Apply for the Keio University Scholarship ADB Japan. Explore eligibility, benefits, stipend, tuition coverage, application process, deadlines, and study opportunities for international master’s students.
Keio University Scholarship Overview
What if you could earn a prestigious master’s degree in Japan without worrying about tuition fees, airfare costs, or living expenses? The Keio University Asian Development Bank-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP) offers exactly that opportunity for talented students from developing countries. This highly competitive fully funded scholarship supports future leaders who want to gain advanced education and contribute to the economic and social development of their home countries after graduation.

Hosted by one of Japan’s most respected private universities, Keio University, the ADB-JSP provides financial support, global networking opportunities, and access to world-class education. For students seeking a high-value international master’s scholarship in Asia, this program remains one of the most attractive options available.
Keio University ADB Japan Scholarship Program Details
- Host Organization: Keio University
- Study Destination: Japan
- Funded By: Asian Development Bank-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP)
- Application Portal Link: Keio University International Graduate Program (IGP)
- Degree Level: Master’s Degree
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Number of Scholarships: Limited
- Maximum Funding: Full Tuition, Monthly Stipend, Airfare and Other Benefits
- Study Level: Graduate (Master’s)
- Duration: Up to 2 Years
- Application Deadline: 31 March 2027
- Program Start: September Intake
Eligibility Criteria for Keio University ADB Japan Scholarship
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be a citizen of an eligible ADB borrowing member country.
- Hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
- Have an excellent academic record.
- Possess at least two years of full-time professional work experience after graduation.
- Demonstrate strong English language proficiency.
- Be 35 years old or younger at the time of application.
- Be in good physical and mental health.
- Agree to return to their home country after graduation.
- Be committed to contributing to the development of their home country.
- Gain admission to the eligible Master’s Program at Keio University.
Applicants are not eligible if they:
- Work for ADB or are relatives of ADB staff members.
- Are currently living or working permanently outside their home country.
- Apply for undergraduate, distance learning, short-term training, conference, seminar, or research-only programs.
Eligible Study Fields and Master’s Programs
Graduate School of Science and Technology
- Master of Science in Integrated Design Engineering
- Master of Science in Open and Environmental Systems
- Master of Science in Science for Open and Environmental Systems
- Master of Science in Information and Computer Science
- Master of Science in Applied Chemistry
- Master of Science in Biosciences and Informatics
- Master of Science in Fundamental Science and Technology
Graduate School of Media and Governance
- Master of Media and Governance
Graduate School of Economics
- Master of Economics
Graduate School of Business and Commerce
- Master of Business and Commerce
Graduate School of Policy Management
- Master of Policy Management
Graduate School of Health Management
- Master of Health Management
Application Requirements for Keio University ADB Japan Scholarship
Applicants must submit a complete application package through the International Graduate Program (IGP).
- Completed ADB Scholarship Application Form
- IGP Application Form
- Bachelor’s Degree Certificate
- Academic Transcripts
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Passport Copy
- Two Recommendation Letters
- Statement of Purpose
- Professional Work Experience Certificate
- English Language Proficiency Proof
- Recent Passport-Sized Photograph
- Any Additional Documents Required by Keio University
Language Requirements for International Students
All applicants must demonstrate strong English communication skills. Since most graduate programs are taught in English, applicants must be able to participate effectively in coursework, research, presentations, and academic discussions.
IELTS Requirements
The ADB-JSP guidelines require proficiency in written and spoken English; however, Keio University may accept alternative evidence of English proficiency depending on the program. Applicants should verify specific requirements with their chosen graduate school.
Several countries and institutions offer opportunities to study abroad without IELTS, including Japan, Germany, China, Hungary, Poland, Malaysia, and some universities in South Korea and Italy. Many scholarship programs accept previous education in English as proof of proficiency.
Is Supervisor Required for Keio University ADB Scholarship?
No, a supervisor is generally not required before applying to most master’s programs under the ADB-JSP at Keio University.
However, applicants should carefully review program-specific requirements because some research-oriented programs may encourage communication with faculty members.
Recommended Strategy:
- Identify relevant faculty members.
