The Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ WBGSP) is now open for applications for the 2026–2027 school year. This fully funded master scholarship is for students from developing countries who want to study at universities across the US, Europe, Africa Oceania and Japan. The scholarship pays for tuition, housing, monthly stipend and round trip flights. This makes it one of the top chances for future leaders in development. Applicants must have at least three years of work experience in development related fields and be accepted into one of the 26 joining master programs. The deadline is 27 February 2026 for the first window and 29 May 2026 for the second.
Quick Details About Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
| Host Country | USA Europe Africa Oceania Japan |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | 26 partner universities |
| Degree Level | Master |
| Eligibility | Developing countries, bachelor +3 years work |
| Benefits | Full tuition + living money + plane + insurance |
| Number of Awards | About 200 every year |
| Duration | 1-2 years |
| Application Fee | Free |
| Deadline | Feb 27 or May 29 2026 |
Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program Overview 2026–2027
The Joint Japan World Bank Program started in 1987. It is from Japan and World Bank to help students from poor countries. You study at top schools like Harvard, Oxford or Tokyo University. Subjects focus on development like economy, health, education or environment. The program wants to build leaders who go home and help their country. You join a group of past winners from 190 countries. Study places are safe and modern. You learn new skills and make world friends.
Also See: Belgium VUB Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded)
Scholarship Benefits
The scholarship covers most of your study costs such as:
- Flights: Round-trip economy tickets from your home country to the university and back after you finish.
- Travel Money: A $500 travel allowance for each trip.
- Tuition: All tuition fees for your master’s program.
- Health Insurance: Basic coverage through the university.
- Living Costs: A monthly allowance for things like rent, food, books, and daily expenses.
- (The allowance amount depends on the country you’re studying in.)
How long it lasts: The scholarship covers your entire master’s program or up to 2 years, whichever is shorter.
What the Scholarship Does NOT Cover
The scholarship will not pay for the following:
- Visa or residence permit fees.
- Any costs for your family members (bringing or supporting them).
- Extra courses or short trainings that are not part of your degree.
- Language classes not included in your master’s program.
- Any travel during your studies (e.g., vacations, conferences).
- Research costs, field trips, workshops, seminars, or internships.
- Study materials like laptops or computers.
Eligibility Requirements for 2026 Intake
You can apply for the JJ/WBGSP scholarship if you meet all of these conditions:
General Requirements:
- You must be proficient in English.
- You can be from any country.
- You must not be a citizen of a developed country.
- You should be in good health.
Education & Work Experience:
- You need a Bachelor’s degree earned at least 3 years before the application deadline.
- You need at least 3 years of paid, full-time work experience in a development-related job, after getting your Bachelor’s degree.
- You must currently be working full-time in a paid, development-related job when you apply.
(The only exception is for applicants from specific fragile or conflict-affected countries listed in the official rules.)
The Most Important Rule (Admission First):
- Before you can even apply for the scholarship, you must already have an unconditional admission letter to at least one master’s program approved by JJ/WBGSP.
- This university must be outside your home country and outside your current country of residence.
- You must upload this admission letter before you can submit your scholarship application.
Who Is NOT Allowed to Apply?
You cannot apply if you are:
- A World Bank Group staff member.
- An Executive Director or alternate of the World Bank.
- A close family member (like a parent, sibling, child, aunt, uncle, niece, or nephew) of a World Bank staff member.
A Very Important Warning:
All these rules are very strict. Once the application period opens, there are no exceptions.
Also See: KU Leuven Scholarship 2026 Science@Leuven | Fully Funded
Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026 Application Deadline
Two windows
- First: January 15 to February 27 2026
- Second: March 30 to May 29 2026
Apply early to get university acceptance first.
Required Documents
- Online form with your details
- Bachelor degree and marks
- Work experience proof
- Motivation letter
- Two recommendation letters
- English test score if needed
- University acceptance letter
All in English.
How to Apply For Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
- Apply to one or more partner universities first. This is key because you need acceptance.
- Make account on scholarship site. This lets you fill the form.
- Fill online form with your info and work. Take time to write good motivation.
- Add all papers like degrees and letters. Upload clear copies.
- Send form in the open window.
- If shortlisted, do interview or extra steps. This tests your fit.
- If you win, accept and get visa. University/Institute helps with this.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Acceptance
- Get work in development field now.
- Write motivation about how master helps your country.
- Choose partner university that fits your goals.
- Get strong letters from bosses.
- Apply in first window for more time.
- Check list of eligible countries first.
Official Website
For more details and deadlines visit the official Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship website.