Asian Development Bank–Japan Scholarship Program 2026: Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships at the East-West Center in the USA

Overview

The Asian Development Bank–Japan Scholarship Program is a postgraduate funding initiative established in April 1988 with financial support from the Government of Japan. Funded by the Government of Japan through the Asian Development Bank and administered at the East-West Center, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, the scholarship programme aims to develop skilled professionals who can contribute to economic growth, social progress and sustainable development in their home countries. The initiative provides opportunities for qualified individuals to pursue graduate studies in development-related disciplines, combining academic education with exposure to an international academic environment.

Who can apply

Eligibility is restricted to citizens of eligible Asian Development Bank developing member countries and territories who satisfy the programme academic, professional and other requirements. Applicants must also follow the East-West Center approved programmes and application procedures.

What you get

The scholarship provides financial support that covers full tuition fees for eligible students enrolled in approved degree programmes. In addition, the award includes a monthly subsistence allowance, which encompasses support for housing to help scholars meet ordinary living expenses. Financial support is also provided for books and instructional materials needed for coursework and research, along with medical insurance.

Requirements

Applicants must pursue approved master’s degree programmes in fields such as economics, public administration, business, sociology, environmental management, oceanography, geography and urban and regional planning. Candidates must follow the East-West Center approved programmes and application procedures, and pay close attention to separate deadlines for official academic records and English-language test documentation.

How to apply

Applicants must submit their materials through the East-West Center application portal and follow its specific admission and scholarship procedures. Candidates must ensure that they meet all documentation requirements and adhere to the established application instructions.

Key dates

The 2026 application cycle deadline is 1 December 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time, according to the application portal.