FAQ: JAPANESE STUDIES FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM   Do I have to be working specifically in the field of Japanese Studies? No. Any researcher in the fields of humanities and social sciences for whom it is necessary to visit Japan for the purpose of research is eligible to apply. Interdisciplinary or comparative research is welcome.   Does the Japan Foundation assist with arranging affiliations with institutions and advisors in Japan? No. Applicants must make these arrangements themselves.   Do I need to be able to speak and/or understand Japanese? Only PhD candidates need Japanese language skills sufficient to conduct research in Japan. Scholars, researchers and short-term researchers are not required to speak or understand Japanese.   How do I submit my application? The Japan Foundation Head Office in Tokyo requires that all application forms and attendant paperwork (including referee letters) be submitted in hard copy with original (not electronic) signatures. For this reason, all applications must be submitted by post. Note that applicants are required to send two copies of the application form. How should my referees submit their letters? Referees should post their reference letters to The Japan Foundation, Sydney office. You can find our postal address here. Referees residing in Japan may post their letters of reference directly to the Japan Foundation Head Office in Tokyo if they wish. Note that the referee letter template must be enclosed and signed with an original (not electronic) signature.   Where do I send my application? All applications from within Australia must be submitted to The Japan Foundation, Sydney office, postmarked no later than the application deadline. You can find our postal address here.