Are you from a developing country and passionate about driving economic growth? The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026, also known as JJ/WBGSP Windows 2, offers a fully funded chance to earn a master’s degree in development fields. This program targets professionals like you who want to build skills in areas such as economic policy, tax policy, and infrastructure. Applications close on May 29, 2026, so now is the time to check if you qualify.
Key Features of the Program
The JJ/WBGSP supports master’s programs at 44 participating schools across 24 universities in the U.S., Europe, Africa, Oceania, and Japan. These programs focus on practical topics that help developing nations grow. You must apply to one of these specific master’s degrees and get unconditional admission, except for funding, before the deadline. The scholarship lasts for the program length or two years, whichever comes first.
This initiative comes from a partnership between Japan and the World Bank. It aims to train leaders who return home to apply their knowledge. Citizens from World Bank member developing countries can apply if they meet strict rules.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026, you need to match these criteria:
First, you must be a national of a World Bank member developing country. Check the full list on the World Bank site to confirm your country qualifies. You cannot hold dual citizenship with any developed country.
Health matters too. You need to be in good health to handle the demands of study abroad.
Education is key. Hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent earned at least three years before May 29, 2026. Recent graduates do not qualify.
Work experience counts heavily. At the time of application, hold a full-time paid job in development-related work. You also need at least three years of such paid employment since your bachelor’s degree, gained in the past six years.
Admission is required. By the deadline, secure unconditional admission (funding aside) to at least one participating master’s program outside your country of citizenship and residence.
Some people cannot apply. This includes World Bank Group staff, executives, their alternates, or close relatives like parents, siblings, children, aunts, uncles, nieces, or nephews. If you once got or turned down a JJ/WBGSP scholarship and did not finish, you are out.
Scholarship Benefits
The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026 covers major costs to let you focus on studies. Here is what you get:
Economy class round-trip air travel between your home country and the host university. This happens at the start and end of your program. You also receive a $600 travel allowance for each trip.
Full tuition for the graduate program. Basic medical insurance through the university is included.
A monthly living allowance while on campus. This pays for housing, food, books, and other daily needs. The amount changes based on the host country.
These benefits make the program truly fully funded for approved scholars.
What the Scholarship Does Not Cover
The JJ/WBGSP has limits on expenses. Plan for these out-of-pocket costs:
Visa application fees.
Support for family members, including travel or living costs.
Extra classes, training, or language courses not part of the core program.
Travel beyond the two provided trips.
Research supplies, field trips, workshops, internships, or extra materials.
Computers or other equipment.
Resident permit fees.
Courses below the minimum credits for your degree.
If you have another scholarship, the JJ/WBGSP can add to it but not replace it. Send proof of other funding to the secretariat.
Participating Master’s Programs
The program partners with 44 master’s degrees in development topics. These span key areas like economic policy management, tax policy, and infrastructure. Universities are in the U.S., Europe, Africa, Oceania, and Japan. You must pick one outside your home country and residence.
Review the full list of participating programs on the World Bank site. Apply directly to the university first for admission. Only after acceptance can you submit for the scholarship.
Application Process and Deadline
Start by confirming eligibility. Gather your bachelor’s degree proof, work history documents, and admission letter.
The deadline is May 29, 2026. Submit online through the official process.
Visit the World Bank webpage for the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program for exact steps and forms. Act fast, as funding is limited.
This program builds skills for real impact back home. Check the developing countries list and program options today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the JJ/WBGSP 2026?
Nationals of World Bank member developing countries with a bachelor’s degree at least three years old, three years of recent development work experience, good health, and unconditional admission to a participating master’s program.
What benefits does the scholarship offer?
It covers economy class round-trip air travel, full tuition, basic medical insurance, and a monthly living allowance for housing, food, and daily needs.
What does the scholarship not cover?
It does not pay for visa fees, family support, extra courses, additional travel, equipment, or research supplies.
What is the application deadline and process?
The deadline is May 29, 2026; first apply for admission to a participating master’s program, then submit your scholarship application online through the World Bank website.
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