The Edwin O. Reischauer Institute of Japanese Studies (RIJS) supports Harvard graduate students in the humanities or social sciences whose work is focused on Japan. Preference is given to GSAS students in Japanese studies. In addition to doctoral candidates, continuing students in Harvard Master’s degree programs will be considered, as will graduating Harvard Master’s degree students entering a Harvard PhD program the following academic year.
Awards normally provide up to $6,000 for summer research travel to and from Japan. Applicants should have at least three years of Japanese language study or equivalent proficiency and must discuss these skills in their applications. Please note that research must be conducted in Japanese. Students who have already received RIJS wintersession funding are less likely to receive summer funding
Applying for both RIJS summer research funding and RIJS summer language study is strongly discouraged, and funding is not guaranteed. Applicants should consult with their advisors and select the most appropriate funding opportunity. Recommendation letters must align closely with student plans.
All support related to travel must comply with Harvard University guidelines and safety protocols. Please see the Harvard Global Support Services website for travel support.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 13, 2026 by 5:00pm ET on CARAT