History
Brief History of Kobe University and Graduate School of Economics. Kobe University's inception can be traced back to 1902 with the establishment of Kobe Higher Commercial School.
Education
- In our education, we place great importance upon fostering the diversity, internationality, excellence and adaptability that are necessary to thrive in a new sustainable society. Kobe University will develop its knowledge resources using AI, IOT, big data analysis and fundamental information technology, producing graduates who are able to create new values and implement them into society. To this aim, Kobe University shall defy the boundaries between academic fields, collaborate with society, and promote practical learning, value creation and data science education that incorporates the knowledge, skills and techniques required for industry-government-academia co-creation.
Research
- In our research, we emphasize autonomy; harnessing intellectual and creative strength to pursue the truth through our fundamental research, as well as working together with local communities on applied research. As a globally-focused university with roots in the international and pioneering Kobe area, we have a duty to respond to society’s needs and expectations. Kobe University will become an eminent research hub that propels the world towards new horizons through joint ventures with industries and local governments among others.
Kobe University Key Statistics & Highlights
- #482 Ranking
- 4 Masters
- 49 Scholarships
- 1,504 Academic Staff
- 15,642 Students
- 1,095 Students (int'l)
- 5,631 Students (female)
- Public Institution Type
Kobe University Overview
Kobe University Scholarships
Kobe University Scholarships
Below you will find scholarships related to Kobe University. Distinction can be made between scholarships provided by the University and those provided by independent providers.
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
07 Oct 2026
Fulbright U.S. Student Program
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
33600 EUR
Deadline
01 Jul 2026
Mundus MAPP EMJM Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
Not specified
ADB-Japan Scholarship Program for Developing Countries in Asia and Pacific
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
1000 USD
Deadline
30 Nov 2026
ServiceScape Scholarship
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
3500 USD
Deadline
15 Nov 2026
ACES Scholarships
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
29 May 2026
Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
Need-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
145000 JPY
Deadline
Not specified
Japan (MONBUKAGAKUSHO)-Outgoing
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
2000 USD
Deadline
01 Sep 2026
The Rick Blight Leadership in Action Scholarship for Athletes
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
Not specified
Erasmus+ - Grants for study mobility
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
1500 USD
Deadline
15 Sep 2026
Headway’s Book Lovers Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
3000 USD
Deadline
30 Jun 2026
Moving Mates Scholarship
Need-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
Not specified
Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
120000 JPY
Deadline
Anytime
Japan Foundation for UNU (jfUNU) Scholarship
Need-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
1000 USD
Deadline
06 Jul 2026
Jewish Heritage Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
5000 USD
Deadline
28 Aug 2026
Women Scholarship for International Students
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
5000 SEK
Deadline
30 Apr 2026
Kreditkortlistan Financial Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
1000 USD
Deadline
31 Oct 2026
$1,500 Annual Video Contest Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
500 USD
Deadline
31 Oct 2026
CryptoRunner Scholarship
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
7000 USD
Deadline
24 Apr 2026
Go Global MBA Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
3500 USD
Deadline
15 Nov 2026
The Bill Walsh Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
07 Oct 2026
Fulbright U.S. Student Program
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
33600 EUR
Deadline
01 Jul 2026
Mundus MAPP EMJM Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
Not specified
ADB-Japan Scholarship Program for Developing Countries in Asia and Pacific
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
1000 USD
Deadline
30 Nov 2026
ServiceScape Scholarship
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
3500 USD
Deadline
15 Nov 2026
ACES Scholarships
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
29 May 2026
Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
Need-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
145000 JPY
Deadline
Not specified
Japan (MONBUKAGAKUSHO)-Outgoing
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
2000 USD
Deadline
01 Sep 2026
The Rick Blight Leadership in Action Scholarship for Athletes
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
Not specified
Erasmus+ - Grants for study mobility
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
1500 USD
Deadline
15 Sep 2026
Headway’s Book Lovers Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
3000 USD
Deadline
30 Jun 2026
Moving Mates Scholarship
Need-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
Not specified
Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
120000 JPY
Deadline
Anytime
Japan Foundation for UNU (jfUNU) Scholarship
Need-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
1000 USD
Deadline
06 Jul 2026
Jewish Heritage Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
5000 USD
Deadline
28 Aug 2026
Women Scholarship for International Students
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
5000 SEK
Deadline
30 Apr 2026
Kreditkortlistan Financial Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
1000 USD
Deadline
31 Oct 2026
