Are you looking to study in Japan through a fully funded opportunity? The Kyoto University ADB Scholarship 2025-26 offers a chance for outstanding international students to pursue a Master’s degree in one of Japan’s top institutions.
Funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), this prestigious scholarship program is designed for those committed to contributing to their home countries’ economic and social development.
Kyoto University ADB Scholarship 2025-26
The scholarship provides full financial support, covering tuition fees, travel costs, living expenses, and more. Scholars benefit from access to advanced academic resources, expert supervision, and a culturally immersive environment. This program not only supports academic excellence but also emphasizes leadership and community impact.
Kyoto University ADB Scholarship 2025-26 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | Japan |
| Study Destination | Kyoto University |
| Scholarship Type | Master’s Degree |
| Funded By | Asian Development Bank (ADB) |
| Eligible Applicants | Nationals of ADB developing member countries |
| Scholarship Value | Fully Funded (Tuition, Stipend, Travel, Health, Housing) |
| IELTS/TOEFL | Required |
| Application Deadline | June 2025 |
| Study Start | April 2026 or October 2026 |
What Is the Kyoto University ADB Scholarship About?
The Kyoto University ADB Scholarship 2025-26 is part of the ADB-Japan Scholarship Program, which aims to provide well-qualified citizens of ADB developing member countries with the opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies in fields related to development.
At Kyoto University, eligible students can enroll in various Master’s programs focused on engineering, sustainability, economics, public policy, and environmental management.
Selected scholars are expected to return to their home countries upon completion and actively contribute to their nation’s development. The scholarship supports students not just academically but also by helping them become catalysts for positive change.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Kyoto University ADB Scholarship 2025-26, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of an ADB borrowing member country
- Not hold dual citizenship in any developed country
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent with a strong academic record
- Have at least two years of full-time professional working experience acquired after obtaining a university degree
- Be no older than 35 years at the time of application
- Be in good health
- Be admitted to an approved Master’s course at Kyoto University
- Demonstrate leadership potential and a strong commitment to contributing to their home country’s development
Note: Applicants currently living or working in a country other than their home country are ineligible unless they are employed in their home country.
Eligible Countries
The scholarship is open to nationals of the following countries:
Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Cook Islands, Georgia, India, Indonesia, Fiji, Kazakhstan, Kiribati, Kyrgyz Republic, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nauru, Nepal, Niue, Pakistan, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, and Viet Nam.
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients of the Kyoto University ADB Scholarship 2025-26 will receive comprehensive financial and academic support, including:
- Full coverage of tuition fees
- Monthly subsistence allowance (inclusive of housing costs)
- Round-trip airfare from the home country to Japan
- Books and instructional materials allowance
- Student medical and accident insurance
- Visa application fees, airport taxes, and baggage allowance
- Research and thesis preparation costs
This extensive support ensures scholars can fully focus on their academic goals without financial pressure.
Required Documents
Applicants are expected to prepare and submit the following documents:
- Completed application form for admission to Kyoto University
- ADB Scholarship application form
- Certified copies of academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Proof of at least two years of professional experience
- Valid English language proficiency test score (IELTS or TOEFL)
- Two letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose and research plan
- Medical certificate
- Copy of a valid passport
Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply
Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for the Kyoto University ADB Scholarship:
- Confirm Eligibility
Review the eligibility criteria to ensure you qualify before beginning your application.
- Choose a Program
Explore the Master’s programs available at Kyoto University and select one aligned with your career goals.
- Secure Admission
Apply for admission to Kyoto University and clearly express your interest in the ADB scholarship in your application.
- Complete ADB Scholarship Forms
Download and fill out the ADB-JSP application form available on Kyoto University’s official website.
- Prepare Documentation
Collect and organize all required documents, ensuring accuracy and compliance with the guidelines.
- Submit Application
Submit your complete scholarship and university application by the specified deadline. Applications with incomplete documentation will not be considered.
- Await Results
Applications are carefully reviewed. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews or additional assessments. Final selections are made by the ADB and Kyoto University jointly.
Why Study at Kyoto University?
- Academic Prestige: Consistently ranked among Asia’s top universities, Kyoto University has a strong global reputation.
- Innovative Research: Home to cutting-edge research and Nobel laureates, the university encourages academic excellence and critical thinking.
- Global Exposure: The ADB scholarship brings together students from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds.
- Sustainable Development Focus: The university emphasizes solutions to regional and global challenges, preparing scholars for leadership in development.
- Japanese Culture: Living in Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan, provides an enriching experience beyond academics.
For further details, visit the official Kyoto University or ADB-JSP website and begin preparing your application today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is work experience mandatory for the ADB scholarship?
Yes. A minimum of two years of full-time professional work experience is required.
Can I apply for the ADB scholarship without securing university admission?
No. Applicants must be admitted to an eligible Master’s program at Kyoto University before being considered for the scholarship.
Are all nationalities eligible?
No. Only applicants from ADB member countries are eligible. A list of these countries is provided above.
What programs are available at Kyoto University under the ADB scholarship?
Programs in fields related to economics, management, engineering, sustainability, public policy, and environmental science are typically included.
When does the academic year begin?
Most programs commence in either April or October 2026.
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