Kyoto University ADB Scholarship 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded Master’s Scholarship
Are you seeking a fully funded master’s scholarship in Japan? The Kyoto University ADB Scholarship 2026 offers an outstanding opportunity for international students to pursue postgraduate studies at one of Japan’s most prestigious institutions.
Funded under the Asian Development Bank – Japan Scholarship Program (ADB–JSP), this award provides comprehensive financial support to exceptional students from developing member countries of the ADB. Every year, the program selects up to 300 scholars worldwide, and Kyoto University remains a leading host institution.
This scholarship covers tuition fees, a monthly stipend, a housing allowance, health insurance, a book allowance, and round-trip airfare, making it one of the most generous scholarships available in Asia.
Kyoto University ADB Scholarship 2026 | Quick Summary
- Host Country: Japan
- University: Kyoto University
- Scholarship Name: ADB–Japan Scholarship Program (ADB–JSP)
- Degree Level: Master’s
- Eligible Applicants: Nationals of ADB member countries
- Scholarship Coverage: Fully Funded (tuition, stipend, travel, insurance, allowances)
- Deadline: June 2026 (for April 2026 intake), November 2026 (for October 2026 intake)
Why Choose Kyoto University for the ADB Scholarship?
- Kyoto University is one of Japan’s oldest and most prestigious universities, known globally for its research excellence and innovation.
- As an ADB–JSP partner institution, it provides international students with the chance to engage in advanced studies and contribute to sustainable development in their home countries.
- Gain a world-class education in specialized fields.
- Build strong professional networks across Asia and beyond.
- Conduct research that addresses environmental, agricultural, economic, and social challenges.
- Benefit from Japan’s academic excellence and advanced infrastructure.
Eligible Fields of Study at Kyoto University
- Graduate School of Global Environmental Studies
- Master’s Program in International Environmental Management
- Graduate School of Agriculture
- Special Course in Agricultural Sciences for the Global Future of Life, Food, and the Environment
- Graduate School of Engineering
- International Course in Management of Civil Infrastructure (Department of Civil and Earth Resources Engineering)
- International Course in Urban and Regional Development (Department of Urban Management)
- Graduate School of Economics
- Master’s Program in East Asia Sustainable Economic Development Studies
- Graduate School of Management
- International MBA Program
These programs are designed to prepare future leaders who can address sustainable development challenges in their home countries.
Financial Coverage of the Kyoto University ADB Scholarship 2026
- Full Tuition Fees – all academic costs are waived.
- Monthly Stipend and Housing Allowance – for living expenses in Japan.
- Books and Instructional Materials Allowance – to support academic learning.
- Medical Insurance – full health coverage during the study period.
- Round-Trip Airfare – travel expenses between the scholar’s home country and Japan.
This comprehensive package makes the Kyoto University ADB Scholarship one of the most competitive fully funded Master’s scholarships in Asia.
Eligible Countries
Applicants must be nationals of ADB member countries. These include:
Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Georgia, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kiribati, Kyrgyzstan, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nauru, Nepal, Niue, Pakistan, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, and Vietnam.
Eligibility Criteria for the Kyoto University ADB Scholarship 2026
- Be a national of an eligible ADB member country.
- Must not hold dual citizenship.
- Hold a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent at the time of application.
- Have at least two years of professional work experience after completing an undergraduate degree.
- Be 35 years old or younger at the time of application (exceptions may apply for certain cases).
- Be in good health.
- Agree to return to their home country after graduation and contribute to national development for at least two years.
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Application Process for the Kyoto University ADB Scholarship 2026
- Request Information – Obtain application forms and scholarship details from Kyoto University (designated partner institution).
- Apply for Admission – Secure admission into one of the approved Master’s programs.
- Prepare Application Documents – including academic transcripts, proof of work experience, recommendation letters, and a statement of purpose.
- Submit to the University – Send your completed application to Kyoto University.
- University Screening – Kyoto University evaluates and shortlists candidates.
- ADB Review – Shortlisted applications are sent to ADB for final selection.
- Final Selection – ADB notifies the university, which then informs the selected scholars.
Tip: Apply as early as possible since selections are competitive and deadlines vary by intake (April or October 2026).
Your Kyoto University ADB Scholarship Timeline
Research
Review scholarship details and eligibility at least 6 months before the deadline.
Preparation
Gather academic transcripts, proof of work experience, and recommendation letters.
Application
Submit your application package to Kyoto University and apply for admission.
Screening
Wait for university and ADB review and final selection.
Enrollment
Receive your scholarship offer and begin your studies in Japan.
Eligibility Analyzer: Are You Ready to Apply?
Comparison: Kyoto University ADB Scholarship vs Other ADB–JSP Host Universities
- Kyoto University, Japan – Strong focus on environmental studies, sustainable agriculture, economics, and management.
- University of Tokyo, Japan – Offers broader fields but is more competitive in admissions.
- Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), Thailand – Known for engineering and technology-focused programs.
- East-West Center, USA (University of Hawai’i at Mānoa) – Strong emphasis on Pacific and Asian studies.
Kyoto University stands out for its blend of traditional academic excellence and modern research facilities, making it ideal for students interested in sustainability, development, and innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
June 2026 for the April intake. November 2026 for the October intake.
Yes, applicants are generally required to demonstrate English proficiency, but requirements vary by program.
No, the Kyoto University ADB Scholarship is only available for Master’s programs.
Around 300 scholarships are awarded across all partner institutions each year.
Yes, at least two years of full-time professional work experience is required.
Yes, it is mandatory to return and contribute to the development of your home country for at least two years.
Conclusion
The Kyoto University ADB Scholarship 2026 in Japan offers a life-changing opportunity for talented students from ADB member countries. With full financial coverage, world-class education, and access to leading experts, scholars can develop skills that directly contribute to the sustainable development of their home countries.
If you are passionate about environmental management, sustainable agriculture, economics, engineering, or management, this scholarship is an ideal pathway to achieve your academic and professional goals.