Kobayashi International Scholarship Foundation 2026

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Students who are dreaming of studying in Japan but are facing difficulties with financial support. In this regard, Japan’s private scholarship for Asian students provides financial support. The Kobayashi International Scholarship Foundation KISF is a prestigious private scholarship program in Japan. This scholarship offers bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD degrees. All those applicants who want to join this scholarship must complete a Japanese language course.

Every year, many students apply for this scholarship, and talented students are selected first. The scholarship offers generous monthly stipends: ¥150,000 for undergraduate students, ¥180,000 for master’s or doctoral students, and up to ¥200,000 for those selected under the Special Research Fellowship program. The duration of this scholarship varies depending on the academic level.

The application process is not open directly to individuals; instead, partner universities nominate eligible candidates. Applications are then submitted through the university, and the final selection result is determined. The Kobayashi Scholarship in Japan promotes the best educational activity and top-level professors for research purposes.

The scholarship aims to support academic excellence, financial need, and a clear vision for the future. They are promoting mutual understanding and cultural exchange in Japan. We recommend you apply for this Fellowship in Japan.

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Essential Information Regarding the Scholarship: Kobayashi International Scholarship Foundation

 

  • Scholarship: Kobayashi International Scholarship Foundation (KISF)

  • Location: Japan

  • Type: Private, Fully Funded

  • Eligible Nationality: Asian countries only

  • Degree Levels: Undergraduate, Master’s, Doctoral

  • Monthly Stipend:

    • ¥150,000 for undergraduate students

    • ¥180,000 for graduate (Master’s/PhD) students

    • ¥200,000 for special research fellows

  • Duration:

    • Up to 2 years for undergraduate/master’s

    • Up to 3 years for doctoral

    • Up to 5 years for special research fellows

  • Language Requirement: Must understand and speak Japanese

  • Age Limit: Under 35 years old

  • Deadline: Varies by university (usually Jan–Feb)

Eligible Courses and Specializations

Students can apply for the scholarship in a variety of eligible courses and specializations.

  • Engineering & Technology

  • Natural Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)

  • Medical Sciences & Health

  • Agricultural Science

  • Environmental Studies

  • Social Sciences (Sociology, Political Science, International Relations)

  • Humanities (History, Literature, Philosophy)

  • Economics & Business Administration

  • Law & Public Policy

  • Education

  • Information Technology / Computer Science

  • Language & Cultural Studies

  • Architecture & Urban Planning

  • Mathematics & Statistics

  • Fine Arts & Design

  • Music & Performing Arts

  • Media & Communication Studies

  • Psychology

  • Linguistics

  • Cultural Anthropology

  • Peace & Conflict Studies

  • Gender Studies

  • Public Health

  • Sports Science

  • International Development Studies

  • Tourism & Hospitality

  • Bioinformatics

  • Robotics & AI

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Funding and Support

The scholarship provides funding and support to help students cover their academic and living expenses.

  • Fully funded scholarship covering tuition fees and living expenses.

  • Monthly stipend: ¥150,000 for Bachelor’s, ¥180,000 for Master’s, ¥200,000 for PhD/Research students.

  • Duration: Bachelor’s up to 2 years, Master’s up to 3 years, PhD up to 5 years.

  • On-campus accommodation or housing support is provided.

  • Allowance for stationery, books, and other study materials.

  • Monthly living allowance to cover daily expenses.

  • Opportunities to attend networking events, conferences, and cultural exchange programs.

  • Full access to research facilities, labs, and university libraries.

  • Faculty mentorship and academic guidance throughout the program.

  • Travel support for research projects, fieldwork, or academic conferences.

  • Recognition and awards for academic excellence and research achievements.

  • Career guidance, internships, and professional development support.

  • Participation in cultural and social activities enhances the overall experience.

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Scholarship Applicant Qualifications

Applicants must meet specific qualifications to be considered for the scholarship

  • Open to all international students meeting program requirements.

