JSPS International Fellowships 2027, Japan

The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science has officially opened applications for the JSPS International Fellowships for Research in Japan 2027–2028. This prestigious government-funded program offers international researchers the opportunity to conduct advanced research at Japanese universities and research institutes with generous financial support.

Overview

The JSPS International Fellowships are fully funded research opportunities designed to strengthen global collaboration and attract talented researchers to Japan. The fellowship includes several categories, with the flagship Postdoctoral Fellowship (Standard) supporting up to two years of research in Japan.

The first recruitment deadline is 28 August 2026, while the second cycle closes on 23 April 2027.

Degree Level

This fellowship is available for:

Postdoctoral researchers
Senior researchers

Applicants should already hold a doctoral degree or be close to completing one.

Available Subjects

The fellowship is open across all academic disciplines, including:

Natural Sciences
Engineering and Technology
Medical and Life Sciences
Humanities
Social Sciences
Interdisciplinary Research

Benefits

Selected fellows will receive:

Monthly stipend of ¥362,000
Round-trip international airfare (economy class)
Settling-in allowance of ¥200,000
Overseas travel and accident insurance
Access to research-related grants through host institutions
Opportunity to conduct research at leading Japanese institutions

This funding package is designed to cover most relocation, living, and research-related costs.

Eligible Nationalities

Applicants must be:

Citizens of countries that maintain diplomatic relations with Japan

The program is open to international researchers worldwide who meet the eligibility conditions.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the JSPS International Fellowship, applicants must:

Hold a PhD degree or expect to obtain one before the fellowship begins
Have obtained their PhD within the last six years (for postdoctoral track)
Secure a Japanese host researcher at a recognized institution before applying
Submit a strong collaborative research proposal
Meet nationality requirements linked to diplomatic relations with Japan

Strong academic publications and research experience are highly recommended due to the competitive selection process.

Application Procedure

Applications cannot be submitted directly by candidates. Instead, the Japanese host institution submits the application on behalf of the researcher.

General steps include:

Identify and contact a Japanese host researcher
Develop a collaborative research proposal
Prepare academic documents and PhD records
Submit materials through the host institution
Host institution files application via the JSPS Electronic Application System

Why This Fellowship Matters

The JSPS fellowship is one of Asia’s most respected international research programs. It supports Japan’s strategy to internationalize research, increase innovation, and strengthen academic cooperation with researchers worldwide.

For early-career researchers, it offers valuable international exposure, access to high-quality laboratories, and potential long-term academic collaborations in Japan.