The Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program stands as a gateway to a world of opportunities. This esteemed scholarship program, a collaborative effort between Japan and the World Bank, aims to nurture future leaders who will contribute to the development of their home countries.

The JJ/WBGSP provides scholarships for a maximum of two years to a restricted number of mid-career professionals from developing countries committed to alleviating poverty and promoting shared prosperity in their home countries. Eligible candidates must be admitted to or currently enrolled in a master’s or PhD degree program in development-related fields outside of Japan.

In this step-by-step guide, we will unveil the application process, providing aspiring scholars with the necessary insights to navigate this enriching educational endeavour.

Remember this guide is part of our Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships for all Students: All Expenses Covered. So explore it also and let’s begin.

Types of JJ/WBGSP Scholarship

The JJ/WBGSP has different types of awards, depending on the applicant’s nationality, academic background, and professional goals. Some of the most common awards are:

1. JJ/WBGSP Participating Programs: These are master’s degree programs in key areas of development, such as economic policy management, tax policy, and infrastructure management, offered by 27 universities in the U.S., Europe, Africa, Oceania and Japan.

The list of participating programs and their application deadlines can be found here.

2. JJ/WBGSP Preferred Programs: These are master’s degree programs in development-related topics offered by universities outside of Japan and not included in the list of participating programs.

The applicants must have unconditional admission to one of these programs before applying for the JJ/WBGSP scholarship.

The list of preferred programs and their application deadlines can be found here.

3. JJ/WBGSP Partner Programs: These are master’s degree programs that have a partnership agreement with the JJ/WBGSP and offer a joint curriculum with Japanese universities.

The applicants must have unconditional admission to one of these programs before applying for the JJ/WBGSP scholarship. The list of partner programs and their application deadlines can be found here.

JJ/WBGSP General requirements

Some general requirements are:

• Be a national of a World Bank member developing country on this list;
• Not hold dual citizenship of any developed country;
• Be in good health;
• Hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent earned at least 3 years prior to the application deadline date;
• Have 3 years or more of recent development-related work experience after earning a bachelor’s degree or equivalent;
• Be employed in development-related work in a paid full-time position at the time of submitting the scholarship application.

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Eligibility criteria

Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria outlined by the program. Common prerequisites may in include:

• A commitment to returning to your home country after completing the program.
• A strong academic background, and professional experience in a relevant field.
• Thoroughly review the specific requirements for the academic program you wish to pursue.

Application Steps.

To apply for the JJ/WBGSP scholarship, you need to follow these steps:

Step 1: Discover the program aligning with your academic and professional objectives. Utilize the [Program Finder] tool to explore programs based on country, region, topic, or keyword.

Additionally, you can peruse the lists of participating, preferred, and partner programs through the provided links: here, here, and here, respectively.

Step 2: Verify the eligibility criteria and application guidelines for your selected program. Detailed information on eligibility criteria and application guidelines for each call for applications can be found on the official website [here].

Additionally, check the university’s website offering the program for any supplementary requirements or additional information.

See Also: ABSA Bursary Programme 2024: How to Apply Step by Step

Step 3: Submit your admission application directly to the university, adhering to the instructions and deadlines provided.

Prepare the necessary documents, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and proof of language proficiency.

If applicable, express your interest in applying for the JJ/WBGSP scholarship by indicating it on your application form. Ensure thorough compliance with the university’s guidelines for a seamless application process.

Step 4: To apply for the JJ/WBGSP scholarship, visit the official website [here] and follow the provided online application process. Adhere to the instructions and deadlines outlined by the JJ/WBGSP.

Prepare essential documents, including a copy of your admission letter, a passport copy, curriculum vitae, certificate of employment, and a statement of interest.

Ensure timely completion of the online application form and submit it before the specified deadline for consideration.

Step 5: Await the notification of the selection results. The JJ/WBGSP will inform chosen applicants via email and post their names on the official website [here].

The selection process duration varies, contingent on the volume of applications and funding availability. Criteria for selection encompass academic excellence, professional experience, development impact, and leadership potential.

These are simple steps and are similar to steps we talked about: How to Apply for a fully funded Scholarship to Study abroad

A JJ/WBGSP scholarship covers the following expenses

• Tuition and fees;
• A monthly living stipend;
• Round-trip airfare;
• Health insurance;
• Travel allowance.

Read Also: ABSA Bursary Programme 2024: How to Apply Step by Step

Remember, Upon completion of their degree, it is anticipated that JJ/WBGSP scholars will return to their home country and leverage their acquired skills and knowledge to contribute to the social and economic development of their nation.

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