International Scholarship Β· Japan

JICA Development Study Programme (Japan)

The JICA Development Study Programme offers scholarships for international students to pursue graduate studies in Japan, focusing on development-related fields to build capacity for future leaders.

Check Official WebsiteTypically opens: Varies - confirm on official siteOfficial Portal β†’

Quick Facts

Status

Funding

Full / Partial

Deadline

Varies - confirm on official site

Country

JP flagJapan
Official Website β†’
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About the JICA Development Study Programme

πŸ• 2 min read

The JICA Development Study Programme is an initiative designed to provide international students with opportunities to study at Japanese universities. It aims to develop human resources who will contribute to the socio-economic development of their home countries.

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The programme is managed by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and is integrated with various JICA projects. It allows students to gain academic knowledge while understanding Japan's own development experience and modernization process.

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Participants typically enroll in Master's or PhD programmes at partner universities across Japan. The curriculum often combines rigorous academic research with practical insights into development policy and international cooperation.

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The programme is part of JICA's broader capacity-building efforts. It seeks to create a network of future leaders who can bridge the gap between Japan and their respective nations through shared expertise and collaborative research.

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Applicants must generally be nominated or involved in JICA-related activities or partner institutions. The programme structure varies depending on the specific academic track and the university involved.

Eligible Levels

Master'sPhD

Eligible Fields

Development StudiesPublic PolicyEconomicsEngineeringAgricultureHealthEnvironmental Science
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Why Choose This Scholarship?

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Direct access to Japan's unique development expertise

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Networking opportunities with global development professionals

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Integration with active JICA development projects

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High-quality academic training at leading Japanese universities

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Comprehensive financial support for international students

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What the Scholarship Covers

Full or partial tuition fee coverage
Monthly living stipend
Round-trip airfare
Accommodation support
Medical insurance coverage
Research and travel grants for fieldwork
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Eligibility Requirements

6 requirements

Must be a citizen of a JICA partner country
Must hold a relevant Bachelor's degree for Master's programmes
Must hold a relevant Master's degree for PhD programmes
Must demonstrate English or Japanese language proficiency
Must be in good health
Must be nominated or recommended by relevant home country authorities or JICA offices
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Documents Checklist

7 documents required

1Official academic transcripts
2Degree certificates
3Research proposal
4Letters of recommendation
5English proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS)
6Health certificate
7Application form
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How to Apply - Step by Step

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Identify the specific JICA programme or partner university track

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Contact the local JICA office in your home country for nomination procedures

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Prepare all required academic and personal documents

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Submit the application through the designated JICA portal or university channel

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Undergo the selection process, which may include interviews and document screening

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Receive notification of acceptance from JICA or the host university

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Application Timeline

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Varies

Application Opening

Depends on the specific university and programme track

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Varies

Selection Process

Includes document review and potential interviews

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Varies

Final Notification

Usually provided several months before the academic term starts

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Insider Tips & Pro Tips

TIP 1

Contact your local JICA office early to understand specific country-based eligibility

TIP 2

Align your research proposal with JICA's priority development areas

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Ensure all academic documents are translated into English or Japanese

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Prepare for interviews by reviewing JICA's current projects in your country

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Check the specific requirements of the partner university as they may differ from JICA's general criteria

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Frequently Asked Questions

3 questions - click any to expand

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The funding level varies by programme track, but it generally covers tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.

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Most JICA programmes require nomination or coordination through your local JICA office or home country government.

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The programme focuses on development-related fields including economics, engineering, public policy, and environmental science.

Check the Official Website

This scholarship typically opens around Varies - confirm on official site. Confirm the current cycle and deadline on the official portal.

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