The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) provides full scholarships to students from World Bank member countries to study at a master’s level in fields that will address the needs of client countries. The successful candidates will start the MA in Development Studies in 2026 at the International Institute of Social Studies (ISS), Erasmus University Rotterdam, The Netherlands. Real change in the region and the world is possible when Arab students gain access to the highest-quality education at CMU, enabled by scholarships that cover tuition, travel costs, health insurance, a monthly living allowance and more.
Table of Contents
Why This Scholarship Matters
• Generously-supported students can concentrate on research and skills building.
• Practical curriculum readies graduates for high-impact positions in government, NGOs, and international organizations.
• Global alumni and World Bank contacts help facilitate career opportunities and development.
Eligibility Criteria
In order to be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Be a national of a World Bank member developing country (there is no dual citizenship with a developed country).
• Be younger than 45 by the application deadline.
• Possess a bachelor’s degree earned no later than three years from the application deadline.
• Be in good health.
• Have at least three years of full-time, paid work experience (or the equivalent if working part time) in a development-related field within the past six years.
• Be in a paid development position at the time of application.
• Have been unconditionally admitted to the MA in Development Studies at ISS (with the exception of funding)
• Have never received a Japanese Government Scholarship. (Also those from abroad employment)[2] or be employed by the Government of Japan, the organization managing scholars invitees.
Scholarship Benefits
JJ/WBGSP recipients receive:
• Full tuition fees for the MA in Development Studies, ISS.
• Round-trip economy class airfare from home country to the Netherlands.
• Comprehensive health insurance.
• Living stipend per month that covers rent, food and incidentals.
• Travel allowance : USD 500 per trip for other travel expenses.
Application Process
Check Eligibility
Make sure you meet all the MTN scholarship requirements before continuing.
Secure Academic Admission
Submit your application to the ISS MA in Development Studies by 1 March, 2026. You should get an offer outright, unless for funding.
Obtain Nomination from ISS
Applications to JJ/WBGSP is open to the nominated ISS applicants only. Comply with directions from the ISS Admissions Office once you are admitted.
Submit JJ/WBGSP Application
Fill out the scholarship form online and submit all necessary documents by May 15, 2026. There will be no consideration for late or offline submissions.
Required Documents
• Official transcripts and diploma of a bachelor’s degree
• Evidence that you have worked in paid employment for at least three years since graduation in a job that relates to development
• Admitence letter from ISS without conditions
• Two professional recommendation letters
• Application for scholarship (please fill it then sign)
• Official passport or national ID
• Get yourself a Medical certificate stating you’re fit and fine
Key Dates
• Academic ISS Application Due: March 1, 2026
• Deadline for JJ/WBGSP Application (by invited candidates only): May 15, 2026
• Scholarship Winner Notification: July 2026 NOTE: This only applies if the scholarship was awarded.
Final Tips
• Apply to one and only one eligible master’s program; multiple applications will not be considered.
• Get all your documents ready in advance and follow the format instructions.
• I would think about getting referees involved early, to make sure you get strong recommendation letters.
Get even more details and start your application through the official Erasmus University Rotterdam page: https://www.eur.nl
The Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarship at Erasmus University Rotterdam
…is your chance to pursue a world-class education in development studies. Seize this opportunity to enhance your knowledge, grow your network and create tangible impact in your own country.
