ISLAMABAD: The Joint Japan-World Bank Graduate Scholarship 2026 offers a fully funded opportunity for professionals from developing countries seeking a master’s degree in development-related fields. The prestigious programme enables selected candidates to study at leading universities across the United States, Europe, Africa, Oceania and Japan.
By covering tuition, living costs and travel expenses, the scholarship allows recipients to focus entirely on academic and professional growth.
Established through a collaboration between the Japanese government and the World Bank Group, the programme aims to develop skilled leaders who can contribute to sustainable development in their home countries. Consequently, the scholarship targets individuals already engaged in development work who wish to strengthen their expertise and impact.
Successful applicants receive full tuition coverage at their host universities. In addition, the scholarship provides a monthly subsistence allowance to support accommodation, meals, books and daily expenses. Scholars also benefit from round-trip economy airfare, a US$600 travel allowance per journey and basic medical insurance arranged through the host institution.
Eligibility requirements and application timeline
To qualify, applicants must be citizens of World Bank member developing countries and must not hold dual citizenship of any developed nation.
Moreover, candidates must be in good health and hold a bachelor’s degree earned at least three years before the application deadline. Applicants also need a minimum of three years of paid, development-related work experience within the past six years and must be employed full-time in a relevant field at the time of application.
Furthermore, candidates must secure unconditional admission, except for funding, to at least one participating master’s programme outside their home country and country of residence. Exceptions apply to applicants from Fragile and Conflict-Affected States.
The application deadline for the 2026 cycle is 29 May 2026. Interested professionals are encouraged to begin preparations early, gathering academic records, work experience documentation, recommendation letters and a clear statement of purpose. Full application details and submission guidelines are available through the official scholarship portal.
