Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (OAP) Japan-IMF Scholarship Program for Asia
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The Japan - IMF Scholarship Program for Asia (JISPA) is more than just a scholarship — it’s a gateway to becoming a future leader in economic policy.
Designed for young government officials from key economic agencies, including central banks, across Asia and the Pacific, JISPA provides the opportunity for scholars to pursue graduate-level degrees in economics at leading Japanese universities. JISPA aims to strengthen institutional capacity throughout the region by equipping government officials with advanced knowledge and skills in macroeconomic policymaking. JISPA graduates are required to return to their home countries as future policymakers, playing a vital role in shaping sound economic strategies and driving national development.
Director’s Remarks
JISPA 30th Anniversary Special Site
JISPA is fully funded by the Government of Japan
The JISPA Master’s Track is the flagship program of the scholarship, offering young government official the opportunity to pursue a specially designed Master’s Degree in economics or public policy at one of the IMF’s partner universities in Japan.
Scholars also participate in the Orientation Program, which helps strengthen their academic foundation for graduate study while fostering professional networks with fellow JISPA scholars.
Partner University List:
- National Graduate Institute for Policy
Studies (GRIPS)
- Hitotsubashi University
- International University of Japan
- The University of Tokyo
AY2027-28 Application for Master's Track
(Application Window: Sep 15-Oct 20, 2026)
Application Page
The Ph.D. Track offers highly motivated government officials from key economic agencies, including central banks, the opportunity to pursue doctoral studies in economics or related fields at any accredited university in Japan. The program is designed for scholars who seek to further advance their research skills required for their future roles as economic policymakers and institutional leaders, with a strong commitment to address complex challenges in their home countries.
Applicants are responsible for securing admission directly from their chosen university, as the IMF does not manage university applications.
AY2027-28 Application Information for the Master’s Track Now Available.
Application Page
Japan-funded Scholarships Alumni Reunion in Indonesia
Date: June 19, 2026
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Welcoming New JISPA Scholars to Japan!
Date: July 16, 2026
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IUJ Names JISPA Scholar as Valedictorian of the GSIR Class of 2026
Date: June 27, 2026
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JISPA Farewell Event
Date: June 23-24, 2026
Facebook Thesis Presentation Program
Beyond graduating from JISPA, alumni continue to be connected with one another through the alumni networking site and the Alumni LinkedIn Group.
Furthermore, JISPA offers alumni the JISPA Continuing Education (JISPA-CE) Program, where eligible alumni who graduated more than four years ago can return to Japan to participate in a two-week professional development program. The program provides an opportunity to refresh their knowledge, exchange experiences with fellow alumni, and deepen their understanding of current economic and policy issues.
Read testimonials from alumni and learn how their experience studying in Japan under JISPA has contributed to their professional growth and careers.
