Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST)
معهد أوكيناوا للعلوم والتكنولوجيا (OIST)
About the scholarship program
The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) is an English-language, interdisciplinary graduate university in Okinawa, Japan, offering a single five-year PhD programme. Every admitted student is fully funded, with tuition covered and a research assistantship, regardless of nationality.
Information last verified: November 2, 2026Official source
Available programmes
Each programme has its own requirements, documents and benefits. Open it to see them in full with the application steps:
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OIST Fully Funded PhD Program in Japan 2027
PhDFully Funded11 majorsNovember 15, 2026
Life and living
Japan
Life and living
Japan
Studying and living in Japan
Costs and living
Tuition Fees in Japan (2026/2027): • National Universities: Fixed nationally by MEXT at 535,800 JPY per year (~3,500 USD) with a one-time admission registration fee of 282,000 JPY. • Local Public Universities: 540,000 to 650,000 JPY per year. • Private Universities: 900,000 to 1,800,000 JPY per year for humanities, business, and engineering degrees. Living Expenses & Visa Proof: • Average living costs: 90,000 to 150,000 JPY per month (Tokyo averages 120,000–160,000 JPY; regional cities like Kyoto, Sendai, and Hiroshima average 80,000–110,000 JPY). • Financial guarantee for Certificate of Eligibility (COE): Bank statement showing approximately 2,000,000 JPY for the first year (or scholarship grant certificate).
Working while studying
Working During Studies: • International students are permitted to work up to 28 hours per week during term time and up to 40 hours per week (8 hours/day) during official university breaks, by obtaining the work permit stamp (Shikakugai-katsudō-kyoka) at the port of entry airport free of charge. • Average hourly wage: 1,100 to 1,500 JPY in Tokyo and major urban areas. Post-Study Work & Immigration: • Japan offers the Designated Activities Visa (Job-hunting visa) granting 6 months, renewable for up to 1 full year after graduation. • Securing employment allows immediate transition to professional work visas (Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services). Fast-track permanent residency is available within 1 to 3 years under the Highly Skilled Professional points system.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Key questions and answers regarding eligibility, documents, and application steps.
Funding type: Fully Funded. Announced benefits: Full tuition coverage, Research assistantship: ¥2.6–3.6 million a year, Travel and relocation support, Subsidised campus housing.
Eligible levels: PhD.
The latest deadline we have is November 15, 2026. Dates can differ by university or programme, so confirm on the official website.
Required documents: University transcripts and diplomas, Statement of purpose (up to 800 words), CV, 2 to 5 recommendation letters from faculty members, TOEFL or IELTS score if required, Passport copy, photo and a ¥5,000 application fee.
Apply directly on the official website: https://www.oist.jp. ForsaEdu does not receive applications or charge any fee.
Track your academic readiness
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