The Asian Development Bank–Japan Scholarship Programme (ADB–JSP) provides a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for Bangladeshi citizens seeking to pursue postgraduate studies in Economics, Management, Science, or Technology. 

Designed for individuals aspiring to contribute to development-related fields, the program supports scholars at numerous participating institutions across the Asia-Pacific region.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Nationality: Must be a citizen of Bangladesh.
• Education: Possession of a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) with a distinguished academic record.
• Age: Generally under 35 years of age at the time of application, though this may be extended to 45 years for those in senior public sector positions.
• Experience: A minimum of two years of professional work experience gained after the completion of university studies.
• Language: High proficiency in English.
• Commitment: An agreement to return to Bangladesh upon the completion of the program.
• Status: Applicants must not already be enrolled in a graduate program or be living and studying abroad.

Program Benefits

The scholarship offers comprehensive financial support, including:

• Full coverage of tuition fees.
• A monthly living allowance (variable by country; for example, approximately ¥147,000 in Japan).
• A dedicated housing allowance.
• Allowances for books and instructional materials.
• Medical insurance.
• Return airfare between Bangladesh and the host country.
• Grants for research or thesis preparation, where applicable.

Application Process

1. Institutional Research: Prospective scholars should explore the list of participating institutions, which includes over 35 approved universities.
2. Programme Selection: Candidates must identify their preferred field of study by visiting the specific websites of these participating universities.
3. Direct University Application: Applications are submitted directly to the chosen university. Many institutions provide a specific checkbox or supplementary form for the ADB–JSP during their standard admission process. Required documentation typically includes:
   • Completed university admission and scholarship application forms.
   • Academic transcripts and certificates.
   • A copy of a passport or national ID.
   • An employment certificate proving at least two years of experience.
   • Certificates of income for the applicant and their family.
   • A Statement of Purpose or Study Plan.
   • Two letters of recommendation.
   • Standardised English proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL).
4. Shortlisting: Universities review all submissions and shortlist candidates for nomination, often involving internal interviews or faculty committee reviews.
5. ADB Nomination: Successful university nominees have their applications forwarded to the ADB headquarters in Manila for final selection.
6. Final Notification: The ADB announces the selected scholars, after which successful applicants receive official offer letters and visa support.

Application Deadline

The deadline for the current cycle is 16 March 2026.