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Japan Matsumae International Foundation Research Fellowship 2027

February 13, 2026 7:25 am

Japan Matsumae International Foundation Research Fellowship 2027

For international researchers seeking a prestigious, fully funded pathway into Japan’s advanced academic ecosystem, a transformative opportunity has officially opened. The Matsumae International Foundation (MIF) has launched applications for its highly respected 2027 Research Fellowship. This competitive program invites exceptional overseas scholars to conduct independent research at leading Japanese universities and institutions with complete financial support. Consequently, if you aim to deepen your academic work, collaborate with Japanese peers, and contribute to global knowledge exchange, this fellowship represents one of Asia’s premier fully funded research awards for 2027.

Comprehensive Fellowship Benefits and Support

The MIF Research Fellowship provides an extensive financial package designed to eliminate economic barriers, thereby allowing fellows to concentrate fully on their scholarly pursuits. Successful applicants receive the following substantial support:

A generous monthly allowance of JPY 220,000 to cover living and research expenses throughout the fellowship duration.
A one-time arrival allowance of JPY 120,000 to assist with initial settlement costs.
Fully covered round-trip international airfare between your home country and Japan.
Comprehensive overseas travel and medical insurance for the entire residency period.
Full access to Japanese university laboratories, libraries, and research facilities.
Participation in an organized cultural study tour designed to enhance understanding of Japan and promote global peace initiatives.

Therefore, this funding ensures you can immerse yourself entirely in your research while experiencing Japan’s unique academic and cultural environment.

Program Structure and Research Focus

Selected fellows spend several months in Japan pursuing independent research projects in collaboration with a host institution. The program emphasizes building enduring academic and cultural bridges between Japan and the global research community. Specifically, fellows engage with Japanese academic networks, innovation hubs, and cross-cultural initiatives while contributing to international cooperation through their scholarly work.

Eligibility Criteria for Global Applicants

This fellowship targets highly motivated, accomplished researchers from around the world. To qualify, you must meet the following conditions:

You must be a non-Japanese researcher with an outstanding academic and research record.
Then, you must hold a doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent) at the time of application.
You should currently hold an affiliation with a university, research institute, or equivalent organization outside Japan.
Crucially, you must independently secure an invitation or formal acceptance from a Japanese host institution before submitting your MIF application.
Also, you must demonstrate a clear commitment to promoting international cooperation and knowledge exchange through your research.
Ideal candidates are scholars who view this fellowship not merely as research funding but as a platform for long-term academic collaboration and mutual understanding.

Your Strategic Preparation Guide

To position yourself competitively, follow these essential preparatory steps:

Identify a Host Institution: First, research Japanese universities or research centers aligned with your expertise and proactively contact potential supervisors to secure an invitation.
Refine Your Research Proposal: Next, develop a compelling, well-defined research project that demonstrates significance and feasibility.
Gather Documentation: Then, prepare your academic transcripts, CV, publications list, and letters of recommendation.
Monitor the Portal: Finally, track the official MIF website closely and submit your complete application promptly once the window opens.

How to Apply

Access the official fellowship announcement and prepare your application here:

Click Here to Apply

Critical Application Timeline

Prospective applicants must plan strategically, as the submission window is strictly defined. The application period for the Matsumae International Foundation Research Fellowship 2027 opens on 1 June 2026 and closes definitively on 30 June 2026. Given the prerequisite of securing a Japanese host institution, you are strongly advised to begin your outreach and proposal development several months in advance.

Conclusion

In summary, the Matsumae International Foundation Fellowship offers far more than financial support; it provides a gateway to Japan’s world-class research infrastructure and a distinguished network of international scholars. By securing host institution acceptance early and crafting a rigorous proposal, you position yourself to join an elite cohort of researchers advancing global knowledge from the heart of Japan’s academic landscape.

Begin your host institution outreach today to transform this ambitious goal into a tangible reality for 2027.