The Scholarship in Japan (ADB–JSP), supported by the Government of Japan and administered by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), offers around 135 fully funded scholarships each year. Scholarship in Japan are available for postgraduate degrees in economics, business, management, science, technology, and other development-oriented disciplines.
This initiative gives academically strong candidates from developing ADB member countries across Asia and the Pacific the opportunity to pursue their graduate studies at top universities in Japan and other partner nation
Summary Scholarship in Japan
- Host Countries: 9 countries (including Japan)
- Participating Institutions: Various partner universities in 9 nations
- Study Level: Master’s (postgraduate)
- Number of Awards: 135 annually
- Eligible Applicants: Citizens of ADB’s developing member countries
- Type of Support: Fully Funded
- Scholarship Duration: Initially 1 year, extendable to 2 years for Master’s programs
- Deadline: Depends on the university/program (usually twice yearly). Applicants must apply at least 6 months before the intended start date.
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What the Scholarship Covers
Scholarship in Japan ensures comprehensive financial support, which includes:
- Complete tuition fees
- Monthly living allowance (including accommodation)
- Cost of books and study supplies
- Medical insurance coverage
- Round-trip travel expenses
- A special stipend for thesis/research work (when applicable)
- In certain cases, coverage for short preparatory courses, such as language training or computer skills, is provided.
Eligible Countries
Applicants must hold citizenship from one of the developing member states of ADB, such as:
Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vietnam, and many others.
Universities and Host Institutions
The ADB–JSP collaborates with selected academic institutions across nine countries in the region. Each year, nearly 300 students enroll in these universities through this program. Successful applicants are expected to utilize their education to contribute to the social and economic development of their home countries upon completing their studies.
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Who Can Apply? (Eligibility)
To be considered for the Scholarship in Japan, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of an ADB borrowing member country eligible for Japanese ODA scholarships.
- Not holding dual nationality with an advanced economy.
- Secure admission into an approved master’s program at a designated institution.
- Possess a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) with strong academic performance.
- Have a minimum of 2 years’ full-time work experience after completing undergraduate studies.
- Be 35 years of age or younger at the time of application (exceptions may apply with special approval).
- Be in good health.
- Commit to return to their home country after graduation and work there for at least 2 years.
- Not be ADB staff, Executive Directors, consultants, or close relatives of ADB employees.
- Not currently living or working outside their home country.
- Not be enrolled in another postgraduate program at the time of application.
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Required Documents for Scholarship in Japan
Applicants must prepare for the Scholarship in Japan as follows:
- Completed ADB–JSP application form (specific format only)
- Admission application form of the chosen institution
- Study field and research plan
- Official academic transcripts (or authenticated copies)
- Authenticated degree certificate or proof of graduation
- Two recommendation letters
- Proof of personal and family income (tax return, salary certificate, etc.)
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Application Process
- Contact your preferred partner university and request application forms.
- Submit the admission application + ADB–JSP form with all required documents.
- The university screens applicants and forwards shortlisted candidates to ADB.
- ADB evaluates the nominations and makes recommendations to the Government of Japan.
- Final selection is confirmed, and results are announced through the universities.
Deadlines
- The closing date differs depending on the institution and field of study.
- Many universities process applications twice per year.
- Always confirm the exact deadline with your chosen university.
Official Source
For updated deadlines, partner universities, and application guidelines, visit the official website for the Scholarship in Japan.
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