In an exciting development for professionals across the Maldives, the Japanese Grant Aid for Human Resource Development Scholarship (JDS) has officially opened applications for the 2026–2027 academic year. This prestigious program — part of Japan’s global commitment to strengthening human resource capacity — invites promising Maldivian civil servants to pursue two-year Master’s degree programs at top Japanese universities, taught entirely in English.
Launched in the Maldives in 2020, the JDS program has already dispatched 27 fellows to Japan, helping to cultivate a new generation of leaders committed to advancing public service, policy reform, and socio-economic development. For the 2026–2027 intake, six new fellows will be selected — two for each participating university — to join Japan’s distinguished academic community.
About the JDS Program
The JDS scholarship is funded by the Government of Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE), designed to foster skilled professionals who can drive development initiatives and strengthen bilateral relations between Japan and partner countries. In the Maldives, it specifically targets civil servants and employees of independent institutions, courts, and legislative bodies who demonstrate strong leadership potential and a clear commitment to national development goals.
Successful candidates will enroll in Master’s programs across selected Japanese universities and return home equipped with advanced knowledge, policy insight, and cross-cultural experience to serve their institutions and the nation.
Who Can Apply
Applicants must:
- Be citizens of the Republic of Maldives, aged 22 to 39 years as of April 1, 2026.
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree from a university recognized by the Maldives Qualification Authority.
- Be permanent civil servants or employees at target organizations, with at least two years of work experience (including probation periods).
- Have a good command of English. Applicants without a valid IELTS certificate will be provided a scholarship-specific test arranged by JDS.
- Be mentally and physically fit, and ready to contribute to the development of the Maldives upon return.
Applicants who are currently receiving another scholarship, already hold a Master’s or higher degree, or are currently enrolled in a graduate program are ineligible.
Upon completion of their studies, successful scholars are required to return to their home country and serve in their respective organizations for at least twice the study period — four years in total.
Seminars and Information Sessions
To help applicants prepare, JICE has scheduled a series of information sessions and special seminars throughout October 2025 at Marukab Plaza in Malé and online via Zoom.
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Information Sessions: From October 4 to October 25, attendees can meet JDS alumni, learn about application steps, and participate in live Q&A sessions.
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Research Plan Seminar: Scheduled for October 18, led by a lecturer from Villa College, this session guides applicants on how to write a strong research proposal — a key element of the JDS application.
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Math Exam Preparation: For applicants to the International University of Japan (IUJ), a special math preparation seminar will be held in November 2025.
Selection and Timeline
All applications must be submitted online by 4:00 p.m. on November 10, 2025 (Monday).
The selection process includes multiple stages:
- Oct–Dec 2025: English and math exams conducted in Malé.
- January 2026: First screening based on documents and research plans.
- Late January 2026: Technical interviews by Japanese university faculty.
- March 2026: Final comprehensive interview with the JDS Operating Committee.
- April 2026: Official approval and notification of successful candidates.
- August 2026: Departure to Japan following pre-departure orientation and Japanese language training.
All related selection costs, including travel from local islands, will be covered by the JDS Project.
Research Plan and Evaluation
Candidates of this JDS Maldives scholarship are required to submit a research plan directly aligned with the Maldives’ development challenges and their organization’s mission. Strong applications clearly demonstrate how the proposed study connects to policy improvement, governance, or socio-economic reform. Applicants are warned that plagiarism is strictly prohibited and will lead to disqualification.
Application Deadline: 4:00 p.m., 10 November 2025 (Monday).
Apply now through the official online system and begin your journey toward becoming a future leader shaped by Japan’s renowned academic excellence
