The Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) Program 2025-26 is a prestigious, fully funded master’s scholarship initiative by the African Development Bank (AfDB) in partnership with the Government of Japan. It offers talented African students the opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies in Japan, focusing on key development fields to empower Africa’s growth.
Basic Information and Application Deadlines:
Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) Program are offered for two-year master’s degree programs in areas aligned with Africa’s Goal. The JADS Program is a collaboration between the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Government of Japan, designed to enhance Africa’s human capacity through master level education in Japan. Applications are open for two intakes: April 2026 with a deadline of September 16, 2025, and September 2026 with deadlines on November 12, 2025, and January 9, 2026.
The JADS Program supports two intake periods in 2026:
- April 2026 intake: Application deadline is September 16, 2025.
- September 2026 intake: Application deadlines are November 12, 2025, and January 9, 2026.
University and Institution Details:
Partner universities in Japan accepting JADS scholars include:
- University of Tokyo
- Kyoto University
- Hiroshima University
- Sophia University
- Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU)
- Other select Japanese higher education institutions
Study Areas Available:
The program supports two-year master’s degrees in strategic fields critical to Africa’s development, such as:
- Energy Development
- Agriculture
- Health Sciences
- Environmental Sustainability
- Engineering and related disciplines
Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) Program Benefits
JADS provides comprehensive funding covering:
- Full tuition fees for up to 24 months
- Monthly living stipend (subject to change; currently about 150,000 JPY, approximately $1,100 USD)
- Round-trip economy class airfare between the scholar’s home country and Japan
- Health insurance coverage
- Research support and grants for thesis work
- Up to six additional months for preparatory study or internship programs
- For scholars engaged in research, a special grant may be available for research and thesis preparation.
- In special circumstances, computer literacy, preparatory language and other similar courses may be covered under the scholarship.
Benefits Not Included
The scholarship does not cover:
- Family-related expenses
- Visa application and processing fees
- Non-university language training (such as private language courses)
- Field trips, laptops, or personal educational equipment
- Extracurricular activities and workshops outside the scope of the program
Eligibility Criteria for Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) Program
To qualify for JADS 2025-26, applicants must:
- Be citizens of African Development Bank member countries
- Be 35 years old or younger at application time
- Hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with excellent academic records
- Have at least one year of paid work experience in Africa within the past three years
- Not be currently enrolled in another graduate degree program
- Not be an AfDB staff member or close relative of senior AfDB personnel
- Commit to returning to their home country to contribute to national development after graduation
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare a compelling application package including:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Letters of recommendation
- A research proposal aligned with AfDB’s High 5 development priorities
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing educational and professional experiences
- Proof of language proficiency in English or Japanese (if required)
- Personal statement outlining career goals and motivation
Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) Program Application Process (Step-by-Step)
- Secure admission to a JADS-partner university in Japan by applying through their graduate programs.
- Upon admission, the university forwards your scholarship application to the AfDB-JADS committee.
- Submit all required documents as stipulated by the university and scholarship guidelines.
- Await application review, shortlisting, and possible interviews.
- Successful candidates receive scholarship award notifications usually by June of the enrollment year.
- Prepare for travel and studies in Japan after final selection.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Thoroughly research and select universities and programs that align with your career goals.
- Tailor your research proposal to reflect AfDB’s High 5 priorities.
- Provide clear, convincing evidence of your potential impact on Africa’s development.
- Obtain strong letters of recommendation from reputable scholars or professionals.
- Start the application well in advance to collect and verify all documents.
- Follow all application instructions carefully, ensuring completeness and accuracy.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Japan (estimated in USD)
- Rent: $400 – $700 (shared accommodation or university dormitories)
- Food: $200 – $300
- Transportation: $50 – $100
- Utilities and internet: $50 – $100
- Miscellaneous: $100 – $150
Total estimated monthly living expenses: approximately $800 to $1,350
Why Choose the Japan Africa Dream Scholarship? Five Key Reasons
- Fully Funded Opportunity: Covers tuition, living expenses, airfare, and insurance for a comprehensive study experience.
- World-Class Education: Study at prestigious Japanese universities known for cutting-edge research and innovation.
- Strategic Focus Areas: Programs directly address Africa’s development needs in energy, agriculture, health, and sustainability.
- Professional Growth: Gain advanced skills and research experience applicable to socio-economic development in Africa.
- Unique Cultural Experience: Live and study in Japan, one of the world’s most technologically advanced and culturally rich nations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I apply directly to AfDB for the scholarship?
A: No, applications must be submitted through the admitting university, which endorses the application to AfDB-JADS.
Q: Is prior work experience mandatory?
A: Yes, at least one year of paid work experience in Africa within the past three years is required.
Q: Are family members’ expenses covered?
A: No, family-related expenses are not included in the scholarship benefits.
Q: Can I extend the scholarship duration beyond two years?
A: The scholarship covers up to 24 months; however, up to six additional months may be granted for preparatory or internship periods.
Q: What happens after I complete the scholarship?
A: Scholars are expected to return to their home countries to contribute to socio-economic development using their new knowledge and skills.