Joint Japan World Bank Scholarship Program 2026 (Fully Funded) Round 2

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YBB - The Joint Japan World Bank Scholarship Program 2026 (JJ/WBGSP) Round 2 is now open for applications, offering one of the most prestigious fully funded master’s scholarships for students from developing countries. Organized by the World Bank Group in collaboration with Japan, this scholarship supports future leaders who are committed to contributing to the economic and social development of their home countries.

Moreover, the program provides access to top universities across Japan, the United States, Europe, Africa, and Oceania, making it an outstanding opportunity for international exposure and academic advancement.

About the Joint Japan World Bank Scholarship Program 2026

The JJ/WBGSP 2026 is designed to strengthen human resource development and promote sustainable economic growth through quality education. In addition, the scholarship supports students who want to pursue development-related master’s degrees at globally recognized institutions.

Furthermore, this scholarship has built a strong network of more than 6,000 trained professionals and scholars worldwide, many of whom now contribute to policy, research, and public sector leadership.

As a result, the program continues to remain one of the most competitive and impactful scholarship opportunities available globally.

Quick Overview

Countries / Regions: United States, Japan, Europe, Africa, and Oceania

Universities: Oxford, Stanford, LSE, Columbia, ANU, University of Tokyo, and more

Organized by: World Bank Group

Degree Level: Master’s degree

Duration: Up to 2 years

Funding Type: Fully Funded

Scholarship Benefits

Selected scholars will receive comprehensive financial support.

  • Full tuition fee coverage
  • Round-trip airfare
  • Medical insurance
  • Monthly living stipend for accommodation, food, and books
  • Travel allowance
  • Access to world-class academic and professional networks
  • Improved global career prospects

Additionally, the scholarship opens doors to leadership opportunities in development-focused sectors.

Participating Universities and Programs

The program includes a wide range of globally ranked universities.

Some notable institutions include:

  • Australian National University
  • Columbia University
  • Stanford University
  • University of Oxford
  • London School of Economics
  • University of Tokyo
  • SOAS University of London
  • University of Leeds
  • Keio University

Programs cover fields such as:

  • Public policy
  • Climate change
  • Development studies
  • Public health
  • Water and sanitation
  • International policy
  • Environmental management
  • Economics

Therefore, applicants can choose a program that aligns with their academic and professional goals.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements.

  • Must be a national of an eligible developing country
  • Must not hold dual citizenship of a developed country
  • Must not be employed by the World Bank Group or affiliated organizations
  • Must not be a close relative of World Bank staff
  • Must hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent
  • Degree must have been obtained at least three years before the deadline
  • Must have at least three years of paid development-related work experience after graduation

In addition, candidates must demonstrate strong commitment to contributing to national development.

Eligible Countries

The scholarship is open to applicants from eligible developing countries, including:

Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Nepal, Pakistan, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, Yemen, and many others listed by the World Bank.

How to Apply

Follow these steps carefully.

Step 1: Apply to a Participating Master’s Program

First, apply for admission to one of the approved JJ/WBGSP participating programs.

Step 2: Secure Admission

Next, obtain an unconditional admission letter from the university, except for funding.

Without this admission letter, scholarship applications cannot proceed.

Step 3: Complete Scholarship Application

If shortlisted, complete the official online application form.

You will need to submit:

  • Bachelor’s diploma
  • Proof of work experience
  • Admission letter
  • Two professional recommendation letters
  • CV in the required format

Apply here:
https://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/scholarships/brief/jjwbgsp-participating-programs-2022-2024-application-window-1

Official information:
https://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/scholarships

Application Deadline

The deadline for the Joint Japan World Bank Scholarship Program 2026 Round 2 is May 29, 2026.

Therefore, applicants should start preparing admission and recommendation documents as early as possible.

Conclusion

The Joint Japan World Bank Scholarship Program 2026 offers a life-changing opportunity for students from developing countries to pursue a fully funded master’s degree at leading universities worldwide. With tuition, airfare, insurance, and living costs fully covered, this scholarship allows scholars to focus on academic excellence and long-term national impact. If you are passionate about development, policy, and leadership, this program is an excellent pathway to advance your global career.