Japan - Open Study/Research Award for Graduating Seniors

This Fulbright grant introduces recent American graduates to various regions of Japan to pursue language study and independent research at Japanese universities. The main purpose of the research project is to serve as a vehicle for immersion and engagement with the local community. Grantees structure their own programs, combining language study, selected course study according to their Japanese proficiency, and individual research under the guidance of an assigned professor. The grant is designed for graduating seniors who will receive bachelor's degrees between December 2025 and August 2026. Applications in all disciplines are considered, with preference given to applicants demonstrating study or research plans related to furthering mutual understanding and cooperative pursuits between Japan and the United States. Successful applicants must demonstrate maturity, flexibility, and independence, with interests in Japanese culture and society in the broad sense. The program includes a ten-month grant period starting in September 2026, with required participation in orientation and a mid-year conference.