The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJWBGSP) 2026 offers a fully funded opportunity for students from developing countries to pursue a master’s degree at top universities across the United States, Japan, Europe, Africa, and Oceania. Applications open on January 15, 2026, and the first window closes on February 27, 2026. This scholarship targets individuals with at least a bachelor’s degree and a minimum of three years of professional experience in the development sector who aspire to advance their education in development-related fields. It aims to build human capacity, promote economic growth, and enable scholars to return home with the skills and knowledge to contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Eligible applicants must be citizens of one of the World Bank-eligible countries and must not hold dual citizenship with a developed country. Candidates must have completed a bachelor’s degree at least three years prior and possess three or more years of full-time professional experience in the development sector. Applicants should not have major health issues and must not have close relatives working at the World Bank. Admission to one of the JJWBGSP participating master’s programs is a prerequisite for applying. The program ensures that all selected candidates will return to their home countries upon graduation to apply their knowledge and skills toward local development.
The JJWBGSP 2026 provides comprehensive financial support, including full tuition coverage, economy-class airfare, a travel allowance of $600 per trip, a monthly stipend to cover living expenses, books, and accommodation, and comprehensive medical insurance. Scholars gain access to world-class education, professional development, and opportunities to network with international peers and faculty.
Participating universities include Brandeis University (The Heller School for Social Policy and Management), Columbia University (SIPA), Johns Hopkins University (Bloomberg School of Public Health), University of California Berkeley (Goldman School of Public Policy), University of Tokyo (GraSPP), University of Tsukuba, KIT Royal Tropical Institute/Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Williams College, and Yale University. Programs offered cover areas such as global sustainability, public health, economic policy management, global leadership, development practice, and systemic risk.
Applicants must submit a complete set of documents, including a bachelor’s degree certificate, proof of professional experience, unconditional admission letter from a participating program, two recommendation letters, a medical certificate, and a valid passport or identification. Selection is based on professional experience, commitment to home country development, educational background, and professional references.
The JJWBGSP 2026 fully funded scholarship provides an unparalleled opportunity for students from eligible countries to pursue a master’s degree abroad, gain international exposure, and contribute to sustainable development in their home countries. The application window opens on January 15, 2026, and closes on February 27, 2026, so prospective candidates should prepare all documents and submit applications online within this timeframe.
