Applicants must meet strict eligibility criteria to be considered for the JJ/WBGSP. The scholarship specifically targets individuals from developing countries who have demonstrated a passion for contributing to their country’s socio-economic growth. Below are the main eligibility requirements:

• Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of a developing country that is a member of the World Bank. They cannot hold dual citizenship with any developed country.
• Health: All applicants must be in good health.
• Academic Background: Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) that was earned at least three years prior to the application deadline.
• Professional Experience: Applicants must have a minimum of three years of full-time, paid, development-related work experience. The work experience must have been acquired in the last six years before applying.
• Admission to a Master’s Program: Applicants must have been unconditionally admitted (with the exception of financial support) to one of the 42 JJ/WBGSP-participating master’s programs.
• World Bank Employees: Individuals who are staff members or close relatives of World Bank employees, particularly the Executive Directors or their alternates, are not eligible to apply.

The application process for the JJ/WBGSP follows a strict and thorough review of each applicant’s professional background, academic qualifications, and personal commitment to their home country’s development. The selection process is divided into two application windows in 2025:

1. Application Window #1: January 13 – February 28, 2025
2. Application Window #2: March 25 – May 23, 2025

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