OIST 2026 Admissions Open | Fully Funded PhD & Research Internship Opportunities in Japan

April 2026, Okinawa, Japan – The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST) has opened admissions for its 2026 fully funded PhD programme and research internships, offering international students world‑class research opportunities in STEM fields. OIST is a globally recognised interdisciplinary graduate university where all education and research are conducted entirely in English, attracting top talent from around the world.

About OIST’s Graduate & Research Programmes

OIST stands out for its 5‑year fully funded PhD programme, designed for students who are committed to pursuing doctoral research in science and technology. The curriculum begins with lab rotations to help students explore different research areas, followed by personalised supervision and thesis work with internationally renowned faculty. (OIST)

In addition to the PhD track, OIST offers research internship placements that last 3–6 months, giving undergraduate and master’s students hands‑on experience in cutting‑edge scientific research and insight into graduate‑level study.

Key Features of OIST Admissions

1. Fully Funded PhD Programme

The PhD programme at OIST is competitive and accessible to applicants who have completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree — or expect to graduate before enrolment. Successful candidates are offered:

• A comprehensive financial support package, including stipend and research support
• On‑campus housing and relocation assistance
• Opportunities to participate in international conferences and workshops
• Multilingual support and a vibrant international research community

All coursework and research activities are conducted in English, making the programme ideal for global candidates.

2. Research Internships for STEM Students

Students in the final years of their bachelor’s programmes or enrolled in master’s degrees can apply for research internships in participating OIST research units. These internships provide invaluable lab experience, mentorship from world‑class researchers, and a taste of graduate‑level research expectations.

Internships may serve as valuable preparation for later PhD applications or help strengthen research portfolios for competitive graduate study.

Admissions Process & Deadlines

OIST runs multiple admissions rounds, with application deadlines typically including March 31, 2026 for the PhD programme and April 15, 2026 for research internships. Applicants are required to submit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and verification of English proficiency. (OIST)

Shortlisted PhD candidates are invited to Admissions Workshops, which include interviews with faculty members. These workshops are held online and help both students and faculty determine fit for specific research areas. OIST does not charge an application fee, and selecting a faculty member of interest is part of the process but does not guarantee supervision — students are admitted into the programme first and then matched with research labs.

Why OIST Stands Out

• Interdisciplinary research environment with no departmental divisions
• World‑class facilities and instrumentation for cutting‑edge science
• Strong international community with diverse perspectives and collaborations
• Campus life on a subtropical campus surrounded by ocean, forests, and vibrant culture
• Long‑term support for research careers in academia, industry, and innovation sectors

OIST’s combination of fully funded support, English‑based education, and a focus on independent, original research makes it a top choice for students aspiring to become future scientific leaders.