You want a master’s degree at a top university in Asia or the Pacific without worrying about tuition, living costs, or airfare. The ADB-JSP Japan Scholarship gives you exactly that. It is one of the most generous, development-focused awards for talented students from Asian Development Bank borrowing member countries.
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If you are driven to lead change in your home country, this Fully Funded program covers almost everything you need to study and thrive. Admissions for the 2026/2027 intake are opening across participating universities. Get ready early, because selection is competitive and deadlines vary by institution.
Below is a clear, step-by-step guide to help you understand what the scholarship includes, who can apply, how selection works, and how to submit a standout application.
Why the ADB-JSP Japan Scholarship Stands Out
Fully Funded: Tuition, monthly stipend with housing, airfare, books, medical insurance, and research support are covered.
Top Universities: Study at leading institutions in Japan and across Asia-Pacific.
Development Impact: Designed for future leaders who will return home and drive sustainable growth.
Strong Network: Join an active community of ADB-JSP scholars and alumni working across government, NGOs, and the private sector.
Quick Program Snapshot
Item
Details
Scholarship Name
ADB-JSP Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP)
Funding
Government of Japan, administered by the Asian Development Bank
Level
Master’s degree (selected fields relevant to development)
Study Locations
Participating universities in Japan and the Asia-Pacific
Intake
2026/2027 academic year
Duration
Up to 2 years for eligible master’s programs
Obligation
Return to home country after graduation to contribute to development
This is a comprehensive, Fully Funded package for master’s study. Benefits typically include:
Full tuition fees paid directly to the university
Monthly subsistence allowance including housing support
Round-trip airfare from your home country to the host country and back after completion
Medical/health insurance during the scholarship period
Books and instructional materials allowance
Thesis/research grant for approved research expenses
Exact entitlements can vary slightly by host institution. Always confirm details with the university’s ADB-JSP office.
Where You Can Study
ADB-JSP partners with selected, high-quality universities across the region. Participating countries commonly include:
Japan
Hong Kong, China
India
New Zealand
Pakistan
Philippines
Singapore
Thailand
United States (University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa)
Each partner university offers a set list of eligible master’s programs. Check the program list on the ADB site and on the university’s graduate admissions page.
Fields of Study
Programs focus on skills and knowledge that directly support economic and social development. Typical areas include:
Economics, finance, public administration, public policy
Business and management, development management
Engineering, information technology, data and systems
Energy, climate change, environmental science and management
Agriculture, food security, natural resources, water resources
Urban planning, transportation, infrastructure
Public health, social policy, gender and development
Would You Like To Apply For This Opportunity?
Only specific programs at each institution are ADB-JSP eligible. Verify before you apply.
Duration and Study Load
Master’s programs: Up to 2 years of funding.
Support is typically not available for PhD or bachelor’s degrees.
Scholarship renewal depends on strong academic performance and full-time enrollment.
Who Can Apply
ADB-JSP targets high-potential applicants who will return home and create impact. Core eligibility is summarized below. Final criteria may vary slightly by institution.
Criterion
Requirement
Citizenship
Citizen of an ADB borrowing member (developing) country
Education
Strong bachelor’s degree or equivalent, with excellent academic record
Work Experience
At least 2 years full-time professional experience after university
Age
Generally under 35 at the time of application; up to 45 for programs targeting senior officials/management (as defined by the institution)
Health
Medically fit to undertake graduate study abroad
Admission
Admitted to an eligible master’s program at a participating institution
Commitment
Willing to return to home country after studies to contribute to development
Restrictions
Not a resident or working in a non-home country at the time of application; not a current ADB staff member, close relative of ADB staff, or an executive director’s staff
Universities screen applications and nominate top candidates to ADB. ADB then makes the final decision using criteria such as:
Academic excellence and strength of the proposed study plan
Relevant professional experience and leadership potential
Clear commitment to development and to returning home after graduation
Fit with the priority fields at the host institution
Country and gender balance across the scholar cohort
How to Apply for the ADB-JSP 2026/2027
Choose your program and university: Visit the ADB-JSP page and participating university websites to find eligible master’s programs that match your goals.
Check entry requirements: Review academic prerequisites, language scores, and any program-specific criteria.
Prepare documents: Typically includes transcripts, degree certificates, CV, proof of work experience, passport, recommendation letters, language test scores, and a statement of purpose outlining your development impact.
Apply to the university: Submit your admission application and indicate that you are applying for the ADB-JSP. Some universities require a separate ADB-JSP form.
University nomination: If admitted and shortlisted, the university will forward your nomination to ADB for scholarship consideration.
ADB decision: ADB reviews nominations and confirms awards via the university.
Secure your study visa: After acceptance, follow the host country’s student visa process using your offer and scholarship documents. Your university’s international office will guide you.
Important: You apply through the university, not directly to ADB. Application steps and forms can differ by institution.
Application Deadline
Deadlines vary by university and program. Many partner universities accept applications during 2026 for the 2026/2027 intake. Visit the official website for the current deadline:
Check your chosen university’s ADB-JSP page for its specific deadline
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I already hold a master’s degree?
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Generally no. ADB-JSP prioritizes applicants who do not already hold a graduate degree at the same level. Always check your target university’s ADB-JSP rules.
Is there an application fee?
ADB does not charge a fee. Some universities may charge an admissions application fee, which is separate. Read the admissions page carefully.
Can I apply to more than one participating university?
Yes, but apply strategically. Tailor each application to the program’s focus. If more than one school nominates you, ADB and the universities coordinate the final placement.
What is the age limit and are exceptions possible?
The typical upper age is 35. Some programs that target senior officials allow up to 45. Institutions apply the rules, so confirm on the program page.
Do I have to return to my home country after graduation?
Yes. Returning home is a core condition. The scholarship is designed to build capacity in ADB borrowing member countries.
Can I bring my family?
Family-related costs are not covered. Bringing dependents can affect your budget and visa. Discuss this with the university before applying.
Does ADB-JSP fund PhD programs?
No. The scholarship focuses on master’s-level study in specified development fields.
Pro Tips to Strengthen Your Application
Show a clear link between your work experience and the master’s program you choose.
Quantify your impact. Use numbers to highlight results you have delivered.
Write a focused statement of purpose that explains how you will apply new skills back home.
Secure recommendations from supervisors who can evidence your leadership and potential.
Apply early. Seats are limited and nominations happen before final university deadlines.
Ready to Apply?
This is your chance to earn a world-class master’s degree with full financial support and a powerful mission. Shortlist your programs, prepare your documents, and apply now for the ADB-JSP 2026/2027 intake. Start here: ADB-JSP Official Page. Your development leadership journey begins today.
