Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) is inviting students from around the world to apply for its fully funded research internship program in Japan for 2026. The internship gives students real lab experience under top scientists, all while covering their living, travel, and visa costs.

This program is open to students in the final two years of their bachelor’s degree or any year of a master’s program, as well as recent graduates. Interns will receive 2,400 JPY per day, free housing, round-trip airfare, bus passes, and full visa support. It’s a unique chance to build a career in science while living in beautiful Okinawa, Japan.

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There are two internship cycles:

• Spring 2026: Apply by October 15, 2025. Internship runs April to September.
• Fall 2026: Apply by April 15, 2026. Internship runs October to March 2027.

The application process is online and includes submitting academic records, a statement of purpose, recommendation letters, and ID documents. There s a non-refundable fee of 3,000 JPY, and at least one recommendation letter is needed to complete the application.

OIST is known for its English-speaking environment, cutting-edge research, and international diversity. The program is competitive, but selected students will join meaningful projects that could boost their chances of future academic opportunities including PhD programs at OIST.