Are you an African student dreaming of studying abroad but worried about financial costs?
The Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) Program 2025-26 could be the golden chance you’ve been waiting for. This prestigious, fully funded scholarship is a joint initiative by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Government of Japan to help African students pursue their master’s studies in Japan and selected partner universities in Africa.
The scholarship is not just about covering study expenses—it’s about building future leaders for Africa. Through this program, highly talented students will get the opportunity to study in fields like engineering, agriculture, health, energy, and environmental sustainability.
Once they complete their studies, scholars are expected to return to their home countries and use their skills to contribute to Africa’s socio-economic development.
If you are passionate about making a positive change in Africa and want to upgrade your academic and professional career with a world-class education, this is your moment. Let’s explore all the details below.
In this article, we have explored every important info about the Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) Program 2025-26.
Let’s explore some very important info regarding this scholarship.
| Host Country | Japan & Partner African Universities |
| Duration | 2 years (with an extra 6 months for internships/prep study) |
| Funded By | African Development Bank & Government of Japan |
| Degree Level | Master’s Degree |
| Eligible Fields | Engineering, Agriculture, Health, Energy, Environmental Sustainability |
| Coverage | Fully Funded (Tuition, Stipend, Travel, Health Insurance, Research Grant) |
About the Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) Program
The JADS Program is a capacity-building initiative by AfDB and Japan. The aim is to strengthen human resources in Africa in line with AfDB’s High 5 priorities:
- Feed Africa
- Light Up and Power Africa
- Industrialize Africa
- Integrate Africa
- Improve the Quality of Life of People in Africa
This scholarship perfectly aligns with Japanese development assistance programs, creating a powerful collaboration to shape Africa’s future leaders.
Eligibility Criteria for JADS Program 2025-26
To apply for this scholarship, students must meet the following requirements:-
- Must be a citizen of an African Development Bank regional member country
- Strong academic record
- At least one year of professional work experience in their home country or another African country within the last 3 years
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in agriculture, engineering, health, energy, environmental sustainability, or related fields
- Aged 35 or younger and in good health
- Admission to an eligible master’s degree program at a partner university in Japan or Africa
- Not enrolled in another graduate program at the time of application
Also Read: Boston University Trustee Scholarship 2025-26 in USA | Fully Funded
Japan Africa Dream Scholarship Benefits
The AfDB Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) Program 2025-26 is fully funded and comes with a wide range of benefits:
- Full tuition fee coverage for 2 years
- Monthly living stipend for 24 months
- Travel expenses (to and from the host university)
- Health insurance for the entire study duration
- Research grants for thesis and research work
- An extra 6 months for advanced preparatory studies or internships after graduation
- Additional support, like computer literacy or language courses, in special cases
Not Covered: Family expenses, extracurricular courses, or personal study materials.
Also Read: UP Commonwealth Scholarship in South Africa 2026 | Fully Funded Doctoral Opportunity
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents before applying:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Professional references
- Proof of Employment
- Research proposal and study plan
- Certified copy of Bachelor’s degree certificate
- Proof of English Proficiency (TOEFL iBT, TOEIC, or equivalent)
Japan Africa Dream Scholarship Deadline
The deadline for JADS 2025-26 depends on each university’s admission timeline. Applicants should check the official website of their chosen institution for specific deadlines.
How to apply
- Check the eligibility criteria carefully.
- Select an eligible partner university in Japan or Africa.
- Submit your application for admission to the chosen university.
- The university will evaluate your application and provide a provisional offer letter if selected.
- If endorsed by the university, you will be considered for the JADS Program.
Note: The application is done through universities only, not directly through AfDB or JADS.
FAQs
Is the JADS Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it covers tuition, stipend, travel, health insurance, and even research grants.
What happens after completing my studies?
Scholars are expected to return home and contribute to the socio-economic development of their country.
Who can apply for the scholarship?
Students from AfDB member countries with a Bachelor’s degree and professional experience can apply.
Can I bring my family with me?
No, the scholarship does not cover family expenses.
Do I need to apply directly to AfDB?
No. You must apply to the partner universities. The universities will recommend eligible candidates.