The World Bank Scholarship Program 2026 is one of the most prestigious fully funded opportunities for students and young professionals from developing countries who aspire to build careers in international development, public policy, economics, and related fields. Administered by the World Bank’s Development Economics Vice Presidency (DEC), this scholarship initiative plays a critical role in strengthening global capacity, knowledge exchange, and leadership in the developing world.
Since its establishment in the early 1980s, the World Bank Scholarship Program has empowered thousands of professionals to pursue advanced education and research, equipping them with the skills needed to address pressing economic and social challenges in their home countries. If you are seeking a world-class graduate education or research opportunity with global impact, this guide covers everything you need to know about the World Bank Scholarship Program 2026, including eligibility criteria, available programs, application timelines, and how to apply.
Overview of the World Bank Scholarship Program
The World Bank Scholarship Program is designed to support human capital development by investing in talented individuals from developing nations. Through education, research, and professional training, the program aligns with the World Bank’s broader mission of reducing poverty and promoting shared prosperity worldwide.
Since 1982, DEC scholarship initiatives have supported over 7,000 scholars and researchers who now serve as policymakers, academics, economists, and development practitioners across the globe. These alumni contribute directly to national development strategies, institutional reform, and sustainable economic growth.
The program emphasizes:
- Capacity building in developing countries
- Knowledge sharing and policy-relevant research
- Training future leaders in development economics and governance
Active World Bank Scholarship Programs
Active World Bank Scholarship Programs
The World Bank currently offers two major scholarship and fellowship programs under its DEC portfolio. Each targets a different group of applicants but shares a common goal: advancing development knowledge and practice.
1. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP)
The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) is the flagship scholarship offered under the World Bank umbrella. Established in 1987, this program is fully funded by the Government of Japan and has supported more than 7,000 mid-career professionals from over 160 developing countries.
Purpose of JJ/WBGSP
JJ/WBGSP aims to help developing countries strengthen their institutional and human resource capacity by supporting professionals who demonstrate a strong commitment to development work. Scholars are expected to return to their home countries after graduation and apply their newly acquired skills in public service, policy formulation, or development practice.
Fields of Study and Participating Universities
Subject to available funding, the JJ/WBGSP 2026 supports students admitted to 44 participating master’s programs offered by 24 leading universities across:
- United States
- Europe
- Africa
- Oceania
- Japan
These programs focus on development-related disciplines, including but not limited to:
- Economic Policy Management
- Public Policy and Administration
- Infrastructure Management
- Tax Policy
- Development Economics
- Environmental and Sustainable Development
Important Note: Applicants must be admitted to one of the 44 participating master’s programs to be eligible. Admission to non-participating programs automatically disqualifies candidates from applying for the JJ/WBGSP 2026.
JJ/WBGSP 2026 Application Windows
To align with university academic calendars, the scholarship application process is divided into two separate rounds:
Application Window #1
• Opens: January 15, 2026
• Closes: February 27, 2026
Application Window #2
• Opens: March 30, 2026
• Closes: May 29, 2026
Applicants should carefully choose the application window that corresponds with their university admission timeline.
JJ/WBGSP Eligibility Criteria for 2026
The World Bank strictly enforces eligibility requirements, and no exceptions are granted. While each call for applications provides detailed guidelines, the general eligibility conditions are outlined below.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
• Be a citizen of a World Bank member developing country
• Not hold dual citizenship with any developed country
• Be in good physical and mental health
• Hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) earned at least three years before the application deadline
Professional Experience Requirements
Candidates must also:
• Be currently employed in a full-time, paid, development-related position at the time of application
• Have at least three years of paid development-related work experience since earning a bachelor’s degree
• Have acquired this experience within the last six years before the application deadline
Applicants from countries listed as Fragile and Conflict-Affected States may receive special consideration due to limited employment opportunities.
Academic Admission Requirement
On or before the scholarship application deadline, applicants must:
• Receive unconditional admission (except for funding) to at least one JJ/WBGSP participating master’s program
• Upload the official letter of admission before submitting the scholarship application
• Study outside their country of citizenship and residence
Ineligibility Conditions
Applicants are not eligible if they:
• Are World Bank Group staff, Executive Directors, or close relatives of such individuals
• Previously declined a JJ/WBGSP award
• Received a JJ/WBGSP scholarship in the past but did not complete the degree
2. Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP)
The Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP) targets young researchers interested in development economics and policy research. Established in 1982, the fellowship connects emerging scholars with World Bank research teams, data resources, and technical expertise.
Key Features of RSMFP
• Fellows are hosted at the World Bank headquarters in Washington, D.C.
• Participants work on DEC research projects
• Formal training and mentorship are provided
• Emphasis on policy-relevant research
This fellowship is ideal for early-career researchers planning to pursue doctoral studies or careers in applied economic research.
List of Eligible Countries
Only applicants from eligible developing countries may apply for the JJ/WBGSP. The official and updated list of eligible countries is published by the World Bank and should be reviewed carefully before applying.
See list of eligible countries
How to Apply
The application process for the World Bank Scholarship Program is conducted entirely online through the official World Bank scholarships portal.
Application Steps:
1. Secure admission to a JJ/WBGSP participating master’s program
2. Prepare required documents (CV, admission letter, employment verification, etc.)
3. Submit the online scholarship application during the relevant window
The World Bank Scholarship Program 2026 is more than just financial support—it is a gateway to global education, professional growth, and meaningful impact. With world-class universities, generous funding, and a strong emphasis on development leadership, this scholarship remains one of the most competitive and respected opportunities for students from developing countries.
If you meet the eligibility criteria and are committed to contributing to your country’s development, start preparing early, secure admission to a participating program, and submit a strong application