Introduction
Applications for the 2026 Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) will open soon and this is one of the most competitive fully funded Master’s scholarships in the world.
If you’re from a developing country and want to study at a top university for absolutely free, this program should be at the top of your list.
Who Should Apply
The scholarship is perfect for applicants who:
• Are from a developing country (e.g., Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, SA, Kenya, Nigeria, etc.)
• Have a Bachelor’s degree
• Have at least 3 years of work experience (formal or informal development work)
• Are passionate about development, policy, economics, health, infrastructure, education, or global issues
• Are applying to one of the eligible master’s programs supported by the World Bank
Note: You cannot apply if you already have dual nationality with a developed country or currently work for the World Bank Group.
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What the Scholarship Covers (Fully Funded!)
This scholarship pays for EVERYTHING:
• ✔ Full tuition fees
• ✔ Monthly living stipend
• ✔ Round-trip airfare
• ✔ Health insurance
• ✔ Travel allowance
• ✔ Books & materials
You literally don’t spend a cent.
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Eligible Countries
All African, Asian, and most Latin American developing nations qualify — including:
Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Botswana, South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, Ghana, Nigeria, Rwanda, Tanzania, Lesotho, Namibia, and more.
(Full list on official page.)
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Eligible Fields of Study
Fields vary by university, but typically include:
• Development studies
• Economics
• Education policy
• Public health
• Public policy
• Sustainable development
• Infrastructure & engineering
• Environmental management
• Social sciences
• Finance & governance
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Host Universities
Some of the universities you can study at include:
• University of Tokyo (Japan)
• Columbia University (USA)
• University of Birmingham (UK)
• Australian National University
• University of Hong Kong
• Sciences Po (France)
• University of Leeds (UK)
Each university has specific programs that are eligible.
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How to Apply
You apply online using the World Bank scholarship portal.
Step-by-Step
1. Choose an eligible master’s program from the official list.
2. Apply for that university program first.
3. Gather documents:
• CV
• Degree certificate
• Academic transcripts
• Proof of work experience
• Motivation letter
• Two recommendation letters
4. Apply for the scholarship when applications open.
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Application Deadlines
Exact 2026 dates are not published yet, but based on previous cycles:
• Window 1: Expected Jan–Feb 2026
• Window 2: Expected March–May 2026
(Most people apply during Window 2.
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Final Tips for Applicants
• Start preparing references early.
• Make your motivation letter highly personal ie, show how your community will benefit.
• Apply to more than one eligible program to increase your chances.
• Keep all documents in PDF and clearly named.
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