Summary
The Matsumae International Research Fellowship 2027 invites applications from talented international students for a fully funded fellowship opportunity in Japan. This fellowship aims to promote international academic exchange and provide researchers the chance to collaborate with top scientists in Japan.
- 🎓 Offered by the Matsumae International Foundation (MIF), a Japanese non-profit organization established in 1979 to promote international academic exchange and global understanding.
- 🔬 Research Fields: Natural Sciences, Engineering, Medicine, and related disciplines.
- ⏳ Duration: 6 months.
- 🌍 Eligibility: Open to applicants of all nationalities except Japanese citizens.
- 🎓 Academic Requirement: Applicants must hold a PhD (Doctoral Degree).
- 👤 Age Limit: Applicants should be 45 years old or younger at the time of application.
- 📩 Host Institution Requirement: Candidates must obtain an invitation/acceptance letter from a Japanese host institution before applying.
- 🗣️ Language Requirement: Applicants must have sufficient English or Japanese language proficiency.
- ✈️ Japan Experience Restriction: Applicants should not have previous long-term residence experience in Japan.
- 🏠 Return Requirement: Applicants must be employed in their home country and intend to return after completing the fellowship.
- 💰 Monthly Stipend: JPY 220,000 for living expenses and research activities.
- 🏡 Settlement Allowance: JPY 120,000 to help cover initial living expenses in Japan.
- ✈️ Travel Support: Round-trip economy airfare between the applicant’s nearest international airport and Tokyo.
- 🛡️ Insurance Coverage: Overseas travel insurance with medical and death benefits is provided.
- 🏯 Additional Benefit: Fellows are invited to participate in a study tour to gain a deeper understanding of Japan.
- 📄 Required Documents: Application Form, Research Plan, CV, Publication List, Recommendation Letter, Academic Certificates, and Host Professor’s Invitation Letter.
- 🏆 Number of Awards: Approximately 10 fellowships are awarded each year.
- 📅 Application Deadline: 30 June 2026.
Designation
- Fellowship Program: Matsumae International Research Fellowship
Details Table
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Offered By | Matsumae International Foundation |
| Duration | 6 Months |
| Coverage | Fully Funded |
| Eligible Nationality | All Nationalities |
| Award Country | Japan |
| Application Deadline | 30th June 2026 |
Research Area
- Natural Sciences
- Engineering
- Medicine
- Related fields
Location
- Japan
Eligibility/Qualification
- Must be a Non-Japanese National
- Hold a PhD (Doctoral degree)
- Be 45 years old or younger at the time of application
- Have sufficient English or Japanese language proficiency
- Obtain an invitation letter from a host institution in Japan prior to application
- No previous residence in Japan (excluding short-term stays)
- Must possess an occupation in the home country and intend to return post-fellowship
Job Description
The fellowship provides an opportunity to conduct research and collaborate with leading researchers in Japan. It includes:
- A monthly allowance of JPY 220,000 for research activities and living expenses
- An additional JPY 120,000 for initial living costs
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Tokyo, Japan
- Overseas travel insurance with medical coverage
- Participation in a study tour during the fellowship period
How to Apply
- Download and complete the Application Form.
- Prepare the following documents:
- Research Plan
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) and List of Publications
- Recommendation Letter
- Soft copies of Academic Certificates/Diplomas (PhD, Master’s, Bachelor’s)
- Invitation Letter signed by your host professor/scholar in Japan
- Email the completed application and documents to application@mif-japan.org within the application period.
Last Date to Apply
- 30th June 2026
This fellowship offers a unique opportunity for researchers to expand their knowledge and network in one of the world’s most dynamic environments. Don’t miss this chance to enhance your academic career!





