OIST Research Internship 2026 in Japan (Fully Funded)

The OIST Research Internship Program 2026 is a fully funded short-term research opportunity hosted by the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate School in Japan. It allows selected students to carry out research in OIST laboratories for a period of 3 to 6 months.

This program is designed for undergraduate and master’s students in science and engineering-related fields who want hands-on research experience in an international academic environment. Interns work directly with OIST faculty members and research units on active projects.

In this guide, you will find clear details about what the internship covers, who is eligible, the required documents, how the application process works, and what to expect if you are selected.

About the OIST Research Internship Program

The OIST Research Internship Program is hosted by the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST), a private graduate university located in Okinawa, Japan.

OIST is known for its interdisciplinary research model. Instead of traditional academic departments, research is organized into units that collaborate across fields such as physics, biology, chemistry, neuroscience, mathematics, environmental science, and computational science.

The internship allows selected students to:

• Join a specific research unit
• Work under the supervision of a faculty member
• Contribute to ongoing research projects
• Gain experience using advanced research facilities

The duration of the internship is typically between 3 and 6 months, depending on the agreement between the student and the host research unit.

Research Fields Available Under the OIST Internship

OIST offers research opportunities across a wide range of STEM disciplines. Available fields generally include:

• Physics
• Chemistry
• Mathematical and Computational Sciences
• Neuroscience
• Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
• Marine Science
• Environmental and Ecological Sciences
• Engineering-related sciences

Available projects vary each intake and depend on faculty availability. Applicants must select research units during the application process based on their academic background and research interests.

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Benefits of the OIST Research Internship

The OIST Research Internship is fully funded. Financial support is provided only to selected interns.

Here is what the program covers:

• Round-trip airfare (one direct ticket to and from Japan)
• Accommodation (furnished housing arranged by OIST)
• Daily allowance of 2,400 JPY per working day
• Visa and immigration support, including assistance with the Certificate of Eligibility (CoE)
• Access to OIST facilities and campus services
• Shuttle bus pass for transportation around campus

The daily allowance is intended to help cover food and other personal living expenses during the internship period.

Eligibility Requirements for the OIST Research Internship 2026

To apply for the OIST Research Internship Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be enrolled in the final two years of a bachelor’s degree program or
• Be enrolled in a master’s degree program at the time of application.
• Have an academic background relevant to the selected research unit
• Obtain approval from their home institution (if required)
• Be able to commit to a 3–6 month research period at OIST
• There is no nationality restriction. Students from any country can apply.

OIST encourages applications from women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds in STEM.

Documents Required

Applicants are generally required to submit the following documents through the online portal:

• Academic transcript(s)
• Statement of purpose
• At least one academic recommendation letter
• Proof of enrollment from current institution
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Valid passport information
• Any additional documents requested in the application form

All documents must be submitted in English or accompanied by an official English translation.

OIST Internship as a Pathway to PhD Study

The internship can also serve as preparation for future doctoral studies at OIST.

Interns who later apply to the OIST PhD program may, under certain conditions, request recognition of their internship research as equivalent to one lab rotation. This is typically possible if:

• The internship lasted at least 4 months
• The PhD application is submitted within one year of completing the internship

OIST makes final decisions on lab rotation equivalency and are not automatic.

How to Apply for the OIST Research Internship Program (Step by Step)

Applications are submitted online through the official OIST admissions portal.

Here is a clear breakdown of the process:

1. Visit the official OIST Research Internship website.
2. Review available research units and identify those aligned with your background.
3. Prepare your statement of purpose, focusing on research interest and fit.
4. Request recommendation letters early.
5. Complete the online application form.
6. Upload all required documents before the deadline.
7. Submit your application and monitor your email for updates.

Applicants are advised to apply well before the deadline to allow time for referees to submit recommendation letters.

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Application Deadline

For the Fall 2026 Internship, the confirmed timeline is:

• Application Deadline: April 15th, 2026
• Result Announcement: Late June 2026
• Internship Period: Between October 1st, 2026 and March 31st, 2027

Applications submitted after the deadline are not considered.

Apply for the OIST Research Internship Program 2026