  • Must be enrolled in a recognized Japanese university.

  • Strong academic record with a good CGPA.

  • Required Japanese language proficiency certificate (JLPT or equivalent).

  • A recommendation letter from your university or a faculty member.

  • Willingness to attend 3–4 foundational meetings or workshops per year.

  • Demonstrated interest, motivation, and commitment to the program or research area.

  • Ability to actively participate in academic, research, and cultural activities.

  • Good disciplinary record and adherence to university regulations.

  • Availability to contribute to collaborative projects, networking, and exchange programs.

Documentation Needed to Complete Your Application

Applicants must prepare and submit all required documentation to complete their scholarship application.

  • Completed application form

  • Academic transcripts from previous studies

  • Certificate of graduation or degree

  • Research plan or statement of study purpose

  • Letters of recommendation

  • Passport copy

  • ID card copy

  • Passport-sized photographs

  • University acceptance letter (if available)

  • Language proficiency certificate (English: TOEFL/IELTS, Japanese: JLPT)

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume

  • Health or medical certificate

  • Any other supporting documents required by the scholarship

How to Apply for the Scholarship

Follow these steps to complete and submit your scholarship application.

  1. Choose your field of study or research area that aligns with your academic goals and scholarship eligibility.
  2. Contact a potential supervisor or professor at the Japanese university to discuss your research interests and secure guidance.
  3. Prepare all required documents, including academic transcripts, CV, recommendation letters, research proposal or study plan, language certificates, and any other program-specific requirements.
  4. Apply through the university’s official application portal or scholarship platform, ensuring all information is accurate and complete.
  5. Submit all required documents before the deadline to ensure consideration for both admission and scholarship evaluation.
  6. Wait for the university’s screening, selection, and evaluation process, which may include document review, written tests, or interviews.
  7. If shortlisted, receive the official admission and scholarship offer, including details about financial coverage and program support.
  8. Accept the offer formally through the university portal or email confirmation, and follow the instructions for scholarship confirmation.
  9. Apply for a student visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country, submitting all required documentation.
  10. Arrange accommodation through university dormitories or private housing, and ensure health/medical insurance coverage is active.
  11. Plan travel to Japan, including booking flights, preparing necessary documentation, and understanding arrival procedures.
  12. Attend orientation programs at the university to complete registration, meet faculty, and familiarize yourself with campus facilities.
  13. Participate in cultural and language programs offered by the university to adapt smoothly to academic and social life.
  14. Begin your academic program with access to research facilities, libraries, labs, and mentorship support.

OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I apply directly to the foundation?
A: No, applications must be submitted through your Japanese university, and you need a recommendation from the university president.

Q2: Can I apply if I have already received another scholarship?
A: Yes, but only if your other scholarship provides less than ¥50,000 per month. Otherwise, you are not eligible.

Q3: Is Japanese language ability required?
A: Yes, you must have sufficient Japanese language skills to clearly express your research goals and actively participate in foundation events.

Q4: Does this scholarship cover tuition fees?
A: No, this scholarship primarily covers living expenses. You must arrange tuition fees yourself or through another funding source.

Q5: How much monthly stipend will I receive?

  • ¥150,000 for Undergraduate students
  • ¥180,000 for Master’s and PhD students
  • ¥200,000 for Special Research Fellows

Q6: Who is eligible to apply?
A: Only students enrolled in a recognized Japanese university and recommended by their university president are eligible.

Q7: What expenses are covered besides the stipend?
A: The stipend covers living expenses, basic study materials, and participation in foundation-organized research and cultural events.

Q8: How long is the scholarship awarded?
A: The duration depends on your program level: typically 1–2 years for undergraduates, 2–3 years for Master’s/PhD, and up to 5 years for special research fellows.

Q9: Are there any additional responsibilities?
A: Yes, recipients are expected to participate in foundation meetings, seminars, and networking events, and report on their academic progress.

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