The NIMS International Cooperative Graduate Program Scholarship 2026 offers exceptional PhD students a prestigious pathway to advance their research at the National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS) in Japan. Through this renowned international initiative, scholars gain the chance to work directly with leading NIMS researchers while conducting a significant portion of their doctoral thesis in a world-class scientific environment.
Designed to strengthen global research cooperation, this competitive program provides short-term training that enhances academic skills, expands professional networks, and accelerates innovation in materials science. By fostering cross-border collaboration, the scholarship empowers emerging researchers to contribute meaningful scientific advancements with lasting international impact.
Benefits of NIMS International Cooperative Graduate Program Scholarship 2026
The NIMS International Cooperative Graduate Program 2026 provides selected candidates with:
- Monthly Living Allowance: 120,000 JPY
- Accommodation Fee Coverage
- Access to Advanced Research Facilities
Eligibility Criteria for NIMS International Cooperative Graduate Program Scholarship 2026
To be eligible for the NIMS ICGP 2026, applicants must:
- Be a full-time PhD student at a university that has signed an ICGP agreement with NIMS.
- Have a research topic relevant to materials science and aligned with a NIMS researcher’s expertise.
- Demonstrate English language proficiency, proven by one of the following:
- TOEIC score ≥ 740
- TOEFL (ITP/iBT/CBT) ≥ 550/80/213
- IELTS ≥ 5.5
- Or equivalent certification of English proficiency.
- Possess a valid passport.
- Be in good health condition, certified by a medical document.
Required Documents
- Latest official academic transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s).
- English proficiency certificate (TOEIC/TOEFL/IELTS).
- Valid passport copy.
- Financial Guarantee Letter (Template available).
- Health Guarantee Letter (Template available).
- Commitment Letter (Template available).
- Recommendation Letter from Head of Study Program and Academic Supervisor (addressed to Director of Directorate of Partnerships ITB).
How to Apply for the NIMS International Cooperative Graduate Program Scholarship 2026
Applicants interested in the International Cooperative Graduate Program (ICGP) 2026 must follow these steps carefully:
- Step 1: Identify a NIMS Researcher
- Visit the SAMURAI Directory to browse NIMS researchers and their areas of expertise.
- Choose a researcher whose work aligns closely with your academic interests and research goals.
- Step 2: Initiate Contact
- Reach out directly to the selected NIMS researcher via the contact information provided in the SAMURAI Directory.
- Introduce yourself and provide a brief overview of your academic background, research experience, and specific interests.
- Step 3: Discuss Research Compatibility
- Arrange a discussion (via email, video call, or other preferred methods) to confirm whether your research goals are compatible with the researcher’s ongoing projects.
- Prepare relevant documents, such as your CV, transcripts, and a short research proposal, to share during this discussion.
- Step 4: Confirm Support
- Obtain confirmation from the NIMS researcher that they are willing to supervise your research under the ICGP 2026 Program.
- Step 5: Complete the Official Application
- Once research compatibility is confirmed, complete the official ICGP 2026 application process as outlined on the program’s website:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The NIMS International Cooperative Graduate Program Scholarship 2026 supports overseas PhD students to conduct thesis research at NIMS with co-supervision. It covers living and accommodation costs, requires English proficiency, recommendation letters, and aligned research with a NIMS researcher.
What is the NIMS International Cooperative Graduate Program Scholarship 2026?
The NIMS International Cooperative Graduate Program Scholarship 2026 allows overseas PhD students to conduct part of their thesis at NIMS with co-supervision from NIMS researchers. Students must align their research with a NIMS researcher before applying.
Who is eligible for the NIMS International Cooperative Graduate Program Scholarship 2026?
Eligibility is restricted to full-time PhD students enrolled at universities that have an ICGP agreement with NIMS. Applicants must also demonstrate English proficiency through TOEIC, TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent official certification.
How can I apply for the NIMS International Cooperative Graduate Program Scholarship 2026?
Applicants must contact a preferred NIMS researcher first, then submit the required documents via the online application form. Key documents include academic transcripts, English proficiency proof, passport, financial and health guarantees, and recommendation letters.
What is the application deadline for the NIMS International Cooperative Graduate Program Scholarship 2026?
The official application deadline is 9 January 2026. Interested candidates should ensure all documents are completed and submitted before this date to be considered for the selection process and subsequent interviews.
What does the NIMS International Cooperative Graduate Program Scholarship 2026 cover?
The scholarship provides a living allowance of 120,000 JPY per month and covers accommodation fees. Students are responsible for utility charges, while other costs related to research or travel are not included in the allowance.
When does the NIMS ICGP 2026 program start?
Selected students will begin their research training at NIMS from July 2026. Prior to that, the selection process including interviews occurs between January and February, with results announced by mid-March 2026.
How are candidates selected for the NIMS ICGP Scholarship 2026?
Candidates undergo document screening followed by interviews conducted between January and February 2026. Only applicants who successfully pass both steps will be notified of acceptance by 2 January 2026 for initial confirmation.
What English proficiency scores are required for the NIMS ICGP?
Applicants must have a TOEIC score of at least 740, TOEFL scores of 550/80/213, or an IELTS score of at least 5.5. Equivalent official certifications demonstrating English proficiency are also accepted to meet eligibility requirements.
Are recommendation letters required for the NIMS ICGP Scholarship?
Yes, applicants must submit recommendation letters from their Head of Study Program and Academic Supervisor. These letters should be addressed to the Director of the Directorate of Partnerships ITB and are a mandatory part of the nomination process.
How do I confirm research alignment with a NIMS researcher?
Before applying, candidates must contact a NIMS researcher using the NIMS Researchers Directory Service. This ensures that their research theme aligns with the faculty member’s work and satisfies the co-supervision requirement for the scholarship.
Discover more from Scholarship Union
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
