The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) 2025 is a highly prestigious and fully funded opportunity designed for professionals from developing countries. This program, funded by the Government of Japan and administered by the World Bank, supports candidates who are passionate about development and want to create a positive impact in their home countries through advanced education.
This initiative is part of the World Bank’s broader mission of helping developing countries by investing in human capital and promoting sustainable growth. Selected individuals will pursue a master’s degree in development-related fields at top universities around the world.
Program Overview
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Scholarship Name: Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
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Level of Study: Master’s Degree
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Duration: 2 years
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Funding: Fully Funded (tuition, travel, stipend, and insurance)
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Application Deadline: May 23, 2025, at 12:00 noon EST
This opportunity targets mid-career professionals with at least three years of development-related work experience who are committed to returning home and applying their education for the betterment of their country. It aligns with the World Bank’s ongoing efforts in skills development and capacity building across developing nations.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
The JJ/WBGSP 2025 offers complete financial support for the duration of the program, including:
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Full tuition at a participating university
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Round-trip economy airfare to and from the host country
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A $600 travel allowance per trip
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Monthly living stipend for housing, food, and personal expenses
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Health and accident insurance throughout the program
This financial coverage removes the economic burden of studying abroad and enables students to build valuable knowledge and experience. The program supports World Bank skills development by nurturing future leaders in development.
Participating Countries and Universities
Applicants must first be admitted to one of the approved master’s programs in the following regions:
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United States
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Japan
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Europe
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Africa
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Oceania
Some of the prestigious universities offering these programs include:
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Harvard University
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University of Oxford
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Stanford University
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London School of Economics
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Australian National University
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University of Tokyo
Japan’s educational institutions are central to this initiative, reflecting the country’s emphasis on structure, performance, and growth—principles that also guide the Japan salary bonus system, which rewards consistent contribution and dedication.
Also read this article:
Harvard MBA Scholarship | Your Pathway to a Top MBA in the USA
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the JJ/WBGSP, candidates must:
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Be a citizen of a World Bank-eligible developing country
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Not hold dual citizenship with a developed country
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Hold a bachelor’s degree earned at least three years prior to the deadline
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Have a minimum of three years of recent, paid work experience related to development
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Be employed in a development-related role
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Be in good health and capable of studying abroad
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Not be a close relative of a World Bank employee
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Have unconditional admission to an approved master’s program
Applicants who have previously received or declined this scholarship are not eligible to reapply.
Required Documents
Applicants will need to submit the following:
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Bachelor’s degree certificate
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Proof of work experience
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Unconditional admission letter from a participating university
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Two recommendation letters
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Completed application form
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Valid passport or ID
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Medical certificate
Selection Process
The selection process is competitive and based on the following criteria:
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30%: Quality of work experience
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30%: Commitment to development and returning home
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30%: Strength of recommendations
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10%: Academic preparation
The World Bank ensures a fair and diverse selection process that includes gender balance and representation from various developing regions.
How to Apply
Here are the steps to apply:
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Secure admission to an eligible master’s program
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Visit the official World Bank Scholarship portal
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Complete the online application form
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Upload all necessary documents
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Have your referees submit their recommendation letters
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Submit your application before the deadline: May 23, 2025
Eligible Countries
The scholarship is open to citizens of over 100 developing countries, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Kenya, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Rwanda, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Uganda, Vietnam, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and more.
You can find the full list of eligible countries on the official World Bank website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the JJ/WBGSP fully funded?
Yes. It covers tuition, airfare, living stipend, and medical insurance.
Can I apply if I don’t have university admission yet?
No. You must have an unconditional admission letter from a partner university.
Who should write my recommendation letters?
Preferably your employer or a professor who can speak to your development-related experience and dedication.
Can previous recipients reapply?
No. Those who have received or declined the scholarship in the past are not eligible.
Final Thoughts
The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2025 is a transformative opportunity for professionals seeking to drive change in their home countries. It embodies the commitment of the World Bank helping developing countries by investing in people and creating a global network of skilled, knowledgeable professionals.
If you’re ready to advance your education and contribute to development in your region, don’t miss this chance. Apply now, and take the first step toward a brighter, more impactful future.
