The JSPS International Fellowships for Research are fully funded research fellowships offered by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) to support international researchers in conducting collaborative research at Japanese universities and research institutions. These fellowships are intended to promote international cooperation in research, provide exposure to world-class facilities, and enhance the professional development of early-career scholars.
Fellowship Benefits
Recipients of the JSPS International Fellowships typically receive the following support:
• Monthly research stipend (amount varies by category):
– Approximately 362,000 JPY per month for PhD holders.
– Approximately 200,000 JPY per month for non-PhD researchers.
• Round-trip international airfare, based on JSPS regulations.
• Settling-in allowance for fellowships of three months or longer.
• Research support allowance to assist with research-related costs (applied for by the host).
• Overseas travel insurance coverage for the fellowship period.
The fellowship is fully funded and aims to cover essential research and living support during the stay in Japan.
Who Can Apply
The JSPS International Fellowships are open to international researchers who meet general eligibility requirements, including:
• Applicants must secure a host researcher and approval from a Japanese research institution before applying.
• Applicants should typically hold a doctoral degree or be enrolled in a doctoral program with strong research potential.
• Applicants must be citizens of countries that maintain diplomatic relations with Japan; some categories extend eligibility to researchers who have conducted research at an eligible institution for a defined period.
• Applicants must not have previously received a JSPS International Fellowship under the same category.
These fellowships are highly competitive and seek applicants with clear research goals and strong academic records.
Levels of Study Supported
JSPS International Fellowships primarily support research at the postdoctoral and doctoral level, enabling early-career researchers to work collaboratively with Japanese hosts on ongoing projects in all academic and scientific disciplines.
There are also Invitational Fellowship opportunities for longer & shorter research visits for established researchers with strong publication and collaboration records.
Application Process & Timing
Applicants must independently secure a host sponsor in Japan and prepare their research proposal and supporting documents. Once selected by a nominating authority or appropriate body, applications are forwarded to JSPS for final selection.
Key steps include:
• Identify and confirm support from a host researcher at a Japanese university or research institute.
• Prepare required documents such as academic transcripts, research plan, CV, and host acceptance letter.
• Submit the application through the designated nominating authority or JSPS channel before stated deadlines (deadlines vary by category and region).
• Notification of results typically occurs several months after review.
Specific application deadlines and procedures are published annually by JSPS and regional nominating authorities.
Commitment After Completion
There is no formal requirement to return to the home country after the fellowship, but fellows are expected to focus full-time on their research project in Japan and meet all conditions of their host institution and JSPS program.
Why You Should Apply
The JSPS International Fellowships for Research provide a prestigious opportunity to work at leading Japanese research institutions with generous funding, access to advanced facilities, and strong academic mentorship. These fellowships enhance international research collaboration, broaden professional networks, and strengthen academic credentials in a global research environment.