$1,500 Annual Video Contest Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
500 USD
Deadline
31 Oct 2026
CryptoRunner Scholarship
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
7000 USD
Deadline
24 Apr 2026
Go Global MBA Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
3500 USD
Deadline
15 Nov 2026
The Bill Walsh Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
07 Oct 2026
Fulbright U.S. Student Program
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
33600 EUR
Deadline
01 Jul 2026
Mundus MAPP EMJM Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
Not specified
ADB-Japan Scholarship Program for Developing Countries in Asia and Pacific
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
1000 USD
Deadline
30 Nov 2026
ServiceScape Scholarship
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
3500 USD
Deadline
15 Nov 2026
ACES Scholarships
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
29 May 2026
Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
Need-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
145000 JPY
Deadline
Not specified
Japan (MONBUKAGAKUSHO)-Outgoing
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
2000 USD
Deadline
01 Sep 2026
The Rick Blight Leadership in Action Scholarship for Athletes
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
Not specified
Erasmus+ - Grants for study mobility
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
1500 USD
Deadline
15 Sep 2026
Headway’s Book Lovers Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
3000 USD
Deadline
30 Jun 2026
Moving Mates Scholarship
Need-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
Not specified
Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
120000 JPY
Deadline
Anytime
Japan Foundation for UNU (jfUNU) Scholarship
Need-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
1000 USD
Deadline
06 Jul 2026
Jewish Heritage Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
5000 USD
Deadline
28 Aug 2026
Women Scholarship for International Students
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
5000 SEK
Deadline
30 Apr 2026
Kreditkortlistan Financial Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
1000 USD
Deadline
31 Oct 2026
$1,500 Annual Video Contest Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
500 USD
Deadline
31 Oct 2026
CryptoRunner Scholarship
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
7000 USD
Deadline
24 Apr 2026
Go Global MBA Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
3500 USD
Deadline
15 Nov 2026
The Bill Walsh Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
07 Oct 2026
Fulbright U.S. Student Program
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
33600 EUR
Deadline
01 Jul 2026
Mundus MAPP EMJM Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
Not specified
ADB-Japan Scholarship Program for Developing Countries in Asia and Pacific
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
1000 USD
Deadline
30 Nov 2026
ServiceScape Scholarship
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
3500 USD
Deadline
15 Nov 2026
ACES Scholarships
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
29 May 2026
Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
Need-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
145000 JPY
Deadline
Not specified
Japan (MONBUKAGAKUSHO)-Outgoing
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
2000 USD
Deadline
01 Sep 2026
The Rick Blight Leadership in Action Scholarship for Athletes
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
Not specified
Erasmus+ - Grants for study mobility
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
1500 USD
Deadline
15 Sep 2026
Headway’s Book Lovers Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
3000 USD
Deadline
30 Jun 2026
Moving Mates Scholarship
Need-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
Not specified
Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
120000 JPY
Deadline
Anytime
Japan Foundation for UNU (jfUNU) Scholarship
Need-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
1000 USD
Deadline
06 Jul 2026
Jewish Heritage Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
5000 USD
Deadline
28 Aug 2026
Women Scholarship for International Students
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
5000 SEK
Deadline
30 Apr 2026
Kreditkortlistan Financial Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
1000 USD
Deadline
31 Oct 2026
$1,500 Annual Video Contest Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
500 USD
Deadline
31 Oct 2026
CryptoRunner Scholarship
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
7000 USD
Deadline
24 Apr 2026
Go Global MBA Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
3500 USD
Deadline
15 Nov 2026
The Bill Walsh Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
07 Oct 2026
Fulbright U.S. Student Program
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
33600 EUR
Deadline
01 Jul 2026
Mundus MAPP EMJM Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
Not specified
ADB-Japan Scholarship Program for Developing Countries in Asia and Pacific
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
1000 USD
Deadline
30 Nov 2026
ServiceScape Scholarship
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
3500 USD
Deadline
15 Nov 2026
ACES Scholarships
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
29 May 2026
Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
Need-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
145000 JPY
Deadline
Not specified
Japan (MONBUKAGAKUSHO)-Outgoing
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
2000 USD
Deadline
01 Sep 2026
The Rick Blight Leadership in Action Scholarship for Athletes
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
Not specified
Erasmus+ - Grants for study mobility
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
1500 USD
Deadline
15 Sep 2026
Headway’s Book Lovers Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
3000 USD
Deadline
30 Jun 2026
Moving Mates Scholarship
