ForsaEduforsaedu.comAbout the scholarship program
The JDS Scholarship (Project for Human Resource Development Scholarship) is funded by the Government of Japan as part of its official development assistance and implemented through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). It targets young government officials in a group of partner countries who are expected to take on policy-making roles. The programme offers fully funded Master's study, plus a limited number of PhD places, at Japanese universities. Candidates normally apply through government bodies in their home country and return to work there after graduating.
Available programmes
Each programme has its own requirements, documents and benefits. Open it to see them in full with the application steps:
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JDS Scholarship Programme for Master's and Doctoral Degrees in Japan
Master, PhDFully Funded5 majorsDeadline varies by university or programme
Life and living
Tokyo · Japan
Life and living
Tokyo · Japan
Living in Tokyo
Japan’s capital and largest city, home to the University of Tokyo, Waseda and Keio, with punctual public transport and high safety.
Student housing
International students spend on average ¥57,000 a month on housing in Tokyo versus ¥41,000 nationwide; total living costs average ¥105,000 (JASSO).
Transport for students
The student commuter pass (tsūgaku teiki) is discounted and priced by the route between your home station and campus, so there is no flat price.
Top landmarks
Tokyo Skytree
Kakidai · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Sensō-ji Temple (Asakusa)
Meiji Shrine
Akonnchiroll · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Shibuya Crossing
David Kernan · CC BY 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Last verified: October 2026
Sources:Tokyo Metropolitan Government – PopulationStudy in Japan (JASSO) – Cost of livingKyoto University – Student commuter pass
Studying and living in Japan
Costs and living
Tuition Fees in Japan (2026/2027): • National Universities: Fixed nationally by MEXT at 535,800 JPY per year (~3,500 USD) with a one-time admission registration fee of 282,000 JPY. • Local Public Universities: 540,000 to 650,000 JPY per year. • Private Universities: 900,000 to 1,800,000 JPY per year for humanities, business, and engineering degrees. Living Expenses & Visa Proof: • Average living costs: 90,000 to 150,000 JPY per month (Tokyo averages 120,000–160,000 JPY; regional cities like Kyoto, Sendai, and Hiroshima average 80,000–110,000 JPY). • Financial guarantee for Certificate of Eligibility (COE): Bank statement showing approximately 2,000,000 JPY for the first year (or scholarship grant certificate).
Working while studying
Working During Studies: • International students are permitted to work up to 28 hours per week during term time and up to 40 hours per week (8 hours/day) during official university breaks, by obtaining the work permit stamp (Shikakugai-katsudō-kyoka) at the port of entry airport free of charge. • Average hourly wage: 1,100 to 1,500 JPY in Tokyo and major urban areas. Post-Study Work & Immigration: • Japan offers the Designated Activities Visa (Job-hunting visa) granting 6 months, renewable for up to 1 full year after graduation. • Securing employment allows immediate transition to professional work visas (Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services). Fast-track permanent residency is available within 1 to 3 years under the Highly Skilled Professional points system.
Faculties and majors at the university
3 fields · 10 majors
Faculties and majors at the university
3 fields · 10 majors
Public Administration, Legal Systems & Governance
Economics, Business & Fiscal Policy
Show all majors (+1)Show less
Infrastructure, Urban Planning & Disaster Risk Reduction
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Key questions and answers regarding eligibility, documents, and application steps.
Funding type: Fully Funded. Announced benefits: Master's and doctoral study, Tuition and monthly stipend, Round-trip airfare, Housing and health insurance, Japanese language training.
Eligible levels: Master, PhD.
Deadline varies by university or programme. Follow the official website for updates.
Required documents: Short essay and research plan, University certificates and transcripts, Reference letter from direct supervisor, Employment certificate, Passport copy and recent ID photo.
Apply directly on the official website: https://www.jds-scholarship.org/. ForsaEdu does not receive applications or charge any fee.
Track your academic readiness
Use the checklist in your profile to prepare your documents and make sure you meet this scholarship’s requirements.
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