OIST Internship Program in Japan 2026 | Fully Funded STEM Research Opportunities
The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Internship Program 2026 is now open for applications from qualified students and recent graduates worldwide. This fully funded research internship in Japan offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in state-of-the-art laboratories, learn advanced techniques, and contribute to cutting-edge STEM research under the guidance of world-class OIST faculty.
Program OverviewThe OIST Internship Program is designed for students in Bachelor’s or Master’s programs, as well as recent graduates, who are eager to gain research experience in STEM fields. Interns participate in active research projects, receive mentorship from leading researchers, and gain exposure to a global scientific community.
- Host Country: Japan
- Program Category: Internship
- Eligibility: Worldwide students in the final two years of Bachelor’s or enrolled in Master’s programs, or recent graduates
- Funding: Fully sponsored including airfare, accommodation, visa fees, travel allowance, and JPY 2,400/day stipend
- Duration: 2–6 months
- Application Deadline: April 15, 2026
Who Should Apply?This program is ideal for:
- Students seeking hands-on research experience in STEM laboratories
- Those interested in pursuing graduate studies or PhD programs in Japan or globally
- Students who want to develop technical, analytical, and collaborative skills in a multicultural environment
- Individuals motivated to work in cutting-edge research and contribute to global scientific knowledge
Eligibility Requirements
- Final two years of Bachelor’s program or any year of Master’s program in universities, colleges, junior colleges, or vocational schools (Japan or overseas) or recent graduates
- Approval from your home institution
- Relevant academic background matching the desired host unit at OIST
- Strong research interest in STEM fields
- Current or past PhD students should consider alternative OIST opportunities such as Workshops or Careers
- Japanese students must have proper insurance coverage (Gakkensai, Gakkenbai, or equivalent)
Benefits of the OIST Internship 2026
- Internship Allowance: JPY 2,400 per working day (non-taxable, weekends excluded)
- Commuting Support: OIST Shuttle Bus Pass
- Travel Expenses: One direct round-trip air ticket aligned with internship dates
- Accommodation: Furnished apartment on or off campus
- Visa & Insurance Assistance: Provided for the student only
- Networking: Access to OIST global research community and mentorship
Required DocumentsApplicants must prepare and submit the following documents in PDF format:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Personal Statement (max 400 words) covering:
- Fit with desired OIST research unit(s)
- Research goals and expected accomplishments
- Alignment with long-term career plans
- Academic Transcripts (English translation if necessary)
- Recommendation Letter (1–3, from professorial faculty)
- ID Photo & Passport Scan
- Optional: English proficiency scores (IELTS/TOEFL)
Application Timeline
| Application Round | Deadline | Result Announcement | Internship Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring 2026 | October 15, 2025 | Late December 2025 | April 1 – September 30, 2026 |
| Fall 2026 | April 15, 2026 | Late June 2026 | October 1, 2026 – March 31, 2027 |
How to Apply
- Create an account on the OIST Internship Application Portal
- Upload all required documents in PDF format
- Ensure at least one recommendation letter is submitted before final application submission
- Submit the online form before the deadline
- Wait for results (announced approx. 3 months after deadline)
- Upon acceptance, complete visa, travel, and accommodation arrangements in cooperation with OIST
Skills & Experience You’ll Gain
- Hands-on research experience in STEM fields
- Laboratory and experimental technique development
- Critical thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis
- Collaboration in multicultural and interdisciplinary research teams
- Networking with world-class researchers and global peers
Other important Scholarships
Top 5 FAQs – OIST Internship Program in Japan 2026
Is the OIST Internship Program 2026 fully funded?
Yes. The OIST Internship Program 2026 is fully funded. Selected interns receive a daily stipend, free furnished accommodation, round-trip airfare, local commuting support, and visa assistance. No tuition or program fees are charged.
Who is eligible for the OIST Internship Program 2026?
Applicants must be in the final two years of a Bachelor’s degree, enrolled in a Master’s program, or be recent graduates in relevant STEM fields. Current students must have approval from their home institution. PhD students are not eligible.
Is IELTS or TOEFL required for the OIST Internship?
No. IELTS or TOEFL is NOT required for the OIST Internship Program. English proficiency test scores are optional and may be submitted only if the applicant believes they strengthen the application.
What is the duration of the OIST Internship Program?
The internship duration ranges from 2 to 6 months, depending on the internship round and agreement between the intern and the host research unit at OIST.
What is the application deadline for OIST Internship 2026?
Spring 2026 Round: October 15, 2025
Fall 2026 Round: April 15, 2026
Applicants should apply early due to high competition.
Comparison With Other Japan STEM Internships
- OIST vs RIKEN Internships: OIST offers fully funded accommodation and stipend, while RIKEN provides research-only placements with limited financial support.
- OIST vs KEIO Summer Program: KEIO focuses more on classroom-based learning; OIST is research-focused.
- OIST vs World Economic Forum Early Career Program: WEF is policy and economics-oriented; OIST is STEM research-oriented with laboratory experience.
