About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
Foundation Principles and Vision
The foundation operates on a commitment to inclusivity and academic merit, offering opportunities regardless of race, gender, religion, or ideology. Established in 1979, MIF focuses on:
Encouraging cultural exchange
Strengthening international friendship and cooperation
Supporting researchers in addressing challenges in their home countries
Building long-term academic and diplomatic bridges with Japan
The vision originates from Shigeyoshi Matsumae, whose philosophy emphasized that global peace can be achieved through mutual understanding and collaboration. His belief was that academic exchange fosters trust, which is essential for a peaceful world.
Science
Founder’s Philosophy: Peace Through Knowledge Exchange
Dr. Matsumae advocated for addressing global crises such as:
Energy shortages
Food insecurity
Population growth
He emphasized that overcoming these challenges requires international cooperation. His work extended across engineering and politics, including founding Tokai University and contributing to technological innovation.
Educational Resources
The foundation reflects his enduring mission:
Promote peaceful coexistence
Encourage cross-cultural dialogue
Develop future global leaders
Key Features of the Fellowship
The fellowship offers flexibility and academic independence:
Open to young researchers worldwide
Freedom to select a host institution in Japan
Research topics determined collaboratively with host supervisors
Participation in a study tour, including visits to culturally significant locations such as Hiroshima
Exposure to Japan’s technological and cultural heritage
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
Non-Japanese nationality
Alignment with MIF values
Full-time employment in home country with commitment to return
Possession of a Ph.D. at the time of application
Age 45 years or younger (born in or after 1981)
No prior long-term stay in Japan
Secured acceptance from a Japanese host institution
Proficiency in English or Japanese
Research Fields
Preferred disciplines include:
Natural
Engineering
Medicine
Agriculture
These fields align with global development priorities and Japan’s research strengths.
Science
Fellowship Duration and Structure
Duration: 6 months
Period: Between June 2027 and March 2028
Applicants must specify their preferred timeline in the application
Fellowship Benefits
The program provides comprehensive financial and logistical support:
Monthly Allowance: JPY 220,000 (covers research and living expenses)
Arrival Fund: JPY 120,000
Airfare: Round-trip economy ticket to Japan
Insurance: Medical and travel coverage
Study Tour: Organized cultural and educational experiences
Application Process
Applicants must submit documents via email within the official application window:
Educational Resources
Application Period: June 1 – June 30, 2026 (Japan Standard Time)
Important submission rules:
All documents must be in PDF format
File size must not exceed 5 MB
No compressed files or external links allowed
Documents must be submitted individually, not combined
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following:
Application Form with recent photograph
Statement of Purpose (max. 500 words)
Detailed Research Plan (up to 5 pages), including:
Objectives and methodology
Project timeline
Impact on home country
Curriculum Vitae and publication list
Recommendation letter from employer
Ph.D. certificate (with certified translation if needed)
Acceptance letter from host institution
Selection and Results
Applications are reviewed by the MIF Screening Committee
Results announced in late November 2026 via the official website
Successful applicants receive formal grant letters
Important notes:
Decisions are final and non-negotiable
No feedback is provided on unsuccessful applications
Program Impact
The fellowship aims to cultivate researchers who:
Contribute to scientific advancement
Promote international collaboration
Act as bridges between Japan and their home countries
How to apply