The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Research Internship Program in Japan offers students and recent graduates an opportunity to gain practical research experience in a world-class scientific environment.
The internship allows participants to work within an OIST laboratory, develop research skills, learn specific techniques, and contribute to ongoing research under the supervision of professors and researchers.
OIST Internship Program Summary
- Host Country: Japan
- Host Institution: Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST)
- Program: OIST Research Internship
- Study Level: Undergraduate and Master’s students, as well as recent graduates
- Field: STEM and related research areas
- Eligible Countries: All countries
- Duration: 2 to 6 months
- Funding: Fully supported internship
- Internship Allowance: JPY 2,400 per working day
- Accommodation: Furnished apartment
- Travel: Round-trip airfare
- Deadline: October 15, 2026
About the OIST Internship Program
The OIST Research Internship is designed for students who want to gain hands-on experience in scientific research. Interns are placed in a suitable research unit and work under the guidance of an OIST professor or researcher.
The program is open to students in the final two years of their undergraduate or Master’s studies, as well as graduates of universities, colleges, junior colleges, and vocational schools.
Interns can use the opportunity to strengthen their academic experience, explore research areas of interest, and develop practical laboratory or technical skills.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants for the OIST Internship Program must:
- Be in the final two years of an undergraduate or Master’s program, or be a graduate of an eligible institution.
- Have an academic background relevant to their preferred OIST research unit.
- Obtain approval from their home institution where required.
- Demonstrate sufficient academic preparation for the proposed research area.
- Be able to participate for the full duration of the internship.
Applicants should carefully select research units that match their academic background and interests.
Benefits of the OIST Internship
Successful interns receive several forms of financial and logistical support, including:
- Internship allowance: JPY 2,400 per working day, excluding weekends and non-taxable.
- Accommodation: Furnished accommodation either on or off campus.
- Travel expenses: One direct round-trip air ticket.
- Transportation: OIST shuttle bus pass.
- Visa support: Assistance with visa-related procedures.
- Insurance support: Assistance with required insurance arrangements.
- Local registration: Support with relevant registration procedures in Japan.
The program generally lasts between 2 and 6 months.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Personal statement of approximately 400 words
- Academic transcripts
- Recommendation letter
- Identification photograph
- Passport photograph
Applicants should ensure that academic documents are provided in English or accompanied by an appropriate English translation where necessary.
How to Apply for the OIST Internship Program
Applications are submitted online through the OIST Research Internship application system.
To apply:
- Review the available research units and identify one that matches your academic background and interests.
- Prepare your CV, personal statement, academic transcripts, recommendation letter, and required photographs.
- Complete the online application form.
- Ensure that at least one recommendation letter has been received through the application system before submitting the application.
- Submit the completed application before the deadline.
- Monitor the application platform for updates regarding the selection process.
After the application period closes, OIST screens applications and completes the selection process. Applicants are expected to receive the result through the application platform approximately three months after the application deadline.
Successful candidates will then work with OIST to complete travel, visa, insurance, and other arrangements required before the internship begins.
Application Deadline
The deadline for the OIST Internship Program 2026 is October 15, 2026.
Applicants are encouraged to complete their applications and recommendation requests early to avoid missing the deadline.
APPLY HERE
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