Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarship Program: How to Apply
Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarship 2026 fully funded opportunity
Applications are now officially open for the 2026 Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP), one of the world’s most competitive and fully funded opportunities for professionals from developing countries to pursue Master’s degrees abroad. Jointly funded by the Government of Japan and the World Bank, the program supports development-focused postgraduate studies across 24 leading universities in the United States, United Kingdom, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia.
The scholarship is specifically designed to equip mid-career professionals with advanced knowledge and skills that can be applied directly to economic growth, public policy, infrastructure development, and social reform in their home countries.
About the Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarship Program
The Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarship Program targets professionals who are already working in development-related fields and are committed to contributing to national development after graduation. Since its inception, the program has supported thousands of scholars who now hold influential roles in government, policy institutions, NGOs, and international organizations.
Scholars admitted under the program must return to their home countries after completing their studies and actively contribute to social and economic development, a core requirement of the award.
Fields of Study Covered Under JJ/WBGSP
Subject to funding availability, the scholarship supports 52 participating Master’s programs focused on key development areas, including:
- Economic Policy Management
- Infrastructure and Transport Management
- Tax Policy and Public Finance
- Environmental and Sustainable Development
- Public Administration and Governance
Programs are carefully selected to align with the World Bank’s development goals and global policy priorities.
Application Windows for 2026
To align with different university academic calendars, the scholarship application is divided into two windows:
- Application Window #1: January 15 – February 27, 2026
- Application Window #2: March 30 – May 29, 2026
Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as competition is extremely high.
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Eligibility Requirements for Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarship 2026
To be considered, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be a national of a World Bank member developing country
- Not hold dual citizenship of any developed country
- Be in good health
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree obtained at least three years before the application deadline
- Have at least three years of recent, paid development-related work experience
- Be employed full-time in a development-related role at the time of application
These strict requirements ensure that beneficiaries are well-positioned to create impact after graduation.
Benefits of the Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarship Program
The JJ/WBGSP is fully funded, covering:
- Full tuition fees for the Master’s program
- Economy-class airfare to and from the host country
- A US$500 travel allowance per trip
- Monthly living stipend covering accommodation, food, books, and daily expenses
- Basic medical insurance provided through the host university
Funding is provided for the full duration of the Master’s program or up to two years, whichever is shorter.
How to Apply for the 2026 Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarship
Interested and eligible applicants should:
- Apply for admission to a participating Master’s program
- Visit the official JJ/WBGSP application portal
- Complete and submit the online scholarship application before the deadline
Applicants must ensure all information is accurate and supported with verifiable documentation.
FAQ
What is the Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarship Program?
The Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) is a fully funded postgraduate scholarship for citizens of developing countries to study development-related Master’s programs worldwide.
Is the Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. The scholarship covers tuition, monthly stipend, accommodation, medical insurance, and international travel.
Who is eligible for the 2026 Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarship?
Applicants must be nationals of developing countries, hold a Bachelor’s degree, have at least three years of development-related work experience, and be employed full-time at the time of application.
Which countries can apply for the World Bank Scholarship?
All World Bank member developing countries are eligible to apply.
What courses are covered under JJ/WBGSP?
The scholarship covers development-focused Master’s programs such as economic policy, infrastructure management, public finance, governance, and sustainable development.
What is the deadline for the 2026 Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarship?
The final deadline for the second application window is May 29, 2026.
Do scholars have to return to their home countries after graduation?
Yes. Scholars are required to return home and contribute to their country’s social and economic development.
How competitive is the Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarship?
The program is highly competitive, receiving applications from thousands of qualified professionals globally each year.