The University of Tokyo ADB Scholarship 2026 is one of Asia’s most prestigious fully funded opportunities for talented students from developing countries. Funded by the Asian Development Bank – Japan Scholarship Program (ADB–JSP), this scholarship allows international students to pursue a fully funded Master’s degree at Japan’s No.1 university — The University of Tokyo.
If you want world-class education, cutting-edge research exposure, and a guaranteed funding package, the ADB Scholarship at University of Tokyo is one of the best chances you’ll ever get.
This guide covers everything you need to know: eligibility, benefits, programs offered, deadlines, application process, mistakes to avoid, expert tips, and more.
Overview of the University of Tokyo ADB Scholarship 2026
What is ADB–JSP?
The Asian Development Bank–Japan Scholarship Program was created to support students from developing member countries to pursue postgraduate studies in Asia’s top universities.
It aims to:
- Build high-level skills
- Develop future leaders
- Support social and economic development in home countries
Since its launch, the program has funded 3,000+ scholars from 30+ countries.
Why the University of Tokyo?
The University of Tokyo (UTokyo) is Japan’s most prestigious and globally recognized university, ranked among the Top 20 universities worldwide.
Students benefit from:
- Elite academic environment
- Access to top researchers and labs
- Global alumni network
- Strong career outcomes
- A multicultural student community
Key Features of the ADB Scholarship
The scholarship pays everything, from tuition to airfare to monthly stipends.
- Only Master’s degree programs (2 years) are funded under ADB–JSP
- 24 months (full Master’s program)
- Extensions are not allowed
- No application fee
- Extremely generous stipend
- Internationally diverse cohort
- Strong preference for students aiming to contribute to development sectors
Check: Eiffel Excellence Scholarship in France for International Students 2026 (Fully Funded)
Eligibility Criteria for the University of Tokyo ADB Scholarship
To qualify, you must meet the official ADB–JSP conditions.
- Must be a citizen of an ADB member developing country
- Must hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- Must have excellent academic background
- Must have at least 2 years of full-time professional work experience
- Must be 35 years old or younger
- In rare cases (senior officials), up to 45 years old
You must provide IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent proof of proficiency.
(University of Tokyo accepts many English-taught programs.)
Work Experience Requirement
The ADB scholarship gives high preference to:
- Public sector employees
- Development-related professionals
- NGO/INGO workers
- Government officers
Ineligibility Conditions
You cannot apply if:
- You already have a Master’s degree
- You are not currently working
- You are living or working outside your home country
- You are an ADB staff member
Financial Benefits (Fully Funded Package)
The ADB Scholarship provides one of the most generous packages globally.
What You Will Receive
✔ Full tuition fee coverage
Paid directly to the University of Tokyo.
✔ Monthly stipend: 147,000 JPY
Covers accommodation, food, transportation, and other living costs.
✔ Round-trip international airfare
✔ Medical and accident insurance
✔ Research & thesis allowance
✔ Books and instructional materials allowance
No hidden costs — everything necessary for a comfortable student life is covered.
Check: Doha Institute Scholarships 2026 For Graduate Students— Fully Funded
Degree Programs Available Under ADB–JSP at the University of Tokyo
ADB–JSP supports specific Master’s programs under UTokyo’s Graduate School of Frontier Sciences (GSFS).
Popular Programs Include:
- Environment Systems
- Human and Engineered Environmental Studies
- Socio-cultural Environmental Studies
- International Studies
- Sustainability Science
- Urban Engineering
- Public Policy (in some cases)
These fields directly align with ADB’s mission of sustainable development.
Required Documents
Prepare these documents carefully:
- Bachelor’s degree certificate
- Transcripts
- University ranking information (optional but helpful)
- Employment certificates
- Work experience proof
- Salary slips (some applicants)
- At least two recommendation letters one from employer and one from professor
- Statement of purpose
- CV
- Passport
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Choose an Eligible Master’s Program
Visit UTokyo’s GSFS website and select a program supported by ADB–JSP through the website.
Step 2: Prepare All Required Documents
Start early — documents take time.
Step 3: Submit Application to the University of Tokyo
Applications are submitted directly to University of Tokyo, not ADB.
Step 4: Nomination for ADB Scholarship
If University of Tokyo finds you eligible, they will nominate you to ADB.
Step 5: ADB–JSP Final Selection
ADB makes the final decision based on:
- Academic merit
- Work background
- Alignment with development needs
Important Dates & Deadlines for 2026 Intake
- Applications open: October 2025
- University of Tokyo internal deadline: December 2025 – January 2026
- ADB nomination deadline: March 2026
- Final results: May – June 2026
- Classes begin: September/October 2026
Who Should Apply? (Ideal Candidate Profile)
You have a high chance of selection if you:
- Come from a developing country
- Have strong academic results
- Have 2+ years of development-related work
- Show leadership and commitment
- Want to contribute to your country’s growth
- Aim to work in public sector, NGOs, or development fields
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Weak or generic SOP
❌ Missing recommendation letters
❌ No clear development goal
❌ Applying to an ineligible course
❌ Poorly organized documents
❌ Not meeting eligibility criteria
Tips to Increase Your Selection Chances
1. Write a powerful development-focused SOP
Your goal must clearly connect to your country’s needs.
2. Highlight leadership experience
ADB prioritizes future leaders.
3. Select the right Master’s program
The field must align with ADB’s priorities.
4. Strong recommendation letters
Preferably from employer + professor.
5. Apply early
Slots are limited.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is IELTS required for the ADB Scholarship at UTokyo?
Yes, unless your previous degree was taught fully in English.
2. What GPA is required?
ADB prefers a high GPA (usually above 3.0/4.0).
3. Can working professionals apply?
Yes — in fact, work experience is mandatory.
4. Is the scholarship offered for PhD?
No. Only Master’s degree programs are funded.
5. Does ADB cover family expenses?
No. Only the scholar is funded.