Joint Japan

The Joint Japan (JJ/WBGSP) provides a unique opportunity for individuals from developing countries who have professional experience and a demonstrated commitment to their countries’ development to pursue graduate-level studies in fields related to development.

The programme is open to both women and men who meet the eligibility criteria and are applying to participating master’s degree programmes.

Host Institutions & Eligible Programs

The scholarship supports studies at 41 selected master’s programmes hosted by universities across the United States, Europe, Africa, Oceania, and Japan.

Eligible Applicants

Applicants must be nationals of developing countries that are members of the World Bank. Dual citizens of any developed nation are not eligible.

Scholarship Benefits

Recipients of the JJ/WBGSP scholarship will receive:

  • Full tuition coverage
  • A monthly stipend to help with living costs
  • Round-trip airfare between the home country and the host university
  • Health insurance
  • A travel allowance for additional costs
    The scholarship covers the entire duration of the master’s program or up to two years, whichever is shorter.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, applicants must:

  • Be a citizen of a developing country listed as eligible by the World Bank.
  • Not hold dual citizenship with any developed country
  • Be in good health
  • Possess a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) obtained at least three years before the application deadline.
  • Be employed full-time in a development-related role at the time of application and have at least three years of paid work experience in development acquired in the last six years.
  • Be unconditionally admitted (except for financial support) to one of the JJ/WBGSP-approved master’s programmes, located outside their country of citizenship and residence at the time of application.
  • Not be related to World Bank Group staff or executive directors.
  • Not have previously declined or failed to complete a JJ/WBGSP-funded programme

There are exceptions for candidates from fragile or conflict-affected countries, where employment opportunities may be limited.

How to Apply

Applicants must first gain unconditional admission to at least one of the participating master’s programmes. Only those who meet this requirement will receive access to the official scholarship application form.

There are two application periods, depending on the programme:

  • Window 1: January 13, 2025 – February 28, 2025 (noon EST)
  • Window 2: March 25, 2025 – May 23, 2025 (noon EST)

For a full list of eligible programmes and step-by-step instructions, applicants should consult the official Application Guidelines on the JJ/WBGSP website.

Website:

Official Scholarship Website:  http://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/scholarships

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