For aspiring graduate student from an ADB developing member country looking to advance your education abroad, the Asian Development Bank–Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP) 2026 offers a life-changing opportunity to pursue a Master’s degree at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa (UHM) while participating in the East-West Center’s educational and leadership programs.
Here’s everything you need to know to prepare a strong application.
Table of Contents
What is the ADB-JSP Scholarship?
The Asian Development Bank–Japan Scholarship Program was established in 1988 with funding from the Government of Japan, the ADB-JSP scholarship aims to strengthen human resource capacity in developing countries. Scholars are expected to apply their knowledge and skills in their home countries after completing their studies, contributing to socioeconomic development in Asia and the Pacific.
The program supports Master’s degree study in economics, management, science and technology, and other development-related fields at UHM.
Eligibility Criteria for the Asian Development Bank–Japan Scholarship Program
To apply for ADB-JSP 2026, candidates must meet the following basic requirements:
- Be a citizen and resident of an ADB developing member country.
- Be 35 years old or younger at the time of application.
- Hold a 4-year Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of degrees.
- Have at least 2 years of full-time professional work experience.
- Meet English proficiency requirements (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo) with recent test scores.
Not eligible:
- Living or working outside your home country.
- Previously studied abroad outside ADB developing member countries.
- Seeking a second Master’s degree.
For full eligibility and selection criteria, visit the ADB JSP website.
Funded Master’s Programs at UHM
The ADB-JSP scholarship supports the following Master’s programs:
- Business Administration (Global MBA)
- Economics (MA)
- Geography (MA)
- Natural Resources & Environmental Management (MS)
- Ocean & Resources Engineering (MS)
- Oceanography (MS)
- Pacific Islands Studies (MA)
- Public Administration (MPA)
- Sociology (MA)
- Tropical Plant & Soil Sciences (MS)
- Urban & Regional Planning (MURP)
Tip: GRE or GMAT may be required depending on the program.
Asian Development Bank–Japan Scholarship Program: Benefits
The ADB-JSP scholarship offers comprehensive support, including:
- Full tuition and fees
- Roundtrip airfare to Honolulu
- Housing at East-West Center
- Monthly stipend
- Textbook allowance
- Health insurance
- J-1 visa sponsorship
This makes it one of the most generous scholarships for graduate students in Asia and the Pacific.
Application Timeline
- Application Opens: August 2026
- Application Closes: December 2026
- Intended Start: Fall 2027
Note: A separate application to UHM for your Master’s program is required. Business (Global MBA) applicants must apply through the program directly.
UHM Graduate Programs: UHM Graduate Division
How to Prepare a Winning Application
- Confirm eligibility
- Prepare your English test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo).
- Choose a funded Master’s program aligned with your career goals.
- Gather documents: transcripts, recommendation letters, resume/CV.
- Draft a strong personal statement highlighting your professional experience and development goals.
- Apply on time to both ADB-JSP and UHM (or Global MBA program).
The Asian Development Bank–Japan Scholarship Program is a golden opportunity for ambitious students from developing countries to gain world-class education and leadership experience in Hawaii. With full funding, leadership training, and professional development support, it’s a stepping stone to make a real impact in your home country.
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