Research Students (Kenkyūsei)

Overview

Research students (Kenkyūsei) are non-degree seeking students who conduct research under faculty guidance at Gifu University. This program allows graduates from universities or colleges (including international students) to pursue specialized research without enrolling in a formal degree program. Research students can take Japanese language classes offered by the university. Many students use this status as a preparation period for graduate school entrance examinations.

Acceptance Policy

Important: Our laboratory only accepts research students whose research interests and backgrounds precisely match our current research areas. Before applying, please carefully review our ongoing research projects described on this website. In your application, you must clearly explain how your research interests specifically align with our laboratory’s work. Applications that do not demonstrate this exact research alignment will not be considered.

Application Process

Step 1: If you are interested in becoming a research student in our laboratory, you must first send your CV and research proposal to recruit-research-student[at]ai.info.gifu-u.ac.jp. Your research proposal should clearly explain how your research interests align with our laboratory’s work.

Step 2: Only after receiving approval from our laboratory should you proceed with the formal university application process.

Eligibility

  • University graduates or those with equivalent academic qualifications
  • International applicants must have completed 16 years of school education in their home country or have equivalent academic qualifications

Application Period

  • For April admission: January application period
  • For October admission: July application period

Required Documents

  1. Application form
  2. Certificate of graduation (or expected graduation) from most recent school
  3. Academic transcript from most recent school
  4. Letter of recommendation from supervisor or dean (international applicants)
  5. Certificate of Japanese or English language proficiency (international applicants)
  6. Copy of passport (international applicants)
  7. Documentation of financial resources (international applicants)
  8. Application fee payment proof

Research Period

  • Standard period: 6 months or 1 year
  • Extension possible (up to a total of 2 years)

Tuition and Fees

  • Application fee: 9,800 yen
  • Admission fee: 84,600 yen
  • Tuition: 29,700 yen per month (178,200 yen for 6 months)

Visa Information for International Applicants

International students accepted as research students will need to apply for a “Student” visa. The university will provide the necessary Certificate of Eligibility for this process.

Notes

  • Research students do not receive degrees
  • Credit transfer is not available
  • Research students have access to university facilities
  • Limited scholarships may be available for international students

For detailed information and application procedures, please visit the official Gifu University Research Student page.