Japan Kyoto University CSEAS Fellowship 2026 (Fully Funded)
Description
Are you a distinguished scholar or seasoned professional looking to advance your research in Southeast Asian Studies? The Center for Southeast Asian Studies (CSEAS) at Kyoto University, Japan, is now accepting applications for its prestigious CSEAS Fellowship Program 2026.
This fully funded international fellowship offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in cutting-edge research while residing in the culturally rich city of Kyoto. Here's everything you need to know.
About the CSEAS Fellowship
Since 1975, the CSEAS Visiting Research Fellowship Program has supported over 400 scholars, promoting multidisciplinary, comparative, and global research on Southeast Asia. The fellowship fosters scholarly exchange, collaboration, and access to Japan’s academic and cultural resources.
Degree Level
Japan Kyoto University CSEAS Fellowship 2026 (Fully Funded) is available to undertake Fellowship level programs at Kyoto University.
Available Subjects
Research Themes and Activities
Fellows are encouraged to:
- Conduct multidisciplinary research on Southeast Asia
- Participate in seminars, workshops, and conferences
- Submit work to CSEAS journals such as Southeast Asian Studies and Kyoto Review of Southeast Asia
- Contribute to CSEAS book series and newsletters
Benefits
Selected fellows will receive comprehensive support including:
- Round-trip international airfare
- Living expenses during the stay in Kyoto
- Research and domestic travel funds
- Access to Kyoto University resources and CSEAS events
- Opportunity to deliver a public lecture and publish in CSEAS journals
Eligible Nationalities
The fellowship is open to scholars and professionals of any nationality working in fields related to Southeast Asian Studies.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the CSEAS Fellowship 2026, you must:
- Be a productive scholar of high reputation, generally under 65 years old
- Not be enrolled in a graduate or postdoctoral program
- Experienced librarians may apply for the librarian-specific position
- Wait at least six years if you’ve previously held a CSEAS fellowship
Applicants from various professions (government, media, NGOs, IT, etc.) are welcome.
Application Procedure
Fellowship Slots and Starting Dates (2026)
Six fellowship slots are available, with flexible start dates:
- May 1, 2026
- June 1, 2026
- July 1, 2026
- August 1, 2026
- September 1, 2026
- November 1, 2026
Note: Actual start dates may vary depending on availability.
Application Requirements
All applications must be submitted online and include the following documents (in PDF format):
- Completed Online Application Form
- Curriculum Vitae (max 5 pages including major publications)
- Research Plan (within 2 pages, double-spaced, using the provided template)
- Two Recommendation Letters (sent by referees on institutional letterhead)
Submit supporting documents via email to: grants@cseas.kyoto-u.ac.jp
Deadline
- Application Deadline: August 31, 2025
- Notification of Results: By end of November 2025
Why Choose CSEAS in Kyoto?
- Located in Kyoto, Japan's cultural and historical hub
- Home to top-tier academic resources and libraries
- Scenic and intellectually stimulating environment
- A center for cross-cultural and historical studies
FAQs
Q1: Can professionals outside of academia apply for the CSEAS Fellowship?
Yes. The fellowship is open not only to scholars but also to professionals such as government officials, journalists, librarians, and NGO workers who work on Southeast Asian issues.
Q2: Is Japanese language proficiency required for this fellowship?
No, Japanese language proficiency is not required. All application materials and communications can be in English.
Q3: How long can the fellowship last?
Fellowships are offered for a period between three to six months, depending on your research plan and CSEAS scheduling.
