November 29, 2023

World Bank Scholarships For International Students

The World Bank offers scholarships to international students to pursue master’s level studies in development-related fields at selected universities around the world. The program, known as the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP), aims to help build the human capital necessary for sustainable development in developing countries.

To be eligible for the scholarship, candidates must be citizens of a World Bank member country and be in good health. They must also have a bachelor’s degree and at least three years of relevant work experience. In addition, they must be accepted into a master’s degree program in a development-related field at one of the program’s partner universities.

The scholarship covers the full cost of tuition and fees, a monthly allowance for living expenses, round-trip airfare, and health insurance. Upon completion of their studies, scholarship recipients are expected to return to their home countries to apply their new skills and knowledge to contribute to development efforts in their communities.

The application process for the scholarship is competitive, and candidates are evaluated based on their academic and professional achievements, as well as their potential to contribute to development in their home countries. The application period typically opens in March and closes in May, with successful applicants being notified in September.

Overall, the World Bank scholarship program provides a valuable opportunity for talented and motivated students from developing countries to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to make a positive impact on their communities and contribute to sustainable development efforts around the world.

Eligibilities for World Bank Scholarships

 

To be eligible for the World Bank Scholarships, candidates must meet the following criteria:

  1. Be a citizen of a World Bank member country.
  2. Be in good health.
  3. Hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) earned at least three years prior to the application deadline.
  4. Have at least three years of relevant professional experience related to development.
  5. Apply to pursue a master’s degree in a development-related field at a partner university.
  6. Not be a staff member (which includes consultants) or relative of a staff member of the World Bank Group.

Additionally, each partner university may have its own eligibility criteria for admission into the master’s program, such as minimum GPA or language proficiency requirements. Applicants should check the specific requirements of the university they are interested in before applying for the scholarship.

How to apply for Scholarship

The application process for the World Bank Scholarships is as follows:

  1. Check your eligibility: Review the eligibility criteria for the program and ensure that you meet all of the requirements.
  2. Choose a partner university and a master’s program: Select a partner university and a master’s program in a development-related field that you are interested in studying. You can find a list of partner universities and eligible programs on the program website.
  3. Prepare your application materials: Gather all required documents, such as transcripts, CV/resume, letters of recommendation, and language proficiency test scores.
  4. Apply to the partner university: Follow the application process for the master’s program at your chosen partner university. Note that you must be accepted into the program before you can be considered for the scholarship.
  5. Apply for the scholarship: Once you have received an offer of admission from the partner university, you can apply for the scholarship through the online application portal. The application typically opens in March and closes in May.
  6. Submit your application: Complete the online application form and upload all required documents. Note that the application process is competitive, and applicants are evaluated based on their academic and professional achievements, as well as their potential to contribute to development in their home countries.
  7. Wait for the results: After the application deadline, the selection committee will review all applications and notify successful applicants in September.

It is important to carefully review the application guidelines and requirements on the program website before applying to ensure that you submit a complete and competitive application.

World Bank Scholarships for International Students application date

The application period for the World Bank Scholarships for International Students typically opens in March and closes in May each year. However, it is important to note that the exact dates may vary from year to year, so it is recommended to check the program website for the most up-to-date information. Successful applicants are usually notified in September. If you are interested in applying for the scholarship, it is recommended to start preparing your application well in advance and to submit it before the deadline.

Tips on how to get World Bank Scholarships for International Students

Here are some tips on how to increase your chances of getting the World Bank Scholarships for International Students:

  1. Meet the eligibility criteria: Make sure that you meet all of the eligibility criteria for the program, including being a citizen of a World Bank member country, having at least three years of relevant professional experience related to development, and applying to pursue a master’s degree in a development-related field at a partner university.
  2. Choose a partner university and program wisely: Select a partner university and a master’s program in a development-related field that aligns with your academic and career goals. Research the universities and programs thoroughly and choose the one that best fits your interests and qualifications.
  3. Prepare a strong application: Submit a complete and competitive application that showcases your academic and professional achievements, as well as your potential to contribute to development in your home country. Provide strong letters of recommendation, transcripts, a well-written statement of purpose, and any other required documents.
  4. Demonstrate your commitment to development: Highlight your commitment to development in your application by discussing your past and future contributions to development in your home country or region. Show how your studies will enable you to contribute to development efforts in the future.
  5. Improve your language skills: If English is not your first language, consider improving your language skills by taking an English language proficiency test such as TOEFL or IELTS. Strong language skills are essential for success in the program.
  6. Apply early: Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute technical glitches or complications. This will also allow you enough time to make any necessary changes or updates to your application.
  7. Network: Try to connect with alumni, professors, and staff at the partner universities to learn more about the program and get insights into the application process.

Remember that the competition for the World Bank Scholarships for International Students is intense, so it is important to put your best foot forward and submit a strong and competitive application.

World Bank Scholarships Program

Overview

The World Bank’s Development Economics Vice Presidency (DEC) provides scholarships to students and young researchers, contributing to the World Bank’s mission of forging new dynamic approaches to capacity development and knowledge sharing in the developing world.It is an important component of the World Bank’s efforts to promote economic development and shared prosperity through investing in education, capacity building, and developing human resources in the developing world.

Since 1982, the DEC’s scholarship programs have helped to form a pool of over 6,000 well-trained and experienced development professionals and scholars, transforming their countries and positively impacting future generations.

Active Programs

  • Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJWBGSP): Since 1987, JJWBGSP has enabled more than 6,000 mid-career professionals from 160 developing countries and Japan to complete graduate degrees in development-related fields. On an annual basis, the Government of Japan solely funds the JJWBGSP.
  • Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP): Since 1982, RSMFP has provided support to young researchers on a wide variety of topics in development-related fields. Currently, the program connects promising young researchers to World Bank research, data resources, and tech­nical expertise. Selected fellows are hosted as a cohort at the World Bank in Washington D.C. and work on DEC research projects, receiving formal training and participating in policy relevant research.

Inactive Program