Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) Program 2026
Accepting applications Fully Funded

Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) Program 2026

Last updated Apr 7, 2026

Country
Japan
Level
masters
Organization
African Development Bank and the Government of Japan
Field
Engineering, Health, Agriculture, Energy, Environmental Sustainability
Funding
fully funded

Overview

The Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) Program is a capacity-building initiative by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Government of Japan. It aims to enhance human resources capacity in Africa by providing fully funded master's scholarships to deserving African students. The program aligns with AfDB’s High 5 strategic priorities: Feed Africa, Integrate Africa, Industrialize Africa, Light up and power Africa, and Improve the quality of life of the people of Africa. Scholars are expected to use their acquired knowledge and skills to support socioeconomic development in their home countries and across the continent upon completion of their studies.

Coverage

This is a fully funded scholarship program. It covers the full tuition fees for the entire two-year duration of the master's study program. Additionally, it provides a monthly living stipend for 24 months, travel expenses, and health insurance. Research grants are also available for research and thesis preparation. An extra six months may be provided for advanced preparatory study or internships after graduation.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the JADS Program, applicants must: - Be citizens of one of the African Development Bank’s regional member countries. - Hold a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in fields such as agriculture, health, energy, environmental sustainability, engineering, or related areas. - Possess excellent academic records. - Have professional experience and a history of supporting their countries' development efforts. - Have at least one year of paid employment in their home country or any other African country after completing their Bachelor’s degree, within the past three years. - Be 35 years old or younger. - Be in good health. - Secure admission into one of the eligible master’s degree programs at an eligible Japanese or African partner university. - Not be currently enrolled in another graduate degree program.

Requirements

Applicants are typically required to submit the following documents: - Curriculum vitae (CV) - Proof of employment - Certified copy of the certificate of their most recent university degree - Professional references - Research plan and proposal - Proof of English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL iBT, TOEC scores).

How to apply

The application process for the JADS Program is online and integrated with university admissions. There is no separate application form specifically for the JADS scholarship. Applicants must: 1. Carefully review the eligibility criteria and requirements. 2. Select a partner university of their choice from the eligible list and submit an application for an eligible master’s degree program at that university. 3. Complete and submit all required documents for university admission. 4. The chosen university will evaluate applicants, make selections, and provide provisional offer letters. 5. Students who receive admission and are endorsed by the selected university will then be considered for the JADS Program Scholarship. It is crucial to check the specific application details and deadlines of each partner university before starting your application.

Notes

Not clearly stated.

Source & Verification

Host organization: African Development Bank and the Government of Japan

Original source: OpportunitiesCircle

Official application page: https://www.afdb.org/en/about-us/careers/japan-africa-dream-scholarship-jads-program

Verify the deadline, eligibility, and document list on the official website before applying.

How to Apply

  1. 1

    Read the full requirements

    Visit the official application page and read all eligibility criteria carefully before investing time in the application.

  2. 2

    Gather your documents

    Collect transcripts, certificates, and references. Official copies may require apostille — start this process early.

  3. 3

    Request recommendation letters

    Contact your referees at least 4–6 weeks before the deadline. Brief them on the scholarship and your goals.

  4. 4

    Write your motivation letter

    Be specific about your goals, why you chose this program, and your plan to contribute to Ethiopia after completing your studies.

  5. 5

    Proofread and submit early

    Submit at least 3–5 days before the deadline. Technical issues are common — never submit on the last day.

Go to Official Application

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Deadline

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