WebsiteOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST)
Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) is a top research university in Japan. It offers advanced science education and international research opportunities.
This post provides you with information about the Research Internship at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST).
About the Research Internship at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST)
Research Internship at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) is a research process in Japan that provides students with the opportunity to conduct research in various fields as an intern in an academic environment and continue to study at this prestigious university after graduation if they achieve excellent grades.
Internship Timeline Summary
Spring 2026
Deadline: Oct 15, 2025
Results: Dec 2025
Period: Apr–Sep 2026
Fall 2026
Deadline: Apr 15, 2026
Results: Jun 2026
Period: Oct 2026–Mar 2027
OIST Internship Eligibility Snapshot
Final 2 years of bachelor’s, any year of master’s, or recent grads
Students need approval from home institution
Must match academic background with host unit
For future PhD applicants (not current PhD students)
Japanese students must bring own insurance (e.g. Gakkensai + Gakkenbai)
OIST Application Quick Guide
Apply online only via account creation
Upload all required docs in English (PDF)
Save and return anytime to complete
Spring 2026 applications now open
Fee: 3000 JPY (non-refundable)
Use a computer for best experience
OIST Required Documents Checklist
Transcript & Diploma: All academic records (PDF, English or with translation)
Statement of Purpose: Max 400 words, show your fit & goals
Recommendation Letter: 1–3 from professors or managers (not lab/postdocs)
Passport: Upload scan of valid passport or government ID
ID Photo: Recent passport-style photo (within last 3 months)
English Proficiency Note
Not required for application
Optional to upload IELTS/TOEFL if helpful for your profile
Application Fee Info
Fee: 3,000 JPY (non-refundable)
No fee waivers for financial reasons
If affected by international sanctions, contact via the “Research Internship” form
OIST Research Internship in Japan – Simple Guide
What is OIST Internship? A short research program in Japan at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology. You will work in a lab and learn from real scientists.
Who can apply?
Students in last 2 years of bachelor’s degree
Master’s degree students
Graduates with a bachelor’s or master’s degree
Why join this program?
Work in top labs in Japan
Learn new skills
Meet students from many countries
It can help you join OIST PhD program later
What will you do?
Help with real research projects
Join lab meetings
Learn how scientists solve problems
Practice working in a team
Fields of research
Biology
Physics
Chemistry
Environment
Computer science
Many more fields
Where is it?
Okinawa, a beautiful island in Japan
Who should NOT apply?
PhD students (they can apply for other programs at OIST)
What does OIST give you?
Chance to learn and grow
Work in a real research place
A better future in science
Note: For more information, visit the official website of Research Internship at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST).
