AfDB Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS)

African Development Bank and Government of Japan

♡ Save

Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

Nationals of AfDB member countries in Africa, aged 35 or younger, with a bachelor's degree and at least one year of paid work, in energy, agriculture, health, environment or engineering. Not for Bangladeshi nationals.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

The Japan Africa Dream Scholarship pays for young African professionals to study a master's degree at partner universities in Japan, in fields that support Africa's development such as energy, agriculture, health and engineering.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Nationals of AfDB member countries in Africa, aged 35 or younger, with a bachelor's degree and at least one year of paid work, in energy, agriculture, health, environment or engineering. Not for Bangladeshi nationals.
2. Note the deadline. Sep – Jan (annual, set by each partner university - for Asia Pacific University the April 2027 round closed on 15 Sep 2026 and the September 2027 round closes between Nov 2026 and Jan 2027) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Passport or national ID; Academic transcripts and degree certificates; CV; Statement of purpose or motivation letter (if requested); Reference or recommendation letters (if requested); Admission or offer letter for your chosen programme; English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

Browse all free materials →

Tips from our advisors

1. Read the eligibility line by line before you write anything. Most rejections are eligibility mismatches, not weak essays.
2. Show a clear link between your past studies, this programme and your career goal. Committees look for a story, not a list.
3. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
4. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
5. Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline. Portals slow down on the last day.
6. Have your SOP and CV reviewed by someone who has seen successful applications before you submit.

Quick answers

Who can apply for AfDB Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS)?

Nationals of AfDB member countries in Africa, aged 35 or younger, with a bachelor's degree and at least one year of paid work, in energy, agriculture, health, environment or engineering. Not for Bangladeshi nationals.

What does AfDB Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) cover?

Full tuition and admission fee, a monthly allowance of JPY 150,000 including housing, and economy airfare between home and the university

When is the deadline for AfDB Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS)?

Sep – Jan (annual, set by each partner university - for Asia Pacific University the April 2027 round closed on 15 Sep 2026 and the September 2027 round closes between Nov 2026 and Jan 2027) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with AfDB Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS)?

Host countries: Japan.

What documents do I need for AfDB Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS)?

Passport or national ID; Academic transcripts and degree certificates; CV; Statement of purpose or motivation letter (if requested); Reference or recommendation letters (if requested); Admission or offer letter for your chosen programme; English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).

How much work is the AfDB Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) application?

High: University Admission Letter + Statement of Purpose on National Development + Employment Verification + 2 References