The Japan-IMF Scholarship Program for Asia (JISPA) 2026–2027 offers full funding for young government officials from Asia and the Pacific to pursue a Master’s degree in Japan. The scholarship covers tuition, living allowance, airfare, insurance, and provides training in economics and policy.
Quick Key Points
- Fully funded Master’s scholarship in Japan.
- Around 35 scholars selected each year.
- Open to government employees under 36 from eligible Asian and Pacific countries.
- Covers everything from tuition to visa costs.
- Study at one of four top Japanese universities.
- Includes a mandatory orientation program (July–Sept 2026).
Also See: Barbara J. Devaney Memorial Scholarship 2026 ($90,000)
Japan IMF Scholarship Summary
| Study In | Japan |
| Available For | Internationals |
| Degree Level | Master’s |
| Deadline | October 20, 2025 |
About JISPA?
JISPA is not just a financial award. it is designed to train future policymakers who can their country’s economy. Scholars join a special network of government workers IMF experts and teachers.
Benefits include:
- Full financial coverage.
- High-level training in economics and policy.
- Networking with Japanese ministries, central banks, and IMF officials.
- A lifelong alumni network of policymakers across Asia and the Pacific.
Host Universities
Scholars admitted under JISPA can study at:
- National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS)
- Hitotsubashi University
- International University of Japan (IUJ)
- The University of Tokyo (UTokyo)
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be under 36 years old.
- Have a Bachelor’s degree (16 years of school).
- Have at least 2 years of experience working in the public sector.
- Be nominated by their government agency like a central bank or ministry of finance.
- Promise to return to their job after finishing the program.
- Show English skill:
- TOEFL iBT: 79 to 80
- IELTS: 6.0
- Some countries like India and the Philippines do not need this.
Also See: TDTU Graduate Scholarship 2026 in Vietnam (Fully Funded)
Eligible countries include:
- Papua New Guinea
- Vietnam
- Bhutan
- Philippines
- Kazakhstan
- Kyrgyz Republic
- Turkmenistan
- Indonesia
- Timor-Leste
- Maldives
- Sri Lanka
- Tajikistan
- Pacific Island countries
- Nepal
- Cambodia
- Malaysia
- Bangladesh
- Laos
- Mongolia
- India
- Thailand
Scholarship Benefits
The JISPA Master’s Track provides:
- Full tuition fee coverage.
- Airfare and visa costs.
- Monthly stipend for living expenses.
- Medical insurance.
- Orientation Program is also available.
Required Documents
- Completed online application form.
- Nomination and certification form from agency.
- Statement of purpose and research proposal.
- Official academic transcripts and degree certificates.
- Two recommendation letters.
- English test score (if required).
Application Timeline
- Deadline for applications: October 20, 2025
- Deadline for references: November 1, 2025
- Math test: December 2025
- Interviews: January–February 2026
- Results announced: March 2026
- Orientation program: July–September 2026
- Master’s classes start: September–October 2026
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Visit the official JISPA application portal.
- Fill out the online form with personal and academic details.
- Secure a nomination from your government agency.
- Upload all required documents.
- Submit before October 20, 2025.
- Prepare for the math test and interview stage.