Admission

Qualifications

The Graduate School selects students on the basis of the applicant's academic qualifications shown on the documents submitted by the applicants. However, applicants who already reside in Japan must also take written examinations and pass an interview held at the University. Such applicants should consult the Graduate School of Science and Engineering well in advance for the timetable and other information related to the examination and interview.

Since the program is highly selective and the number of foreign students that can be accommodated is limited, only the most qualified applicants are admitted. After the Graduate School has thoroughly reviewed and evaluated the application materials of each applicant, positions will be offered.

To be eligible for admission to the doctoral course, the applicant should hold a master's degree comparable to that offered by Saitama University or its equivalent. However, an applicant with equivalent professional experience may be admitted to the program in lieu of university credentials.

An applicant must be in good mental and physical health. If admitted, the applicant must be able to come to Saitama University by April 1 (for April intake) or October 1 (for October intake) of the following year.

Selection Criteria and Procedure

Evaluation of applications will be based on the candidate's scholastic ability and research potential assessed from previous credentials, recommendation letters and the essays on specific topics. During the selection process, shortlisted candidates will be invited to face an internet-based interview conducted by a panel of three faculty members at a pre-determined time schedule. Details of this interview will be sent out to short-listed candidates. The final selection will be based on the performance at the interview.

Application for Admission

Application forms are available from this web page for downloading. If you have any difficulty in downloading, you can request the application forms by writing to the FRSO.

The following documents must be submitted when you are applying to the program:

  • Completed application form (Form A) [pdf] [doc]
  • Offcial copies of academic records and grades obtained during previous undergraduate and graduate studies
  • Two letters of recommendation (Form B) [pdf] [doc]
  • Essays on selected topics (Form C) [pdf] [doc]
  • A concise resume (Form D) [pdf] [doc]
  • Filled out address labels and a return postcard (enclosed in the application package)
  • Certificate of English proficiency (an official score of TOEFL, IELTS or equivalent)
  • List of publications and copies of refereed papers (if any)
  • Pledge with applicant's and recommender's signatures (Form E) [pdf]

Deadlines

Completed application documents must reach the FRSO by the following dates:

November 20, 2024 Applicants seeking admission and financial aid (MEXT scholarship)
November 1, 2024 Applicants seeking only admission for the April intake
April 15, 2025 Applicants seeking only admission for the October intake
Prospective students