Mansfield Fellowship Programme 2027: Professional Development Opportunity in Japan for U.S. Federal Employees
Overview
The Mansfield Fellowship Programme is a professional development initiative designed to give eligible United States federal government employees an immersive year-long experience in Japan. Administered by the Maureen and Mike Mansfield Foundation and funded through the United States Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, the programme aims to build expertise in Japanese government institutions, policymaking, language, and professional culture. Established in 1994, the initiative seeks to develop a network of Japan specialists within the U.S. federal government to strengthen bilateral cooperation and strategic interests.
Who can apply
Applications are open for candidates interested in joining the 31st class of Mansfield Fellows. The programme is specifically intended for eligible U.S. federal government employees whose responsibilities involve Japan-related policy, international cooperation, economic relations, security, or other shared areas of interest between the United States and Japan. It is not open as a general international scholarship for all students and professionals. Prospective applicants must commit to serving for at least two additional years in the federal government following the completion of the fellowship.
What you get
Participants receive an approximately one-year immersive experience in Japan that combines language instruction, cultural immersion, professional placements, and relationship-building activities. The experience begins with pre-departure Japanese language and area studies training, followed by a seven-week homestay and intensive Japanese language programme in Ishikawa Prefecture. Fellows then undertake ten-month professional placements within Japanese government ministries to gain direct exposure to government operations, institutional practices, and decision-making processes. Through these activities, participants develop specialised knowledge, language skills, government exposure, and international networks across Japanese government, business, professional, and academic communities.