Japan IMF Scholarship 2026 for Asia Opens Applications

The Japan-IMF Scholarship Program for Asia (JISPA) is now accepting applications for its 2026 session, offering an exceptional opportunity for young government officials from across Asia and the Pacific to strengthen their expertise in economic policymaking.

Funded by the Government of Japan and administered by the IMF Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific, JISPA supports graduate studies in Japan for junior officials employed in economic, financial, and development-related government agencies. Since its launch in 1993, the program has trained over 1,000 scholars, many of whom now hold senior policymaking positions, such as central bank governors and vice ministers, in their home countries.

Two (02) Study Tracks Available

The program provides two academic tracks:

• Master’s Track: Around 35 scholarships are awarded annually for specially designed master’s programs in economics and public policy at four partner universities — the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS), Hitotsubashi University, the International University of Japan (IUJ), and The University of Tokyo.

• Ph.D. Track: A limited number of scholarships are offered to highly motivated officials pursuing doctoral research in economics at leading Japanese universities. Applicants must independently secure admission to their chosen institution.

Scholarship Benefits

The JISPA scholarship package covers tuition fees, a monthly stipend, one round-trip airfare, orientation program costs, and additional academic support such as field-trip expenses or research-related fees depending on the track. Scholars in the Master’s Track also receive support with visa procedures, housing, and insurance.

However, expenses for accompanying family members are not included, and recipients are prohibited from holding another scholarship concurrently.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must be:

• Nationals of eligible Asian and Pacific countries, including Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, and others.
• Junior officials currently employed in central banks, finance ministries, planning agencies, tax administrations, or related government institutions.
• Holders of a bachelor’s degree for the Master’s Track or a master’s degree for the Ph.D. Track.
• Proficient in English, with TOEFL or IELTS scores strongly encouraged.

Priority is given to candidates under 36 years of age, those without a foreign master’s degree, and those with at least two years of public-sector work experience.

Selection Process

The evaluation process considers academic background, work experience, English proficiency, and quantitative skills. Commitment to public service, intellectual curiosity, and the potential to contribute to national economic development are also weighed. The IMF aims to ensure diversity across regions, agencies, and gender in its final selections. If you are interested then submit application at IMF interns portal directly.