Applications are now open for the 2025/2026 edition of the Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS), a collaborative initiative between the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Government of Japan. This scholarship is part of a broader effort to strengthen the professional capacities of African citizens by offering them the chance to undertake postgraduate education in fields crucial to the continent’s growth. The program is aligned with the African Development Bank’s “High 5” priority areas—namely, powering the continent, feeding Africa, improving livelihoods, promoting industrialization, and driving regional integration—while also supporting Japan’s international development objectives.

This fully funded opportunity targets talented African nationals interested in pursuing a master’s degree in disciplines such as agriculture, energy, public health, engineering, and environmental sustainability. Applicants must come from countries that are regional members of the African Development Bank and must demonstrate academic excellence, relevant work experience, and a commitment to contributing to their home countries’ advancement. Selected scholars are expected to return home after completing their studies and use their new expertise to support national and regional development.

To qualify, candidates must be 35 years old or younger and in good health. They should have completed a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent within the last three years and must have at least one year of paid work experience in their home country or elsewhere on the continent. Candidates must also be admitted into an approved master’s program at a participating university in Japan or Africa. It is important that applicants are not already enrolled in any other graduate-level studies at the time of application. Individuals affiliated with the African Development Bank Group, including Executive Directors, their alternates, and their close relatives, are not eligible to apply.

Successful applicants will receive comprehensive financial support, which includes full tuition coverage for the two-year duration of the program, a monthly living allowance, return airfare from their country of residence to the host institution, and health insurance. Additionally, scholars may receive extra funding for internships or preparatory coursework after graduation, as well as research and thesis-related support where necessary. However, the scholarship does not extend to costs such as family relocation, personal electronic devices, extracurricular training, or non-program-related travel and materials. Applicants with other financial aid must disclose those sources, as receiving other forms of support may affect the scholarship amount or lead to its withdrawal.

Interested candidates may apply for enrollment in either April or September 2026. The deadline for the April intake is September 16, 2025, while applications for the September intake must be submitted by either November 12, 2025, or January 9, 2026.

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