Opportunities for International Researchers to Conduct Research in Japan
The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) has opened applications for its FY 2026 Postdoctoral Fellowships, part of the Research Fellowships for Young Scientists program. These fellowships support international early-career researchers across all academic fields to pursue independent research in Japan.
🔗 Official Source:
👉 JSPS Fellowship Program Overview
🗓️ Application Timeline & Fellowship Routes
🔬 Standard Postdoctoral Fellowship (12–24 months)
- Round 1 Deadline (to JSPS): August 29, 2025
▸ Results: Late December 2025
▸ Fellowship Start: March–September 2026 - Round 2 Deadline: April 28, 2026
▸ Results: Early August 2026
▸ Fellowship Start: September–November 2026 - JSPS-Net Notification Window: April – June 3, 2025
🔗 JSPS-Net Application Portal
🌏 ASEAN International Fellowship (1–12 months)
- Eligible Applicants: ASEAN nationals and ASEAN-affiliated researchers
- Application Deadline: August 15, 2025
▸ Results: February 2026
▸ Fellowship Start: April 2026 – March 2027
🔗 Details: Mahidol University
👥 Eligibility Criteria
- PhD must be completed (or expected) within 6 years of fellowship start date
- Must be a citizen of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan
- Must secure a host researcher at a Japanese institution before applying
- For ASEAN route: Applicants must be ASEAN citizens or long-term residents
🔗 Eligibility FAQs – DiscoverPhDs
💰 Fellowship Benefits
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Monthly Stipend | ¥362,000 (PhD) / ¥200,000 (doctoral students) |
| Settling-in Allowance | ¥200,000 (for stays ≥3 months) |
| Research Grant (KAKENHI) | Up to ¥1.5M/year (standard), ¥3M/year (CPD) |
| Airfare & Insurance | Round-trip airfare + overseas travel insurance |
| Tax | Stipend is tax-exempt, but fellows manage pension/insurance independently |
📝 Application Process: Step-by-Step
- Find a Host: Identify and confirm a host researcher at a Japanese institution
🔗 How to Find a Host – CareerAidHub - Develop Your Proposal: Work closely with your host to craft a strong, feasible research proposal
- Prepare Required Documents:
- CV
- Research Proposal
- Transcripts and Degree Certificates
- Acceptance Letter from Host
- Letters of Recommendation
- Submit Application:
- Through Japanese host institution
- Or via national nominating authorities (ASEAN and select countries) – often with higher success rates
🔗 Sample Process – Yokohama CU
- Language Requirements:
- Japanese proficiency is NOT required
- Applications in English are accepted
- Proposal Writing Tips:
- Use plain, mistake-free language
- Avoid long, complex sentences
- Tailor for non-specialist reviewers
💬 Insights from Past Fellows (via Reddit)
“Focus on the research content and impact. Japanese skills not needed.”
– Reddit User
“At least one good publication is essential. Build rapport with a potential host professor.”
– Reddit Discussion
“Success rates are ~11–12% for standard fellowships, 20–30% for short-term.”
– Reddit Stats
✅ Final Take
The JSPS FY 2026 Postdoctoral Fellowship is a prestigious and well-funded opportunity for early-career researchers worldwide. With support for all disciplines, a generous stipend, and flexible terms, it’s ideal for those aiming to advance their academic careers in Japan.
🔁 Timeline Recap
| Fellowship Type | Deadline | Results | Fellowship Start |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard PD (R1) | August 29, 2025 | Dec 2025 | April–Sept 2026 |
| Standard PD (R2) | April 28, 2026 | Aug 2026 | Sept–Nov 2026 |
| ASEAN Fellowship | August 15, 2025 | Feb 2026 | April 2026–March 2027 |
📌 Useful Links
- JSPS Fellowship Program (English)
- JSPS-Net Portal
- Reddit Thread – Application Advice
- CareerAidHub – Guide to JSPS
📄 Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute official advice or representation of the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS). While we have made every effort to provide accurate and up-to-date information based on publicly available sources and official announcements, applicants should refer to the official JSPS website and consult their host institutions or national nominating authorities for the most current application guidelines, eligibility criteria, deadlines, and requirements.
We do not guarantee selection or funding and are not affiliated with JSPS or any of the institutions mentioned. All external links provided are for convenience and reference only.
