Are you passionate about sustainable development and aiming to earn a Master’s degree in Japan without financial worries? The ADB Japan Scholarship 2026 at the University of Tokyo offers you that golden opportunity.
This prestigious scholarship, funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and administered in collaboration with the University of Tokyo, is a fully funded master’s program for outstanding international students from ADB developing member countries.
University of Tokyo ADB Japan Scholarship 2026
This highly competitive and fully funded scholarship program is designed to develop future leaders who can contribute to sustainable development in Asia and the Pacific. Selected students will be equipped with the academic tools and practical skills necessary to lead innovative solutions in their home countries.
Hosted by one of the most prestigious institutions in Japan, the University of Tokyo, this scholarship covers full tuition fees, living expenses, travel, and more. It allows scholars to study in a stimulating academic environment alongside top researchers and professionals in their field.
University of Tokyo ADB Scholarship 2026 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | Japan |
| University | University of Tokyo |
| Scholarship Type | Master’s Degree (Various Fields) |
| Funded By | Asian Development Bank (ADB) – Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP) |
| Eligible Applicants | Citizens of ADB Developing Member Countries |
| Scholarship Value | Fully Funded (Tuition, Living Costs, Insurance, Travel, Books, Visa) |
| English Proficiency | Required (Medium of instruction is English) |
| Application Deadline | December 10, 2025 |
| Study Mode | Full-Time, On-Campus |
| Program Duration | 2 Years |
What Is the ADB Japan Scholarship Program All About?
The ADB-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP) aims to provide an opportunity for well-qualified citizens of ADB’s developing member countries to pursue postgraduate studies in economics, management, science, technology, and other development-related fields. It specifically targets professionals who have demonstrated potential for future leadership and are committed to contributing to their home country’s development.
By covering all costs, including tuition, accommodation, medical insurance, travel, and even learning materials, the program ensures scholars can focus entirely on their education and research.
This scholarship not only opens doors to advanced knowledge and technical training but also enables cross-cultural learning and international collaboration an essential part of solving global challenges.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To be eligible for the University of Tokyo ADB-JSP Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a citizen of one of the ADB’s developing member countries.
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) with a strong academic background.
- Have at least 2 years of full-time professional work experience (post-undergraduate).
- Must be 35 years old or younger at the time of application. (The age limit is extended to 45 years for senior officials or managers.)
- Must commit to returning to their home country upon graduation to contribute to its development.
- Must be proficient in English, as all courses are taught in English.
- Must be in good health.
Note: Applicants currently living or working in Japan are not eligible.
Available Fields of Study
The following graduate programs at the University of Tokyo are available under the ADB-JSP 2026:
- International Studies
- Environment Studies
- Sustainability Science
- Civil Engineering and Infrastructure Development
- Public Policy
- Urban Engineering
- Health Science
These are offered under specific departments such as:
- Department of International Studies
- Graduate Program in Sustainability Science
- Department of Human and Engineered Environmental Studies
- Department of Natural Environmental Studies
- Department of Ocean Technology, Policy, and Environment
- Department of Environment Systems
- Department of Socio-cultural Environmental Studies
Scholarship Benefits
The ADB Japan Scholarship 2026 is a comprehensive funding package that includes:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Monthly stipend for living and housing expenses
- Book allowance and instructional material support
- Medical insurance coverage
- Airfare to and from Japan (economy class)
- Visa application fee reimbursement
- Access to research facilities, academic mentoring, and online learning tools
- Exposure to world-class faculty and international peer collaboration
This financial support allows students to immerse themselves in their studies and academic research without worrying about expenses.
Required Documents
To successfully apply for the ADB-JSP 2026, the following documents must be prepared:
- Completed ADB-JSP application form (downloadable online)
- Copy of a valid passport
- Degree certificates and official transcripts
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Personal statement or motivation letter
- Two letters of recommendation (academic or professional)
- Proof of full-time work experience
- English language proficiency proof (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS)
Note: All documents must be submitted in English or accompanied by a certified English translation.
Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply
Here is the official application procedure for the ADB Japan Scholarship 2026 at the University of Tokyo:
Find a Supervisor
- Before submitting your application, identify a faculty member from the University of Tokyo willing to supervise your thesis. This is an essential requirement.
- You can find a list of available supervisors on the official application webpage.
Prepare Your Documents
- Collect all necessary documents, including degrees, transcripts, CV, motivation letter, and proof of English proficiency.
- Do not include recommendation letters, yet these will be submitted directly by your referees.
Fill Out the Online Application Form
- Submit your application through the Google Form linked on the University of Tokyo’s ADB-JSP official page.
Email Your Application
- Send your completed documents to the email address displayed on the website.
- Use the subject line: ADB Application Your Name.
Ask Referees to Submit Letters
- Your two referees must email their recommendation letters directly to the same address.
- Use the subject line: ADB Recommendation Letter, Your Name.
Application Deadline: All applications must be submitted by December 10, 2025.
Why Study at the University of Tokyo?
- Prestige & Reputation: Consistently ranked among the top universities in Asia and the world.
- Global Network: Opportunities to connect with peers, researchers, and institutions across continents.
- Advanced Research: Access to leading research facilities in environmental science, engineering, and sustainability.
- Cultural Experience: Live and learn in Tokyo, Japan’s cultural, political, and technological hub.
- Career Boost: Graduates are highly regarded and often employed in leadership positions in NGOs, government bodies, and international organizations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for the 2026 scholarship is December 10, 2025.
Do I need to know Japanese to study at the University of Tokyo?
No. All coursework for ADB-JSP programs is conducted in English.
Can I apply without work experience?
No. A minimum of 2 years of full-time work experience is required.
Will I need to return to my home country after the program?
Yes. One of the core requirements of the scholarship is a commitment to return home and contribute to national development.
Can I apply to multiple universities under ADB-JSP?
Yes, but you must follow each institution’s separate application process and deadlines.
For more details and to begin your application, visit the official scholarship page:
https://www.k.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/exam/master/foreign_research_students/adb_jsp/
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