Why Japan? Why JSPS?

In recent years, Japan has emerged as one of the most promising destinations for international researchers looking for fully funded postdoctoral opportunities. Whether you’re in the field of natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, or humanities, Japan’s academic research landscape is known for excellence, structure, and state-of-the-art facilities. The JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 offers early-career researchers from around the world the chance to carry out advanced research in Japan under Japanese hosts, without worrying about funding or language barriers.

Backed by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) and the Japanese Government’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), this fellowship has provided opportunities to thousands of global postdocs since its launch. It’s more than a research grant — it’s a gateway to cultural exchange, cutting-edge collaboration, and academic advancement in one of the world’s most innovative countries.

Overview of the JSPS Fellowship Program

The JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship is a fully funded research fellowship that allows highly qualified postdoctoral researchers to conduct research in Japanese universities or institutions for up to two years. The host researchers in Japan support the incoming fellow, including submitting the official application on their behalf, arranging work space, and providing guidance throughout the stay.

The program is structured for PhD holders or soon-to-be PhDs, and covers all major fields of research — from quantum computing to environmental sciences, from economics to philosophy. Scholars from over 100+ countries are eligible, and no Japanese language or IELTS/TOEFL exam is required.

Duration and Timeline

The fellowship can be either short-term or long-term, depending on the specific track. Most postdocs under this program stay in Japan for 12 to 24 months, depending on their host institution, project scope, and the fellowship round.

Applications are accepted twice a year through different channels:

1. Through Japanese host institutions – coordinated by the university or research institute.
2. Through overseas nominating authorities – often national research councils (like the HEC in Pakistan, DAAD in Germany, etc.).
3. Direct calls by JSPS – limited slots but globally open.

Benefits of the Fellowship – What Makes It Fully Funded?

One of the reasons the JSPS fellowship is so popular is the generous funding it provides. Here is what you’ll receive as a selected fellow:

• A monthly allowance of JPY 362,000 (~$2,300 USD), sufficient to live comfortably in Japan.
• Round-trip airfare from your country to Japan and back.
• Settling-in allowance of JPY 200,000, to help you get started.
• Overseas travel insurance provided by JSPS.
• Access to JSPS seminars, networking events, cultural exchanges, and language support programs.

All expenses are taken care of so that the researcher can fully focus on their academic work, networking, and cultural immersion.

Eligibility Criteria – Who Can Apply?

This fellowship is for international PhD holders or those who have successfully defended their thesis and are about to graduate. Applicants should be under the age of 45 at the time of applying, and have not spent a significant amount of time in Japan prior to application (for some tracks).

You are eligible if you:

• Have obtained a PhD within the last 6 years, or are expected to obtain one before the fellowship starts.
• Have published research work or academic achievements in your field.
• Are not of Japanese nationality and are not currently residing in Japan long-term.
• Have a Japanese host professor/researcher willing to support your application.
• Have strong academic references and a well-written research proposal.

Fields of Research Covered

The JSPS fellowship supports all fields of research, including but not limited to:

• Natural Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Biology, etc.)
• Engineering and Technology
• Health and Medical Sciences
• Social Sciences and Policy Studies
• Arts and Humanities
• Environmental and Agricultural Sciences
• Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Robotics

There are no strict topic limitations, as long as your host institution in Japan has the resources and faculty to support the research.

Application Process and Steps

The application process can vary slightly based on which channel you use to apply, but the general steps are:

First, you’ll need to find a host professor or researcher in Japan. This is the most important step. You cannot apply directly to JSPS without a host. Use university websites, research publications, or academic databases to find Japanese professors whose research aligns with your own.

Once the professor agrees, they will submit the official application to JSPS on your behalf, along with your documents and proposal.

You will need to prepare:

• Your detailed CV and research experience
• A research proposal, often co-written or approved by the host
• Academic transcripts
• A copy of your PhD certificate or expected graduation letter
• Recommendation letters from supervisors
• Passport scan and a photo

After submission, selected applicants receive an official invitation, which they then use for the visa process.

Application Deadlines and Start Dates

JSPS hosts two major rounds per year, and the deadlines vary by nominating authority or host university. Typically:

• First Call: Application opens in April–May 2025, with start dates from April–September 2026
• Second Call: Application opens in September–October 2025, with start dates from October 2026–March 2027

Always check the official JSPS website or your home country’s nominating body (like DAAD, HEC, CNRS, etc.) for specific deadlines.

