Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026: Eligibility, Benefits & How to Apply
The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026 offers a key chance for students from developing countries to pursue advanced studies. This program, run by the World Bank’s Development Economics Vice Presidency, aims to build skills in young researchers and professionals. It supports the bank’s goal of economic growth and shared prosperity through education and training.
Since 1982, the program has supported over 7,000 people. These graduates have made real changes in their home countries and helped future leaders.
Scholarship Benefits
The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026 covers major costs for selected students. It pays for economy class round-trip air travel from your home country to the host university. Scholars also get a $600 travel allowance for each trip.
Tuition fees for the master’s program come fully covered. Basic medical insurance through the university is included too. During the study period on campus, you receive a monthly allowance for living costs like housing, food, and books. The allowance amount depends on the host country.
Who Can Apply: Eligibility Rules
To qualify for the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026, you must meet strict criteria. First, be a citizen of a World Bank member developing country. Check the full list on the World Bank site.
You cannot hold dual citizenship in a developed country. Applicants need to be in good health and have a bachelor’s degree earned at least three years before the deadline. You must have at least three years of paid work in development-related fields since your degree, gained in the past six years.
At application time, hold unconditional admission (except for funding) to a participating master’s program outside your home and residence country. Upload the admission letter with your application. World Bank Group staff, executives, or their close relatives cannot apply. Past applicants who declined or did not complete the scholarship cannot reapply.
How to Apply
The application process for the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026 has specific windows. For Japanese nationals, the 2026 window opened recently and closes on April 17, 2026, at noon EST. Use the dedicated link for Japanese applicants.
The overall deadline for Window 2 is May 29, 2026. Review participating programs and countries on the official World Bank page. Prepare all documents early, including proof of employment and admission. Visit the World Bank scholarships site for full details and updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026?
You must be a citizen of a World Bank member developing country, hold a bachelor’s degree with at least three years of development-related work experience, and have unconditional admission to a participating master’s program outside your home country.
What benefits does the scholarship provide?
It covers economy class round-trip air travel, tuition fees, basic medical insurance, a $600 travel allowance, and a monthly stipend for living costs like housing and food.
When is the application deadline for 2026?
For Japanese nationals, it closes on April 17, 2026, at noon EST; the Window 2 deadline is May 29, 2026.
How do I apply for the scholarship?
Prepare documents like proof of admission, employment history, and citizenship; submit via the official World Bank scholarships site during the open application windows.