JDS Scholarship Program (Japan) 2026

Overview

The Project for Human Resource Development Scholarship by Japanese Grant Aid (JDS) is a fully funded scholarship programme financed by the Japanese Government to support the human resource development of future leaders in eligible developing countries. JDS targets government officials who are expected to play a key role in implementing social and economic development plans in their home countries.

Through JDS, scholars pursue a two-year Master’s programme in English at Japanese universities. The programme aims to build bilateral relations between Japan and the recipient countries while nurturing skilled professionals capable of contributing to their nations’ development goals.

What’s Included?

• Full tuition fees at a Japanese university for a two-year Master’s programme
• Monthly scholarship stipend for living expenses
• One round-trip airfare between the scholar’s home country and Japan
• Arrival and accommodation allowance to help with initial settlement
• Overseas travel insurance throughout the scholarship period
• Subsidy allowances for books, shipping, travelling within Japan, and seminars
• Accommodation support through a designated agent to assist in finding housing
• Orientation programmes before departure and upon arrival in Japan
• Professional networking opportunities with counterparts and alumni in Japan

Eligibility

JDS is specifically designed for government officials in eligible countries. Key eligibility requirements include:

• Must be currently employed at specified government agencies or public institutions in an eligible country
• Must be a national of a country eligible under the JDS programme
• Must hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification
• Must meet age and other requirements specified in each country’s annual call
• Must be willing to return to their home country and contribute to development after completing studies

How to Apply

Applications for the JDS scholarship are submitted to the JDS Project Office in your country of origin. After submitting your application, you will go through an English and mathematics test, followed by three rounds of interviews. The specific deadlines, programmes available, procedures, and requirements differ by eligible country. Contact the JDS project office in your country early to obtain the most current information and guidance.

Key Dates

Event	Date
Application Deadline	May 31, 2026 (indicative; confirm with JDS office in your country)
Selection Tests and Interviews	Following application submission (timeline varies by country)
Programme Start	As per individual country schedule

Contact Information

For full information and to apply, contact the JDS Project Office in your country or visit the JDS official website. Programme details, eligible countries, and available fields of study are published on the official site.