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Applications are open for the Matsumae International Foundation Fellowship 2027 in Japan, a prestigious fully funded international research fellowship for non-Japanese researchers.

The fellowship is offered by the Matsumae International Foundation (MIF) and supports outstanding researchers who wish to conduct research in Japan while promoting international friendship, academic cooperation, and cultural exchange.

The MIF Fellowship provides selected researchers with the opportunity to carry out research at Japanese universities, national research institutions, or approved private-sector research organisations for a period of six months.

The programme is especially intended for early-career and mid-career researchers in the fields of natural sciences, engineering, medicine, and related disciplines.

Summary

• Fellowship Name: Matsumae International Foundation Fellowship 2027
• Also Known As: MIF Fellowship 2027
• Host Organisation: Matsumae International Foundation (MIF)
• Host Country: Japan
• Programme Type: Research Fellowship
• Study Level: Postdoctoral / Research Fellowship
• Fellowship Duration: 6 months
• Fellowship Period: June 2027 to March 2028
• Funding Type: Fully Funded
• Eligible Applicants: Non-Japanese researchers with PhD degrees
• Research Fields: Natural Sciences, Engineering, Medicine, Agriculture, and related fields
• Number of Fellowships: Around 15
• Monthly Allowance: JPY 220,000
• Application Period: 1 June – 30 June 2026
• Application Mode: Email submission
• Official Website: https://www.mif-japan.org/en/fellowship/announcement/

About the Matsumae International Foundation Fellowship

The Matsumae International Foundation Fellowship was established to strengthen international understanding and peaceful global cooperation through academic exchange and scientific research.

The fellowship enables researchers from around the world to conduct independent research in Japan while building long-term academic and professional relationships with Japanese institutions and researchers.

Since its establishment in 1979, the Matsumae International Foundation has supported hundreds of researchers from more than 100 countries and regions worldwide. 1

The programme encourages international researchers to experience Japanese academic culture, research systems, and society while contributing to scientific advancement and global collaboration.

Fellowship Benefits

The Matsumae International Foundation Fellowship 2027 is fully funded.

According to the official MIF fellowship announcement, selected fellows will receive:

• Monthly allowance of JPY 220,000
• Arrival fund of JPY 120,000
• Round-trip economy class airfare
• Overseas travel insurance
• Opportunity to participate in a study tour in Japan
• Access to Japanese research institutions and laboratories
• International academic collaboration opportunities
• Cultural exchange and networking opportunities

The monthly allowance is intended to cover:

• Living expenses
• Research activities
• Research materials
• Basic research-related costs during the stay in Japan

2

Study Tour Opportunity

One of the unique features of the fellowship is the organised study tour to Hiroshima.

According to the official MIF announcement, the tour is intended to:

• Deepen fellows’ understanding of Japan
• Promote awareness of world peace
• Encourage intercultural exchange and global understanding

This cultural and educational experience forms part of the broader fellowship programme. 3

Research Fields

The MIF Fellowship mainly supports research in fields such as:

• Natural Sciences
• Engineering
• Medicine
• Agriculture
• Environmental Sciences
• Biotechnology
• Applied Sciences
• Scientific and technological innovation

Applicants whose research contributes to global development and scientific advancement are especially encouraged to apply.

Eligible Host Institutions

Selected fellows may conduct research at:

• Japanese universities
• National research institutions
• Public research centres
• Approved private-sector research institutions

Applicants must secure acceptance from a Japanese host institution before submitting their application.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Matsumae International Foundation Fellowship 2027, applicants generally must:

• Be non-Japanese nationals
• Hold a PhD degree at the time of application
• Be 45 years old or younger
• Have sufficient English or Japanese language proficiency
• Secure an invitation or acceptance letter from a Japanese host institution
• Be currently employed in their home country
• Intend to return to their home country after the fellowship
• Demonstrate strong academic and research ability
• Not have long-term previous experience staying or working in Japan

The fellowship strongly encourages researchers who will contribute to the development of their home countries after completing the programme. 4

Who Should Apply?

The fellowship is suitable for:

• Postdoctoral researchers
• Early-career researchers
• University lecturers
• Academic researchers
• Scientists
• Engineers
• Medical researchers
• Agricultural researchers
• Research professionals interested in international collaboration

Applicants with strong academic records and clear research objectives may be highly competitive.

Required Documents

Applicants generally need to prepare:

• Official application form
• Recent passport photograph
• Research proposal or research plan
• Motivation statement
• Updated CV or résumé
• List of publications
• Recommendation letter from current employer or institution
• PhD degree certificate
• Acceptance letter from Japanese host institution
• Supporting academic documents

All documents should be carefully prepared according to the official MIF application guidelines. 5

Important Host Institution Requirement

Applicants must first secure a Japanese host institution before applying.

The host institution may include:

• A university professor
• A research laboratory
• A scientific research institute
• A recognised Japanese research organisation

Applicants are advised to begin contacting potential host supervisors and institutions early because obtaining an acceptance letter may take time.

Fellowship Duration

The fellowship research period lasts for:

• 6 months

The fellowship period must take place between:

• June 2027 and March 2028

The exact fellowship schedule may be arranged with the host institution and MIF.

How to Apply for MIF Fellowship 2027

Interested applicants should follow these steps:

1. Visit the official Matsumae International Foundation fellowship page.
2. Carefully read the fellowship announcement and guidelines.
3. Identify a Japanese host institution or professor.
4. Contact the host institution and secure an acceptance letter.
5. Prepare all required documents.
6. Complete the official application form.
7. Prepare a strong research proposal and motivation statement.
8. Submit all application documents by email.
9. Ensure that the application is submitted within the official application period.
10. Monitor your email for updates from MIF.

Application Period

The official application period is:

• 1 June 2026 – 30 June 2026 (Japan Standard Time)

Late applications may not be accepted. 6

Selection Process

The MIF Fellowship selection process may include:

• Eligibility screening
• Academic review
• Research proposal evaluation
• Assessment of host institution acceptance
• Final review by the Matsumae International Foundation

Selection is highly competitive due to the limited number of fellowships available annually.

Important Notes for Applicants

• The fellowship is fully funded.
• Applicants must hold a PhD degree.
• Applicants must secure a Japanese host institution before applying.
• The fellowship is mainly intended for non-Japanese researchers.
• Applicants should demonstrate strong research capability.
• Fellows are expected to return to their home countries after completion.
• The fellowship supports scientific exchange and international friendship.
• The application period is limited to June 2026.
• Applications must be submitted through the official MIF process.
• Early preparation is strongly recommended.

Official Application Link

Applicants should visit the official Matsumae International Foundation Fellowship announcement page for complete details and updated instructions:

Applicants can also access the official fellowship PDF announcement through the MIF website.

About the Matsumae International Foundation

The Matsumae International Foundation (MIF) is a Japanese foundation dedicated to promoting international understanding, scientific exchange, and global peace through research and academic cooperation.

The foundation supports researchers from around the world while strengthening long-term international academic partnerships. 7

Final Note from AK Travels LTD

The Matsumae International Foundation Fellowship 2027 in Japan is an excellent opportunity for international researchers who want to conduct advanced research in Japan while building international academic networks and cultural understanding.

At AK Travels LTD, we encourage interested applicants to begin preparing early, especially in securing Japanese host institutions and developing strong research proposals.

Since the fellowship is highly competitive and requires prior host acceptance, applicants should contact potential Japanese supervisors early and ensure that all documents are professionally prepared before the application deadline.