The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) offers International Fellowships for pre- and post-doctoral researchers from ASEAN member countries. This program enables scholars to conduct collaborative research under the guidance of Japanese mentors, advancing their studies and promoting international collaboration.
Applicants from all research fields are welcome. The fellowship supports research stays in Japan lasting from 1 to 12 months. The goal is to enhance the researchers’ capabilities and promote global science partnerships.
The fellowship includes a monthly allowance, airfare, settling-in allowance, and research support. Recipients benefit from working closely with leading Japanese researchers and institutions.
JSPS strongly encourages applicants from ASEAN countries with recent PhDs or those close to completing their doctorate to apply. Researchers must have engaged in research in an ASEAN country for at least three years.
Quick Overview of JSPS International Fellowships for Research in Japan 2026/2027
- Host Country: Japan
- Duration: 1 to 12 months
- Monthly Allowance: 362,000 JPY for PhD holders, 200,000 JPY for non-PhD holders
- Airfare: Round-trip ticket included
- Application Deadline: August 15, 2025
- Eligibility: Pre/post-doctoral researchers from ASEAN countries
- Fields: All research areas accepted
- Application Portal: ASEAN University Network web portal
Perks of the Fully Funded Fellowships for International Students
- Fully funded research stay in Japan with a generous monthly stipend
- Round-trip airfare and settling-in allowance for stays of 3+ months
- Access to Japan’s leading research institutions and expert mentors
- Support for cooperative research and expenses through host institutions
- Opportunity to build international research networks and collaborations
- Exposure to Japan’s advanced research infrastructure and culture
Benefits of JSPS International Fellowships
- Accelerate research progress under expert Japanese guidance
- Gain international research experience in a rich scientific environment
- Develop collaborations that can continue after the fellowship
- Enhance career prospects with global research credentials
- Bring advanced skills and knowledge back to ASEAN countries
- Foster long-term academic and cultural ties between Japan and ASEAN
Fellows gain unique insights from Japanese research methods and culture. In the long run, this strengthens global research partnerships and benefits scientific progress.
Exclusions of the Research Fellowships in Japan
- Fellowship duration cannot be split into multiple visits
- The host researcher cannot change during fellowship tenure
- Candidates who have previously held similar JSPS fellowships are not eligible
- Japanese citizens and permanent residents of eligible ASEAN countries cannot apply
- Financial support does not cover family members or dependents
- JSPS does not assist in finding host researchers; applicants must identify their own host
Eligibility Criteria for Fully Funded Doctoral Fellowship in Japan
- National of an ASEAN member country (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam)
- PhD obtained less than 6 years ago, or expected within 2 years outside Japan
- At least 3 years of continuous research activity at an ASEAN institution (for non-ASEAN nationals)
- The host researchers who are affiliated with eligible Japanese research institution
- Not a previous recipient of the JSPS postdoctoral fellowship in Japan
- Must stay continuously in Japan for the fellowship period
- All documents must be in English or accompanied by English translations
Important Dates for JSPS International Fellowships 2026/2027
- Application Deadline: August 15, 2025
- Nomination to JSPS by Authorities: December 1, 2025
- Result Announcement: February 2026
- Fellowship Period: Starts between April 1, 2026, and March 31, 2027
How to Apply to the JSPS Fellowship Program
- Identify and contact a prospective host researcher in Japan eligible for JSPS KAKENHI grants.
- Prepare all required documents, including research plan, recommendation letters, and degree certificates.
- Submit your application via the ASEAN University Network web portal by August 15, 2025.
- Ensure your host researcher submits a letter of acceptance by the deadline.
- Wait for nomination by your national nominating authority to JSPS.
- Successful candidates will be notified by JSPS around February 2026.
Required Documents for Research Leadership Fellowship
- Completed application form
- Letter of acceptance from the prospective host researcher in Japan
- PhD diploma or certificate of expected completion
- Letter of recommendation from doctoral supervisor or equivalent
- Academic transcripts from undergraduate to the most recent degree
- Research plan (2 pages) detailing background, purpose, and expected results
- List of major peer-reviewed publications (if any)
- All documents must be in English or translated into English
