Deadline: November 30, 2025
Are you passionate about space technology and looking for a fully funded opportunity to pursue a Master’s or Doctoral degree in nano-satellite technologies? The UNOOSA PNST Fellowship Programme 2026 offers an exceptional platform for students from developing and non-space-faring countries to gain advanced knowledge in this critical field. Applications are now open, and the deadline is 30 November 2025 (23:59 JST).
About the UNOOSA PNST Fellowship Programme 2026
The Post-graduate Study on Nano-Satellite Technologies (PNST) Fellowship Programme is organised by the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) in collaboration with the Kyushu Institute of Technology (Kyutech), Japan. The programme forms part of UNOOSA’s Access to Space for All Initiative, which aims to build capacity in space technology among nations with emerging space capabilities.
Successful applicants will undertake studies through the Space Engineering International Course (SEIC) at Kyutech and will earn either a Master’s (2 years) or Doctoral (3 years) degree upon successful completion of their thesis defence.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected candidates for the UNOOSA PNST Fellowship Programme 2026 will receive a comprehensive package of support, including:
- Monthly stipend: Approximately ¥144,000 JPY (about USD 987) funded by the Japanese Government (MEXT), covering accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses.
- Fully covered travel: Economy-class roundtrip air ticket between the fellow’s home country and Japan (Narita or Fukuoka airports).
- Tuition support: All matriculation, tuition, and entrance examination fees waived by Kyutech.
This funding ensures that fellows can focus entirely on their studies without financial burden.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements to qualify for the UNOOSA PNST Fellowship Programme 2026:
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of a developing or non-space-faring country.
- Age: Must be born on or after 2 April 1991.
- Institutional Nomination: Applications must be formally supported by the applicant’s home institution.
- Academic Background:
- Master’s applicants: Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in engineering or a related field.
- Doctoral applicants: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in engineering or a related field.
- Degrees in other technological areas may be considered by the Selection Committee.
- Language Proficiency: Demonstrated English proficiency at CEFR B2 level or higher (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo). Applicants who completed their education in English can submit a certification from their Dean instead.
- Commitment: Must intend to apply the knowledge gained in their professional career to contribute to national or international space development efforts.
Application Process and Important Dates
The application process for the UNOOSA PNST Fellowship Programme 2026 is fully online and involves the following steps:
- Register Online to obtain the application link.
- Complete and submit the application form and all supporting documents (except referee reports) electronically by 30 November 2025, 23:59 JST.
- Referee reports must be submitted separately by referees by the same deadline.
- Shortlisted candidates may be asked to send original documents via express courier.
Key Timeline
- Applications open: August 2025
- Application deadline: 30 November 2025 (23:59 JST)
- Shortlisting: January 2026
- Final selection: March 2026
- Research/study plan finalisation: June 2026
- Entrance examination at Kyutech: July 2026
- Programme start date: October 2026
Selection Process
The selection committee considers academic merit, relevance of the proposed research, and commitment to capacity building in space technology. Gender balance is actively promoted, with a target of selecting three male and three female fellows each year. Master’s applicants are required to attend an interview, while Doctoral applicants may be exempt.
Why Apply for the UNOOSA PNST Fellowship Programme 2026?
This fellowship is not just about earning an advanced degree—it is about becoming part of a global network of space professionals who are shaping the future of satellite technology. Graduates of the programme have gone on to lead space initiatives, strengthen their countries’ capabilities, and contribute to international space research.
How to Apply
Interested applicants can:
For expert assistance with your proposal drafting, refining, and review, contact grantsdatabase.org.
