Updated 1 October 2026 — upcoming application windows, not an open scholarship call today. The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) has announced its 2027 dates for 44 participating master’s programmes. Applicants should begin with university admission and eligibility checks.
| Window 1 | 18 January–26 February 2027 |
|---|---|
| Window 2 | 29 March–21 May 2027 |
| Study level | Selected development-related master’s programmes |
| First step | Admission to a participating programme and university shortlisting |
Funding and important limits
The scholarship supports tuition, basic university medical insurance, a living allowance, return economy airfare and a travel allowance. Coverage lasts for the programme or two years, whichever is shorter. Visa costs and support for family members are excluded. Awards are subject to available funding.
The scholarship application link is provided to eligible candidates shortlisted by participating universities after admission without conditions other than financing. Admission to an unlisted course does not qualify. Read the official scholarship overview for the complete terms.
Eligibility for developing-country applicants
The Window 1 guidelines require eligible nationality without developed-country dual citizenship, a bachelor’s degree earned at least three years before the deadline, and qualifying paid development-related employment. Generally, applicants need three years of relevant work within the preceding six years and current paid full-time development work. Specific provisions address fragile and conflict-affected countries.
The course must be outside the applicant’s country of citizenship and residence. World Bank Group staff and specified close relatives face exclusions. Japanese nationals follow a separate application route.
Which programmes are included?
The official 2027 list includes subjects such as climate change, public policy, water management and taxation. Examples include the Australian National University’s Master of Climate Change, Johns Hopkins University’s Master of Public Health and Keio University’s Master in Taxation Policy and Management. Check the exact course title and application window, not just the university name.
Documents and how to prepare
Window 1 requires an online form, two professional recommendations, evidence of qualifying employment, degree diplomas, a CV in the specified format and an unconditional admission letter except for financing. A transcript is not a substitute for the diploma. Submit only one scholarship application and use a computer, as directed in the 2027 Window 1 guidelines. Applicants using Window 2 should read its own current instructions.
- Choose an eligible degree that fits your work and development goals.
- Check its university admission deadline and scholarship-shortlisting process.
- Gather employment records and ask suitable professional referees early.
- Track university admission and scholarship submission as separate tasks.
- Follow the application link supplied through the participating programme when eligible.
Conclusion
The useful action now is preparation, not a premature scholarship submission. Build a course-specific calendar and compare uncovered costs with your budget before committing to a programme.
Check official dates, eligibility and application guidance
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Keywords: Joint Japan World Bank Scholarship 2027, JJWBGSP dates, development scholarships, participating master’s programmes, postgraduate funding
