The ADB–Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP) is a graduate scholarship scheme financed by the Government of Japan and administered by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). It enables talented students from ADB developing member countries to pursue postgraduate study in development-related fields at selected academic institutions across the Asia and Pacific region. The program is designed to strengthen human resource capacity in developing member countries by building a cadre of skilled professionals who can contribute to economic and social development at home.
Program at a Glance
- Funded by the Government of Japan and administered by ADB.
- Supports postgraduate study in development-related fields.
- Open to nationals of ADB developing member countries.
- Study takes place at designated academic institutions in the Asia and Pacific region.
- Benefits include tuition, a monthly allowance, insurance, and travel costs.
- Applicants must first secure admission to a participating institution.
- Preference goes to candidates who can contribute to development in their home countries.
- Host institutions may set additional criteria, such as work experience.
- The award is intended for full-time, on-campus study.
About the ADB–Japan Scholarship Program
The ADB–Japan Scholarship Program was established to help developing member countries build a skilled professional workforce. It is one of the longest-running scholarship initiatives supported jointly by ADB and Japan, and it has created a broad network of development professionals across the region.
Awards support master’s degree programs and, at some institutions, doctoral study. Each participating institution sets its own admission standards, program offerings, and academic calendar, so requirements vary from one host university to another. The scholarship prioritizes fields such as economics, business, public policy, and development studies, along with other disciplines relevant to development. Selection considers academic merit, professional experience, and the development relevance of the proposed study. Scholars are expected to return home after graduation and apply their new skills to national development.
Scholarship Benefits
The ADB–Japan Scholarship Program is designed to remove the main financial barriers to graduate study. Typical benefits include:
- Full or partial tuition fees at the participating institution.
- A monthly subsistence allowance to cover living expenses.
- An allowance for books and instructional materials.
- Coverage of medical and accident insurance costs.
- Travel expenses for the scholar’s initial arrival and final return.
- Support for thesis or research-related costs where the institution allows it.
- Access to academic and student support services at the host institution.
- Membership in a regional network of ADB scholarship alumni.
Some personal and incidental costs may remain the scholar’s responsibility, so applicants should plan a realistic budget alongside the award.
Duration of the Scholarship
- Master’s degree programs: generally one to two years, depending on the institution and program structure.
- Doctoral programs: up to three years, subject to the rules of the participating institution.
- Non-degree or diploma study: limited to the duration set by the host institution.
Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility for the ADB–Japan Scholarship Program is assessed against both general ADB criteria and the specific admission rules of the chosen institution. Applicants must satisfy every condition before an award can be confirmed.
- Be a national of an ADB developing member country.
- Hold a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent with strong academic results.
- Be admitted to a participating academic institution.
- Be in good health and able to complete full-time study.
- Demonstrate financial need for scholarship support.
- Be able to return to the home country after graduation.
- Meet any work experience or age limits set by the host institution.
- Not hold another scholarship or funding source for the same program.
Admission Requirements by Study Level
Master’s Degree Requirements
- A completed bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
- A strong academic record, often with a minimum grade point average set by the institution.
- Relevant professional or research experience, where the program requires it.
- Proof of English language proficiency, such as an accepted test score.
- A statement of purpose explaining development goals and career plans.
- Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
- An admission offer or application to a participating institution.
Doctoral Degree Requirements
- A completed master’s degree in a relevant field.
- A strong academic and research record.
- A research proposal aligned with development priorities.
- Evidence of research capacity, such as publications or prior projects.
- English language proficiency as required by the institution.
- Support from a faculty supervisor or department.
- Admission confirmation from a participating institution.
Non-Degree and Diploma Requirements
- A completed bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
- Relevant work experience in the chosen field of study.
- Meeting the institution’s specific entry rules for short programs.
- Proof of English language ability where required.
- Admission to the institution’s non-degree or diploma program.
How to Apply for the ADB–Japan Scholarship Program
Applications generally follow a two-track process: admission to a participating institution and a separate scholarship application. The exact sequence and forms vary by institution, so always confirm the process on the host university’s official pages.
Step 1: Review Eligibility
- Confirm your nationality is on the list of ADB developing member countries.
- Check the fields of study supported by the program.
- Review the general ADB criteria and the institution’s own requirements.
Step 2: Choose an Institution and Program
- Select from the list of participating academic institutions.
- Identify a program that matches your development goals.
- Read the institution’s admission page for program-specific rules.
Step 3: Apply for Admission
- Submit the institution’s admission application directly.
- Provide transcripts, test scores, and recommendation letters.
- Indicate your interest in the ADB–Japan Scholarship Program where required.
Step 4: Submit the Scholarship Application
- Complete the ADB–Japan Scholarship Program application form.
- Attach the admission offer or proof of application.
- Include a statement of purpose and supporting documents.
Step 5: Selection and Notification
- The institution reviews applications for academic merit and development relevance.
- ADB reviews candidates against program criteria.
- Successful applicants receive an award letter with conditions.
Step 6: Accept and Prepare
- Confirm acceptance of the scholarship offer.
- Complete visa, travel, and insurance arrangements.
- Follow the institution’s enrollment and orientation steps.
Required Documents
- Completed scholarship and admission application forms.
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
- English language proficiency test results.
- Letters of recommendation.
- Statement of purpose or study plan.
- Curriculum vitae or résumé.
- Valid passport or national identification.
- Admission offer or proof of application.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Apply for admission early so your scholarship application is not delayed.
- Choose a program that clearly connects to your country’s development needs.
- Write a specific statement of purpose rather than a generic essay.
- Request recommendation letters from referees who know your work well.
- Check the institution’s English language score requirements before testing.
- Keep certified copies of all academic documents ready.
- Confirm that you meet any work experience or age rules set by the institution.
- Do not apply for the same program with another full scholarship.
- Follow up with the institution on the status of your admission application.
- Prepare a realistic budget for costs the scholarship may not cover.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the ADB–Japan Scholarship Program?
Nationals of ADB developing member countries who meet the academic and admission requirements of a participating institution can apply.
Do I need admission before applying for the scholarship?
Most institutions require an admission offer or proof of application before a scholarship decision can be finalized.
What fields of study are supported?
The program focuses on development-related fields such as economics, business, public policy, and development studies, as offered by participating institutions.
Does the scholarship cover all costs?
The scholarship covers tuition, a monthly allowance, insurance, and travel, but some personal and incidental costs may remain the scholar’s responsibility.
Can I study outside the Asia and Pacific region?
No. The scholarship supports study only at designated participating institutions in the Asia and Pacific region.
Can I work while studying on the scholarship?
Scholars are expected to focus on full-time study, and any work must comply with the institution’s rules and local regulations.
What happens after graduation?
Scholars are expected to return to their home countries and contribute to national development using the skills gained.
Is there an age limit?
Age limits, where they exist, are set by the individual participating institution rather than by ADB alone.
Final Thoughts
The ADB–Japan Scholarship Program offers a practical route to advanced study for development-minded professionals from ADB developing member countries. Because admission and scholarship decisions rest with individual participating institutions, success depends on careful research, early preparation, and a clear connection between your chosen program and your country’s development priorities.