Need-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
Various benefits
Deadline
Not specified
Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
120000 JPY
Deadline
Anytime
Japan Foundation for UNU (jfUNU) Scholarship
Need-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
1000 USD
Deadline
06 Jul 2026
Jewish Heritage Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
5000 USD
Deadline
28 Aug 2026
Women Scholarship for International Students
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
5000 SEK
Deadline
30 Apr 2026
Kreditkortlistan Financial Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
1000 USD
Deadline
31 Oct 2026
$1,500 Annual Video Contest Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
500 USD
Deadline
31 Oct 2026
CryptoRunner Scholarship
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
7000 USD
Deadline
24 Apr 2026
Go Global MBA Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Independent provider
Grant
3500 USD
Deadline
15 Nov 2026
The Bill Walsh Scholarship
Merit-based
Read more about eligibility
Kobe University Student Reviews & Awards
4.5
Based on 4 reviews
- 5 Star 2 Reviews
- 4 Star 2 Reviews
- 3 Star 0 Reviews
- 2 Star 0 Reviews
- 1 Star 0 Reviews
A Comprehensive Review of Kobe University
Academic Excellence Kobe University, located in the vibrant city of Kobe, Japan, is renowned for its strong academic programs and commitment to research. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across various faculties, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and health sciences. The faculty comprises distinguished scholars and researchers who provide high-quality education and mentorship. Research and Innovation Kobe University is a leading research institution, recognized for its innovative research contributions, particularly in the fields of science, technology, and medicine. The university hosts numerous research centers and institutes, facilitating interdisciplinary research and collaboration. This robust research environment attracts both domestic and international researchers, fostering a culture of innovation and discovery. Campus and Facilities The university's campus is picturesque, combining modern facilities with serene natural surroundings. Kobe University boasts well-equipped laboratories, comprehensive libraries, and state-of-the-art lecture halls. Additionally, the campus includes recreational and athletic facilities, providing a well-rounded environment for both academic and extracurricular activities. Student Life Student life at Kobe University is vibrant and diverse. The university offers a plethora of clubs, societies, and cultural activities, catering to a wide range of interests. This active campus life is complemented by the university's support services, which include academic advising, career counseling, and mental health resources. The university also encourages a global perspective, with a strong emphasis on internationalization and cross-cultural exchange programs. Sustainability and Social Responsibility Kobe University is committed to sustainability and social responsibility, evident through its various green initiatives and community engagement projects. The university actively promotes environmental sustainability on campus and integrates these principles into its academic programs and research activities. Location and Accessibility Situated in the bustling port city of Kobe, the university benefits from its strategic location. Kobe is known for its blend of modernity and tradition, offering a rich cultural experience. The city’s efficient public transportation system makes the university easily accessible and provides students with the convenience of exploring the broader Kansai region, including Osaka and Kyoto. Challenges While Kobe University excels in many areas, there are some challenges that need to be addressed. The university's administrative processes can sometimes be slow and cumbersome, which may be frustrating for students. Additionally, while there is a growing number of programs offered in English, the majority of courses are still taught in Japanese, which can be a barrier for international students who do not speak the language fluently. Conclusion Overall, Kobe University is an outstanding institution that offers a balanced blend of academic rigor, research opportunities, and vibrant campus life. Its commitment to sustainability, social responsibility, and internationalization makes it an excellent choice for students seeking a comprehensive and enriching university experience. Whether you are pursuing undergraduate studies, postgraduate research, or professional development, Kobe University provides a supportive and stimulating environment to achieve your academic and career goals.
Inter- and Transdisciplinary Studies
Inter- and Transdisciplinary approach was very satisfying to me but the university leaves a lot of responsibilities on students to make bridges between topics, but overall BOKU is very progressive, modern, and inclusive
Great!
a very good university that has adapted to online studying very efficiently.
Studied here? Share your experience
Kobe University Rankings
Study Portals Meta Ranking
Top 7.1% Japan
Top 8% Worldwide
Studyportals ranking look at the scores of the most used ranking systems and present you with one number of how well this University performs.
QS World University Rankings
482
By TopUniversities
Dropped 17 places compared to 2025
QS World University Rankings is one of the top international rankings measuring the popularity and performance of universities all over the world. They measure university reputation based on the impressions of higher education experts, companies who hire graduates, and teaching quality. QS also considers the ratio of international teachers and students present at universities, as well as the times research papers were mentioned by researchers. After calculating and comparing these criteria, QS ranks the universities accordingly.
