KEK Summer Student Program 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded

Applications are now open for the KEK Summer Student Program 2026 in Japan. This fully funded international summer research internship offers undergraduate and master’s students a unique opportunity to conduct advanced research at one of the world’s leading accelerator science laboratories.

The program is hosted by KEK (High Energy Accelerator Research Organization) in collaboration with SOKENDAI – The Graduate University for Advanced Studies. Selected students will work at the KEK Tsukuba Campus or J-PARC Tokai Campus under the supervision of experienced researchers.

About KEK Summer Student Program

The KEK Summer Student Program is designed to train the next generation of scientists by providing hands-on research experience in cutting-edge scientific fields. Participants will engage in group-based research projects, attend seminars, and collaborate with international researchers in a highly professional academic environment.

The program is conducted entirely in English, and knowledge of Japanese is not required.

KEK Summer Student Program 2026 Overview

• Host Country: Japan
• Host Organizations: KEK & SOKENDAI
• Program Locations: Tsukuba Campus & Tokai Campus (J-PARC)
• Program Duration: Up to 8 weeks (Theory groups: up to 4 weeks)
• Program Period: Mid-June to Mid-August 2026
• Program Type: Fully Funded Summer Research Internship

Available Research Fields

• Elementary Particle Physics
• Nuclear Physics
• Material and Life Science
• Accelerator Science
• Advanced Detection Systems (Sensors, Electronics, Computing)
• Theoretical Physics (Computational Methods)

Benefits of KEK Summer Student Program 2026

For International Students

• ✔ Round-trip airfare (fully covered)
• ✔ Free accommodation in KEK/J-PARC dormitories
• ✔ Daily allowance of ¥1,500
• ✔ Domestic travel costs between airport and campus

For Japanese University Students

• ✔ Free accommodation
• ✔ Daily allowance of ¥1,500
• ✔ Domestic travel support (as per KEK rules)

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must be in the latter half of their undergraduate program or early stage of a Master’s program (as of March 1, 2026)
• PhD students are not eligible
• Both Japanese and international students can apply
• Applicants must carefully follow official application guidelines

Required Documents

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Official academic transcript (English or Japanese translation required)
• Completed KEK application form (Word format)
• At least one recommendation letter from a supervisor
• Assigned applicant ID included in all document file names

How to Apply for KEK Summer Student Program 2026

1. Complete the online registration to obtain an applicant ID
2. Use the assigned ID in all application documents
3. Submit all required documents through the official web form
4. Your recommender must submit the recommendation letter separately using your ID

Important: Applications submitted by email will not be accepted.

Application Deadline

🗓 Deadline: 27 February 2026 at 9:00 AM (Japan Time)

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the KEK Summer Student Program fully funded?

Yes. The program covers airfare, accommodation, daily allowance, and domestic travel.

Is Japanese language required?

No. The program is conducted entirely in English.

Can PhD students apply?

No. PhD students are not eligible for this program.

Who can apply?

Undergraduate and Master’s students from any country are eligible.

Official Link

For complete details and application access, visit the official KEK Summer Student Program website.

Disclaimer: This website is not affiliated with KEK or SOKENDAI. Applicants are advised to verify all information through official sources before applying.