The Asian Development Bank–Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP) 2026 at Keio University, Japan, is one of the most prestigious and fully funded opportunities for students from developing ADB member countries to pursue a master’s degree in Japan. Sponsored by the Government of Japan, ADB Japan Scholarship 2026 empowers talented individuals committed to contributing to sustainable development in their home countries.
Keio University, one of Japan’s oldest and most respected private institutions, offers a unique research-oriented environment for students eager to engage with the latest advancements in science, technology, law, economics, and development studies. The scholarship covers tuition, monthly stipend, travel costs, and more — allowing scholars to focus entirely on their academic and research goals.

About Keio University

Founded in 1858, Keio University stands among Japan’s top private universities and consistently ranks within the top 200 universities worldwide (QS World University Rankings 2025). Known for its excellence in research, innovation, and leadership training, Keio has produced several Japanese prime ministers, corporate leaders, and international researchers.
Its Graduate School of Science and Technology and Graduate School of Media and Governance are particularly recognized for their interdisciplinary research and practical application of science and policy for sustainable development — making it a fitting host for ADB–JSP scholars.

ADB Japan Scholarship 2026 Overview 

Scholarship Name	Asian Development Bank–Japan Scholarship Program (ADB–JSP) 2026
Host University	Keio University, Japan
Funded By	Government of Japan through the Asian Development Bank
Degree Level	Master’s Degree
Fields of Study	Science & Technology, Economics, Business & Management, Development Studies, Law & Public Policy
Scholarship Type	Fully Funded
Duration	Up to 2 years
Monthly Stipend	147,000 JPY/month
Other Benefits	Tuition fee waiver, entrance fee waiver, round-trip airfare, research allowance
Eligibility	ADB developing member countries only
Age Limit	Under 35 years (exception for medicine/pharmacy: under 37 years)
Application Period	September 1 – October 31, 2025
Result Announcement	Mid-January 2026
Host Country	Japan

Scholarship Benefits

Successful ADB–JSP scholars at Keio University receive comprehensive financial coverage to support their academic journey:

• Full tuition and admission fee waiver
• Monthly stipend of 147,000 Japanese Yen for living expenses
• One round-trip airfare between the scholar’s home country and Japan
• Medical insurance and student health coverage
• Research and thesis preparation allowances (if applicable)
• Access to Keio’s global research facilities and international mentoring

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the ADB–JSP 2026 at Keio University, applicants must fulfill the following conditions:

1. Citizenship – Must be a national of an ADB developing member country.
2. Academic Qualification – Must hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent with an excellent academic record.
3. Work Experience – At least 2 years of full-time professional work experience acquired after obtaining a bachelor’s degree.
4. Language Proficiency – Must demonstrate proficiency in English (TOEFL or IELTS required).
5. Age Limit – Must be under 35 years old at the time of application (up to 37 for specific programs).
6. Health Requirement – Must be in good health and able to study full-time.
7. Commitment – Must agree to return to their home country upon completion of studies.
8. Ineligibility – Individuals working in ADB, their immediate family members, and those residing or studying in a third country are not eligible.

Application Process

Follow these steps carefully to apply for the ADB–JSP 2026 at Keio University:

• Step 1: Visit the official program page at Keio ADB–JSP 2026.
• Step 2: Search for your academic advisor using the Faculty Profile Tool and contact them to discuss your research plan.
• Step 3: Complete the online application for the International Graduate Program (IGP) at official website.
• Step 4: Upload all required documents, including academic transcripts, recommendation letters, proof of English proficiency, and statement of purpose.
• Step 5: Pay the non-refundable application fee of 10,000 JPY.
• Step 6: Submit physical copies of certificates and documents by post (September 1 – October 31, 2025).
• Step 7: Wait for results to be announced in January 2026.
• Step 8: Upon selection, prepare for enrollment and visa procedures for the September 2026 intake.

Comparison with Top Master’s Scholarships in Japan

Scholarship Name	Host Institutions	Funding Coverage	Degree Level	Focus Area	Age Limit
ADB–JSP	Keio University	Fully funded (tuition, stipend, airfare)	Master’s	Development, Law, Tech, Policy	Under 35
MEXT Scholarship	Japanese Govt. Universities	Fully funded (includes airfare, tuition, and housing)	Bachelor’s/Master’s/PhD	All disciplines	Under 35
JASSO Scholarship	Various Japanese Universities	Partial funding (monthly allowance only)	Bachelor’s/Master’s	Academic merit	No specific limit

FAQs about ADB Japan Scholarship 2026

1. What is the main goal of the ADB-JSP at Keio University?
   The scholarship aims to train future leaders from developing nations who can contribute to sustainable development after completing their master’s studies in Japan.
2. Who funds the ADB-JSP program?
   It is jointly funded by the Government of Japan and managed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
3. Can I apply without contacting a prospective academic advisor?
   No. Contacting and securing agreement from a Keio University advisor is mandatory before submitting your application.
4. What fields of study are covered under ADB–JSP?
   Eligible fields include Science, Technology, Economics, Business, Development Studies, Law, and Public Policy.
5. Is Japanese language proficiency required?
   No, the master’s program is conducted entirely in English, but living in Japan may require basic Japanese communication skills.
6. Can I apply if I am already studying in Japan?
   Only those not yet enrolled in a master’s program are eligible to apply.
7. What is the duration of ADB Japan Scholarship 2026?
   It supports study for a maximum of two years, aligning with Keio’s master’s degree duration.
8. When is the deadline to apply?
   Applications open September 1, 2025, and close October 31, 2025.
9. What is the monthly living allowance?
   Selected scholars receive 147,000 JPY per month to cover living costs.
10. What commitment do recipients make after graduation?
    They must return to their home country and contribute professionally to development work.

If you dream of studying in Japan’s global innovation hub while contributing to the development of your nation, this is your chance. Prepare your research plan, contact your advisor, and apply for the ADB–Japan Scholarship at Keio University before October 31, 2025. APPLY NOW.

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