World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026 (Fully Funded)
Developing countries need skilled professionals who can drive sustainable growth, reduce poverty, and build stronger institutions. The Joint Japan / World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) directly addresses this need by funding outstanding individuals from World Bank member developing countries to earn Master’s degrees in development-related fields at top universities in the United States, Europe, Africa, Oceania, and Japan.
This is one of the most competitive and prestigious fully funded scholarship programs in the world. It covers 100% of tuition, monthly living stipend, round-trip airfare, health insurance, and more, allowing scholars to focus entirely on their studies and future impact back home.
The program has supported thousands of leaders since 1982. Many graduates now hold senior positions in governments, international organizations, NGOs, and private sectors across developing nations.
What Is the JJ/WBGSP Scholarship?
The JJ/WBGSP is a partnership between the Government of Japan and the World Bank. It funds full-time Master’s degree programs that focus on development-related topics.
Key facts:
- Fully funded Master’s (1–2 years)
- 26 preferred programs at top universities in the US, Europe, Africa, Oceania, and Japan
- No application fee
- Open only to nationals of World Bank member developing countries
- Approximately 200–250 awards per year (varies)
- Results announced around July–August 2026
Scholars study in English (most programs) and return home to apply their skills.
Also apply for University of Memphis Scholarships
Eligibility Criteria
You qualify if you meet all of these:
- Be a national of a World Bank member developing country on the eligible list (check the official list when the call opens)
- Not hold dual citizenship of any developed country
- Be in good health
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) earned at least 3 years before the application deadline
- Have at least 3 years of paid development-related employment after earning the Bachelor’s (full-time position at time of application)
- Be admitted unconditionally (except funding) to at least one JJ/WBGSP preferred Master’s program outside your country of citizenship and residence
- Not be an Executive Director, alternate, staff member (or close relative) of the World Bank Group
Important notes:
- Only development-related work counts (government, NGO, international organization, private sector in development-focused roles)
- Clinical training (e.g., medical residency) does not count as development-related work
- The program strongly favors candidates with limited access to funding for graduate studies abroad
Strong opinion: The 3-year work experience rule is strict but fair. Quality and relevance of experience matter more than quantity.
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Scholarship Benefits
The JJ/WBGSP is fully funded and covers:
- Full tuition and fees
- Economy-class round-trip air travel between home country and host university (plus US$500 per trip)
- Monthly living stipend (covers accommodation, food, books, etc.) amount varies by country (typically US$1,200–2,000/month)
- Basic medical insurance
- No coverage for:
- Visa fees
- Family expenses
- Extra courses/training
- Research expenses
- Educational equipment (computers, etc.)
Table: Typical Coverage
| Item | Covered? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | Yes | Full payment |
| Monthly Living Stipend | Yes | Varies by host country |
| Round-trip Airfare | Yes | Economy + US$500 per trip |
| Medical Insurance | Yes | Basic coverage |
| Visa Fees | No | Self-funded |
| Family Expenses | No | Self-funded |
| Research/Equipment | No | Self-funded |
Stipend is sufficient for comfortable living in most host countries.
Preferred Programs & Universities
The program has 26 preferred Master’s programs at top universities (2026 list expected similar):
- Development-related fields (economics, public policy, environment, education, health, infrastructure, etc.)
- Locations: United States, Europe, Africa, Oceania, Japan
Examples of previous preferred programs:
- MSc Development Studies – London School of Economics (UK)
- MA Public Policy – University of Tokyo (Japan)
- Master in Public Administration – Harvard Kennedy School (USA)
- MSc Development Economics – University of Sussex (UK)
- Master in Sustainable Development – Columbia University (USA)
Full updated list published when the call opens (usually February/March 2026).
Required Documents
- Online application form
- Proof of citizenship/nationality
- Bachelor’s degree certificate & transcripts
- Proof of at least 3 years development-related work (employment letters)
- Two professional letters of recommendation
- Unconditional admission letter from a preferred program (upload before deadline)
- CV/resume
All documents in English.
Why Apply for JJ/WBGSP?
Full funding at top global universities. Focus on development impact. Return-home requirement builds capacity in your country.
Many graduates become leaders in government, international organizations, and NGOs.
Contrarian: Extremely competitive (thousands apply). But transparent process and focus on development experience give strong candidates real chances. Reviews: “Transformative opened doors to senior roles back home.”
More Scholarships
Useful Links
- worldbank.org/en/programs/scholarships – Official JJ/WBGSP page
- numbeo.com (various cities) – Costs vary widely
- ehsaskafaalat.com – Development scholarships
- studyabroad.com – Living guides
- goingmerry.com – Clean
Application Checklist
- Check eligible country list
- Secure unconditional admission to preferred program
- Prepare 3+ years work proof
- Strong recommendation letters
- CV & motivation materials
- Submit by May 29, 2026 (anticipated)
- Track email for updates
How to Apply for World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program?
- Wait for the official call for applications (expected February/March 2026)
- Check the updated list of preferred programs
- Get unconditional admission (except funding) to at least one preferred program
- Apply online via the JJ/WBGSP application portal (worldbank.org)
- Upload all required documents
- Submit by May 29, 2026 (anticipated deadline , plrease confirm when open)
- Results announced July–August 2026
Important: You must secure admission before the scholarship deadline.
Tip: Start contacting universities early. Strong admission letter is crucial.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applying without admission letter. Counting non-development work experience. Generic motivation. Late submission. Not checking preferred programs list.
