Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship

Overview

The Joint Japan-World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) is a scholarship initiative funded by the Government of Japan and administered by the World Bank. Established in 1987, the program supports citizens of World Bank member countries who are currently working in development-related positions to pursue graduate study in development-related fields. Scholarships are awarded for master's programs (and occasionally doctoral programs) at approved universities around the world. The scholarship aims to build capacity in developing countries by equipping practitioners with advanced skills in development economics, public policy, public health, agriculture, environmental science, and related disciplines.

What You Can Find Here

• Master's degree scholarships at approved universities worldwide in development-related fields
• Full tuition coverage at the approved institution
• Monthly stipend for living expenses during study
• Round-trip economy airfare to the study destination
• Health insurance and travel allowance
• Two types: regular program (for all eligible countries) and regional scholarships (for specific regions)

Who Should Use This

• Citizens of World Bank member countries with at least 2-3 years of development-related work experience
• Practitioners working for governments, NGOs, international organizations, or private sector in development
• Individuals committed to returning to work in their home country's development sector after study
• Those seeking master's study in economics, public policy, public administration, agriculture, environment, or health

How to Get Started

1. Step 1: Visit worldbank.org/scholarships to review the JJ/WBGSP program guidelines and eligible universities
2. Step 2: Check eligibility: you must be a national of a World Bank member country (not a high-income country) with development sector work experience
3. Step 3: Apply to an approved university and program first - admission is required before scholarship application
4. Step 4: Submit your JJ/WBGSP application through the World Bank scholarship portal during the annual window
5. Step 5: Applications are reviewed by World Bank staff based on development relevance, academic merit, and potential impact

Things to Check Before Applying

• Citizens of high-income countries are generally not eligible - the program targets middle and low-income countries
• You must be accepted by an approved institution and program before your scholarship application can proceed
• The scholarship emphasizes development impact - applicants must demonstrate how the degree will benefit their home country
• Scholars are expected to return to their home country or region to work in development after completing their degree

Frequently Asked Questions