Asian Development Bank Scholarship 2025-26– Fully Funded Program

The Asian Development Bank Scholarship (ADS) – Japan Scholarship Program (JSP) is a life-changing opportunity for students from developing Asia-Pacific countries. Established in 1988 with support from the Japanese government, it offers a fully-funded master’s scholarship to about 135–140 young professionals each year. Recipients can study fields like economics, business, science or technology at top universities in Asia. The scholarship covers everything – tuition, monthly living/housing allowance, books, insurance, and travel – so you can focus on your studies. In short, it’s a prestigious “full-ride” to earn your master’s degree and then return home ready to make a difference.

Scholarship Overview

The ADB-JSP is funded by the Asian Development Bank in partnership with the Government of Japan. Its goal is to train well-qualified graduates from ADB’s developing member countries in development-related fields (like poverty reduction, infrastructure, finance, and environmental management). Each year roughly 140 scholars are selected to start 1–2 year master’s programs. In total about 300 students study on ADB scholarships at any time. After graduation, scholars are expected to return to their home countries to help drive social and economic progress.

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Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the ADB-JSP scholarship, you must meet several requirements. In general, applicants:

• Are nationals of an ADB borrowing member country (countries currently eligible for ADB assistance). Applicants from countries no longer borrowing are not eligible.
• Have a bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent) with an excellent academic record.
• Have at least two years of full-time work experience after completing your undergraduate degree.
• Demonstrate strong English skills, both oral and written, to handle graduate studies.
• Are under 35 years old at application time (45 years for certain senior programs).
• Are in good health and agree to return to your home country after finishing the program.
• Are not currently enrolled in a graduate program (ADB-JSP does not support double enrollments).
• Are not staff or relatives of ADB or partner institutions. This includes ADB executive directors, staff, consultants, or their close relatives, and staff of the host universities.
• Are not living or working outside your home country at the time of application.

Meeting these criteria is essential. In short: be an ADB-country citizen with a top-notch bachelor’s and work experience, a strong English background, and a clear plan to use this degree back home.

Scholarship Benefits and Coverage

Winning the ADB-JSP scholarship brings massive funding and support. The scholarship provides:

• Full tuition fees at the host university.
• Monthly living and housing allowance for subsistence, plus extra for books and materials.
• Health insurance and accident insurance for the duration of study.
• Round-trip travel (economy class) from your home to the school and back.
• Research or thesis grant (if you are doing a master’s thesis), to cover related expenses.
• Additional support: In special cases, costs for language or computer courses may also be covered.

All in all, ADB-JSP is a fully funded program – no tuition bills or travel costs for you. You just have to concentrate on your study and research. The program typically lasts 1–2 years depending on the degree, culminating in a master’s degree from the host university.

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How to Apply

Applying for the ADB-JSP scholarship is a two-part process: you apply to a participating university and request the scholarship at the same time. Here are the typical steps:

1. Choose a Program and University: First, select a qualifying master’s degree program at one of the designated institutions (about 29 universities across Asia-Pacific). Common fields are economics, development studies, engineering, or other fields aligned with ADB’s goals.
2. Request Application Details: Contact the university’s admissions office or visit their website to get the ADB-JSP application forms (often called the ADB-JSP Information Sheet) and details. Many universities hold info sessions or have guides for ADB scholars.
3. Submit Admission + Scholarship Forms: Fill out the university’s admission application and clearly indicate you are applying for ADB-JSP. Include the ADB-JSP scholarship form, transcripts, degree certificate, work experience certificates, income statements, and English test scores (e.g. IELTS/TOEFL).
4. University Screening: The university will review all applicants. They shortlist candidates who meet both the academic requirements and ADB’s criteria.
5. ADB Selection: The university forwards its recommended candidates to the ADB. ADB then selects final scholarship recipients (with final approval from the Japanese Executive Director).
6. Acceptance and Visa: If you are selected, the university will issue an acceptance letter, and you’ll begin visa and travel arrangements for study in Japan (or the host country).

Apply now! Visit the official Asian Development Bank Scholarship ADBS page to learn more and start your application. Your future of studying abroad is waiting!

Important Deadlines

Deadlines for ADB-JSP vary by university and intake. In general, you should apply at least 6 months before you plan to start studies. For example:

• Ritsumeikan University (Japan): Deadline was December 12, 2024 for September 2025 enrollment.
• Asian Institute of Technology (Thailand): Deadline was March 31, 2025 for the Fall 2025 intake.
• Other universities (like Kyoto Univ., Tokyo Tech, etc.) usually have their own fall admissions deadlines in late year (Nov/Dec) for the following year’s start.

Always check each institution’s website for the current year’s exact dates. Set reminders early – these are fixed dates and missing one means waiting another year. Starting your application well ahead gives you time to prepare documents.

Tips for Applicants

• Start Early: Gather your transcripts, exam scores, and employer letters sooner rather than later. Some documents take time to obtain.
• Write a Strong Statement: Explain how your study plan aligns with your home country’s development needs. ADB values applicants with clear vision to contribute back home.
• Choose Relevant Fields: Programs related to ADB’s key areas (infrastructure, finance, environment, sustainable development) are encouraged.
• Use Your Strengths: If you’re a woman or come from a low-income background, apply confidently. The program often gives preference to women and applicants with limited financial means.
• Contact ADB/Japan Office: Some countries have a designated person or office for ADB-JSP inquiries. Don’t hesitate to ask for guidance if available.
• Apply to Multiple Institutions: You can indicate several universities (if allowed) to increase chances, but make sure you truly want to attend each one.

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Conclusion

The ADB-Japan Scholarship Program is a unique passport to advanced education and international experience. A full ride like this is rare – use it to boost your career and skill set. If you meet the criteria, go for it! Sharpen your application, hit those deadlines, and share this opportunity with friends who might qualify. Your hard work and preparation could land you in Japan for a life-changing master’s degree.

Go seize your future – and let the scholarship help take you there!