- Review research interests.
- Align academic goals with program objectives.
- Mention relevant faculty research in your statement of purpose.
Benefits of Keio University ADB Japan Scholarship
Financial Benefits
- Full tuition fee waiver.
- Full admission fee waiver.
- Monthly living stipend equivalent to Japanese Government Scholarship.
- One round-trip international airfare ticket.
- Study-related allowances.
- Comprehensive financial support during the program.
- Coverage for major educational expenses.
Can I work part-time while studying?
International students may be allowed to work part-time under Japanese regulations and university policies after obtaining the required permissions.
Additional Benefits for International Students
- Study at one of Asia’s top universities
- Access to advanced research facilities
- International networking opportunities
- Exposure to Japanese culture and innovation
- Leadership development opportunities
- Enhanced career prospects
- Global alumni network
- Academic and professional growth
Do I need to contact a professor before applying?
Generally no for most master’s programs, but reviewing faculty research interests can strengthen your application.
Program Duration, Timeline & Selection Process
The scholarship supports master’s studies for a maximum period of two years.
Selection Process
- Admission application to Keio University
- Academic evaluation by the university
- Scholarship eligibility screening
- ADB-JSP nomination process
- Final scholarship selection
- Admission and scholarship notification
Step-by-Step Application Process for Keio University ADB Scholarship
- Select an eligible master’s program
- Review eligibility requirements
- Complete the International Graduate Program application
- Fill out the ADB Scholarship Application Form
- Gather all required documents
- Submit the complete application package
- Attend interviews if required
- Wait for admission decision
- Receive scholarship nomination and final confirmation
Application Deadline & Important Dates for Keio University ADB Scholarship
- Application Intake: IGP Master’s Application Period I
- Enrollment Month: September
- Scholarship Form Submission: Along with IGP Application
- Scholarship Duration: Up to 2 Years
Applicants should regularly check the official Keio University admissions portal for updated deadlines and submission schedules.
Participating University
- Keio University (Primary Host Institution)
Keio University is one of Japan’s oldest and most prestigious private universities, recognized globally for academic excellence, innovation, research output, and international collaboration.
Why Apply for This Program?
- Fully funded master’s education in Japan.
- Tuition and admission fee coverage.
- Monthly living stipend.
- International airfare support.
- Study at a globally respected university.
- Build leadership and professional skills.
- Access global networking opportunities.
- Enhance career prospects in international organizations.
- Contribute to home country development after graduation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
- Missing the IGP application deadline.
- Submitting incomplete documents.
- Failing to demonstrate development impact.
- Ignoring work experience requirements.
- Providing weak recommendation letters.
- Writing a generic statement of purpose.
- Not verifying eligibility before applying.
- Overlooking English proficiency requirements.
Keio University ADB Scholarship Salary, Stipend & Living Support
Although the scholarship is not a salaried employment program, recipients receive a generous monthly stipend equivalent to the Japanese Government Scholarship level. This support is designed to cover accommodation, food, transportation, and daily living expenses while studying in Japan.
Combined with tuition and airfare coverage, the total scholarship value can exceed tens of thousands of dollars over the duration of the master’s program.
Keio University Scholarship Acceptance Rate
The official acceptance rate is not publicly disclosed. However, the ADB-JSP is considered highly competitive because of limited scholarship slots and a large number of qualified applicants from developing countries.
Successful candidates usually demonstrate:
- Outstanding academic performance.
- Strong leadership potential.
- Relevant professional experience.
- Clear commitment to home country development.
- Well-written application materials.
Apply Now to Secure Your Future in Japan
The Keio University ADB Japan Scholarship offers far more than financial assistance, it provides a pathway to world-class education, global networking, leadership development, and long-term career success. By studying at one of Japan’s most respected universities, scholars gain the knowledge, skills, and international exposure needed to become future leaders in their countries. Because competition is intense and scholarship positions are limited, qualified candidates should begin preparing application documents, work experience records, and academic materials as early as possible. If you meet the eligibility requirements and aspire to study in Japan on a fully funded scholarship, this opportunity could be the turning point that transforms your academic and professional future.