Kyoto University Japan CSEAS Fellowship 2026 (Fully Funded) – Apply Now!

Oct 7, 2025

CSEAS Fellowship

Kyoto University, one of Japan’s most prestigious institutions, through its Center for Southeast Asian Studies (CSEAS), offers the Visiting Research Scholars Fellowship 2026. This program is a fully funded opportunity for international scholars and professionals who wish to deepen their research on Southeast Asia and related areas while benefiting from Kyoto University’s world-class resources.

The fellowship is designed to encourage multidisciplinary and comparative research, foster international academic collaboration, and provide scholars with the space to complete publications, develop manuscripts, or engage in collaborative projects.

About the Fellowship

The CSEAS Fellowship is a globally recognized program that hosts international scholars in Kyoto, Japan. It provides fellows with time and resources to conduct research, participate in seminars, deliver lectures, and engage with an active network of researchers.

Host Institution: Center for Southeast Asian Studies (CSEAS), Kyoto University, Japan
Duration: 3–6 months
Number of Fellowships: Six fellowships are available in 2026, including one for an experienced librarian.
Start Dates: Fellows can begin on May 1, June 1, July 1, August 1, September 1, or November 1, 2026.

Financial Benefits

The CSEAS Fellowship 2026 is fully funded, covering all major costs so that scholars can focus entirely on their research. Benefits include:

Monthly Stipend: To cover living expenses in Kyoto.
Round-Trip Travel Costs: International airfare to and from Japan is provided.
Research Funds: Additional financial support for fieldwork, domestic travel within Japan, and research-related expenses.
Access to Facilities: Full use of Kyoto University’s libraries, archives, seminars, and academic resources.
Academic Engagement: Opportunities to present public lectures, collaborate with other researchers, and participate in academic events.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

Academic Standing: Established scholars with a strong record of publications and research. Applicants should generally be under 65 years old (exceptions possible for distinguished academics).
Non-Students: The fellowship is not open to graduate students or postdoctoral researchers currently enrolled in degree programs.
Librarian Fellowship: One fellowship is reserved for an experienced librarian specializing in library or archival work.
Reapplication Rule: Scholars who have previously held a CSEAS fellowship can only apply again after six years have passed since their last fellowship term.
Commitment to Residency: Fellows must reside in Kyoto throughout the duration of the fellowship.

Selection Criteria

Applications are evaluated based on:

Quality of Research Proposal: Originality, feasibility, and relevance to Southeast Asian studies.
Track Record of Scholarship: Previous publications, contributions to academic fields, and professional achievements.
Potential for Contribution: Ability to enrich CSEAS’s research environment and engage in cross-disciplinary dialogue.
References: Strength of recommendation letters submitted by referees.
Alignment with CSEAS Goals: Research that connects with the center’s mission of advancing comparative and regional studies of Southeast Asia.

Application Process

Notification of Results: End of November 2025
Start of Fellowship: Beginning May 2026 (with multiple entry dates available)

Documents Required:

Curriculum Vitae (CV) of no more than five pages, including major publications.
Research Plan (maximum two pages, double-spaced) explaining research objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
Two Letters of Recommendation, written on official letterhead and submitted directly by referees.

Applications are submitted online, and referees must send their letters separately by the deadline.

Expectations from Fellows

Selected fellows are expected to:

Stay in Kyoto: Reside in the city for the full duration of the fellowship.
Deliver a Public Lecture: Present their research findings at CSEAS or Kyoto University.
Engage in Academic Activities: Participate in seminars, workshops, and collaborative discussions.
Produce Scholarly Output: Prepare manuscripts, journal articles, or research papers during their fellowship term.

Why Apply for the Kyoto University CSEAS Fellowship?

The CSEAS Fellowship is not only about financial support — it’s about becoming part of a vibrant academic community.

Academic Freedom: A dedicated period to focus on research without distractions.
World-Class Resources: Access to specialized Southeast Asian studies archives and Kyoto University’s vast academic infrastructure.
Networking Opportunities: Build long-term academic collaborations with Japanese and international scholars.
Cultural Enrichment: Living in Kyoto, Japan’s historic cultural hub, adds a unique dimension to the fellowship experience.

Tips for a Successful Application

Write a Clear Research Plan: Keep it concise, original, and aligned with Southeast Asian studies.
Demonstrate Impact: Show how your research will contribute to academic knowledge and CSEAS’s mission.
Highlight Achievements: Include strong evidence of past work such as books, journal articles, or major projects.
Secure Strong References: Choose referees who know your work well and can speak to your research potential.
Plan Practically: Outline how you will utilize your time, resources, and Kyoto’s academic environment.

Conclusion

The Kyoto University CSEAS Fellowship 2026 is a remarkable chance for scholars of Southeast Asian studies to advance their research in one of Japan’s top universities, with full financial support and access to world-class facilities. By joining this fellowship, scholars not only strengthen their academic careers but also become part of a global network of researchers committed to understanding and advancing knowledge about Southeast Asia.