Deadline: October 31, 2025
Applications are open for the International Affairs Fellowship in Japan 2026-2027. Founded in 1997, the International Affairs Fellowship (IAF) in Japan, sponsored by Hitachi, Ltd., seeks 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 carry out 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 and to 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.
Benefits
- 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.
Eligibility
- Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
- Applicants must be mid-career professionals.
- Applicants must have a strong record of professional achievement.
- Applicants must have an interest in U.S.-Japan relations.
- Applicants must hold at least a bachelor’s degree.
- 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:
- Scholarly qualifications and/or professional experience
- The merits and feasibility of a research project that deals with some aspect of U.S.-Japanese relations, national security, or emerging technology.
- Character and personal qualities conducive to promoting cross-cultural communication and cooperation
- The contribution the fellowship will make to the applicant’s career development
Application
To apply, you will need to submit the following:
- Basic biographical, educational, and employment information
- Project proposal and proposed placements
- Two letters of support
For more information, visit IAF in Japan.
