The University of Tokyo, in partnership with the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Government of Japan, proudly announces the Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) 2025. This fully funded scholarship provides exceptional African students the opportunity to pursue a Master’s degree at the world-renowned Graduate School of Frontier Sciences (GSFS).
The JADS program is designed to empower Africa’s future leaders by advancing knowledge in sustainability, science, and innovation — equipping scholars with the skills and expertise to contribute meaningfully to their home countries’ development.
Degree Level: Master’s
Host Institution: University of Tokyo, Japan
Program: Graduate School of Frontier Sciences (GSFS)
Eligible Regions: African countries that are AfDB member states
Funding Type: Fully Funded
Scholars may pursue studies within GSFS under the following divisions and departments:
Department of Natural Environmental Studies
Department of Ocean Technology, Policy, and Environment
Department of Environment Systems
Department of Human and Engineered Environmental Studies
Department of Socio-Cultural Environment Studies
Department of International Studies
Graduate Program in Sustainability Science (GPSS) – Courses fully taught in English
Selected JADS scholars will receive:
💰 Full Tuition Coverage
🏠 Living Allowance for accommodation and daily expenses
✈️ Travel Support (round-trip airfare)
📚 Comprehensive Academic Support
🌍 Capacity Building Focus – training future leaders in sustainability, innovation, and policy development
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Nationality: Must be a citizen of an AfDB member country in Africa
Education: Hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution
Work Experience: Relevant professional experience in a development-related field (preference for mid-career professionals)
Age: Preferably under 35 years old (exceptions may apply)
Language Proficiency: English proficiency required (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent)
Health: Medically fit, confirmed by a health certificate
Scholarship Status: Must not be a recipient of another scholarship
Commitment: Willingness to return and contribute to home country development after graduation
Admission Requirement: Must first gain admission to GSFS before JADS scholarship consideration
Search for a faculty supervisor aligned with your research interests
Prepare a detailed research proposal
Use the GSFS Faculty Search Tool to connect with potential supervisors
GSFS conducts exams twice yearly:
Schedule A (April Enrollment):
Deadline: June
Exam: July–August
Results: September
Enrollment: April (following year)
Schedule B (October Enrollment):
Deadline: November
Exam: January–February
Results: February
Enrollment: October
(Some departments allow online/remote exams — travel to Japan may not be required.)
Upon passing the entrance exam, GSFS will recommend successful candidates for JADS funding.
Candidates will be contacted directly regarding the scholarship outcome.
Successful applicants must secure a student visa and officially enroll at the University of Tokyo.
For inquiries, reach out to:
International Liaison Office
Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo
📧 Email: ilo@edu.k.u-tokyo.ac.jp
Q1: Who is eligible to apply?
Nationals of AfDB member countries in Africa with the required academic and professional qualifications.
Q2: Are courses taught in English?
Yes. The Graduate Program in Sustainability Sciences (GPSS) is fully in English, and other departments also offer English-taught courses.
Q3: Must I contact a supervisor before applying?
Yes. A supervisor’s approval is mandatory for application eligibility.
Q4: Do I need to travel to Japan for the entrance exam?
Not always. Some departments, including GPSS, allow online/remote exams.
Q5: Is the scholarship available to non-African students?
No. It is exclusively for African nationals from AfDB member countries.
The Japan Africa Dream Scholarship 2025 at the University of Tokyo is a transformative opportunity for African students to earn a fully funded master’s degree while gaining the skills to drive sustainable development in their home countries.
🌍 If you are an ambitious African scholar passionate about sustainability, innovation, and leadership, apply for the JADS Scholarship and join a global community dedicated to shaping a better future.