One of the most prominent fully financed scholarships accessible to professionals from poor nations who wish to pursue a master’s degree in development-related fields is the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) 2026. This program is intended for people who are deeply committed to eradicating poverty and advancing sustainable development back home.
After the deadlines for both application periods have been officially announced, candidates can start putting up compelling biographies that include academic records, work experience, and accomplishments focused on personal growth.
The scholarship, which is administered by the World Bank and funded by the Japanese government, offers early- and mid-career professionals full financial support.Its objective is to give future leaders the information and abilities they need to make significant contributions to institutional development, social advancement, and economic prosperity when they return to their home nations.
The program works with leading universities worldwide, providing chosen applicants with access to world-class instructors, global networks, and top-notch academic training—all with the goal of enhancing their ability to tackle urgent development issues.
Host Country: Japan
University: Japan Universities
Opportunity Type: Masters
Subject: All Subjects
Eligibility Country: International Students
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be a citizen of a World Bank member developing country (as listed by the World Bank).
- Cannot hold dual citizenship with any developed country.
- Must be in good physical health.
- Must possess a bachelor’s degree obtained at least 3 years prior to the application deadline.
- Required to have a minimum of 3 years of paid, development-related work experience within the past 6 years.
- Part-time work may be considered (see program FAQs for details).
- Special exemptions are available for applicants from Fragile and Conflict-Affected States (FCS).
- Must be employed full-time in a development-related role at the time of applying.
- Must have unconditional admission (except for funding) to at least one participating master’s program outside both the home country and current country of residence.
- Must not be a close relative of World Bank Group staff (including Executive Directors, their alternates, or staff members).
- Must not have previously been awarded or declined a JJ/WBGSP scholarship
Benefits:
- complete payment of the host university’s tuition.
- monthly living stipend that consists of:
- Accommodations
- Meals
- Books
- Expenses for general living
- round-trip tickets in economy class.
- a $600 USD per trip travel allowance.
- The university offers basic health insurance.
Not Included in the Scholarship
- application expenses for a visa.
- costs for dependents or family members.
- expenses for courses, seminars, or research.
- laptops, computers, or other personal devices.
- Extra training or travel is not covered by the academic program.
- administrative or residual permission fees.
Deadline: 29 May 2026
