Want to study at top colleges abroad for free? Apply for World Bank Japan scholarship

The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Programme (JJ/WBGSP) has opened applications for the 2026 academic cycle. The initiative offers fully funded master’s degree opportunities to candidates from developing countries who are working in development-related sectors.

The scholarship focusses on mid-career professionals who have demonstrated dedication to social and economic development in their home nations and want specialised academic training to enhance their impact.

The programme supports study in priority areas linked to development policy and management.

Scholars are expected to use the knowledge gained abroad to contribute to national development after completing their degree.

WHAT IS THE PROGRAMME

The JJ/WBGSP supports students admitted to 44 participating master’s programmes across 24 universities located in the United States, Europe, Africa, Oceania, and Japan.

These programmes cover development-focused fields such as:

• Economic policy management

• Tax policy

• Infrastructure management

• Related development disciplines

Applicants must note that only candidates admitted to one of the 44 programmes can apply. Those without admission cannot submit a scholarship application.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Applicants must:

• Be a citizen of a World Bank member developing country

• Not hold dual citizenship of a developed country

• Be in good health

• Hold a bachelor’s degree earned at least three years before the deadline

• Have a minimum of three years of paid full-time development-related work experience within six years

• Be currently employed in development-related work

• Be admitted unconditionally to a participating programme outside their home country

• Not be affiliated with the World Bank Group or relatives of staff

• Not have declined or failed to complete a previous JJ/WBGSP award

Limited exceptions exist for applicants from fragile or conflict-affected states.

APPLICATION WINDOWS

To match university calendars, applications are divided into two rounds:

• Window 1: January 15 to February 27, 2026

• Window 2: March 30 to May 29, 2026

The application link is not public. It is shared only with candidates who:

• Receive unconditional admission (except funding)

• Are shortlisted by the university as eligible applicants

Students are advised to contact their chosen university to confirm eligibility.

SELECTION PROCESS

Applications are evaluated independently by two assessors using four criteria:

• Professional experience — 30%

• Professional recommendations — 30%

• Commitment to home country development — 30%

• Educational background — 10%

Final selection also considers geographical balance, gender representation, hardship circumstances, and diversity. The Steering Committee approves final scholars.

SCHOLARSHIP BENEFITS

The scholarship covers:

• Full tuition fees

• Basic medical insurance

• Monthly living allowance (varies by country)

• Round-trip economy airfare

• US $600 travel allowance per trip

Coverage lasts for the full programme duration or up to two years.

WHAT IS NOT COVERED

The scholarship does not cover:

• Visa or residence permit costs

• Family expenses

• Language training outside the programme

• Research costs, internships, workshops, field trips

• Laptops or equipment

• Extra travel during studies

Scholars must disclose any other funding received.

After completing the programme, scholars must return to their home country and apply their skills toward development initiatives.

Overall, the JJ/WBGSP offers a pathway for experienced professionals to gain advanced education abroad and return equipped to strengthen development efforts in their home countries.