Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) Program 2026

Applications are now open for the Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) for the 2026 academic year. The Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS), initiated by the African Development Bank (AfDB) in collaboration with the Government of Japan, offers a unique opportunity for young African talents: to obtain a prestigious two-year Master’s degree scholarship.

This scholarship aims to strengthen skills in strategic fields such as energy, agriculture, health, engineering, and sustainable development. It is intended for outstanding students from AfDB regional member countries, with a solid academic and professional background, and a genuine commitment to contributing to the progress of their country.

Through this international scholarship, recipients will acquire cutting-edge knowledge and develop recognized expertise. In return, they commit to returning to their home country in order to actively contribute to national and continental socio-economic development.

Application Deadlines for the Scholarship

• For the April 2026 intake: September 16, 2025
• For the September 2026 intake: November 12, 2025 or January 9, 2026

About the JADS Scholarship

The JADS Scholarship, established by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Government of Japan, is a fully funded, unique opportunity.

Its objective is to enable young African talents to pursue a high-level Master’s degree in strategic areas aligned with the AfDB’s “High 5” priorities:

• Feed Africa
• Light up and Power Africa
• Industrialize Africa
• Integrate Africa
• Improve the Quality of Life for the People of Africa

Fields of Study Covered

JADS scholarship recipients may pursue a Master’s degree in the following specialties:

• Energy
• Agriculture
• Health
• Engineering
• Sustainable Development / Environment

Type of Scholarship: A fully funded Master’s scholarship, covering all academic and training expenses.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the JADS Scholarship, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Be citizens of an AfDB regional member country.
• Be under 35 years old and in good health.
• Demonstrate excellent academic results and relevant professional experience.
• Have at least 1 year of paid professional experience after obtaining a Bachelor’s degree, within the past 3 years.
• Have secured admission to an accredited Master’s program in Japan or at a partner university in Africa.
• Not already be enrolled in another Master’s program.
• Not be AfDB staff members (including executive directors, alternates, or close relatives).

Selection Criteria

The awarding of the scholarship is based on several key factors:

• Demonstrated academic excellence
• Relevant professional experience
• Alignment between the candidate’s career goals and the program’s objectives
• Prior admission to a partner university

Special consideration is given to applicants who demonstrate a strong commitment to the development of their home country.

Eligible Countries

All AfDB regional member countries are eligible to apply.

Study Location

Scholarship recipients will pursue their Master’s program at partner universities located either in Japan or Africa.

Scholarship Benefits

The JADS Scholarship offers comprehensive coverage and numerous advantages, including:

• Full tuition fees for up to 24 months
• A monthly allowance for living expenses, also up to 24 months
• A round-trip airfare ticket between the home country and the host university
• Comprehensive health insurance
• A possible 6-month extension for an internship or preparatory studies after graduation
• A special research grant or support for thesis preparation, if required
• Coverage of language or IT preparatory courses, if necessary

Duration of the Scholarship

The scholarship covers up to two years, corresponding to the standard duration of a Master’s program.

Application Procedure

1. Complete certified online courses.

2. Apply directly to a recognized Master’s program at a partner university in Japan or Africa.

3. Submit the JADS scholarship application before the specified deadline.

 Click here for more details about the scholarship

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