The Joint Japan World Bank Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) 2025 is a fully funded master’s scholarship opportunity for nationals of developing countries. Launched through a collaboration between Japan and the World Bank, this initiative supports the World Bank’s mission to enhance capacity building and sustainable development through education. Since its inception, the program has built a strong network of over 6,000 professionals globally.
Purpose of the Program
This scholarship aims to foster economic growth, professional development, and global capacity building by enabling students to pursue graduate studies in development-related fields. It empowers individuals committed to uplifting their nations through education and innovation.
About the JJ/WBGSP 2025

Launched through a collaboration between the Government of Japan and the World Bank, the JJ/WBGSP aims to build human capacity by supporting education in developing nations. Since its inception, the program has created a strong network of more than 6,000 alumni, many of whom now lead change in policy, development, and education sectors across the globe.
Eligibility Criteria of Joint Japan World Bank Scholarship Program
- Be a national of a World Bank listed developing country.
- Not hold dual citizenship with any developed country.
- Not be an employee or close relative of employees at the World Bank Group.
- Have a Bachelor’s degree and at least three years of work experience post-degree.
- Have been employed in a development-related role.
Evaluation Criteria
- Academic excellence.
- Professional work experience.
- Commitment to development.
- Quality of application and alignment with program goals.
Application Timeline
- Application Deadline (1st window): May 23, 2025
- Applications are submitted online via the World Bank’s official portal.
- All supporting documents must be uploaded during the application process.
JJ/WBGSP scholarship requirements and benefits
This is a fully funded scholarship that covers:
- Round-trip airfare.
- Full tuition fees.
- Monthly living stipend (includes accommodation, food, books, etc.).
- Health insurance.
Award Notification Process
- Final selection is communicated to successful applicants via email.
- Due to the volume of applications, individual status updates are not provided before the result announcement.
Outstanding Scholarship Recipients
Over the years, thousands of scholars from diverse backgrounds have benefited, becoming experts and leaders in various development sectors worldwide.
Important Notes about Joint Japan World Bank Scholarship 2025
- No application fee.
- No need for Union Plus or World Bank affiliations.
- The scholarship is not available for PhD or undergraduate studies.
About the Funding Organization
Organized by the World Bank Group, this program is supported by the government of Japan to strengthen development-focused human resources in partner countries.
How to Apply for Joint Japan World Bank Scholarship Program
- Apply online through the World Bank JJ/WBGSP official website.
- Submit all required documents:
- Bachelor’s degree certificate
- Proof of work experience
- Letter of admission
- Two recommendation letters
- Valid passport or ID
- Medical certificate
- Deadline: May 23, 2025
Where You Can Study
The scholarship supports study in selected master’s degree programs related to development at universities located in:
- Japan
- United States
- Europe
- Africa
- Oceania
Only approved programs are eligible under this scholarship. Ensure your chosen program is on the official list of participating institutions and courses.
Joint Japan World Bank Scholarship 2025: Overview
Scholarship Name | Joint Japan World Bank Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) 2025 |
Funding Organizations | World Bank Group and Government of Japan |
Scholarship Type | Fully Funded |
Degree Level | Master’s Degree |
Duration | 2 Years |
Host Countries | Japan, USA, Europe, Africa, Oceania |
Fields of Study | Development-related programs only |
Eligible Applicants | Nationals of World Bank-listed developing countries |
Minimum Qualification | Bachelor’s degree + 3 years of relevant work experience |
Application Mode | Online through the World Bank scholarship portal |
Application Deadline | May 23, 2025 (First Application Window) |
Scholarship Benefits | Tuition, airfare, monthly stipend, health insurance |
HOfficial Website | World Bank Scholarships Portal |
Home Page | Scholarship Portal.net |