Japan (JSPS) International Fellowships in Japan (Fully Funded)

Overview

The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) International Fellowships support early-career scholars from ASEAN countries and beyond who want to do cooperative research in Japan. JSPS works with leading Japanese universities and national research institutes to host pre- and post-doctoral fellows. Fellows carry out independent cooperative research under the mentorship of Japanese scientists, and all academic disciplines are eligible. Fellowships last 1 to 12 months in full-month increments, and fellows must live continuously in Japan for the whole term.

What you get

Fellows receive round-trip airfare under JSPS regulations and overseas travel insurance. The monthly stipend is JPY 362,000 for PhD holders and JPY 200,000 for those without a PhD. A settling-in allowance of JPY 200,000 is paid for stays of at least 3 months. A research support allowance of up to JPY 70,000 per month covers cooperative research expenses.

Who can apply

There are four categories. ASEAN nationals who hold a PhD obtained outside Japan within the last 6 years can apply, as can ASEAN nationals enrolled in a PhD program who expect to graduate within 2 years. Non-ASEAN nationals can apply in the same categories if they also have at least 3 years of research experience at an ASEAN institution. Previous JSPS Fellowship recipients are not eligible.

Requirements

The host researcher must be affiliated with a KAKENHI-eligible institution and be a full-time researcher, with some exceptions for uninterrupted program support. The same host must remain in place throughout the fellowship.

How to apply

Applicants first identify a prospective host by contacting Japanese researchers directly, since JSPS does not arrange placements. They then apply through their country's JSPS nominating body via the ASEAN University Network portal. Nominating authorities forward endorsed applications to JSPS, and applicants are notified of selection about three months after nomination. The national JSPS Alumni Association can offer guidance.

Key dates

Applications go through the nominating body by August 28, 2026 at 5 p.m. JST. Nominating authorities forward endorsed applications to JSPS by 1 December 2026.