copies of any academic publications you may have authored (optional)
- Proof of permission from the chosen project leader (a copy of an email or similar communication)
- Signed pre-application request form
- Submit Your Application: Once you have obtained permission from your chosen project leader and completed all the required documents, submit your entire application package to KUT by mail before the deadline of September 13, 2024.