The Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) 2026, Window 1, stands as one of the most respected and competitive fully funded international scholarship opportunities available to professionals from developing countries.
Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026
This program has been jointly established by the Government of Japan and the World Bank with the clear objective of strengthening human capital in developing nations through advanced education in development-related fields. By supporting mid-career professionals to pursue high-quality master’s degree programs, the scholarship contributes directly to global development efforts and long-term institutional capacity building.
Through this initiative, individuals who have already demonstrated commitment to development work are allowed to deepen their academic knowledge, refine technical skills, and gain international exposure.
As a result, upon completion of their studies, scholars are expected to return to their home countries and apply their newly acquired expertise to policies, programs, and institutions that promote sustainable development. Therefore, the JJ/WBGSP is not only an academic scholarship but also a strategic investment in global development leadership.
Scholarship Summary Table
| Category | Details |
| Scholarship Name | Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) 2026 – Window 1 |
| Scholarship Providers | Government of Japan & World Bank |
| Study Level | Master’s Degree |
| Eligible Applicants | Nationals of Developing Countries |
| Program Type | Degree Program (Development-Related Fields) |
| Host Institutions | 44 Participating Programs in 24 Universities |
| Study Destinations | United States, Europe, Africa, Oceania, and Japan |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Scholarship Duration | Length of the selected Master’s program |
| Application Deadline | February 27, 2026 |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Target Group | Mid-career development professionals |
About the Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
The Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program was created to address a critical global challenge: the shortage of highly trained professionals capable of designing and implementing effective development policies. Recognizing that sustainable development depends heavily on skilled human resources, the program focuses on individuals who already possess professional experience in development-related fields.
Unlike general academic scholarships, the JJ/WBGSP places strong emphasis on real-world impact. Applicants are selected not only on academic merit but also on their professional background, leadership potential, and demonstrated commitment to the development of their home countries. Consequently, the program attracts professionals working in government institutions, non-governmental organizations, international agencies, and policy-focused organizations.
Moreover, the program is offered in collaboration with carefully selected universities worldwide. These institutions deliver specialized master’s programs that align closely with the World Bank’s development priorities. As a result, scholars benefit from academically rigorous training that is directly relevant to contemporary global development challenges.
Participating Universities and Fields of Study
Subject to available funding, the JJ/WBGSP supports studies in 44 participating master’s programs across 24 universities located in the United States, Europe, Africa, Oceania, and Japan. These programs have been chosen based on their academic excellence and strong focus on development-related disciplines.
Key areas of study include, but are not limited to, economic policy management, public finance, tax policy, infrastructure management, social policy, environmental management, and development economics. Through these specialized programs, scholars are exposed to evidence-based policy analysis, quantitative methods, and practical tools that are essential for effective development work.
In addition, the international composition of participating universities allows scholars to learn within diverse academic and cultural environments. Therefore, cross-cultural collaboration and global networking are integral parts of the scholarship experience.
Objectives of the Scholarship Program
The JJ/WBGSP has been designed with clearly defined long-term objectives. First, it aims to enhance the technical and analytical capacity of professionals from developing countries. By providing access to high-quality graduate education, the program strengthens individual competence in key development sectors.
Second, the program seeks to support institutional development in World Bank member countries. Scholars are expected to return home after completing their studies and apply their knowledge in ways that improve public policy, institutional effectiveness, and service delivery. In this way, the scholarship contributes to sustainable development outcomes rather than short-term gains.
Additionally, the program promotes international cooperation and knowledge exchange. Through interaction with peers, faculty, and global experts, scholars develop broader perspectives on development challenges and solutions. As a result, global best practices are more effectively adapted to local contexts.
Scholarship Duration and Academic Structure
The duration of the JJ/WBGSP scholarship corresponds to the length of the selected master’s program, which typically ranges from one to two academic years, depending on the institution and field of study. Throughout this period, scholars are required to engage fully in their academic programs and comply with all university and scholarship conditions.
During their studies, scholars participate in coursework, research projects, group assignments, and policy-focused discussions. In many cases, programs emphasize applied learning, ensuring that theoretical concepts are linked to real-world development challenges. Therefore, the academic structure is intentionally designed to produce graduates who are both theoretically informed and practically skilled.
Full-time study commitment is expected, and employment during the scholarship period is generally not permitted. This requirement ensures that scholars can dedicate adequate time and focus to their academic training.
Financial Coverage and Scholarship Benefits
One of the most significant strengths of the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026 is its comprehensive financial support. The scholarship is fully funded, allowing recipients to pursue their studies without the burden of financial stress.
Tuition and Academic Costs
Full tuition fees for the selected master’s program are covered. In addition, the cost of basic medical insurance obtained through the host university is included. As a result, scholars are relieved of major academic expenses throughout the study period.
Travel Expenses
Economy-class air travel is provided between the scholar’s home country and the host university at the beginning of the program and immediately after the completion of the scholarship. Furthermore, a travel allowance of USD 600 is granted for each trip. This support ensures that international mobility does not become a barrier to participation.
Monthly Subsistence Allowance
While on campus, scholars receive a monthly living allowance intended to cover accommodation, food, transportation, books, and other essential living costs. The amount of this allowance varies depending on the cost of living in the host country. Nevertheless, it is structured to provide reasonable financial security throughout the scholarship period.
Eligibility Criteria
To preserve the mission and quality of the program, strict eligibility requirements have been established. Applicants must be nationals of World Bank member developing countries. Individuals holding dual citizenship with any developed country are not eligible to apply.
Applicants must be in good health and must hold a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent that was earned at least three years before the application deadline. In addition, professional experience plays a critical role in the selection process. Candidates must be employed in a paid, full-time development-related position at the time of application.
Furthermore, at least three years of paid development-related work experience must have been accumulated since earning the bachelor’s degree. This experience must have been obtained within the six years preceding the application deadline. Through this requirement, the program ensures that applicants have both academic foundations and practical exposure to development challenges.
Application Deadline
For Window 1 of the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026, the application deadline has been set for February 27, 2026. Since the application process is competitive and document-intensive, early preparation is strongly advised.
Application and Selection Process
The application process for the JJ/WBGSP is conducted entirely online. Applicants are first required to apply and gain admission to one of the participating master’s programs. Only candidates who have been accepted into an eligible program are considered for the scholarship.
Once academic applications are completed, candidates submit their scholarship application through the official JJ/WBGSP portal. Required information typically includes academic background, employment history, and a clear explanation of how the proposed studies align with the applicant’s development goals.
The selection process involves multiple stages, including eligibility screening and merit-based evaluation. Academic excellence, professional experience, and commitment to development are all carefully assessed. Final selections are made based on overall alignment with the program’s objectives and available funding.
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