JSPS International Fellowships for Research 2026 , Japan (Fully Funded)
The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) International Fellowships for Research in Japan offer an excellent fully funded research opportunity for pre-doctoral and postdoctoral researchers, particularly those connected to ASEAN member countries. This prestigious fellowship allows international researchers to conduct short-term cooperative research in Japan under the supervision of leading Japanese scholars.
The program plays a key role in strengthening international academic collaboration while supporting the professional development of early-career researchers.
About JSPS International Fellowships
The JSPS International Fellowship Program is designed to promote high-level international research exchange by inviting overseas researchers to Japan. Through close collaboration with Japanese host institutions, fellows gain access to advanced research facilities, global academic networks, and mentorship from top researchers.
This specific fellowship stream focuses on ASEAN-related research cooperation, supporting both ASEAN nationals and non-ASEAN researchers working in ASEAN institutions.
Degree Level
Fellowship Duration
- 1 to 12 months
- Duration must be agreed upon by the applicant and host researcher
- Fellowship is awarded in full-month units
- The stay must be continuous (cannot be split into multiple visits)
Fellowship Period
- Fellows must begin their stay between 1 April and 31 March
- Fellows must remain in Japan for the entire fellowship period
Available Subjects
All academic and scientific fields are eligible, including but not limited to:
- Engineering & Technology
- Natural & Life Sciences
- Medical & Health Sciences
- Social Sciences & Humanities
- Environmental & Climate Studies
- Information Technology & Data Science
There are no subject restrictions, making this fellowship highly inclusive.
Benefits
The JSPS International Fellowship is fully funded and includes:
Monthly Allowance
- 362,000 JPY per month – PhD holders
- 200,000 JPY per month – Non-PhD holders
Additional Financial Support
- Round-trip international airfare (JSPS regulations apply)
- Settling-in allowance: 200,000 JPY (for fellowships of 3 months or longer)
Overseas travel insurance
- Research support allowance: Up to 70,000 JPY per month (applied for by host)
Note: Fellows already residing in Japan before the fellowship start date are not eligible for airfare or settling-in allowance.
Eligible Nationalities
ASEAN Member Countries
Applicants may be nationals of the following ASEAN countries:
- Brunei
- Cambodia
- Indonesia
- Laos
- Malaysia
- Myanmar
- Philippines
- Singapore
- Thailand
- Viet Nam
- Non-ASEAN Applicants
Non-ASEAN nationals may also apply if they have been continuously engaged in research at an ASEAN research institution for at least three years.
Additional Conditions
- PhD must be obtained outside Japan
- Applicants must not have previously received a JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship under related categories
- The fellowship is awarded only once per researcher
- Japanese citizens (even if permanent residents of eligible countries) are not eligible
- Maternity or parental leave may be deducted from research experience calculations
Eligibility Criteria
Host researchers must:
- Be affiliated with a KAKENHI-eligible research institution
- Be full-time researchers (exceptions possible with institutional approval)
Be employed at:
- Japanese universities
- MEXT-affiliated institutions
- Colleges of technology
- Other MEXT-designated institutions
Remain the same throughout the fellowship (no host changes allowed)
Application Procedure
Step 1: Find a Host Researcher in Japan
- Applicants must independently contact and secure acceptance from a Japanese host researcher. JSPS does not arrange host placements.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Key documents include:
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s to latest degree)
- PhD diploma or proof of expected award
- Recommendation letter
- Host researcher’s acceptance letter
- Research plan (2 pages)
- List of major publications (if any)
- Completed application form
All documents must be in English (translations allowed).
Step 3: Submit via ASEAN University Network (AUN)
- Applications must be submitted through the AUN online portal
- Direct applications to JSPS are not allowed
Step 4: Nomination & Selection
- Nominating authorities evaluate applications
- Selected candidates are nominated to JSPS
- Final results announced by February
Why Apply for JSPS Fellowship in Japan?
- Conduct research in world-class Japanese institutions
- Receive high monthly stipends
- Gain international research exposure
- Build long-term academic networks in Japan
- Strengthen career prospects in academia and research
Final Thoughts
The JSPS International Fellowships for Research in Japan offer a rare and prestigious opportunity for ASEAN-linked researchers to advance their academic careers through collaborative research in Japan. With generous funding, flexible duration, and open research fields, this fellowship is ideal for early-career scholars seeking global research exposure.
Early preparation and a strong research proposal are key to success.
