About NAIST

Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST) is a new type of national postgraduate university which was founded in 1991 and is situated in Kansai Science City, a border region between Nara, Osaka and Kyoto. NAIST was established with graduate schools of information science, biological sciences and materials science in 1991. In order to conduct interdisciplinary research across the traditional fields, NAIST underwent a transformation in 2018 with the formation of a new single graduate school organisation, the Graduate School of Science and Technology by integrating all three graduate schools at NAIST.

This brand-new academic institution provides in-depth training in cutting-edge science and technology research for the purpose of making discoveries and developing technologies which eventually lead to a more comfortable environment in the society. Additionally, NAIST acts as a hub for interdisciplinary innovation and education which strives to address global social challenges, such as SDGs, with the President’s Vision, “NAIST: Co-creating the Future”.

NAIST Student Exchange Programs

NAIST offers student exchange programs for the graduate school students internationally. Students from partner institutions which are based on academic exchange agreements are able to join as Special Research Students (graduate school student level).

NAIST Student Exchange Programs allow students to learn and conduct research at a laboratory in this prestigious institution which excel in the three expertise of information science, biological sciences and materials science. With approximately 1,000 students in total, students are more closely supervised and motivated.

In NAIST, students not only have the opportunity to gain latest insights related to their fields, but also develop various skills and abilities needed for technological advancement and scientific discovery. Furthermore, the ease of access to scientific equipment, seminars and journal clubs as well as mentor-student system available in NAIST contribute to NAIST’s supportive atmosphere for research.

Apart from excellent academic facilities, NAIST is well-equipped with a large library, health care center, cafeteria as well as guesthouse for students convenience. Its strategic location in a pleasant countryside within the historic Nara Prefecture contributes to a comfortable environment for students to conduct research. Moreover, students can visit the major cities of Osaka and Kyoto with only a 40 minute journey by train.

Great news for international students! NAIST offers priority to international students by arranging their on-campus dormitory which include LAN connection for 24-hour access to NAIST’s online library and academic resources.

NAIST Student Exchange Programs