IMF JISPA PhD Scholarship 2027 in Japan for Asian Government Officials

The Japan-IMF Scholarship Program for Asia (JISPA), funded by the Government of Japan and run by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), offers fully funded PhD scholarships to government officials from Asia and the Pacific who want to do a PhD in economics at a university in Japan.

What the scholarship covers

• Admission and tuition fees
• A monthly stipend for living costs
• One round-trip economy flight to Japan
• The university's required health insurance package (paid from the stipend)
• Possible support for field research and international conferences

Family members' costs are not covered, and you cannot hold another scholarship at the same time.

Eligible countries

Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Lao P.D.R., Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Nepal, Pacific Island countries, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Vietnam.

Who can apply

• A citizen of one of the eligible countries
• Currently employed by, and nominated by, a key economic agency, such as a central bank, ministry of finance, economy, planning or trade, tax administration, statistics bureau or financial regulator
• A master's degree (or equivalent), with about 17 years of formal education
• English: TOEFL iBT 79–80 or higher, or IELTS 6.0 or higher
• Priority for applicants under 38 with at least two years of public-sector experience
• You must return to your agency after your studies
• You must not have been on leave for more than one consecutive month in the 12 months before 1 September 2027

How to apply

1. Apply for PhD admission to a doctoral programme in economics at an accredited university in Japan. The IMF does not handle university applications.
2. Get nominated by your agency, with the signed nomination and certification form (including a promise to reinstate you after your studies).
3. Read the 2027–28 Application Guidelines, expected by early March 2027.
4. Submit your JISPA application between 1 May and 1 June 2027 (23:59 Japan time).
5. Shortlisted applicants may be invited to an interview.

Studies start in September/October 2027 or April 2028. An extra round, closing on 1 December 2027 for April 2028 entry, may open if places remain.

Key dates

Tips

• Start your university admission now. Japanese PhD admissions can take months.
• Talk to your HR or training department early about the nomination.
• Prepare your English test in advance.
• Applying is free. Never pay anyone who promises an IMF scholarship.