Joint Japan / World Bank Graduate Scholarship
The Joint Japan / World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) funds mid-career professionals from developing countries for preferred master’s programmes in development-related fields.
World Bank (funded by the Government of Japan) · Preferred programmes worldwide (development focus) · Masters · Full (typical package)
What it is
A scholarship for development-related master’s study, supporting professionals who will return to their home countries and contribute to development priorities.
Who it is for
Nationals of World Bank member developing countries who meet work-experience requirements, hold a bachelor’s degree, and are admitted to a preferred programme. Age and employment status rules are published per call.
What funding usually covers
Typical benefits include tuition, a monthly subsistence allowance, economy travel, health insurance, and related allowances as listed for the cohort.
How to apply
- Download the preferred programme list for the open call.
- Apply to those universities on their timelines.
- Submit the JJ/WBGSP application during the World Bank window with employment and recommendation materials.
- Plan to return home after the degree — the programme expects it.
Documents people commonly need
- Diploma and transcripts
- CV showing qualifying work experience
- Recommendations
- Evidence of admission to a preferred programme (as required by the stage)
- Passport
Typical timeline
Calls often open once or twice a year depending on programme tracks. Windows are strict. Watch the World Bank scholarships page when you are ready to apply.
Practical tips
- Development motivation must be concrete: sector, problem, return plan.
- Do not apply with a programme outside the preferred list.
- Employment letters should clearly show duties and dates.
Common questions
Can I pick any master’s programme?
No. JJ/WBGSP usually restricts awards to a published list of preferred programmes. Choose from that list for the active call.
Official source
Rules and deadlines change. Read the current call on the official site before you apply.
Last reviewed for this guide: 2026-08-09.
Related scholarships
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ADB–Japan Scholarship Program
Asia-Pacific (partner universities) · Masters
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Australia Awards Scholarship
Australia · Masters and other levels (country-dependent)
-
IsDB Scholarship Programme
IsDB member / eligible countries · Undergraduate, Masters, PhD (programme-dependent)
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DAVS provides admissions and visa consulting. We are not the scholarship provider, university, or embassy. Funding decisions belong to the awarding body. Always verify eligibility and deadlines on the official programme page.