Japan Announces Fully Funded 2026 JSPS Fellowships For International Researchers

About the JSPS Fellowship Program

Are you a researcher looking to collaborate with top academic institutions in Japan? The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) is now accepting applications for its prestigious 2026 JSPS International Fellowships. These fellowships offer full financial support to foreign researchers seeking to conduct advanced research across natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities at Japan’s top universities and research centers.

Whether you’re a postdoctoral fellow or an established academic professional, this is your opportunity to engage in impactful, cross-border research while living in one of the most innovative countries in the world.

The JSPS International Fellowships are globally recognized awards designed to promote international cooperation in research. The fellowships enable highly qualified international researchers to partner with Japanese institutions and contribute to ongoing research projects while gaining exposure to Japan’s academic ecosystem.

These fully funded programs are open to researchers in natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities, and are hosted at leading universities, national labs, and academic institutions across Japan.

Eligible Fields

Fellowships are available for research in:

Natural Sciences (e.g., physics, biology, engineering, earth sciences)

Social Sciences (e.g., economics, political science, sociology)
Humanities (e.g., literature, history, philosophy)

Eligibility Criteria

Postdoctoral Fellowships [P/PE]:

Must hold a PhD, or obtain it before the fellowship begins
The PhD must have been awarded on or after April 2, 2020
Must be a citizen of a country with diplomatic ties to Japan

Not eligible: Japanese citizens or permanent residents of Japan

Invitational Fellowships [L/S]:

Must have a professor or associate professor–equivalent position

Must be affiliated full-time with a non-Japanese academic or research institution
Must have a strong record of published research

Eligible Countries

Applicants must be citizens of countries that maintain diplomatic relations with Japan. The program is open globally, making it one of the most accessible and inclusive fellowship opportunities for international researchers.

Selection Criteria

Selection is highly competitive and based on:

Academic qualifications
Research achievements and publications

The scientific relevance and innovation of the proposed research
The strength of the collaboration between the applicant and the Japanese host institution

Benefits of the JSPS Fellowship Program

All fellowship categories offer comprehensive financial and logistical support, including:

Roundtrip international airfare
Monthly stipend:
- ¥362,000 for Postdoctoral Fellows
- ¥387,600 for Long-Term Invited Fellows
- ¥18,000/day for Short-Term Invited Fellows
Settling-in allowance: ¥200,000 (to help cover initial living costs)

Research support grant: Up to ¥150,000 (for applicable fellowship categories)
Overseas travel insurance

How to Apply

To apply for the JSPS 2026 Fellowship:

Identify a host researcher or institution in Japan willing to sponsor your application.
Prepare your application documents according to the category you’re applying for.
Submit your application through the host institution or via the designated nominating authorities in your country.

Check the official JSPS website for application forms, guidelines, and updates.

Note: Deadlines vary depending on the fellowship category:

🔹 Postdoctoral Fellowship [P]

August 29, 2025
April 28, 2026

🔹 Postdoctoral Fellowship – Short-Term [PE]

September 26, 2025
January 9, 2026
June 5, 2026

🔹 Invitational Fellowship – Long-Term [L]

August 29, 2025

🔹 Invitational Fellowship – Short-Term [S]

April 28, 2026

August 29, 2025

Final Thoughts

The JSPS 2026 International Fellowships represent a life-changing opportunity for researchers to collaborate, innovate, and grow in one of the world’s leading research nations. With generous funding, access to top facilities, and deep international collaboration, this fellowship can significantly advance your academic career.

Don’t miss your chance to experience Japan’s cutting-edge research environment while making meaningful global contributions.

Deadline Reminder: Multiple deadlines across 2025 and 2026 — Start your application early!