Matsumae International Foundation Fellowship 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded

The Matsumae International Foundation (MIF) Fellowship 2026 in Japan offers fully funded research opportunities for Ph.D. holders aiming to address global issues in their fields. Japan provides excellent education and research resources, making it an ideal destination for scholars. This six-month fellowship, running between June 2026 and March 2027, covers travel, living expenses, and monthly allowances, allowing researchers to deepen their expertise and collaborate with international intellectuals.

Founded in 1979 by Dr. Matsumae, the MIF aims to connect Japan with the world by inviting talented researchers regardless of gender, race, or background. The program also introduces fellows to Japanese culture, history, and philosophy through study tours and cultural experiences, fostering global friendships and academic exchange.

The fellowship will select ten outstanding young researchers worldwide, offering them a unique chance to contribute to academic development while exploring Japan’s peaceful society and rich heritage. This is an excellent opportunity for international scholars to advance their research in a supportive, fully funded environment.

Eligibility Criteria of Matsumae International Foundation Fellowship:

• Anyone with non-Japanese nationality can apply for this Japanese fellowship.
• Students who have Ph.D. degrees can apply for the Matsumae International Foundation Fellowship program.
• Moreover, all applicants must be 45 years old or younger when applying for the research fellowship by Matsumae foundation. Therefore, they should be born in 1980 or later.
• Applicants should also obtain an acceptance letter from the Host Institution in Japan before applying.
• Proficiency in English or Japanese language is also a requirement of the Matsumae fellowship.
• Similarly, they must not have lived or worked in Japan before
• The applicant must have a job in their home country so that upon completion, they return and contribute to the betterment of their country.
• The most preferred fields of research are natural sciences, medicine and engineering.

Check: Top International Opportunities in 2025–2026: Scholarships, Fellowships, and Professional Programs

Benefits of Matsumae International Foundation Fellowship:

• During the stay in Japan, Matsumae International Foundation will provide a monthly allowance of JPY 220,000 for living and research activities.
• MIF Internship will cover part of Japan’s initial cost of living, and an arrival fund of JPY 120,000 will be provided.
• The international fellowship in 2025 will also provide round-trip airfare of economy class.
• In addition, the fellowship will provide travel insurance with medical treatment and death benefits.
• Matsumae fellows will also travel in Japan for various study tours.
• It is an excellent opportunity to conduct research with highly intellectual individuals.
• Applicants will be able to network with global leaders in Japan.

Documents Required

All documents must be submitted as PDFs to MIF through email.

• Research plan
• Reason for application
• Soft copy of publications
• CV and list of publications
• Recommendation letter from employer
• Soft copies of academic transcript and diploma/degree
• Invitation letter from a Host Japanese professor or scholar 

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