Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026: Fully Funded Master’s for Developing Countries
Are you from a developing country and passionate about driving change through development work? The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026, also known as JJ/WBGSP Windows 2, offers a fully funded chance to pursue a master’s degree. This program targets citizens of certain developing countries with professional experience in development. Applications opened recently, with a deadline of May 29, 2026.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026, applicants must meet strict criteria. First, you need to be a national of a World Bank member developing country. Check the full list on the World Bank website. You cannot hold dual citizenship with any developed country.
Health plays a role too; applicants must be in good health. You need a bachelor’s degree earned at least three years before the deadline. At the time of applying, hold a full-time paid job in development-related work. This job experience must total at least three years since your bachelor’s, gained in the past six years.
Admission matters a lot. By the deadline, gain unconditional admission (except for funding) to at least one of the participating master’s programs. These programs sit outside your home country and residence, in places like the U.S., Europe, Africa, Oceania, and Japan. World Bank Group staff, executives, or their close relatives cannot apply. Past scholarship recipients who declined or did not complete also face restrictions.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026 provides solid support for your studies. Expect economy class round-trip air travel from your home country to the host university, plus a $600 travel allowance per trip. Tuition and basic medical insurance through the university come next.
A monthly living allowance covers food, housing, books, and other basics while on campus. The amount adjusts based on the host country. Scholarships last for the program length or two years, whichever is shorter.
Keep in mind some items stay out of pocket. These include visa fees, family support, extra courses, language training, research costs, laptops, or extra travel. The scholarship supplements other aid but does not replace it. Report any other funding to the program secretariat.
Key Areas of Study
This program focuses on development topics like economic policy management, tax policy, and infrastructure management. It supports 44 master’s programs across 24 universities. Fields prepare you to tackle real challenges in your home country upon return.
How to Get Started
Mark May 29, 2026, on your calendar for the application deadline. Review eligibility and programs first. Secure admission to a qualifying master’s, then apply through the official process. For full details and to submit, visit the official JJ/WBGSP webpage. Act soon to build a strong case with your development experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026?
You must be a national of a World Bank developing member country, hold a bachelor’s degree earned at least three years ago, have three years of development work experience in the past six years, be in good health, and have unconditional admission to a participating master’s program.
What does the JJ/WBGSP 2026 scholarship cover?
It provides economy class round-trip air travel, a $600 travel allowance, tuition, university medical insurance, and a monthly stipend for living expenses like food, housing, and books.
When is the application deadline for JJ/WBGSP 2026?
The deadline is May 29, 2026.
How do I apply for the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026?
First, secure unconditional admission to a participating master’s program, then submit your application through the official JJ/WBGSP webpage on the World Bank site.