Providing Japan Study Abroad opportunities for american undergraduates

70 Bridging Scholars will study in Japan this year

We provide study abroad scholarships, mentorship, and networking opportunities to American undergraduates passionate about Japan.

join our program

Our scholars are passionate undergraduate students from across the United States. Meet our latest cohort!

Meet Our Scholars

Help us nurture global leaders by becoming a supporter of the United States-Japan Bridging Foundation!

BECOME A SUPPORTER

News from the Bridging Foundation

About The
United States-Japan Bridging Foundation

The United States-Japan Bridging Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created in 1998. Three core activities comprise the Bridging Foundation’s global mission: recruiting students interested in study abroad; funding scholarships for study in Japan; and mentoring those students.

Meet our Scholars

$7.3 million in grants of $2,500 to $7,500 since 1998

80% OF ALUMNI RESPONDENTS COMMUNICATE WITH THEIR JAPANESE HOST FAMILY, FRIENDS, AND PROFESSORS

55% OF RECIPIENTS ARE WOMEN

50% IDENTIFY AS BLACK, ASIAN, OR HISPANIC

57% OF ALUMNI RESPONDENTS ARE CURRENTLY IN JAPAN OR WORKING FOR A U.S.-JAPAN RELATED ORGANIZATION

Apply to be a scholar

The U.S.-Japan Bridging Foundation awards scholarships to U.S. undergraduate students to study in Japan for one semester or an academic year.

Applications open twice a year, generally in mid-spring and mid-fall. We receive at least four applications for every one awarded. The Foundation awards approximately 100 scholarships annually at a total value of $350,000.

We Need Your Support!

Help us nurture the next generation of global leaders by providing American undergraduates with experiences that will enrich their knowledge and understanding of Japan.

YOUR SUPPORT PROVIDES:

  • Life-Changing Financial Assistance: Grant recipients spend a semester or academic-year in Japan taking classes at a local Japanese university while studying the language and culture

  • Equity and Inclusion in Japan: We recruit a diverse cross-section of students, including those from traditionally underrepresented communities

  • Future Generational Impact: Our scholars’ long-term engagement with Japan increases the likelihood they will remain strong advocates of the U.S.-Japan relationship and creates a sustainable pipeline for the next generation of U.S.-Japan leaders

Work In Japan

Using Japanese in the Workplace Part 1

Perspectives on International Education Careers

Building a Japan-related Career