Apply for the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarships (JJWBGSP) 2026 and study in selected universities worldwide. Learn about the eligibility, application process, requirements, and scholarship worth for international students.
The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarships Program (JJWBGSP) 2026 is one of the most prestigious opportunities for students from developing countries to pursue graduate studies at top universities worldwide. Funded by the Government of Japan and administered by the World Bank, this fully funded scholarship aims to build human capital in developing nations by supporting talented individuals committed to development-related fields.
Through JJWBGSP, selected candidates can study in master’s programs at participating universities across the United States, Europe, Africa, Oceania, and Japan. With over 6,000 alumni across 160+ countries, the program has played a key role in shaping global leaders and development experts.
If you are passionate about contributing to the growth of your home country, the JJWBGSP 2026 could be your gateway to a world-class education.
Eligibility Requirements for JJWBGSP 2026
To apply for the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarships 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a national of a World Bank member country eligible to borrow.
- Work Experience: At least 3 years of recent development-related work after earning a bachelor’s degree.
- Employment: Currently employed in a development-related role at the time of application.
- Education: Hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) obtained at least 3 years before the application deadline.
- Exclusions:
- Dual citizens of industrialized countries are not eligible.
- World Bank Group staff, consultants, and their relatives are not eligible.
Participating Universities & Programs for JJWBGSP 2026
Below is the official list of master’s programs eligible under Application Window #2 (late March – late May 2026) of the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarships Program (JJWBGSP):
- Australian National University — Crawford School of Public Policy
• Master of Climate Change
• Master of Environmental and Resource Economics
• Master of Environmental Management and Development
• Master of Public Policy - Brandeis University — The Heller School for Social Policy and Management
• MA in Global Sustainability Policy and Management
• Master in Global Health Policy and Management - Columbia University — School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA)
• MPA
• MPA in Development Practice - Erasmus University — Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS), Rotterdam
• MSc in Urban Management and Development (various tracks, including Urban Digital Innovation, Housing & Land Justice, Environment & Climate Change, Strategic Planning)
• International Institute of Social Studies (IISS), The Hague – Master in Development Studies - Harvard University — Kennedy School of Government
• Master of Public Administration in International Development - IHE Delft Institute for Water Education
• MSc in Water and Sustainable Development (tracks in Water & Food/Energy, Water Hazards & Climate, Water & Health, Water Resources & Ecosystem Health) - Keio University
• Master in Taxation Policy and Management - London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
• MSc Development Management
• MSc Development Studies
• MSc Global Health Policy
• MSc International Social and Public Policy - National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS)
• Tax Course of the Public Finance Program (Japan) - Saitama University
• International Graduate Program on Civil and Environmental Engineering - SOAS University of London
• MSc Development Economics
• MSc Economics - Stanford University
• Master in International Policy - Université Clermont-Auvergne — FERDI (France)
• Master in Economic Policy Management - University of Leeds (UK)
• Master of Public Health (International)
• MSc Sustainable Cities
• MSc Water Sanitation & Health Engineering
• MSc Sustainable Food Systems & Food Security - University of Oxford (UK)
• MPP at Blavatnik School of Government
• MSc Refugees and Forced Migration Studies at International Development Department - University of Tokyo (Japan)
• International Program on Agricultural Development Studies, Graduate School of Agriculture & Life Science - Yokohama National University (Japan)
• Infrastructure Management Program (IMP), Institute of Urban Innovation
Application Process for JJWBGSP 2026
The application process is highly competitive and requires careful preparation. Below are the steps:
- Check Eligibility
Ensure you meet all the requirements regarding nationality, work experience, and educational background. - Select a Participating University Program
- JJWBGSP only funds study in approved master’s degree programs at selected universities.
- Applicants must apply separately and gain admission to at least one participating program.
- Prepare Required Documents
Typical documents include:- Completed JJWBGSP application form
- Statement of Purpose (development-related career goals)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Two to three recommendation letters (academic/professional)
- Proof of work experience in development fields
- Admission letter from a participating university program
- Submit Application Online
- Applications are submitted via the official World Bank JJWBGSP portal.
- Deadlines vary depending on the program window (usually between March and May 2026).
- Await Selection Results
Shortlisted candidates are contacted by email.
What the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarships Covers (Worth)
The JJWBGSP 2026 is a fully funded scholarship, providing comprehensive financial support for successful applicants. Benefits include:
- Tuition Fees: Full coverage of tuition and university fees.
- Living Stipend: Monthly allowance to cover accommodation, food, and personal expenses.
- Travel Expenses:
- Round-trip airfare from the home country to the host university.
- Additional travel allowance of US $500 for each trip.
- Health Insurance: Basic medical insurance during the study period.
- Books & Materials: Coverage of educational materials and program-related costs.
👉 The total scholarship worth can be valued at $35,000 – $50,000 per year, depending on the host university and location.
Key Deadlines for JJWBGSP 2026
The scholarship usually has two application windows depending on the participating universities:
- Window 1: Opens January 2026 – closes March 2026
- Window 2: Opens March 2026 – closes May 2026
Applicants should check the specific program and university deadlines before applying.
Conclusion
The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarships (JJWBGSP) 2026 is an excellent opportunity for aspiring professionals from developing nations to pursue a master’s degree in fields related to economic development. With full funding and access to some of the world’s best universities, this scholarship not only transforms careers but also contributes to sustainable development globally.
If you are passionate about making a difference in your country and the world, start preparing your application early and seize this life-changing opportunity.
FAQs about JJWBGSP 2026
1. Who can apply for the JJWBGSP 2026?
Only nationals of World Bank member countries with relevant work experience in development fields.
2. Does JJWBGSP cover PhD programs?
No, it only supports master’s degree programs.
3. Can I apply without an admission letter from a participating university?
No. Applicants must secure admission before applying.
4. How many scholarships are awarded each year?
Approximately 200 scholarships are awarded annually.
5. Where do I apply for the JJWBGSP 2026?
Applications are submitted through the official World Bank JJWBGSP application portal
