OIST PhD Program (fully funded)

Nov 15, 2026 · 37 days left

A five-year PhD programme at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology in Japan that is fully funded for every student, whatever their nationality: tuition is covered and a Research Assistantship pays for a comfortable living in Okinawa, so no other scholarship is needed. The first year is spent on research rotations in three labs, with thesis research from year two in one of more than 90 labs across physics, chemistry, mathematics and computing, marine science, neuroscience, biology, and environmental and ecological science. There are no departments, so students shape their own curriculum. Applicants need a bachelor's or master's degree by enrolment. The online application needs transcripts, a statement of purpose (up to 800 words), a CV, two to five recommendation letters from professors, and a TOEFL or IELTS score if previous study was not in English (no minimum score). There is no written entrance exam. The deadline for the 2027 round is 15 November 2026 (23:59 Japan time). Shortlisted applicants hear in late December and take part in an online Admissions Workshop from 18 January to 7 February 2027, with final results in mid-February and enrolment on 1 May 2027, 1 September 2027 or 1 January 2028.

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