For professionals from developing countries seeking to advance their careers and contribute to global development, the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) offers a unique pathway. Administered by the World Bank and funded by the Government of Japan, this programme supports eligible mid-career professionals to pursue a master’s degree in key development fields.
What is the JJ/WBGSP?
Since its inception in 1987, the JJ/WBGSP has enabled thousands of professionals from more than 160 developing countries to complete graduate studies in development-related fields. World Bank+1 It is aimed at enhancing the capacity and leadership of scholars to return to their home countries and contribute to social and economic development.
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients of the JJ/WBGSP scholarship enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including full tuition for the eligible master’s programme, a monthly living stipend, comprehensive health insurance, round-trip airfare from home country to host university, and a travel allowance. World Bank+1 The funding typically covers the duration of the graduate programme, up to two years
Who Is Eligible?
While each application cycle comes with detailed guidelines, the broad eligibility criteria are:
- Be a national of a World Bank-member developing country and not hold dual citizenship of a developed country. World Bank+1
- Possess a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) earned at least three years prior to the application deadline. The World Bank Docs+1
- Have three or more years of paid, full-time, development-related professional employment since obtaining the bachelor’s degree (part-time may count under specific circumstances) within the last six years. Goldman School of Public Policy+1
- Hold an unconditional (except funding) admission letter for one of the programme’s master’s degrees listed as a “Participating Programme” outside the applicant’s country of citizenship and residence. World Bank+1
- Applicants must not be currently staff of the World Bank Group (or closely related) nor previously awarded the JJ/WBGSP but failed to graduate. The World Bank Docs+1
Eligible Programmes & Application Windows
The JJ/WBGSP collaborates with top universities around the world. For the 2026 cycle, for example, there are two application windows:
- Window 1: 15 January – 27 February 2026 World Bank+1
- Window 2: 30 March – 29 May 2026 World Bank
Examples of participating programmes include:
- MPA in Economic Policy Management at Columbia University
- Master of Public Health at Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health
- MSc in Development Studies at London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
World Bank+1
How the Selection Works
- Applications are evaluated by two independent assessors who score submissions (on a scale from 1–10) across four main criteria:
- Professional experience (30 %)
- Quality of professional recommendations (30 %)
- Commitment to home country development (30 %)
- Educational background (10 %)
Further considerations include geographic balance, gender distribution, and cases of hardship or limited financial resources
Why It Matters for Developing Countries
By equipping professionals with advanced training and global exposure, the JJ/WBGSP helps build a cadre of leaders capable of addressing complex development challenges ranging from infrastructure and policy reform to health systems and sustainable urban planning. Given the scholarship’s linkage to institutions with strong development-focus, scholars can leverage networks and knowledge resources that amplify their impact upon return.
Key Next Steps & Tips for Applicants
If you are considering applying:
- Check eligibility carefully—meeting all criteria is essential. No exceptions are made. World Bank+1
- Secure unconditional admission into one of the participating master’s programmes before submitting your scholarship application.
- Prepare your documents early — your bachelor’s diploma, transcripts, proof of work experience, CV, and admission letter. The World Bank Docs
- Craft your essays and recommendations to highlight your contribution to development, your professional accomplishments, and how your degree will enable you to serve your country. IHS
- Choose your target programme wisely — ensure it appears in the list of Participating Programmes for that application window. World Bank
CONCLUSION
For emerging-leaders in developing countries passionate about creating change at the national or regional level, the JJ/WBGSP offers world-class graduate education with full financial support. Its track record and alignment with development policy and practice make it an excellent opportunity for those ready to commit to service and impact.
