Applications are now open for the Matsumae International Foundation (MIF) Fellowship 2026 in Japan. This is a fully funded, six-month research fellowship for international scholars to conduct research at any academic or research institution in Japan. The program aims to promote academic collaboration and international goodwill.
There is no application fee, and scholars from all countries (except Japan) are welcome to apply.
Fellowship Overview
- Host Country: Japan
- Duration: 6 Months (Start between June 2026 and March 2027)
- Location: Any university or research institute in Japan
- Funding: Fully Funded
- Deadline to Apply: 30th June 2025
Fields of Research
- Natural Sciences
- Engineering
- Medicine
You must secure an acceptance/invitation letter from a Japanese host institution before applying.
Fellowship Benefits
- Monthly stipend for living expenses and research activities
- Arrival allowance
- Round-trip airfare
- Travel insurance
- Opportunities for cultural exchange and study tours
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must not be Japanese citizens
- Must have a Ph.D. degree at the time of application
- Must be 45 years old or younger (born in or after 1980)
- Must not have lived in Japan previously (except for short visits)
- Must have a job in their home country and return upon fellowship completion
- Proficiency in English or Japanese is required
- Must secure a host institution acceptance before applying
Required Documents
- Completed Application Form
- Research Proposal
- Statement of Purpose
- Curriculum Vitae & List of Publications
- Academic Transcripts and Degree Certificates
- Recommendation Letter from Employer
- Invitation Letter from Host Researcher in Japan
- Sample publications
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via email to:
📧 application@mif-japan.org
There is no online portal. The final selection results will be published on the MIF website in November 2025, and selected applicants will receive an official invitation.
Check other opportunities:
- World Economic Forum Early Careers Program 2025 | Earn €4,819/Month
- Enroll Now: Harvard University Free Online Courses 2025
- Harvard Rowland Fellows Program 2026 – USA | Fully Funded Research Fellowship
- UK Visa and Settlement Rule Changes Proposed for 2025
- RIFS Fellows Program 2026 in Germany | Fully Funded International Fellowship
- Pou Chen Internship 2025 for Global Students | Free Housing, Salary, and Career Path
- Europe’s New Entry/Exit System (EES) Rolls Out in 2025: What Travellers Need to Know
- Finland Work Visa 2025: Everything You Need to Know About Moving and Working in Finland
