A Premier Postgraduate Opportunity in Asia and the Pacific
The Asian Development Bank–Japan Scholarship Program (ADB‑JSP) stands among the most esteemed and fully funded educational opportunities available to students from the developing member countries of the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Developed in collaboration with the Government of Japan, the program aims to support talented individuals through advanced academic training in disciplines directly aligned with regional development goals. Eligible students may pursue postgraduate studies in economics, business, management, science, technology, and other critical development-related areas.
If you aspire to earn a master’s degree from a prestigious Asian or Pacific institution and seek to drive meaningful change in your home country, the ADB‑JSP offers both the platform and the resources to help you achieve that goal. This in-depth guide provides all essential information about the program, including eligibility, partner institutions, application steps, financial benefits, and timelines.
What Is the ADB Japan Scholarship Program?
The ADB‑Japan Scholarship Program was launched to identify and nurture future leaders across Asia and the Pacific by granting access to top-tier postgraduate education. Since its establishment, the initiative has supported more than 3,600 scholars from ADB member countries.
The scholarship typically covers one
Key Features of the ADB‑JSP
Recipients of the ADB‑JSP enjoy a comprehensive package of benefits that eliminates financial obstacles and enables full academic focus:
- Complete coverage of tuition fees for the entire duration of the study program
- Monthly stipend to support basic living costs such as housing, food, and transportation
- Round-trip airfare between the scholar’s home country and the host university
- Funding for books and study materials required for coursework
- Medical and accident insurance throughout the study period
- Research or thesis support when applicable to the program curriculum
These benefits allow recipients to dedicate their efforts toward achieving academic excellence and professional development.
Fields of Study Covered
The ADB‑JSP exclusively supports programs that align with ADB’s operational strategy for sustainable economic progress and equitable development. Approved fields include:
- Economics and Development Studies
- Business and Management
- Public Policy, Governance, and Administration
- Scienceand Environmental Studies
- Engineering and Information Technology
- Agriculture, Food Security, and Rural Development
- Climate Change and Sustainability Policy
Participating Academic Institutions
More than 25 leading universities across 9 countries are affiliated with the ADB‑JSP. These institutions offer specialized programs designed to meet the objectives of the scholarship.
- In Japan:
- The University of Tokyo
- Keio University
- International University of Japan
2. In Hong Kong, China:
- The University of Hong Kong
3. In India:
- Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi
4. In Thailand:
- Asian Institute of Technology (AIT)
5. In New Zealand:
- University of Auckland
6. In the Philippines:
- Asian Institute of Management
7. In Pakistan:
- Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS)
Each institution offers a
Who Can Apply?
The ADB‑JSP targets exceptionally qualified candidates with a strong academic and professional background. To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of an ADB borrowing member country
- Possess at least two years of full-time professional work experience after obtaining a bachelor’s degree
- Be under 35 years of age at the time of application (up to 45 years may be accepted in certain cases)
- Hold a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with proven academic excellence
- Be in good health and capable of pursuing graduate studies
- Commit to returning to their home country upon program completion to contribute to national development
Applicants currently living, working, or studying in developed countries are not eligible for this scholarship.
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
I Step: Choose an Eligible Program and Institution
Visit the official ADB‑JSP portal and review the list of partner universities and eligible programs. Choose a course that aligns with your academic background and long-term development goals.
II Step: Apply to the University
You must submit an application directly to your chosen university, specifically targeting the ADB‑JSP-approved program. Adhere to all university-specific admission
III Step: Indicate Interest in ADB‑JSP
When completing your application, clearly state your intent to be considered for the ADB‑Japan Scholarship Program.
IV Step: Prepare and Submit Documents
Typically required documents include:
- Fully completed application form
- Certified academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Proof of relevant work experience
- Two or more academic or professional recommendation letters
- Recent health certificate
- Personal statement detailing development goals and career objectives
- Copy of valid passport or national identification document
V Step: University Nomination and ADB Final Selection
After reviewing all applications, the university will nominate selected candidates to ADB. The final award decisions are made by ADB based on merit, alignment with development priorities, and the applicant’s potential.
Important Deadlines
Deadlines for the ADB‑JSP vary by institution but generally fall between November and April for programs beginning in the next academic year (typically from July to September).
Due to the two-phase review process involving both the university and ADB, applicants are encouraged to submit materials well before the published deadlines.
Why You Should Apply
Prestige and Global Recognition
Being named an ADB‑JSP scholar is an internationally recognized academic honor that reflects intellectual distinction and leadership potential.
Pathway to Career Advancement
Graduates of this program have secured influential positions in government, academia, international NGOs, and multinational organizations.
Access to a Powerful Alumni Network
Join a distinguished network of alumni contributing to policy, innovation, and development efforts throughout Asia and the Pacific.
No Repayment Obligations
The scholarship is non-repayable. Recipients are only expected to return home and use their acquired knowledge to make a tangible difference.
Final Thoughts
The ADB‑Japan Scholarship Program is not merely a financial award—it is a transformative platform for emerging leaders in Asia and the Pacific. Designed to equip scholars with the skills and knowledge to tackle the region’s most pressing challenges, it supports both individual advancement and national progress.
If your vision includes postgraduate education and impactful service to your community or country, this scholarship represents an ideal launching point. Take the next step toward becoming a catalyst for development.
Quick Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
| Program Name | ADB–Japan Scholarship Program (ADB‑JSP) |
| Host Country / Region | Asia and the Pacific (Japan, India, Hong Kong, etc.) |
| Funded By | Asian Development Bank & Government of Japan |
| Duration | 1 to 2 years |
| Study Mode | Full-time, on-campus |
| Eligibility | Citizens of ADB borrowing member countries with work experience |
| Financial Support | Tuition, living stipend, airfare, books, insurance, research support |
| Fields of Study | Development, Economics, Business, Technology, Public Policy, etc. |
| Application Deadline | Varies by institution (Nov to Apr) |
| Official Website | See Below |
To apply or learn more, visit the official ADB‑JSP portal
Source: ADB Official Scholarship Guidelines
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The ADB–JSP is a fully funded scholarship for students from ADB developing countries to pursue postgraduate studies in development-related fields.
You must be a citizen of an ADB borrowing member country, under 35 years old, with at least two years of work experience and a strong academic record.
Top institutions like the University of Tokyo, Asian Institute of Management, and University of Auckland offer ADB–JSP-eligible master’s programs.
The scholarship supports master’s degrees in fields like economics, public policy, engineering, environmental science, and other development-focused areas.
Yes, it includes a monthly living allowance, housing support, medical insurance, and travel costs between your home country and the host university.
First, apply directly to an eligible university program. Then, indicate your interest in ADB–JSP during the admission process and submit required documents.
The ADB–JSP is a grant, not a loan. You don’t need to repay the amount but must return to your home country after graduation.
Deadlines vary by university but typically fall between November and April for programs beginning the following academic year.
No, applicants must apply to only one university and one eligible program at a time per scholarship cycle.
The university evaluates applications and forwards nominations to ADB. Final selection is based on merit, eligibility, and development relevance.
