How to Apply (Graduate)

Below is a checklist of documents required for the Graduate Program application process. In general, documents are to be submitted through our online application system (TAO). However, you may be required to mail us some application documents by post. For more details, please see the Application Guidelines.

Documents required for pre-application review 

  1. CV with specific academic information
  2. A detailed research plan (one page, A4 size / U.S. letter-sized paper maximum) 
  3. Official academic transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate* programs 
  4. A list of research achievements (if any) 

*Transcripts for graduate programs are only required for those who are applying for our doctoral program.
Note: Applicants may begin their application after their pre- application has been reviewed and approved.

Documents required for Application

1. Photograph (.jpeg) 

Upload a photograph to TAO. The photograph must be taken within the last three months, showing a portrait (front) view above the chest against a plain background. No caps or hats are allowed.

2. Summary of research (ONLY required for the Doctoral Program)

A typewritten English summary of the applicant’s master’s thesis must be submitted. Include a summary of any academic or professional achievements if any. It should not exceed three pages of A4 or U.S. letter-sized paper in length. If you have not yet completed your master’s program, a summary of current research will be accepted.

3. Research plan

Any format is acceptable, however, it should not exceed three pages for master’s program applicants and five pages for doctoral program applicants. (Please use A4 or U.S. letter size paper.)
This research plan should be typed in English.

4. Application essay(400 words minimum, 500 words maximum)

Write a short essay in English on the topic of your reason(s) for applying to the Graduate Program at KUAS and upload it to TAO. In your essay, you should also describe what you expect to achieve in this program as well as your subjects of specialty. There are no specific requirements for the essay’s formatting, spacing, etc.

5. Official academic transcripts from all colleges and/or universities attended

Official transcripts of all undergraduate program (for both Master’s and Doctoral Programs).
Official transcripts of all graduate program (ONLY required for the Doctoral Program).
If not in English, a certified English translation is required.

6. Certificates (expected) of graduation from academic institutions attended

Certificates of graduation of all bachelor’s degree programs (for both Master’s and Doctoral Programs).
Certificates of graduation of all master’s degree programs (ONLY required for the Doctoral Program).
If not in English, a certified English translation is required.

7. Evidence of English language proficiency (TOEFL iBT / IELTS / PTE / Duolingo)

Applicants whose native language is not English are required to prove their proficiency. Submit a valid score from one of the standardized tests listed below. Test scores must be less than two years old to be valid.

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) Internet-based (iBT): 80
Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic: 50
Duolingo English Test 105

These test scores must be sent directly to us from their respective testing agency. KUAS does not accept results of these tests uploaded to TAO or emailed us by the applicants.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic overall band score: 6.0

Applicants should upload  a PDF scan of their score (TRF) to TAO.

KUAS also accepts TOEFL iBT Home Edition and IELTS Indicator.
Please see the Application Guidelines for more details.

8. A Letter of recommendation

KUAS requires at least ONE letter of recommendation from an educator. It should be from your supervisor in a master’s program.
The recommendation letter should be directly uploaded to your TAO application by your recommender. Please see the Application Guidelines for more details.

9. Copy of your passport or ID

Scan and upload the photo ID page of your passport to TAO. If you do not have a passport, upload a scan copy of your official government ID. The scanned copy must be in color and clearly show your photo, name, and passport number.

10. Copy of residence card (only for the applicants who have valid Japanese resident status)

If you are a resident in Japan, scan and upload a copy of your residence card to TAO. The scanned copy must be in color and include both sides of the card.