Are you a development professional from a developing country looking to pursue a fully funded master’s degree abroad? The Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026 (JJ/WBGSP) offers that opportunity by enabling qualified candidates to study at some of the world’s most prestigious universities without financial constraints.
Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026 (JJ/WBGSP)
The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026 (JJ/WBGSP) is a fully funded scholarship sponsored by the Government of Japan and the World Bank Group. It is designed for mid-career professionals from developing countries who have demonstrated commitment to development work and leadership in their home nations.
This prestigious program supports master’s degree studies in fields related to economic development, public policy, infrastructure, climate change, public health, and governance. By equipping professionals with advanced education and global exposure, the scholarship aims to strengthen institutional capacity and foster sustainable development worldwide.
Through comprehensive financial coverage, including tuition, a monthly stipend, health insurance, and travel, scholars can concentrate fully on academic growth and professional advancement.
Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Countries | United States, United Kingdom, Netherlands, Japan, Australia, and others |
| Study Destination | Selected Participating Universities Worldwide |
| Scholarship Type | Master’s Degree Programs (Development-Related Fields) |
| Funded By | Government of Japan & World Bank Group |
| Eligible Applicants | Citizens of World Bank-eligible Developing Countries |
| Scholarship Value | Fully Funded (Tuition, Stipend, Travel, Health Insurance) |
| IELTS/TOEFL | Required (depending on university) |
| Application Window #2 | March 30 – May 29, 2026 |
| Number of Awards | Limited |
| Study Mode | Full-Time, On-Campus |
| Academic Session | 2026–2028 |
What Is the JJ/WBGSP Scholarship All About?
The JJ/WBGSP is a flagship capacity-building initiative that enables professionals from developing countries to acquire postgraduate education in development-related disciplines. Since its inception, thousands of scholars have benefited from the program and now occupy influential roles in government agencies, NGOs, academia, and international institutions.
Unlike conventional scholarships that prioritize academic scores alone, this program emphasizes professional experience and a proven commitment to development work. Scholars are expected to return to their home countries after graduation to apply their knowledge toward solving pressing socio-economic challenges.
The scholarship not only funds education but also creates a global network of development leaders who collaborate on policy solutions and sustainable growth strategies.
Participating Programs and Universities (2026 – Window #2)
Scholars can enroll in selected master’s programs at top institutions, including:
Australian National University – Crawford School of Public Policy
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- Master of Climate Change
- Master of Environmental Management and Development
- Master of Public Policy
Columbia University – School of International and Public Affairs
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- Master of Public Administration
- MPA in Development Practice
Erasmus University Rotterdam
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- MSc in Urban Management and Development
- Master’s in Development Studies
Harvard University – Kennedy School of Government
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- Master of Public Administration in International Development
London School of Economics and Political Science
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- MSc Development Studies
- MSc Global Health Policy
- MSc International Social and Public Policy
Stanford University
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- Master’s in International Policy
University of Oxford
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- Master of Public Policy
- MSc in Refugees and Forced Migration Studies
- MSc in International Health & Tropical Medicine
University of Tokyo
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- International Program on Agricultural Development Studies
Additional participating institutions include SOAS University of London, University of Leeds, Keio University, Yokohama National University, Saitama University, IHE Delft Institute for Water Education, and others.
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients of the JJ/WBGSP 2026 will receive:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Monthly living stipend
- Round-trip economy airfare
- Comprehensive health insurance
- Travel allowance
- Access to academic and professional networks
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
Applicants must:
- Be citizens of World Bank-eligible developing countries
- Hold a bachelor’s degree obtained at least three years prior
- Have a minimum of three years of development-related work experience
- Secure unconditional admission to a participating program
- Demonstrate commitment to development in their home country
- Not be employees (or relatives of employees) of the World Bank Group
- Not holding dual citizenship in a developed country
Preference is given to applicants working in government, NGOs, research institutions, or development agencies.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Proof of professional experience
- Admission letter from a participating university
- Two recommendation letters
- Passport or national ID
- Medical certificate
- Completed online application form
Step-by-Step Application Procedure
- Visit the Official Program. Page: Review participating programs and eligibility requirements.
- Apply to a Participating University: Secure unconditional admission first.
- Prepare Application Documents: Collect all required materials.
- Submit Scholarship Application: Apply online between March 30 and May 29, 2026.
- Await Notification: Successful candidates will be contacted by email.
Why Apply for the JJ/WBGSP?
- Study at world-class universities
- Gain expertise in development fields
- Join a global network of leaders
- Return home equipped to drive national progress
The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026 (JJ/WBGSP) is more than a scholarship; it is a pathway to becoming a transformative leader in global development.
Official link: https://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/scholarships/brief/jjwbgsp-participating-programs-2022-2024-application-window-2
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply without an admission letter?
No. You must first receive an unconditional offer from one of the JJ/WBGSP-approved master’s programs.
How competitive is this scholarship?
Highly competitive. Only applicants with strong academic records and a clear commitment to development are selected.
Do I need to take an English language test?
Some universities may require proof of English proficiency, such as TOEFL or IELTS. Check the specific program requirements.
Can I apply if I already have a master’s degree?
Yes, but your second degree must be clearly linked to your development goals and show how it will enhance your contributions.
What kind of work experience is required?
Experience in development-related fields such as public policy, planning, education, health, infrastructure, or economic development is preferred.
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