The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Programme (JJWBGSP) offers fully funded scholarships to nationals of developing countries who wish to pursue a development-related Master’s degree. The programme supports future leaders committed to contributing to the social and economic development of their home countries.
Funded by the Government of Japan and administered by the World Bank, the JJWBGSP provides opportunities to study at 24 prestigious universities across the United States, Europe, Africa, Oceania, and Japan. In 2026, scholarships are available for 44 participating Master’s programmes in key development fields such as economic policy management, tax policy, infrastructure management, public policy, environmental management, and more.
Key Benefits of the JJWBGSP Scholarship
Recipients receive comprehensive financial support, including:
- Full tuition for the graduate programme
- Monthly subsistence allowance to cover living expenses (accommodation, food, books, and other costs) – the amount varies by host country
- Economy class air travel between your home country and the host university at the beginning and end of the study programme
- US $600 travel allowance for each one-way trip
- Basic medical insurance obtained through the university
The scholarship covers the duration of the Master’s programme or a maximum of two years, whichever is shorter. It does not cover visa costs, family expenses, or additional research or travel.
After completing their studies, scholars must return to their home country to apply their new skills and contribute to national development.
Who Can Apply? – Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the 2026 Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be a national of a World Bank member developing country (check the full eligible countries list on the official website)
- Not hold dual citizenship of any developed country
- Be in good health
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) earned at least three years before the application deadline
- Have at least three years of paid, full-time development-related work experience acquired within the past six years from the application deadline
- Be employed in a paid, full-time, development-related position at the time of application
- Have unconditional admission (except for funding) to at least one participating JJWBGSP Master’s programme located outside your country of citizenship and residence
- Not be a World Bank Group staff member, Executive Director (or their alternate), or a close relative of such persons
Important: Nationals from fragile and conflict-affected states may receive some flexibility on the employment requirement.
Application Windows for 2026
The application process is divided into two windows to suit different academic calendars:
- Application Window 1: 15 January 2026 – 27 February 2026
- Application Window 2: 30 March 2026 – 29 May 2026
Note: You can only apply through the official online portal after receiving unconditional admission to a participating programme. The application link is shared only with eligible candidates shortlisted by the participating universities.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for the JJWBGSP Scholarship 2026
- Review eligibility — Carefully read all requirements and confirm you meet every criterion.
- Choose a participating programme — Browse the list of 44 approved Master’s programmes at the 24 partner universities. Ensure the programme aligns with development-related topics.
- Apply for university admission — Submit your application directly to your chosen participating programme(s). You must obtain unconditional admission (except for funding).
- Prepare required documents — This typically includes your Bachelor’s degree certificate, proof of work experience, admission letter, CV, recommendation letters, and other supporting documents.
- Submit the scholarship application — Once you receive unconditional admission and the university shortlists you, you will be provided with the link to the official JJWBGSP online application portal. Submit only one complete application before the relevant window deadline.
- Wait for selection — Applications are reviewed based on professional experience, recommendations, commitment to home country, and academic background. Geographical balance, gender balance, and special circumstances are also considered.
Official Application Guidelines and FAQs are available on the World Bank website for each window.
Participating Programmes and Universities
Scholarships are offered for development-focused Master’s programmes in the U.S., Europe, Africa, Oceania, and Japan. Full lists for Window 1 and Window 2 are published on the official page. Popular host institutions include universities such as Columbia University, Australian National University, and others specialising in public policy, sustainability, and economic development.
Why Apply for This Scholarship?
- Fully funded support with no repayment required
- Study at world-class universities in multiple continents
- Gain specialised knowledge in development fields
- Join a global network of JJWBGSP alumni contributing to their countries
Ready to apply? Visit the official programme page for the latest details, the list of eligible countries, participating programmes, and application guidelines:
→ Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Programme
Deadline reminder: Window 1 closes on 27 February 2026, Window 2 closes on 29 May 2026