University of Tokyo ADB Scholarship 2026 for Pakistanis in Japan

Oct 6, 2025

Tokyo ADB Scholarship

The ADB-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP) at the University of Tokyo is now open for the academic year 2026. This prestigious and fully funded scholarship is designed to support outstanding students from ADB member countries, including Pakistan, who wish to pursue higher education in Japan. It offers a life-changing opportunity to study at one of the world’s leading universities while building the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to development in Pakistan.

Overview of the Scholarship

The ADB-Japan Scholarship Program was established by the Asian Development Bank in partnership with the Government of Japan. Its purpose is to provide talented students from developing countries with the chance to pursue postgraduate education in fields related to economic growth and development. The University of Tokyo, being one of the designated institutions, plays a major role in hosting international scholars under this program.

For 2026, Pakistani students can apply to several graduate schools at the University of Tokyo, including the Graduate School of Medicine (School of International Health) and the Graduate School of Frontier Sciences. These programs are particularly suited for students aiming to work in public health, sustainability, environmental studies, policy, or international development.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the University of Tokyo ADB Scholarship 2026, Pakistani students must meet the following requirements:

Nationality – Applicants must be citizens of an ADB borrowing member country. Pakistan is included in this list.
Educational Background – A Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent with a strong academic record is mandatory.
Work Experience – At least two years of full-time professional work experience after completing a bachelor’s degree is required. Internship experience is not counted.
Age Limit – Applicants must be under 35 years of age at the time of application.
Language Skills – Proficiency in English is essential, as many courses are taught in English.
Health Requirement – Candidates must be in good health.
Other Conditions – Applicants cannot be military personnel, and they must commit to returning to Pakistan after completing their studies in Japan.

Scholarship Coverage

The University of Tokyo ADB Scholarship is one of the most comprehensive funding opportunities available to Pakistani students. It covers:

Full tuition fees and admission charges.
Monthly living allowance of approximately ¥147,000 to cover accommodation, food, and daily expenses.
Round-trip airfare from Pakistan to Japan.
Additional allowances for books, instructional materials, and possibly research support depending on the program.

This ensures that students can focus fully on their studies without financial stress.

Fields of Study

The scholarship encourages study in disciplines that contribute to social and economic development. Popular options at the University of Tokyo include:

International Health and Public Health
Sustainability Science
Environmental Studies
International Studies
Policy and Development Studies

These fields are particularly relevant for Pakistan, where issues like health systems, climate change, and sustainable growth remain pressing challenges.

Application Timeline

The application process for the 2026 intake begins in April 2025. Students must submit all required documents by June 30, 2025, if applying to the School of International Health. Other graduate schools may set slightly earlier deadlines, sometimes as early as December of the previous year.

Because deadlines vary by department, Pakistani applicants should carefully check the timeline for their chosen graduate program and start preparations well in advance.

Application and Selection Process

Apply to the University of Tokyo in one of the designated graduate programs. Applicants must prepare documents such as academic transcripts, a detailed research plan, letters of recommendation, proof of work experience, and proof of English proficiency.
Screening by the University – The graduate school reviews applications and nominates the most qualified candidates for the ADB-Japan Scholarship.
Final Selection by ADB – The Asian Development Bank reviews nominations from the University of Tokyo and makes the final decision.

Only students accepted into the University of Tokyo and recommended by the university can be awarded the scholarship.

Why Pakistani Students Should Apply

For Pakistani students, this scholarship is not only a chance to earn a world-class degree but also an opportunity to build global networks, develop leadership skills, and return home with advanced expertise. The ADB and the Government of Japan emphasize the importance of graduates contributing to their home countries’ progress, meaning that Pakistani scholars will be in a strong position to create meaningful impact in public policy, education, health, and sustainable development.

Conclusion

The University of Tokyo ADB Scholarship 2026 is a golden opportunity for Pakistani students who want to pursue a master’s degree abroad. It provides full financial support, international exposure, and access to one of the most prestigious universities in the world. With its focus on fields vital to development, the scholarship ensures that graduates return to Pakistan equipped with the skills to address key national challenges.