The Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) offers full funding for Master’s degrees in development-related fields. This Joint Japan program supports mid-career professionals from developing countries who demonstrate a commitment to national progress. Recipients study at 26 preferred partner universities across the globe, including institutions in the United States, Europe, and Japan.
I wrote this post using facts from the World Bank 2026 Scholarship Guidelines and official program data to ensure accuracy for applicants. This research-based guide provides the exact steps needed to secure funding, meet eligibility criteria, and strengthen an application for the 2026 cycle. By presenting verified requirements instead of opinions, this article helps students submit an application that aligns with the World Bank’s selection standards.
The Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship program aims to build the capacity of developing nations by training future leaders in essential sectors. Scholars must return to their home countries immediately after graduation to apply their new skills. This requirement ensures that the investment benefits the local economy, public health, and education systems of the recipient’s home nation.
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: Master’s Degree
- Location: Multiple countries (USA, Japan, UK, France, Netherlands)
- Institution(s): 26 Preferred Partner Universities (Harvard, Oxford, University of Tokyo)
- Program Period: 12 to 24 months
- Course offered: Development-related fields (Public Policy, Public Health, Infrastructure Management)
- Deadline: Window 1 (February 2026) and Window 2 (May 2026)
Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Coverage
The Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship provides full tuition fees and a monthly subsistence allowance for the duration of the program. It also covers economy class air travel between the home country and the host university. Additionally, the award pays for medical insurance and a travel allowance to help with incidental costs.
Active Master’s Programs for 2026-27
The Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program supports 44 active Master’s programs across 24 participating universities worldwide. These programs focus on key development areas, such as economic policy, public health, and climate change management. Applicants must secure an unconditional offer from one of these specific programs before submitting a scholarship application.
| University | Active Master’s Programs |
| Columbia University (USA) | MPA in Economic Policy Management, MPA in Development Practice. |
| Harvard University (USA) | Master in Public Administration in International Development (MPA/ID). |
| Johns Hopkins University (USA) | Master of Public Health (MPH). |
| University of Oxford (UK) | Master of Public Policy, MSc in International Health and Tropical Medicine. |
| University of Tokyo (Japan) | Master of Public Policy, Graduate Program on Environmental Sciences. |
| University of Tsukuba (Japan) | Master’s Program in Economic and Public Policy. |
| Australian National University | Master of Climate Change, Master of Environmental Management. |
| Erasmus University (Netherlands) | MSc in Urban Management and Development. |
| IHE Delft (Netherlands) | MSc in Water and Sustainable Development. |
| University of Sussex (UK) | MA in Development Studies, MA in Poverty and Development. |
Eligibility Criteria
There are five specific eligibility requirements for the JJ/WBGSP:
- Applicants must be a national of a World Bank member developing country.
- Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree earned at least 3 years before the application date.
- Applicants require at least 3 years of recent development-related work experience after earning their degree.
- Students must have an unconditional offer of admission from one of the 26 preferred partner university programs.
- Applicants must be in good health to travel and study abroad.
Application Process
To apply for the fully funded Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship, you must follow a two-step procedure through the university and the World Bank.
- Secure University Admission: You must first apply to and receive an unconditional letter of admission from a preferred Master’s program, such as the Master of Public Administration at Columbia University or the Master of Public Health at Johns Hopkins.
- Access the Online Application: You must create an account on the World Bank Scholarship application portal during the open call periods.
- Submit Required Documents: You must upload digital copies of your unconditional admission letter, official diploma, and two professional recommendation letters.
- Complete the Employment Section: You must provide proof of current and past employment, such as pay stubs, tax returns, or official employment contracts.
- Craft a Personal Statement: You must write a statement that describes your professional goals, development impact, and commitment to your home country.
- Submit Application: You must click the submit button before the deadline, if you have completed all sections of the online form.
Deadline
The program operates in two application windows. Window 1 usually closes in late February, while Window 2 usually closes in late May. You should check the World Bank website to confirm the specific dates for your chosen university program.
