Joint Japan World Bank Scholarships 2026 Available Worldwide (Window 2 Opens)

The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) is now accepting applications for its second window for the 2026 intake cycle. This scholarship is aimed at mid-career professionals from World Bank member developing countries, allowing them to pursue master’s degrees at 24 partner universities across four continents. The program emphasizes building policy capacity in the Global South by equipping practitioners with advanced analytical tools and a global peer network.

This scholarship is not for aspiring academics but for professionals who can demonstrate that a master’s degree will enhance their existing development work. The JJ/WBGSP provides a comprehensive funding package that covers tuition, living costs, and travel expenses, making it a valuable opportunity for those committed to national development.

Applicants must be nationals of World Bank member developing countries and should not hold dual citizenship with any developed country. Candidates typically need a bachelor’s degree earned at least three years prior to the application deadline and a minimum of three years of full-time work experience in a development-related field. Current employment in development work is required, with some flexibility for candidates from fragile states. Applicants must secure unconditional admission to at least one of the participating master’s programs before applying.

The scholarship covers full tuition costs, a monthly subsistence stipend for accommodation, meals, local transportation, and course materials, round-trip international airfare, a USD 600 travel allowance, and basic medical insurance for the duration of the program.