Fully Funded UNOOSA/Japan Kyutech Post-graduate Fellowship 2026 in Nano-Satellite Technologies (PNST) for Developing Countries
- Omran Aburayya
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
If you’re a highly motivated student from a developing or non-spacefaring nation with a passion for satellite engineering and space technology, applications are now open for the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)/Japan Post-graduate Study on Nano-Satellite Technologies (PNST) 2026. This fully funded fellowship, jointly organized by UNOOSA, the Government of Japan, and the Kyushu Institute of Technology (Kyutech), offers a rare opportunity to earn a master’s or doctoral degree while gaining hands-on experience in nano-satellite development — directly contributing to your country’s space ecosystem. Here's everything you need to know.
🎓 Fellowship Summary
Location: Kitakyushu, Japan
Host Institution: Kyushu Institute of Technology (Kyutech), Japan
Organizers: United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and the Government of Japan (MEXT)
Programme Name: Post-graduate Study on Nano-Satellite Technologies (PNST)
Study Level: Master’s (2 years) or Doctoral (3 years)
Target Group: Nationals of developing countries or non-space-faring nations
Field of Study: Nano-satellite technologies, space engineering, and related disciplines
Value & Coverage: Fully funded (stipend, tuition, and travel)
Duration: 2 years (Master’s) or 3 years (Doctorate)
Application Deadline: 30 November 2025, 23:59 JST
Programme Start Date: October 2026
📚 Programme Overview
The Post-graduate Study on Nano-Satellite Technologies (PNST) is part of UNOOSA’s Access to Space for All initiative, launched in partnership with Kyutech and supported by Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT).
Since its inception in 2013, the PNST programme has trained students from over 40 developing and non-spacefaring nations, providing them with practical skills in nano-satellite design, integration, and testing. Selected fellows are enrolled in Kyutech’s Space Engineering International Course (SEIC), one of the world’s leading academic programs in small satellite engineering.
Students gain hands-on experience using Kyutech’s advanced nano-satellite development and testing facilities, benefiting from mentorship by top Japanese engineers and international faculty. The programme aims to equip participants with the expertise needed to contribute to the establishment and growth of space programs in their home countries.
At the end of the programme, successful participants are awarded a Master’s or Doctoral degree from Kyutech and are expected to return home to apply their knowledge in advancing national or regional space initiatives.
💲 Fellowship Benefits
Each PNST fellow will receive comprehensive financial and academic support, including:
Monthly Stipend: Approximately 144,000 JPY to cover living expenses, housing, food, and local transport (funded by MEXT).
Travel Grant: Round-trip economy air ticket between the candidate’s home country and Japan.
Full Tuition Coverage: Matriculation, entrance examination, and tuition fees fully waived by Kyutech.
Hands-on Training: Practical research and development using real satellite systems and facilities.
International Exposure: Study in a diverse environment with peers from across the globe.
Post-study Impact: Opportunities to contribute to the growth of space technology capacity in the participant’s home country.
✅ Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
Be nationals of a developing country or non-space-faring nation (countries without substantial space technology capability).
Be born on or after 2 April 1991.
Be nominated by their home institution or government agency.
Have the academic background suitable for advanced study:
For the Master’s programme: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in an engineering-related discipline.
For the Doctoral programme: Master’s degree or equivalent in an engineering-related discipline.
Demonstrate strong academic and professional potential relevant to satellite technology.
Be committed to applying the acquired knowledge to national development upon completion.
Both male and female applicants are encouraged; UNOOSA aims for gender balance (50/50) in selections.
📝 Application Procedure
Step 1 – Registration: Applicants must register on the UNOOSA website to obtain editable versions of the required application documents:
Step 2 – Submission:
Complete all application documents (in .doc or .pdf format) and submit them electronically to the link provided in your confirmation email. (available on this webpage)
Referees must submit their recommendation forms directly via the designated upload link.
The deadline for all materials is 30 November 2025, 23:59 JST.
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Step 3 – Selection Process:
December 2025: First-round screening based on application documents.
January 2026: Remote interviews for shortlisted candidates.
March 2026: Final selection announcement.
June 2026: Research and study plans finalized with supervisors.
July 2026: Official Kyutech entrance examination and visa processing.
October 2026: Start of the PNST fellowship programme at Kyutech.
🗂️ Required Documents
PNST Application Form
MEXT Scholarship Application Form
Nomination Form (and Ranking Certificate)
Academic Background Form (and official transcripts)
Referee Report Forms (two required)
Field of Study and Research Plan
Copy of passport or national ID
Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
📖 Resources
Why Choose PNST?
Internationally Renowned University: Study at Kyutech, Japan’s top university for small-satellite technology, recognized by Bryce Tech (2025) for launching the most academic small satellites globally.
Fully Funded & Hands-on: Receive comprehensive funding and practical experience in real satellite missions.
Global Impact: Develop expertise to advance your country’s participation in the space sector.
Networking & Mentorship: Join an international community of scientists and engineers dedicated to sustainable space development.
ℹ️ Contact Information
PNST Administration:
UNOOSA Office:
United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)
Vienna International Centre, Wagramerstrasse 5, A-1220 Vienna, Austria
🚀 Final Note
This prestigious fellowship offers not only world-class education in nano-satellite technologies but also the chance to contribute meaningfully to your nation’s scientific and technological development. If you dream of leading your country’s future in space innovation, the PNST 2026 Fellowship is your gateway.
Apply by 30 November 2025!
