Applications Open: JSPS Invitational Fellowships for Research in Japan FY2026

The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) is now accepting applications for its FY2026 Invitational Fellowships for Research in Japan, available in two formats: Long-term and Short-term fellowships. This prestigious program supports international researchers to collaborate with Japanese host institutions, fostering global academic exchange and cutting-edge research partnerships.

Fellowship Overview

The JSPS Invitational Fellowships aim to provide opportunities for researchers from around the world to conduct cooperative research with colleagues at Japanese universities and research institutions. Selected fellows are invited by a host researcher in Japan and are expected to engage in joint research during their stay.

This program supports:

• Long-term Fellowships (61 days to 10 months)

• Short-term Fellowships (14 to 60 days)

The application for FY2026 is open until 5:00 p.m. (JST), August 29, 2025. Applications must be submitted through Japanese host institutions using the JSPS Electronic Application System.

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Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the fellowship, the following conditions must be met:

• Applicants must be invited by a researcher affiliated with a Japanese host institution.

• The host researcher must be able to supervise the fellow throughout their tenure.

• Both the host and candidate must ensure their availability throughout the proposed fellowship period.

• Applicants may not apply if their employment or contract status will prevent full participation.

The host institution must submit the final application to JSPS by the official deadline. Institutions may set earlier internal deadlines, sometimes more than a month in advance, so applicants are advised to confirm dates directly with their hosts.

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Fellowship Duration

• Long-term: From 61 days up to 10 months.

• Short-term: Between 14 and 60 days.

Each format has different expectations in terms of collaboration, proposal length, and deliverables.

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Application Process

Applications must be submitted by the Japanese host researcher via their institution’s head, using the JSPS Electronic Application System. The application process includes:

1. L-1/S-1: Items to be entered on the electronic platform by the host.

2. L-2/S-2: Joint research proposal document (prepared by both host and invited researcher).

3. L-3/S-3: CV of the invited researcher.

All forms are available for download in both Word and PDF formats. Completed files must be uploaded via the electronic system, and must follow strict formatting rules—PDF files must have embedded fonts, and no modification of margins or layout is allowed.

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Research Focus and Language

Applications may be written in English or Japanese. The review section must be selected based on the research discipline, using the JSPS Review Section Table. Applications are judged based on academic merit, research collaboration potential, and impact.

Note:

• Long-term applications are limited to 10 pages total.

• Short-term applications are limited to 8 pages total.

Applications must maintain the official formatting and structure outlined in the guidelines.

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Benefits

Selected fellows will benefit from:

• A monthly maintenance allowance

• Round-trip airfare

• Insurance coverage during the stay in Japan

• Research support allowances (in some cases)

Beyond funding, fellows will have the chance to engage in meaningful collaborations, access advanced research facilities, and become part of Japan’s scientific and academic community.

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How to Apply

1. Contact a Japanese host researcher at a university or research institution.

2. Prepare all documents in coordination with your host.

3. Ensure all sections of the forms (L-1 to L-3 or S-1 to S-3) are completed.

4. Your host must submit the application via the JSPS Electronic Application System.

5. Make sure all documents are formatted correctly and submitted before August 29, 2025, 5:00 p.m. (JST).

Note: The host institution may have an earlier internal deadline. Confirm this as soon as possible.

For full guidelines and application files, visit the JSPS official website.

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Final Notes

This program is a unique opportunity for researchers seeking to broaden their horizons and deepen global partnerships. Whether you’re an experienced scholar or an early-career researcher, the JSPS Invitational Fellowships offer a valuable platform for collaboration and discovery.

For inquiries, consult your Japanese host institution or email the JSPS help desk.

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Deadline: August 29, 2025
Host-submitted via: JSPS Electronic Application System

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For more opportunities, visit opportunitiesforyouth.org.