The Special Scholarship Program (SSP) 2024 batch at Kochi University of Technology (KUT) offers a unique opportunity for international candidates to engage in advanced research projects while receiving financial support.
This post provides comprehensive details on the benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and deadlines for prospective students.
Comprehensive Benefits for Scholars
The SSP program at KUT provides several attractive benefits to its scholars:
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Tuition and Fees Waiver: Scholars receive exemptions from the entrance examination fee (30,000 yen), enrollment fee (300,000 yen), and annual tuition fee (535,800 yen). This significantly reduces the financial burden on students.
Monthly Stipend: Participants receive a monthly salary of 150,000 yen for research project work. This stipend helps cover living expenses, although some taxes may be deducted.
Travel and Initial Living Costs: International students who intend to acquire “Student” residence status in Japan at the time of entry are provided with 150,000 yen to cover travel and initial living costs.
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
To be eligible for the SSP, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Obtain permission from the leader of their preferred SSP project.
- Hold a degree comparable to a master’s degree from an accredited institution, completed after 18 years of education, or be scheduled to acquire such a degree before KUT enrollment.
- Be 35 years old or under at the time of enrollment.
- Have an excellent academic record with strong bachelor’s and master’s degrees from reputable universities.
- Demonstrate intention, knowledge, and research skills suitable for the chosen research project.
- Possess high English proficiency (TOEFL iBT 72, IELTS 5.5, CEFR B2, CET6).
Application Process – Step-by-Step Guide
Choose a Research Project: Interested candidates should visit the KUT website to choose a research project from the available options. The list of research projects can be found here.
Pre-Application Request: Send a completed Online Pre-Application Request to the leader of your preferred project via the KUT Online Pre-Application Request Form at least six weeks before the application deadline. This step is crucial as only those who receive permission from the project leader can proceed. The form is available here.
Formal Application Submission: Once you have permission from the project leader, you can submit your formal application. Detailed guidelines for the formal application process are provided here.
Important Deadlines
For April 2025 Enrollment (Second Deadline):
- Application Deadline: September 13, 2024
- Screening: Between October and November 2024
- Notification of Admission Decision: Mid-December 2024
- Registration Deadline: January 10, 2025
For October 2025 Enrollment (First Deadline):
- Application Deadline: September 13, 2024
- Screening: Between October and November 2024
- Notification of Admission Decision: Mid-December 2024
- Registration Deadline: January 10, 2025
For October 2025 Enrollment (Second Deadline):
- Application Deadline: April 11, 2025
- Screening: Between April and May 2025
- Notification of Admission Decision: Mid-June 2025
- Registration Deadline: July 4, 2025
The Special Scholarship Program at Kochi University of Technology represents a valuable opportunity for international students aiming to advance their research careers while benefiting from significant financial support. I
nterested candidates should ensure they meet the eligibility criteria and adhere to the application process and deadlines to maximize their chances of acceptance.
