The Asian Development Bank – Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP) is a scholarship funded by the Government of Japan and managed by the Asian Development Bank. It allows students from developing countries in Asia to study in Japan at the master’s level. This scholarship helps students improve their skills and knowledge to contribute to development in their home countries.
About the Scholarship
ADB-JSP was created to support students from ADB’s developing member countries. It focuses on environmental studies, international studies, and sustainability science. The scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, travel, and other support needed to study in Japan. Since 2000, it has helped students attend the University of Tokyo and its Graduate School of Frontier Sciences (GSFS).
Host Country
Japan is the host country for this scholarship. Japan is famous for its high-quality education, advanced technology, safe cities, and rich culture. Students can enjoy a unique learning experience in a safe and modern environment.
Host University
The scholarship is offered at the University of Tokyo, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences (GSFS). The university is one of the top institutions in Asia and provides advanced programs in environmental studies, sustainability science, and international studies.
Scholarship Type
This is a fully funded scholarship for international students. It covers tuition fees, living expenses, airfare, and other academic costs.
Degree
Students will receive a master’s degree depending on their chosen department:
Master of Environmental Studies
Master of International Studies
Master of Sustainability Science
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the ADB-JSP, you must:
Be a citizen of a developing member country of the ADB
Meet the ADB-JSP requirements for a master’s course
Apply to the Division of Environmental Studies or Graduate Program in Sustainability Science at GSFS
Be under 35 years old
Hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent
Some programs, such as the Division of Biosciences or Transdisciplinary, are not eligible for this scholarship.
Fields of Study
The scholarship is available in the following fields:
Department of Natural Environmental Studies
Department of Human and Engineered Environmental Studies
Department of Ocean Technology, Policy, and Environment
Department of Socio-Cultural Environmental Studies
Department of Environment Systems
Department of International Studies
Graduate Program in Sustainability Science
Scholarship Benefits
The ADB-JSP scholarship covers:
Full tuition fees
Monthly stipend for living expenses
Airfare to and from Japan
Travel insurance
Other academic costs
Required Documents
To apply, you need:
Application form (designated by GSFS)
Study Field and Research Plan form
Official academic transcript from your bachelor’s degree
Graduation certificate from your bachelor’s degree
Two confidential recommendation letters
Recommendation letters must be sent directly to the International Liaison Office by the referees.
Application Process
Steps to apply:
Check your eligibility on the ADB website.
Search for a potential supervisor in your chosen department.
Upload all application materials by December 10.
If selected, submit original documents for the ADB scholarship by March 20.
ADB announces results in May.
Complete admission and immigration procedures from May to September.
Enter Japan with a student visa and start your studies in late September.
Registration Deadlines
Application submission: December 10, 2025
Original document submission: March 20, 2026
Notification of selection: May 2026
Start of classes: October 1, 2026
Selection Process
The selection is based on:
Academic performance
Research plan quality
Recommendation letters
Eligibility according to ADB-JSP rules
GSFS nominates the successful candidates to ADB for final approval.
Tips to Succeed
Contact a supervisor before applying to discuss your research topic
Write a clear and realistic study plan
Submit all documents on time
Choose the department that matches your interests and experience
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I apply if I am over 35? No, ADB-JSP does not accept applicants over 35.
Can I apply for a PhD? No, only master’s students are eligible. Consider MEXT scholarship for a PhD.
Does the scholarship cover dependents? No, it only supports the student.
Do I need to contact ADB directly? No, applications go through the designated institution only.
Can I include undergraduate work experience? No, only post-bachelor professional experience is accepted.
Why Choose This Scholarship
This scholarship is perfect for students who want to gain international experience, study at a top university, and develop skills to contribute to their home countries. It provides full funding, excellent academic support, and a strong network of international professionals.
Career and Future Opportunities
Graduates can work in:
Government agencies
Environmental and sustainability organizations
International development agencies
Research institutions
Academic institutions
Student Experiences
Past students have shared that studying in Japan expanded their knowledge, gave them hands-on research opportunities, and helped them build global connections. They also value the safe and organized environment in Tokyo.
Contact Information
International Liaison Office Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, University of Tokyo Rm 120, Environmental Building 5-1-5 Kashiwa-no-ha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan Tel: +81-(0)4-7136-4558 Email: ilo@edu.k.u-tokyo.ac.jp
Conclusion
The ADB-JSP at the University of Tokyo is a life-changing opportunity for students from developing countries. It provides full financial support, high-quality education, and the chance to build a global career. Interested applicants should carefully follow the instructions, meet deadlines, and prepare a strong application to increase their chances of success.
