World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2025

The World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2025 offers funding for students from developing countries to pursue master’s degrees in development-related fields at selected universities worldwide. The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) supports citizens of eligible developing countries with relevant experience in development-related fields. It funds master’s programs in areas like economic policy, tax policy, and infrastructure management at 41 participating programs in 24 universities across the U.S., Europe, Africa, Oceania, and Japan.

The World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program provides full tuition, airfare, and a living stipend, making it one of the most generous scholarships for development-related studies. The program fosters expertise in critical areas to address global challenges. Application deadline is February 28, 2025

Application Windows:

• Window 1: January 13 – February 28, 2025
• Window 2: March 25 – May 23, 2025

Universities/ Institution

• Offered by: World Bank
• Place: United States, Europe, Japan
• Programs: Masters
• Duration: 2 Year

Visit: World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program Participating Universities/Programs for 2025

World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program Benefits

• Tuition fees coverage
• Basic medical insurance.
• Economy-class round-trip airfare and a $600 travel allowance per trip.
• Living Expenses: Monthly allowance for accommodation, food, and books (varies by country).
• Duration: Covers up to two years or the length of the program, whichever is shorter.
• Books and academic materials

Benefits not included:

• Visa fees, family support, or personal travel.
• Extracurricular courses, research costs, or educational equipment (e.g., computers).
• Resident permit fees or language training outside the program.

Eligibilities of World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

• Be a national of a World Bank member developing country on this list;
• Not hold dual citizenship of any developed country;
• Be in good health;
• Hold a bachelor’s (or equivalent) degree earned at least 3 years before the Application Deadline date;
• Employment Requirements:
  • Must be working full-time in a paid development-related job at the time of application.
  • Have at least 3 years of recent development-related work experience (within the past 6 years).
  • Exceptions apply for nationals from Fragile and Conflict States due to limited job opportunities.
• Admission Requirement:
  • Must be unconditionally admitted (except for funding) to a participating master’s program outside your home country.
  • Admission letter must be uploaded with the application.
• Exclusions:
  • Close relatives of World Bank staff or directors are not eligible.
  • Previous scholarship recipients who declined or failed to graduate cannot reapply.
• Other Scholarships:
  • The JJ/WBGSP scholarship supplements but does not duplicate other financial aid. Documentation of additional scholarships must be submitted.

Selection Criteria

The JJ/WBGSP selects scholarship recipients by reviewing eligible applications based on four key factors:

1. Professional Experience (30%)
2. Professional Recommendations (30%)
3. Commitment to Home Country (30%)
4. Educational Background (10%)

Two assessors score each application, and the average score is used to identify finalists, considering:

• Geographic and gender diversity.
• Financial need and hardships.

The Steering Committee approves the final list, and winners are notified shortly after.

Countries Eligible for JJWBGSP Scholarship in 2025

Required Documents

• Completed application form
• Proof of nationality
• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Statement of purpose
• Letters of recommendation

World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program Application Process

1. Check eligibility requirements and participating universities.
2. Choose an eligible master’s program at a partner institution.
3. Submit the scholarship application along with all required documents via the official portal.
4. Await notification of shortlisted candidates.

Tips for Successful Application

• Tailor your statement of purpose to highlight alignment with development goals.
• Demonstrate a clear vision of how the scholarship will advance your career and impact your country.
• Secure strong recommendation letters from professionals or academics who know you well.
• Ensure all documents are complete and submitted on time.

Living Expenses for International Students

The scholarship provides a monthly living stipend, which varies depending on the host country and institution. On average:

• USA/Canada: $1,500–$2,500/month
• Europe: $1,200–$2,000/month
• Asia: $1,000–$1,500/month

This stipend typically covers housing, food, transportation, and basic personal expenses, though students may need to budget carefully in high-cost cities.

Why Choose This Opportunity?

This scholarship is a gateway to studying at world-class universities while gaining skills to address pressing development issues. The program offers unparalleled financial and professional support, empowering scholars to drive change in their home countries.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I apply to multiple universities under this program?
   Yes, but you can only accept the scholarship for one program if selected.
2. What are the age restrictions for applicants?
   There are no age limits, but applicants must meet work experience requirements.
3. Can I pursue a program not listed as eligible?
   No, only programs listed by the World Bank are eligible.
4. What happens if I fail to complete the program?
   You may be required to reimburse some or all of the scholarship funding.
5. Can the scholarship cover dependents?
   No, the scholarship does not provide financial support for dependents.

Official Link for More Details and Application

Visit the official World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program page: World Bank Scholarship.