3 year trend QS World University Rankings
| 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| 476 | 465 | 482 |
We don’t have enough recent ranking data to show a 3-year trend for this university.
Academic Ranking of World Universities
501
By Shanghai Jiao Tong University
The university hasn’t moved up or down in the rankings over the past year.
ARWU World University rankings is the first world university ranking. It ranks the world's top 1000 colleges and universities based on objective indicator. They look at the number of award-winning (Fields Medals and Nobel Prize) scientists who are located there, how much of their research is cited and referenced around the world, and how much they've contributed to different academic fields. After calculating and comparing these criteria, ARWU ranks the universities accordingly.
3 year trend Academic Ranking of World Universities
| 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| 501 | 501 | 501 |
We don’t have enough recent ranking data to show a 3-year trend for this university.
World University Rankings
601
By Times Higher Education
The university hasn’t moved up or down in the rankings over the past year.
World University Rankings is a vital resource that provides the definitive list of the world's best universities. They look at how often they're producing new ideas, what their reputation is around the world, and how much they're contributing to science and academic fields. After calculating and comparing these criteria, THE ranks the universities accordingly.
3 year trend World University Rankings
| 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| 601 | 601 | 601 |
We don’t have enough recent ranking data to show a 3-year trend for this university.
Best Global Universities Rankings
No 2026 Ranking
By U.S. News & World Report
This university doesn’t have a ranking for 2026 yet. Rankings are updated yearly, so check back later for the latest info.
Best Global Universities Rankings by U.S. News & World Report presents all the top universities from the U.S. and 60 other countries around the world. They measure the rate of students going to their second year of studies, as well as the rate of students who graduate. It also asks university representatives on the performance of universities, and evaluates university resources, teacher salaries, graduation rates, student academic achievements and satisfaction. After calculating and comparing these criteria, U.S. News ranks the top international universities accordingly.
3 year trend Best Global Universities Rankings
| 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| 649 | - | - |
We don’t have enough recent ranking data to show a 3-year trend for this university.
Student services
- The Kobe University Communications Division promotes public understanding of the University’s profile and activities.
- We report on the University’s education and research activities, international collaborations, joint projects with industry and government, and contributions to society, as well the fiscal affairs and management of the University.
- Our public relations policy has two primary aims: fulfilling our social responsibility to be transparent and accountable, and defining Kobe University’s identity as one of Japan’s top higher education institutions.
Housing services
- The university dormitories were built for current and new international students (including matriculates) of Kobe University. Recruitment is generally announced in January and July, but only on vacancy basis.
Library services
- Kobe University Libraries have a collection of about 3.7 million print materials and 26 thousand titles of electronic journals to support teaching, learning and research for our students and faculty.
ICT services
- This Center provides ICT (Information and Communication Technology) infrastructure to support the educational, research, and administrative activities of all members of the university including students, faculties, and staffs. This infrastructure includes a student PC system, user ID management system, an email system, a network system for information exchange, and other information systems.
Medical services
- The Medical Center for Student Health in Rokkodai Campus offers emergency first aid treatment, medical examinations, and consultations regarding physical or mental health. It can be used by students and staff of Kobe University. Medical examinations and consultation services are also available at the three branch Medical Centers located in Fukae Campus, Kusunoki Campus, and Myodani Campus.
Campus life
- Kobe University has five Registered Tangible Cultural Properties (Structures) on campus. They were built in the early 1930s as part of the Kobe University of Commerce (the predecessor to Kobe University) and designed by the Ministry of Education. The buildings are still used by the University today.
Sports facilities
- Kobe University offers many facilities for fitness, extracurricular activities, and student welfare.
Student clubs
- Society for the Study of Children's Culture.
- Drama Society.
- Glee Club (men's chorus)
- ERDE (mixed voices chorus)
- Apollon (mixed voices chorus)
- Mandolin Club.
- Photography Club.
- Noh Drama Club.
Accreditation
Kobe University underwent the Institutional Certified Evaluation and Accreditation process performed in the 2021 academic year by the National Institution for Academic Degrees and Quality Enhancement of Higher Education (NIAD-QE), and was certified as meeting the standards for evaluation and accreditation in 2022.
Kobe University Campus Locations
#1 Main Campus
Japan Country
Kobe-shi City