The JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship 2027 in Japan is a fully funded research opportunity for international scholars. It provides pre- and post-doctoral researchers from ASEAN countries and others the chance to conduct cooperative research at Japanese universities and institutions. The fellowship covers airfare, monthly allowance, settling-in allowance, and insurance.
The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) is an independent administrative entity established by national law to promote scientific growth in all sectors of natural and social sciences, as well as the humanities. It administers a wide range of Japan’s scientific and academic activities, tailoring its programs to the demands of participating scientists.
JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship Benefits
- Round-trip airfare based on JSPS regulations
- Monthly allowance: 362,000 JPY for Ph.D. holders, 200,000 JPY for non-Ph.D. holders
- Settling-in allowance of 200,000 JPY for fellows with 3 or more months of tenure
- Overseas travel insurance
- Research support allowance up to 70,000 JPY per month for cooperative research expenses
JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship Eligibility Criteria
- National of ASEAN member countries with Ph.D. (less than 6 years since obtaining Ph.D. in a country other than Japan)
- National of ASEAN member countries in doctor course (expected to obtain Ph.D. within 2 years in a country other than Japan)
- Non-national of ASEAN member countries with Ph.D. (less than 6 years since obtaining Ph.D. in a country other than Japan, and continuously engaged in research at an ASEAN institution for at least 3 years)
- Non-national of ASEAN member countries in doctor course (expected to obtain Ph.D. within 2 years in a country other than Japan, and continuously engaged in research at an ASEAN institution for at least 3 years)
- Persons who have previously been awarded and started a JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship for Research in Japan are not eligible
- Japanese citizens who are permanent residents of eligible countries are not eligible
- Researchers who have taken maternity or parental leave may have the time deducted from their research experience
Research Areas
- Humanities,
- Social sciences,
- Natural sciences.
Documents Required
- Online Application Form
- CV or Resume
- Certificate of English proficiency
- Letter from Japanese Host Researcher
- PhD Diploma/Certificate
- Research Plan (2 pages):
- background,
- purpose,
- plan,
- expected results/impact
- only peer-reviewed,
- printed or officially accepted papers,
- Valid passport or national ID
How to Apply for JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship?
- Establish contact with a prospective host researcher in Japan
- Submit application via the ASEAN University Network web portal
- Submit required documents including academic transcripts, Ph.D. diploma or certificate, recommendation letter, letter of acceptance from host researcher, list of publications, and research plan
- Ensure all documents are in English or include an English translation
- Submit application by the deadline: 15 November 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship?
The JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship is a fully funded research opportunity for international scholars to conduct cooperative research at Japanese universities and institutions. It is offered by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) and covers airfare, monthly allowance, settling-in allowance, and insurance.
Who can apply for the JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship?
Applicants must be nationals of ASEAN member countries or non-nationals who have been continuously engaged in research at an ASEAN institution for at least three years. They must have a Ph.D. (less than 6 years since obtaining) or be in a doctor course expected to obtain a Ph.D. within 2 years.
What are the benefits of the JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship?
The fellowship provides round-trip airfare, a monthly allowance of 362,000 JPY for Ph.D. holders or 200,000 JPY for non-Ph.D. holders, a settling-in allowance of 200,000 JPY for fellows with 3 or more months of tenure, overseas travel insurance, and a research support allowance up to 70,000 JPY per month.
What is the duration of the JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship?
The fellowship lasts from 1 to 12 months, as agreed upon by the applicant and the host researcher. It is provided in full month units, and fellows must stay continuously in Japan for the entire duration.
When is the application deadline for the JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship?
The application deadline for ASEAN member countries is 15 November 2026. The letter of acceptance from the host researcher must also be submitted by this date.
How do I apply for the JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship?
Applications must be submitted through the ASEAN University Network web portal. Candidates must first establish contact with a prospective host researcher in Japan, then submit the required documents including academic transcripts, Ph.D. diploma, recommendation letter, letter of acceptance, list of publications, and research plan.
What fields of research are supported by the JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship?
All fields of research are included under this program, including humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
Can I apply if I have already received a JSPS fellowship before?
No, persons who have previously been awarded and started a fellowship under the JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship for Research in Japan are not eligible. This Short-term (PA) Fellowship is only awarded once per researcher.
What documents are required for the JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship application?
Required documents include academic transcripts from Bachelor’s to most recent degree, Ph.D. degree diploma or certificate, a recommendation letter, a letter of acceptance from the host researcher, a list of major publications (if any), and a research plan (2 pages). All documents must be in English.
When will the results of the JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship be announced?
Results will be announced in April 2027. If selected, applicants will receive an email from the JSPS Headquarters together with the award letter confirming their selection.
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