Incoming International StudentsKIT Research Program

KIT offers students enrolled at partner universities outside Japan the opportunity to conduct research at KIT as part of their home degree program. Eligible students may participate as Exchange Research Students.

Under the Exchange Research Program, students may undertake research at KIT for a period ranging from one month to twelve months. Extensions may be granted with special permission. To participate in the program, applicants must identify and obtain the agreement from a KIT faculty member who is willing to serve as a temporary supervisor for the duration of the research period.

To be eligible to conduct research at KIT, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

  • Be currently enrolled in a degree program at a partner university of KIT
  • Have sufficient proficiency in English or Japanese to effectively conduct research activities
  • Participate in a preliminary online call with a prospective KIT supervisor, reach mutual agreement on the research content, and obtain acceptance approval from the supervisor
  • Plan to undertake research for a minimum of one month and a maximum of twelve months
    (Extensions may be granted with special permission.)

KIT can accept an international research student only in one of the laboratories listed below. Please select your preferred laboratory from this list.

Please follow the steps below to apply for the Exchange Research Program:

1. Notify KIT of your intention to study in Japan through the representative at your home university

Prepare required documents (CV, Motivation letter including your research focus, and official academic transcript) and submit them through a link you receive from your home university. For stays of three months or longer, or depending on the applicant’s nationality, a visa is required to enter Japan. As visa application procedures may require a considerable amount of time, applicants are requested to notify KIT of their intention to travel to Japan at least six months in advance of the proposed date of arrival.

2. Participate in a preliminary online call with a prospective KIT supervisor

If we think the proposed research is deemed feasible after consultation with a relevant KIT supervisor, we will arrange an online call between the applicant and the supervisor to confirm the fit. During the interview, both academic compatibility and research objectives will be discussed. If both agree, KIT will also provide cost information and the necessary administrative procedures. Eligible applicants will be contacted with detailed instructions regarding the official application process. Please follow all instructions carefully and complete the required procedures by the designated deadlines.

The handling of tuition and other fees varies depending on the home university and exchange agreement. Applicants should consult the appropriate office at their home university for details.

  • Although the program is conducted primarily in English, research students are expected to demonstrate an interest in Japanese language and culture and to make ongoing efforts to improve basic Japanese communication skills in daily life. We hope that students will enjoy their experience in Japan and deepen their understanding of both KIT and Japanese society.
  • Students are expected to approach all activities with a positive and proactive attitude.
  • Effective time management and independence are essential, as students will work based on their research plans developed in consultation with their KIT supervisors.
  • As this is a non-coursework-based program, students will spend a significant amount of time conducting independent research; therefore, self-motivation and perseverance are vital.
  • Students are encouraged to actively engage with peers both inside and outside the research environment.