🔗 Official site: https://www.jsps.go.jp/english/e-fellow/index.html

Living in Japan as a Researcher

Living in Japan offers more than just academic prestige — it’s an experience that blends ancient culture with futuristic innovation. Most postdocs in Japan enjoy high-quality healthcare, safe public transport, clean cities, and unmatched research facilities.

JSPS Fellows get support from their host institution, which helps with:

• Visa processing
• Apartment hunting
• Local bank accounts and SIM registration
• Orientation seminars
• Japanese language classes (optional)

Japan is known for being peaceful, efficient, and globally connected. Whether you live in a buzzing city like Tokyo or a research-centric town like Tsukuba, your experience will be both academically enriching and culturally memorable.

Finding a Japanese Host Professor – Tips for Outreach

Your success depends on finding a good host professor who is active in your field and willing to support your application. Here’s how to do that effectively:

• Visit top Japanese university websites (e.g., University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, Osaka University).
• Go to the faculty research directory and identify professors whose research matches yours.
• Email them with a short introduction, your CV, a brief research idea, and your interest in applying for JSPS together.
• Be polite, professional, and respectful of their time. Many Japanese professors appreciate well-structured, concise messages.

Once they agree, start working on the research proposal together.

No IELTS or Japanese Language Required

One of the most attractive aspects of JSPS is that it does not require IELTS or Japanese for most tracks. Your work will be conducted in English, and most labs or departments hosting international researchers are fully equipped to handle communication in English.

Some host institutions may conduct informal interviews or ask for proof of English instruction during your PhD, but there is no formal English exam requirement.

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

To boost your chances of selection, follow these best practices:

• Write a clear, focused research proposal that solves a real problem or adds to ongoing work.
• Make sure your proposal fits the host’s ongoing research.
• Highlight your past publications, collaborations, or conferences.
• Include recommendation letters from your PhD supervisors or academic mentors.
• Keep your documents clean, well-organized, and professional.
• Emphasize how this fellowship will help both your host lab and your own career.

After Selection – What Happens Next?

Once selected, JSPS will provide you with an official invitation letter. You will then:

• Apply for a Researcher Visa (Professor Visa Category) via the Japanese embassy.
• Book your flight (JSPS reimburses airfare).
• Arrive in Japan and join the orientation.
• Begin your research according to the plan agreed upon with your host.

You’ll be expected to submit periodic progress reports and, in some cases, publish work under the affiliation of your Japanese host institution.

Real Success Stories

Dr. Ahmed from Egypt, a JSPS fellow in environmental engineering, noted how Japan provided him with the lab resources his home university lacked. His fellowship led to co-authored papers with Japanese scientists and an extended research contract.

Similarly, Dr. Jane from the UK was a fellow in social anthropology at Kyoto University. She explained how her research on rural Japanese communities gained global exposure due to her publications during the fellowship.

Why the JSPS Fellowship is Life-Changing

This opportunity is more than just a free trip or a research grant. It’s a turning point in your academic journey. JSPS alumni often go on to secure:

• Faculty positions in top universities
• Collaborative grants with Japanese researchers
• Invitations to international conferences
• Postdoctoral extensions in Japan or abroad

The program adds significant prestige to your academic CV.

Related

For the most accurate, up-to-date information, always refer to the official JSPS Fellowship Page.

If you’re exploring fully funded postdoctoral options in other regions as well, the KAUST Global Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 in Saudi Arabia is another excellent opportunity for early-career researchers.

For students who are still at the Master’s or PhD level, the Malaysia Government Scholarship 2025 (MIS) offers a fully funded route before moving on to postdoc programs like JSPS.

If you are still exploring study routes in Japan, the Japan MAKD/MEXT scholarship can be a great step before applying for the JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026.

Can I Reapply If Rejected?

Yes. Many successful JSPS fellows applied two or even three times before finally being selected. Improve your proposal, find a stronger host, or choose a new research topic. Persistence pays off.

Apply Now and Take the Leap

The JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 is one of the most prestigious and fully supported academic opportunities in the world for early-career researchers. With a strong academic profile, a well-prepared proposal, and a willing host in Japan, you could be the next fellow.

Applications are competitive but fair, and everything is covered — from flight to accommodation to insurance.

If you’ve ever dreamed of conducting research in Japan and immersing yourself in a rich academic and cultural environment, this is your moment.

🔗 Apply through your host or national authority now