The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST) offers a prestigious fully-funded PhD program in Japan. This scholarship is designed for international and domestic students who wish to pursue cutting-edge interdisciplinary research in science and technology.
OIST provides full financial support for all admitted PhD students. This includes tuition waiver, living stipend, research support, and relocation assistance. Furthermore, students receive funding for the entire duration of their PhD, which is typically five years. Therefore, candidates can focus entirely on research without worrying about financial constraints.
The program is interdisciplinary, allowing students to rotate through different laboratories and research units before choosing a specialization. For instance, students may engage in neuroscience, physics, chemistry, or computational biology, gaining exposure to a wide range of cutting-edge fields. For more opportunities click here
OIST PhD Program
- Country: Japan
- Host: Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST)
- Financially: Fully funded
- Winter Admission Deadline: 15 November 2025
- Summer Admission Deadline: 31 March 2026
Programs
- Fully-funded PhD program at OIST, Japan
- Interdisciplinary research across labs
- Year 1: Lab rotations + courses
- Years 2–5: Focus on thesis research
- Conducted entirely in English
- Access to world-class faculty, labs, and facilities
- Typical duration: 5 years
Eligibility Criteria
- Academic Qualification: Applicants must have completed or be expecting to complete a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree before enrollment. Furthermore, prior research experience is advantageous.
- English Proficiency: If your previous education was not in English, you must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. However, students from English-instructed institutions may be exempt.
- Full-Time Commitment: Candidates must be prepared to enroll as full-time PhD students. As a result, holding other employment is generally not permitted.
- Research Fit: Applicants should demonstrate interest in interdisciplinary research and alignment with OIST faculty labs. For instance, students may explore neuroscience, physics, chemistry, or computational biology.
Requirements
- Transcripts & Degree Certificates: Include English translations if needed. Furthermore, ensure they are official.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): Describe your research interests and goals. For example, explain your fit with OIST labs.
- Letters of Recommendation: At least two letters from faculty or supervisors. In addition, up to five are allowed.
- English Proficiency: Submit TOEFL/IELTS if required. However, English-instructed students may be exempt.
- ID Documents: Valid passport and recent photo. As a result, admission and visa processing is smoother.
Benefits
- Fully Funded: Covers tuition, living stipend, and research support. Furthermore, relocation assistance is provided for international students.
- Generous Stipend: Approximately JPY 2.4–2.5 million/year. As a result, students can focus entirely on research.
- Access to Facilities: Work with world-class labs and faculty. For example, interdisciplinary projects in neuroscience, physics, chemistry, and more.
- International Environment: Learn and collaborate with students from around the world. However, students must commit to full-time study.
How to Apply OIST PhD Program
- Online Application: Submit your application through the official OIST portal. Furthermore, ensure all documents are uploaded in English.
- Prepare Documents: Include transcripts, SOP, letters of recommendation, ID, and English proficiency scores. As a result, your application will be complete and ready for review.
- Admissions Workshop: If shortlisted, attend the interviews and lab visits at OIST. For example, you may discuss research interests directly with faculty.
- Check Deadlines: Apply before the Winter (15 Nov 2025) or Summer (31 Mar 2026) rounds. However, always verify dates on the official website.
- Await Decision: Final admission results are announced after the workshop. Finally, prepare for enrollment and visa processing if accepted.
