The ADB-Japan Scholarship Programme (ADB-JSP) is one of the most prestigious fully funded postgraduate scholarships available to working professionals from Nepal. Funded by the Japanese government and managed by the Asian Development Bank, it covers an MBA, Masters in Public Policy, Development, or other postgraduate degrees at 31 top universities across Asia and the Pacific.
Who Is It For?
ADB-JSP targets professionals from ADB developing member countries — Nepal is included. It is designed for people already working in development, government, private sector, or NGOs who want advanced qualifications to contribute to their country’s development.
Eligibility
- Citizen of an ADB developing member country (Nepal qualifies)
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- Minimum 2 years of full-time professional work experience after bachelor’s
- Under 35 years old (some schools allow up to 40)
- Not currently enrolled in any graduate programme
- Commitment to return to Nepal after graduation
What Is Covered?
- Full tuition at the partner university
- Monthly living allowance
- Health insurance
- Economy-class round-trip airfare
- Book and materials allowance
Partner Universities (Sample)
- Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), Thailand
- Hitotsubashi University, Japan
- National University of Singapore (NUS)
- IIT Delhi, India
- University of Melbourne, Australia
- And 26 more across Asia-Pacific
How to Apply
- Browse the full university list at adb.org/site/careers/japan-scholarship-program
- Apply directly to your chosen university — most June 2026 deadlines fall between 1–30 June
- Select “ADB-JSP” as your scholarship category during the university application
- Shortlisted candidates are reviewed by ADB jointly with the university
Talk to a counsellor to find the best partner university and programme match for your background.