Division of Graduate Studies

Kyoto University Division of Graduate Studies

KU-STAR Program

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What’s the KU-STAR Program?

KU-STAR Program, Kyoto University Short-Term Academic Research Program, aims to open the door to research opportunities for undergraduate and post graduate students from a given country who have a strong desire to pursue a doctoral program at Kyoto University.
KU-STAR Program participants benefit from conducting their respective research projects under top faculty at Kyoto University; learning about the laboratory ecosystem and life&culture in Japan; gaining exposure to industry; and participating in a poster presentation.

Introduction Videos

KU-STAR Program for India 2026

Program Period:

From May 19, 2026 to July 10, 2026

Number of Participants:

20-30 students

Eligibility:

Applicants must:

  • Have a strong desire to pursue a doctoral program at Kyoto University.
  • Be enrolled in an undergraduate or master’s program at a college or university in India. Undergraduate students must have completed at least four semesters prior to the internship.
  • Not be scheduled to graduate before the start of program, and must continue the academic program (undergraduate or master’s) for at least one semester or quarter after returning to India at the end of the internship.
  • Have a good academic record.
  • Meet the requirements of the chosen laboratory, as specified in the laboratory list.

*For more detailed information, please refer to the Application Guide.

Support:

Accommodation:
Kyoto University will provide accommodation for all participants for the program period.
Note:
The KU-STAR Program for India 2026 will not offer a daily stipend. Participants must secure their own funding for travel and living expenses.

Application Period:
  • Online Application Opens: January 13, 2026
  • Online Application Closes: January 27, 2026, 5 p.m. JST (Japan Standard Time [IST+3.5 hrs.])

Application Steps

STEP 1

Download and read the application guide and the laboratory list carefully.
Prepare the required documents.

STEP 2

Once the application period opens,
create an account on the online application system and start your application.

STEP 3

Request a recommendation letter through the online application system. Inform your recommender of your Application ID and follow up.

STEP 4

Complete the required information and upload the required documents.
Once all the required information are filled in and all the required documents, including a letter of recommendation from your recommender, are uploaded, submit your application by the end of the application period.

Application Guide

Application Guide（PDF）

Host Laboratory List

PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT THE LABS DIRECTLY REGARDING THIS KU-STAR PROGRAM

Host Laboratory List（PDF)

FAQ

FAQ

Apply

(Link to Online Application)

Contact

For inquiries, please email us at
indiadesk-ku[at]mail2.adm.kyoto-u.ac.jp
*Please change [at] to @

KU-STAR Program Office for India
Division of Graduate Studies, Kyoto University

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