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Are you a highly motivated developing country professional who wants to sharpen his or her skills and also get involved in development of his country of being? University of Hong Kong ADB Japan Scholarship 2026 could offer just that fully funded scholarship to study a masters degree in development related subjects at a top ranked institution in the world. HKU is based in Hong Kong and offers an international, high-impact education and has a scholarship that pays tuition, stipend, housing and air fare among others so that you can concentrate on your academic and professional development. This scholarship may be a stepping stone that will change your life in your development sector in your country provided you meet the requirements.
Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Host Country | Hong Kong |
| University | University of Hong Kong (HKU) |
| Degree Level | Master’s (Graduate/Post-graduate) |
| Coverage | Full tuition, monthly stipend, housing allowance, books, health insurance, round-trip airfare |
| Eligibility | Citizens of ADB developing member countries, bachelor’s degree, 2 years work experience, age ~ 35 years |
| Deadline | University admission around 2 Jan 2026, Scholarship application by 30 Jan 2026 |
Detailed Description
The Asian Development Bank- Japan Scholarship Programme (ADB-JSP) is aimed at assisting the citizens of the developing member countries of ADB to acquire postgraduate education in development oriented subjects. HKU offers such master programmes like Urban Planning or Urban Design through this scholarship in which it invites the ambitious candidates to join the programmes.
Scholars will be provided with full time Master courses in HKU with financial assistance to cover their tuition, cost of living and travel expenses. In addition to the academic benefit, the scholars will be required to bring their knowledge back to their countries and boost the national growth by engaging in national planning, infrastructure and design innovation.
Not only does this scholarship provide you with a better financial aid, but also exposes you to a rich academic experience, good professional connections and high-quality training, making you a leader of development.
Benefits
With this scholarship you’ll receive:
- Complete tuition fee waiver at HKU.
- Monthly stipend including housing costs
- Expenses on books and teaching supplies.
- Round-trip airfare between your home country and Hong Kong.
- Coverage of medical/health insurance.
- Chance to attend one of the best institutions in Asia, establish international contacts and acquire knowledge that would be applicable in the development of your country.
Eligibility Criteria
- National of an ADB developing member country
- Eligible under Japan’s ODA scholarship conditions
- Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
- At least 2 years of full-time professional work experience
- Proficiency in English (oral and written)
- Good health status
- Commitment to returning to your home country for at least two years after graduation
- Typically, age limit is 35 years or younger (but exceptions may apply)
Required Documents
You will need to prepare:
- HKU master’s programme application form
- ADB-JSP scholarship application or relevant declaration
- Academic transcripts and bachelor’s degree certificate
- Curriculum Vitae / Resume
- Statement of Purpose outlining your goals and development interests
- Two or more letters of reference
- Proof of employment (work experience)
- Copy of passport / national ID
- English language proficiency proof (if required)
- Medical certificate / health report
Application Process
- Apply to the target master programme at HKU (e.g. MSc Urban Planning or Urban Design).
- Check the interest in the ADB-Japan Scholarship on the application form.
- Complete all the necessary forms by the deadline of the scholarship.
- HKU assesses applications and sends shortlisted applicants to be selected by scholarship.
- Upon acceptance, take the scholarship and acceptance and prepare your visa and go to Hong Kong.
- Upon the completion of the programme, work in your country of origin at least two years.
Deadline
- University admissions main round deadline: 2 January 2026 at 12:00 noon HKT.
- ADB-JSP scholarship application deadline: 30 January 2026 at 12:00 noon HKT.
How to Apply
To apply, visit the official website below:
FAQs
1. Can I apply if my work experience is less than 2 years?
No, the common requirement is at least 2 years of full-time professional work after your bachelor’s degree. If you have less, your application will likely not meet eligibility.
2. Does the scholarship cover dependents or family members?
No, the coverage is for the scholar only (tuition, living allowance, travel, insurance). Family or dependents are typically not included.
3. Which master’s programmes at HKU are eligible under this scholarship?
While HKU implements the scholarship for select programmes (for example MSc Urban Planning, Master of Urban Design) in the Faculty of Architecture, you must check year-by-year which programmes are designated under the ADB-JSP at HKU.
4. Is there an age limit?
Yes, generally applicants should be 35 years or younger at the time of application, unless an exception is approved.
5. What happens if I don’t return to my home country after graduation?
A condition of the scholarship is that you commit to return to or work in your home country for at least two years after graduation and apply your enhanced knowledge to development.
6. How competitive is the selection process?
Very competitive, selection is based on academic merit, professional experience, relevance to development goals, and leadership potential. Only a limited number of scholarships are offered each year.
