Applications are now open for the Western Balkans Meet Japan: A Bridge into the Future youth exchange program, a fully funded 7-day cultural and academic immersion experience in Japan. This prestigious program is open to undergraduate, graduate, and PhD students aged 20 and above from the Western Balkans region
The program focuses on peacebuilding, cultural exchange, and intercultural dialogue, welcoming students from all academic disciplines. There is no application fee required. With a highly competitive selection process (over 1,000 applicants for 13 spots), this is an exceptional opportunity for emerging leaders to gain international experience, develop professional networks, and contribute to regional peacebuilding efforts. You can check out BS, MS, PhD and postdoc positions here
Program Details
- Program Dates: 20–26 January 2027
- Number of Participants: 13 undergraduate or graduate students
- Eligible Countries: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia
Program Objectives:
This youth exchange program, organized under the MIRAI Program since 2018, aims to:
- Deepen participants’ understanding of Japan and its policies
- Promote mutual understanding and reconciliation through intellectual and cultural exchange
- Build a foundation for future friendship and cooperation between Japan and the Western Balkans
- Empower participants to become active promoters of peace in their communities
Eligibility Requirements:
To be eligible for this program, you must meet ALL of the following criteria:
- Be a currently enrolled student in an undergraduate, graduate, or PhD program in the Western Balkans
- Be aged 20 years or older at the time of application
- Hold a passport issued by one of the WB6 countries (Japanese nationals are NOT eligible)
- Have a good command of English
- Demonstrate strong academic achievements and social activism
- Have never participated in exchange or similar programs by the Government of Japan
- Have never lived in Japan
- Respect the spirit of reconciliation and cooperation in the Western Balkans
- Hold a valid passport
Additional Assets
Applicants with the following qualifications will have a competitive advantage:
- Demonstrated ties to Japan (previous studies, cultural activities, or related experience)
- Proven track record in dealing with the past, reconciliation, regional cooperation, or intercultural learning
- Experience in peacebuilding initiatives
- Active involvement in community engagement
Visa Requirements
- Participants from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, and Montenegro will need to apply for a visa to participate in the program.
- The organizers will provide information about the visa application process to selected participants.
What’s Covered by the Program:
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan covers the following expenses:
- Round trip international air tickets to Japan (economy class)
- Overseas travel and accident insurance
- Accommodation in Japan
- Local transportation in Japan
- Meals during the program
- Admission fees for scheduled activities in Japan
What You Need to Cover
Participants are responsible for:
- Passport acquisition or renewal
- Visa application fees (if applicable)
- Vaccinations
- Excess baggage charges
- Travel expenses from home to the designated airport
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, personal goods, etc.)
Program Experience Highlights:
Last year’s cohort (February 2026) included 13 young people from the Western Balkans, selected through a competitive process from over 1,000 applicants. Participants visited key institutions such as:
- JICA Headquarters
- Sophia University
- Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima
The program featured academic discussions, cultural exchange, and emotional reflection, creating a transformative experience that deepened participants’ understanding of intercultural dialogue and conflict resolution.
Application Deadline & Timeline:
- Application Deadline: August 31, 2026 at 23:59 CET Time
- Interview Stage: Shortlisted applicants will be invited for interviews in September
- Notification of Results: Selected participants will be notified by mid-October
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can apply?
- Students aged 20 or above from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia who are currently enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, or PhD programs are eligible to apply.
Is there an application fee?
- No, there is no application fee for this program.
What if I don’t have previous experience with Japan?
- Previous experience with Japan is considered an asset but is not required. Your commitment to peacebuilding and willingness to engage with Japanese culture are more important.
Will my visa be covered?
- No, visa fees are your responsibility. However, the program organizers will provide guidance and support to the visa application process.
Can I apply if I hold a different nationality but live in the Western Balkans?
- No, you must hold a passport issued by one of the WB6 countries to be eligible.
Is there a GPA requirement?
- While a specific GPA is not mentioned, you should demonstrate strong academic achievements and maintain good academic standing in your program.
What if I’ve lived in Japan before?
- Applicants who have previously lived in Japan are not eligible for this program.
How to Apply:
Step 1: Prepare Your Application Materials
Before submitting your application, gather the following documents:
- Completed application form (provided by RYCO)
- Current CV or resume highlighting your academic and professional achievements
- Academic transcripts or records showing your current enrollment and academic standing
- Statement of purpose (explaining your interest in peacebuilding, Japan, and the Western Balkans region)
- Letter of recommendation from a professor, mentor, or professional contact
- Valid passport copy
- Recent passport-sized photograph
Step 2: Submit Your Application
- Visit the official RYCO website to access the application form
- Complete all required fields accurately and thoroughly
- Attach all supporting documents in the specified formats
- Ensure your application is submitted before the deadline: August 31, 2026 at 23:59 CET Time
Step 3: Interview Process (If Shortlisted)
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in an interview during September 2026
- Interviews will assess your motivation, communication skills, and commitment to peacebuilding
- You will be notified of the interview schedule via email
Step 4: Final Selection
- Selected participants will be notified by mid-October 2026
- Once selected, organizers will provide detailed information about visa requirements (if applicable), travel arrangements, and pre-departure orientation
