OIST Fully Funded PhD Program 2025/2026 | Study in Japan

Applications are now open for the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) PhD Program, a fully funded opportunity for aspiring researchers worldwide. This program supports approximately 60 students annually across diverse scientific fields.

The application deadline is November 15, 2025, so there is plenty of time to get yourself prepared for this opportunity. The program is open to candidates who have completed or will complete a bachelor’s or master’s degree before enrollment. OIST promotes inclusivity, strongly encouraging applications from women and underrepresented groups. There is no application fee, making this opportunity accessible to all eligible applicants. For more amazing PhD opportunities, visit here.

Key Details

• Funding: Fully funded (covers tuition and living expenses)
• Nationality: All nationals can apply
• Eligibility: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree holders (or expected graduates) from any country
• Application Deadline: November 15, 2025, 23:59 (JST, UTC+9)
• Application Fee: None
• Selection Process: Online application followed by an Admissions Workshop; no written exams
• Diversity: Encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups

Eligibility Criteria

• Hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree (or expect to complete one) before the enrollment date.
• Be from any country, with no restrictions based on gender, age, race, religion, or other personal attributes.

Required Documents

Here’s a checklist of mandatory documents:

1. Academic Transcripts and Diploma

• Scanned copies of your current academic transcript and any past degrees (e.g., BSc, MSc).
• Unofficial transcripts or grade records are acceptable.
• For non-English transcripts, include an English explanation.
• If you haven’t graduated, upload a certificate of enrollment with your expected graduation date.

2. Statement of Purpose

• Maximum 400 words (2500 characters).
• Address:
  • Your scientific interests and aspirations.
  • What you hope to gain from studying at OIST.

Also Check: CYD Doctoral Fellowships in Switzerland 

3. Recommendation Letters

• Minimum of two, maximum of five letters from professorial-level faculty who know you personally.
• Letters from lab members or postdoctoral researchers are not accepted.
• If you graduated 5+ years ago, industry supervisors may provide recommendations, focusing on your research and learning ability.
• Provide accurate recommender contact details; they will receive an automated request from OIST.
• Letters must be submitted by recommenders, not applicants, and remain confidential.

4. English Proficiency Score

• Required if your degree is from a university where English is not the primary language of instruction.
• Submit a TOEFL iBT or IELTS score from within the last two years.
• You do not need to provide TOEFL iBT/IELTS scores if the medium of your education is English
• No minimum score is required, but the score determines preparatory course needs.

Also see: 33 Fully Funded PhD Positions at Eindhoven University of Technology

5. Passport

• Upload a scan of your passport photo page with a valid passport number.
• Non-Japanese applicants need a valid passport for travel to Japan.
• If you don’t have a passport, upload another government-issued ID, but a valid passport is required if shortlisted.

6. ID Photo

• A recent photo (taken within 3 months) in standard passport orientation, showing your face from the front.

Optional Documents

• GRE Scores: General or specific test scores from the last two years.
• Publications or Presentations: Titles and abstracts of any publications or oral presentations.
• Other Achievements: Additional evidence of academic or research accomplishments.

See also: 15 Fully Funded PhD and Postdoctoral Opportunities at the University of Tübingen Germany

How to Apply

1. Explore Faculty and Research Units: Visit OIST Faculty and Research Units to identify a research group aligned with your interests.
2. Check Supervisor Availability: Confirm availability at PhD Supervision Availability, as limited spaces may affect acceptance.
3. Start Your Application: If a supervisor is available, then you can start your application and indicate the supervisor’s name. Apply via the OIST Graduate School Application Portal.
4. Read the OIST Admissions FAQs to avoid common mistakes.

Note: It is not necessary to contact faculty to obtain their approval or support prior to applying