International Affairs Fellowship in Japan 2026/2027 for U.S. Citizens

Founded in 1997 and sponsored by Hitachi, the International Affairs Fellowship in Japan offers mid-career U.S. professionals the opportunity to conduct research on key geopolitical issues affecting U.S.-Japan relations. Fellows are placed in Japanese host institutions to advance policy, defense, trade, technology, and diplomatic collaboration. The program strengthens bilateral ties and builds long-term professional networks across both countries.

Summary

1. Application Deadline: October 31, 2025
2. Value: $7,700 monthly stipend + $5,000 travel grant
3. Type: Fellowship, Bachelors
4. Sponsor: Council on Foreign Relations
5. Course/Focus Area: U.S.–Japan relations, defense, trade, policy, critical minerals, export controls
6. Eligible Country: United State

Eligibility Criteria for International Affairs Fellowship in Japan 2026/2027 for U.S. Citizens

1. Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
2. Applicants must be mid-career professionals.
3. Applicants must have a strong record of professional achievement.
4. Applicants must have an interest in U.S.-Japan relations.
5. Applicants must hold at least a bachelor’s degree.
6. Applicants must have a U.S. passport valid through six months after the fellowship end date.

Selection Process

Selection as an IAF in Japan is based on the following criteria:

1. Scholarly qualifications and/or professional experience
2. The merits and feasibility of a research project that deals with some aspect of U.S.-Japanese relations, national security, or emerging technology.
3. Character and personal qualities conducive to promoting cross-cultural communication and cooperation
4. The contribution the fellowship will make to the applicant’s career development

The selection process is highly competitive. A selection committee reviews all applications and selects the most promising applicants for interviews. CFR awards three to five fellowships each year. A strong preference is given to candidates who have never received a CFR fellowship.

Benefits of International Affairs Fellowship in Japan 2026/2027 for U.S. Citizens

1. Monthly stipend of $7,700
2. $5,000 travel grant
3. Fellowship duration: 3 to 12 months
4. Placement in top Japanese institutions
5. Full-time, in-person research experience
6. Professional networking and long-term collaboration opportunities

How to Apply

Interested candidates who meet the program’s eligibility requirements can apply online between September 15 and October 31, 2025, for the 2026–27 fellowship cycle. Awardees will be notified by January 30, 2026.

To apply, you will need to submit the following:

1. Basic biographical, educational, and employment information
2. Project proposal and proposed placements
3. Two letters of support

View details of International Affairs Fellowship in Japan

Application Deadline

31 October, 2025

Application Link(s)

• Apply for International Affairs Fellowship in Japan 2026/2027 for U.S. Citizens