World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program in Japan 2026
The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) 2026 is now open for Japanese nationals who are passionate about international development and eager to pursue a graduate degree abroad. This prestigious World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program in Japan is funded by the Government of Japan and administered by the World Bank, provides full financial support to outstanding students committed to contributing to global development.
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Application Window for Japanese Nationals
- Opens: February 16, 2026
- Closes: April 17, 2026
- Notification of Results: Mid-July 2026
Applicants must ensure all documents are submitted within the official application period.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program in Japan 2026, applicants must:
- Be a Japanese national.
- Not be employed by the Government of Japan, JICA, the Central Bank, or related agencies at the time of application.
- Hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) earned at least three years before the deadline.
- Have a minimum of three years of paid, development-related work experience within the past six years.
- At the time of application, either:
- Be admitted unconditionally (except for funding) or already enrolled full-time in a development-related master’s program outside Japan, OR
- Be working full-time in a development-related role directly supporting developing countries.
- Be in good health.
- Not be related to World Bank staff, Executive Directors, or their alternates.
Scholarship Benefits
TheWorld Bank Graduate Scholarship Program in Japan 2026 provides comprehensive support, including:
- Full tuition coverage for up to two years (or program duration).
- Monthly living stipend to cover accommodation, food, and study materials.
- Two round-trip economy-class airfares:
- From Japan to the host university (plus a US $600 travel allowance).
- From the host university back to Japan (or to a developing country where employment is secured) after graduation (plus another US $600 allowance).
- Basic medical insurance through the host institution.
Not Covered: visa application fees, family expenses, extracurricular courses, field research, educational equipment, or language training not included in the official curriculum.
Selection Process
Applications go through a rigorous review:
- Independent Assessors evaluate each application based on:
- Academic qualifications and recommendations (20%)
- Quality of professional recommendations (20%)
- Professional experience (20%)
- Commitment to international development (40%)
- Finalists are selected to ensure diversity, gender balance, and financial need considerations.
- The JJ/WBGSP Steering Committee approves the final list of scholars.
- Successful applicants are notified by mid-July 2026.
The World Bank Graduate Scholarship for Japanese Nationals 2026 is more than funding. it’s an opportunity to join a global network of development leaders. Scholars gain advanced academic knowledge, professional exposure, and the chance to contribute directly to solving pressing global challenges.
How to Apply for the World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
- Secure admission to a graduate program outside Japan in a development-related field.
- Prepare documents: academic certificates, proof of work experience, recommendation letters, CV, and medical fitness proof.
- Submit your application between February 16 and April 17, 2026
If you are a Japanese national committed to advancing international development, the World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program in Japan 2026 offers you a life-changing opportunity. With full financial support, global exposure, and access to top universities abroad, this program empowers you to become a future leader in solving development challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program in Japan 2026
What is the World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) in Japan?
It is a scholarship funded by the Government of Japan and administered by the World Bank, offering Japanese nationals the opportunity to pursue a development-related master’s degree abroad with full financial support.
When is the application deadline for Japanese nationals in 2026?
The application period runs from February 16, 2026 to April 17, 2026. Late submissions are not accepted.
Who is eligible to apply?
- Japanese national,
- Holder of a bachelor’s degree (earned at least 3 years before application),
- Have at least 3 years of development-related work experience within the past 6 years.
- Be admitted unconditionally (except for funding) into a graduate program outside Japan, or be working full-time in development-related work.
- Not be employed by the Government of Japan, JICA, Central Bank, or related agencies.
What does the scholarship cover?
- Tuition fees (up to two years).
- Monthly stipend for living expenses.
- Round-trip airfare (plus a US $600 travel allowance each way).
- Medical insurance provided through the host university.
What is not covered by the scholarship?
Visa application fees.
Family or dependent costs.
Research, fieldwork, and extracurricular courses not included in the official program.
Language training not required by the program.
How are applicants selected?
Applications are reviewed by independent assessors and scored based on:
Academic record and recommendations (20%)
Quality of professional recommendations (20%)
Work experience (20%)
Commitment to international development (40%)
Final decisions are approved by the JJ/WBGSP Steering Committee.
When will the results be announced?
Successful applicants will be notified by mid-July 2026.
Can I apply if I already hold another scholarship?
No, double funding is not allowed. Applicants receiving full scholarships from other sources are not eligible.
Can former scholarship recipients apply again?
No. Individuals who previously received the JJ/WBGSP and did not graduate, or those who declined an award, are not eligible to reapply.
Where can I find more information?
Visit the official World Bank Scholarships website: World Bank Graduate Scholarships – Japanese Nationals.
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