Japan 2026/2027 International Affairs Fellowship

📖 About the Fellowship

Founded in 1997, the International Affairs Fellowship (IAF) in Japan, sponsored by Hitachi, Ltd., aims to strengthen mutual understanding and cooperation between rising generations of leaders in the United States and Japan. This transformational program enables mid-career professionals to conduct research on core geopolitical issues affecting the U.S.-Japan relationship—such as defense spending, trade, critical minerals, and export controls—at host institutions in Japan.

Participants will also establish long-term professional and personal ties through their activities. Individuals from academia, business, government, media, NGOs, and think tanks are encouraged to apply. Prior experience in Japan is not required.

🗓 Opportunity Details

• Date Published: October 13, 2025
• Application Deadline: October 31, 2025
• Category: Fellowship, Bachelor's
• Opportunity Location: Japan
• Eligible Locations: United States

🎁 Benefits of the Fellowship

• Fellowship duration: 3 to 12 months
• Monthly stipend: $7,700
• Travel grant: $5,000
• Fellows are considered independent contractors rather than employees of CFR (Council on Foreign Relations).
• No indirect costs can be deducted from the stipend.
• Employment benefits, including health insurance, are not provided.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be U.S. citizens.
• Be mid-career professionals.
• Have a strong record of professional achievement.
• Demonstrate an interest in U.S.-Japan relations.
• Hold at least a bachelor’s degree.
• Possess a U.S. passport valid through six months after the fellowship end date.

📝 Application Date and Process

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.

Required Documents:

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

📅 Application Deadline

October 31, 2025

🔗 Application Portal

View details of the International Affairs Fellowship in Japan.
Apply for the International Affairs Fellowship in Japan.

This fellowship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the U.S.-Japan relationship while advancing your professional career. Don't miss the chance to apply!

• The fellowship runs between three and twelve months.
• The program awards a monthly stipend of $7,700 along with a $5,000 travel grant.
• Fellows are considered independent contractors rather than employees of CFR and are not eligible for employment benefits, including health insurance.
• No indirect costs can be deducted from the stipend.