The Asian Development Bank–Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP) at the Asian Institute of Technology in Thailand is a prestigious fully funded master’s scholarship for students from developing countries across Asia and the Pacific. Supported by the Asian Development Bank and funded by the Government of Japan, this scholarship aims to develop future leaders who can contribute to sustainable development and economic growth in their home countries.
The program allows talented students to pursue Master’s degrees in fields such as engineering, technology, management, environment, and development studies at AIT—one of Asia’s leading international postgraduate institutions.
If you are seeking a fully funded scholarship in Thailand, the ADB-Japan Scholarship Program at AIT is an excellent opportunity to obtain world-class education while gaining international exposure.
Overview of the ADB-Japan Scholarship Program
The ADB-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP) was established to help students from developing countries pursue postgraduate studies in areas critical to development such as economics, business, science, technology, and environmental studies. Scholars selected for the program study at designated institutions across the Asia-Pacific region, including the Asian Institute of Technology in Thailand.
This initiative not only supports academic excellence but also builds professional capacity to address regional development challenges such as poverty reduction, sustainable infrastructure, environmental management, and financial sector development.
Scholarship Benefits
The ADB-JSP scholarship at AIT Thailand is a fully funded scholarship, covering nearly all major expenses for international students. Benefits include:
- Full tuition fees at AIT
- Monthly subsistence and housing allowance
- Books and study materials allowance
- Medical and accident insurance
- Economy class airfare from the scholar’s home country to Thailand and return ticket after completion
- Visa, airport taxes, and travel-related expenses
- One-time establishment allowance upon arrival
These comprehensive benefits ensure that scholars can focus entirely on their academic and professional development without financial stress.
Eligible Study Fields
The scholarship supports Master’s degree programs at the Asian Institute of Technology in fields related to development and sustainability, including:
- Engineering and Technology
- Environmental Studies
- Business and Management
- Infrastructure and Development Studies
- Science and Technology
- Regional Development and Policy
These fields align with the strategic development priorities promoted by the Asian Development Bank across Asia and the Pacific.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the ADB-Japan Scholarship Program at AIT, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a citizen of an ADB borrowing member country
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree with a strong academic record
- Have at least two years of full-time professional work experience after graduation
- Demonstrate proficiency in English
- Be 35 years old or younger (up to 45 for senior professionals in exceptional cases)
- Be in good health
- Agree to return to their home country after completing the program
Applicants already enrolled in graduate programs or living outside their home country at the time of application are generally not eligible.
Selection Criteria
Selection for the ADB-JSP scholarship is highly competitive. Key factors considered during evaluation include:
- Academic excellence and professional achievements
- Relevance of the applicant’s field of study to development goals
- Financial need
- Leadership potential and commitment to contributing to home-country development
- Institutional ranking and recommendation from AIT
Preference may also be given to applicants who have not previously studied abroad and to candidates with limited financial resources.
Scholarship Duration
The ADB-Japan Scholarship Program supports Master’s degree studies for one to two years. Scholars must maintain satisfactory academic performance to continue receiving financial support throughout the program.
Post-Study Commitment
One unique aspect of the ADB-JSP is its focus on development impact. Scholars are expected to return to their home country for at least two years after graduation to contribute their knowledge and skills toward national development.
Why Study at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT)?
The Asian Institute of Technology is an internationally recognized postgraduate institution that focuses on engineering, technology, sustainability, and development studies. Located near Bangkok, the institute provides:
- A highly international academic environment
- Advanced research facilities
- Strong industry and development sector connections
- Opportunities for global networking and leadership development
Studying at AIT enables scholars to develop technical expertise while addressing real-world development challenges in Asia.
How to Apply
To apply for the ADB-Japan Scholarship Program at AIT Thailand, applicants must:
- Apply for admission to an eligible Master’s program at the Asian Institute of Technology.
- Indicate interest in the ADB-JSP scholarship during the application process.
- Submit all required documents including academic transcripts, work experience certificates, and English proficiency scores.
Shortlisted candidates are nominated by AIT and the final selection is made in coordination with the Asian Development Bank.
Official Application link: https://ait.ac.th/financial/asian-development-bank-japan-scholarship-program-adb-jsp/
Nabeel Akhter is an international education advocate and scholarship mentor dedicated to helping students access global academic opportunities. He studied in the United States at the University of Massachusetts Amherst through the Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSI) for Student Leaders program funded by the U.S. Department of State.
Inspired by this journey, Nabeel now actively mentors and guides students in finding and applying for scholarships, exchange programs, and global learning opportunities, helping them navigate pathways to study and grow internationally.