The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) offers a transformative opportunity for professionals from select developing nations who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing their countries’ development. This fully funded program supports candidates pursuing master’s degrees in fields related to development, equipping them with skills to foster socio-economic progress in their home countries.
Scholarship Overview
JJ/WBGSP provides full scholarships for 41 specialized master’s programs at 24 universities in regions such as the U.S., Europe, Japan, Oceania, and Africa. These programs address critical development areas, including economic policy management, infrastructure planning, and tax administration.
Applicants for the 2025 scholarship must secure unconditional admission (excluding financial conditions) to one of the participating master’s programs. Only candidates shortlisted by these programs may apply.
Application Timeline
The application process is divided into two phases to align with academic schedules:
- Window 1: January 13 – February 28, 2025 (until 12:00 noon EST)
- Window 2: March 25 – May 23, 2025 (until 12:00 noon EST)
Shortlisted candidates will receive application links directly from their selected universities. Prospective applicants are encouraged to confirm eligibility and program-specific requirements with their intended institution.
Scholarship Benefits
The JJ/WBGSP offers extensive financial support, including:
- Full tuition fee coverage.
- Monthly living allowance.
- Round-trip airfare.
- Comprehensive health insurance.
- Travel allowances.
- Funds for essential study materials.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the scholarship, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Be a citizen of a developing World Bank member country.
- Not hold dual citizenship with a developed country.
- Maintain good health.
- Possess a bachelor’s degree obtained at least three years before the application deadline.
- Have at least three years of recent, paid work experience in development-related fields (exceptions exist for candidates from fragile or conflict-affected areas).
- Be unconditionally admitted to a participating master’s program outside their home country.
- Not be employed by the World Bank Group or have close relatives working for the organization.
Commitment to Development
Scholarship recipients must return to their home countries after completing their studies to contribute to national development using their expertise.
For detailed information on eligibility, master’s programs, and application processes, visit the official JJ/WBGSP website.
