The Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) offers a life-changing opportunity for students from developing countries. This fully funded scholarship supports professionals who are passionate about driving development and positive change in their home countries. It is open to students applying to select master’s degree programs related to development at prestigious universities around the world.
The fully funded graduate scholarship covers tuition, monthly living allowances, round-trip airfare, health insurance, and other related expenses. In exchange, scholars commit to returning to their home countries after graduation to contribute to social and economic development. The scholarship application process is divided into two rounds:
- Window 1: January 13 – February 28, 2025
- Window 2: March 25 – May 23, 2025
If you are ready to lead development efforts in your country, this program could be your gateway to a brighter future.
Quick Overview of the Joint Japan World Bank Scholarship Program 2025
- Host Countries: United States, Japan, Europe, Africa, and Oceania
- Host Institutions: 24 universities with 41 participating master’s programs
- Fields of Study: Development-related areas such as economic policy, infrastructure, public health, and governance
- Scholarship Value: Fully funded
- Application Deadlines:
- Window 1: February 28, 2025
- Window 2: May 23, 2025
Perks of the JJ/WBGSP 2025
- Fully funded tuition for your master’s program.
- Monthly living stipend to cover accommodation, food, and books.
- Economy-class round-trip airfare to your host country.
- Health insurance for the duration of the scholarship.
- $600 travel allowance for each trip.
Benefits of the Graduate Scholarships for International Students 2025
- Access to world-class education at top universities worldwide.
- Opportunities to gain expertise in development-related fields.
- Networking with global professionals and future leaders.
- Financial and logistical support throughout your studies.
- An opportunity to contribute to sustainable development in your home country.
Eligibility Criteria for the Fully Funded Masters Scholarships by the World Bank
To apply, applicants must meet these criteria:
- Be a citizen of a World Bank member developing country listed in the eligibility criteria.
- Not hold dual citizenship with any developed country.
- Hold a bachelor’s degree earned at least three years before the application deadline.
- Have at least three years of paid development-related work experience within the last six years.
- Be unconditionally admitted (except for funding) to one of the JJ/WBGSP Participating Master’s Programs outside the applicant’s country of residence or citizenship.
- Be in good health.
- Not be a staff member or close relative of World Bank Group employees.
Exclusions of the Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2025
This scholarship does not cover:
- Visa application fees.
- Expenses for family members.
- Extra-curricular courses or training outside the program.
- Research, workshops, or internships not included in the program.
- Computers or other educational equipment.
How to Apply for the Graduate Scholarships for Developing Countries 2025
- Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria listed on the official website.
- Apply for admission to one of the Participating Master’s Programs and receive an unconditional acceptance letter.
- Gather the required documents, including:
- Two professional recommendation letters.
- Your bachelor’s degree diploma.
- A completed application form.
- Submit your application through the online portal during one of the application windows:
- Window 1: January 13 – February 28, 2025
- Window 2: March 25 – May 23, 2025
Required Documents for the JJ/WBGSP 2025
- Bachelor’s degree diploma (and graduate degree diploma if applicable).
- Evidence of three years of paid development-related work experience.
- Unconditional letter of admission to a participating program.
- Curriculum vitae (CV).
- Two professional recommendation letters.
Important Dates for the Joint Japan World Bank Scholarship Program
- January 13, 2025: Applications for Window 1 open.
- February 28, 2025: Deadline for Window 1 applications.
- March 25, 2025: Applications for Window 2 open.
- May 23, 2025: Deadline for Window 2 applications.
Selection Process for the Joint Japan World Bank Scholarship Program
Applicants are evaluated on:
- Quality of professional experience (30%).
- Strength of professional recommendations (30%).
- Commitment to home country development (30%).
- Educational background (10%).
Finalists are selected by the JJ/WBGSP Steering Committee, ensuring diversity in geography, gender, and financial need.
Why Choose the JJ/WBGSP?
The JJ/WBGSP stands out as one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships for professionals from developing countries. With a focus on development-related master’s programs, this scholarship equips recipients with tools and expertise to tackle challenges in their home countries.
- Global Network: Study alongside like-minded professionals from around the world.
- Career Advancement: Gain specialized knowledge in fields like economic policy, infrastructure management, public health, and more.
- Social Impact: Make a tangible difference in your home country post-graduation by applying your newfound skills to development projects.
Host Universities and Programs for the Fully Funded Masters Scholarships
JJ/WBGSP offers scholarships for 41 master’s programs across 24 universities in key regions, including:
- United States: Columbia University, Yale University, Stanford University
- Europe: London School of Economics, Erasmus University, University of Leeds
- Japan: University of Tokyo, Yokohama National University
- Oceania: Australian National University
- Africa: University of Cape Town
Fields of Study Include:
- Public Policy and Administration
- Urban Development
- Climate Change and Sustainability
- Public Health
- Agriculture and Rural Development
- Tax Policy and Infrastructure
Country Eligibility (Expanded)
This scholarship is specifically for nationals from developing countries, including:
- South Asia: Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka
- Africa: Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa
- Southeast Asia: Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Myanmar
- Latin America: Bolivia, Haiti, Venezuela
- Middle East: Jordan, Yemen, Iraq
Key Programs Offered under the Fully Funded Joint Scholarships by the World Bank and Japan
Here are a few notable programs under JJ/WBGSP:
- Columbia University, USA
- MPA in Economic Policy Management
- MPA in Global Leadership
- University of Tokyo, Japan
- Master of Public Policy, International Program
- International Program on Agricultural Development
- Australian National University, Australia
- Master of Climate Change
- Master of Public Policy
- London School of Economics, UK
- MSc Development Management
- MSc Global Health Policy
- University of Cape Town, South Africa
- Master of Public Administration
For any inquiries and to apply please visit the official World Bank website.
