Matsumae International Foundation (MIF) Fellowship 2027 in Japan

Applications are now open for the Matsumae International Foundation (MIF) Fellowship 2027 in Japan. This prestigious fully funded research fellowship offers international researchers the opportunity to conduct advanced research at leading universities, national research institutes, and private-sector research facilities across Japan.

The fellowship is designed to promote international academic collaboration, strengthen global research networks, and foster mutual understanding between Japan and the international community. Selected fellows will spend six months conducting research in Japan between June 2027 and March 2028, while benefiting from full financial support.

Approximately 15 fellowships will be awarded to outstanding researchers from around the world.

Fellowship Overview

Host Country: Japan
Program: Matsumae International Foundation (MIF) Fellowship
Duration: 6 Months
Fellowship Period: June 2027 – March 2028
Number of Awards: Around 15
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Application Deadline: 30 June 2026

Financial Benefits

The Matsumae Fellowship provides comprehensive financial support, including:

Monthly living allowance
Arrival allowance
Round-trip international airfare
Medical and travel insurance
Participation in a study tour and cultural activities

Host Institutions

Applicants may choose their preferred host institution in Japan, including:

Japanese universities
National research institutes
Equivalent private-sector research organizations

Candidates must secure acceptance from a Japanese host researcher, professor, or institution before submitting their fellowship application.

Eligible Research Fields

The fellowship welcomes applications in the following disciplines:

Natural Sciences
Engineering
Medicine
Agriculture

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Matsumae International Foundation Fellowship 2027, applicants must:

Be a citizen of a country other than Japan
Hold a PhD degree at the time of application
Be 45 years old or younger
Be employed full-time in their home country
Intend to return to their home country after completing the fellowship
Possess sufficient proficiency in English or Japanese
Obtain an invitation or acceptance from a host institution in Japan
Have no previous long-term stay or residence experience in Japan (short visits for tourism, conferences, or academic events are acceptable)
Demonstrate excellent academic and research achievements

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents:

Completed application form
Detailed research plan
Statement explaining the reason for application
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
List of publications
Copies of published research papers or publications
Academic transcripts and degree certificates
Recommendation letter from employer or institution
Invitation letter from a Japanese professor, researcher, or host institution

Why Apply for the MIF Fellowship?

The Matsumae International Foundation Fellowship is widely recognized as one of Japan’s leading research programs for international scholars. Benefits include: