The Keio University ADB Scholarship 2027 offers eligible international students an opportunity to pursue a fully funded Master’s degree in Japan.
The scholarship is available through the Asian Development Bank–Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP) at Keio University’s Graduate School of Science and Technology.
It supports academically outstanding applicants from eligible ADB borrowing member countries who have relevant professional experience and want to contribute to their home country’s development.
Selected scholars receive full remission of tuition and entrance fees, a monthly living allowance and round-trip airfare. The scholarship can support up to two years of Master’s study.
For the September 2027 intake, candidates must apply through Keio University’s International Graduate Program (IGP), Master’s Application Period I.
The application deadline is October 31, 2026, at 5:00 PM Japan Standard Time (JST).
Applicants should review the official Keio University ADB-JSP scholarship page and the 2027 admission instructions before preparing their documents.
Keio University Scholarship 2027 Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship | Asian Development Bank–Japan Scholarship Program |
| Host University | Keio University |
| Country | Japan |
| Graduate School | Science and Technology |
| Degree Level | Master’s |
| Study Program | International Graduate Program |
| Enrollment | September 2027 |
| Scholarship Type | Fully funded |
| Tuition Fees | Full remission |
| Entrance Fees | Full remission |
| Monthly Stipend | Equivalent to the Japanese Government Scholarship rate |
| Airfare | One round-trip ticket |
| Scholarship Duration | Maximum two years |
| Eligible Nationalities | ADB borrowing member countries |
| Professional Experience | At least two years after graduation |
| Age Requirement | Generally 35 years or younger, subject to applicable rules |
| Application Fee | JPY 10,000 |
| Application Deadline | October 31, 2026 |
| Closing Time | 5:00 PM JST |
| Application Method | Keio University online admission system |
What Is the Keio University ADB Scholarship?
The scholarship is part of the Asian Development Bank–Japan Scholarship Program.
ADB-JSP supports postgraduate education for qualified students from eligible developing member countries.
Its wider purpose is to help participants develop advanced knowledge and professional skills that can contribute to economic and social development.
Keio University participates in the program through its Graduate School of Science and Technology.
At Keio, the scholarship supports eligible students admitted to the Master’s program through the International Graduate Program.
Applicants must meet both the university’s admission requirements and the scholarship’s eligibility conditions.
This is important because admission to Keio University does not automatically guarantee a scholarship.
About Keio University
Keio University is a private research university in Japan.
It offers education and research across a range of academic disciplines, including science, engineering, economics, medicine and social sciences.
The university’s Graduate School of Science and Technology provides advanced education and research opportunities in scientific and technological fields.
Its International Graduate Program allows qualified international applicants to pursue graduate study through the university’s designated admissions route.
For ADB-JSP applicants, the relevant program is the Master’s degree offered through the Graduate School of Science and Technology.
Students interested in other Keio graduate schools should not assume that the same scholarship procedure applies.
You can explore the institution through the official Keio University website.
Is the Keio University ADB Scholarship Fully Funded?
Yes.
The scholarship provides comprehensive support for eligible Master’s students.
At Keio University, the published benefits include:
- Full remission of tuition fees
- Full remission of entrance fees
- Monthly living stipend
- One round-trip air ticket
- Other applicable ADB-JSP benefits
The scholarship can continue for a maximum of two years, subject to the program’s conditions.
However, applicants should understand that the university admission application is not free.
Keio charges a separate JPY 10,000 application fee, which is not waived.
Full Tuition Fee Coverage
One of the main benefits is the remission of tuition fees.
Selected scholars do not need to pay the covered tuition charges for the approved scholarship period.
This significantly reduces the financial burden of studying at a private university in Japan.
However, students must remain eligible for the scholarship and comply with the university’s academic requirements.
Entrance Fee Remission
Keio University also confirms full remission of entrance fees for scholarship recipients.
This benefit is separate from the admission application fee.
Applicants should understand the difference:
Entrance fee: Covered for selected scholarship recipients.
Application fee: JPY 10,000, payable when applying for admission.
The application fee is non-refundable under the university’s published rules.
Monthly Living Stipend
ADB-JSP scholars at Keio receive a monthly stipend equivalent to the Japanese Government Scholarship rate.
This allowance helps recipients manage living expenses while studying in Japan.
The university does not publish a fixed stipend amount for the September 2027 ADB-JSP intake on its main scholarship page.
Therefore, applicants should not assume that a specific amount quoted by an unofficial website is guaranteed.
Successful candidates should confirm the applicable monthly rate in their official scholarship documents.
Round-Trip Airfare
The scholarship includes one round-trip air ticket.
This supports eligible international travel between the scholar’s home country and Japan.
The ticket arrangements follow the scholarship’s applicable rules.
Applicants should wait for official instructions before making travel reservations.
Scholarship Duration
The scholarship supports a maximum of:
Two years.
This matches the normal duration of the relevant Master’s program.
However, continued funding depends on meeting the scholarship and academic conditions.
Students should not assume that an extension beyond the approved period will automatically be funded.
Additional ADB-JSP Benefits
The wider ADB-JSP framework provides support that may include medical insurance and allowances connected with educational expenses.
However, the exact Keio-specific package should be confirmed through the university and the official scholarship award conditions.
Applicants should avoid assuming that every expense, such as personal travel, visa costs or additional accommodation charges, is automatically covered.
Which Degree Programs Are Eligible?
At Keio University’s Graduate School of Science and Technology, ADB-JSP applicants must apply through the:
International Graduate Program — Master’s Program.
The scholarship is not a general funding opportunity for every undergraduate, Master’s and doctoral program offered by Keio University.
Applicants should identify an eligible research area within the Graduate School of Science and Technology.
They should also check whether their academic background matches the requirements of the intended program.
Fields of Study
The Graduate School of Science and Technology covers a broad range of scientific and engineering disciplines.
Depending on the available laboratories and admission requirements, applicants may explore areas connected with:
- Engineering
- Information and computer science
- Applied mathematics
- Electronics and electrical systems
- Mechanical systems
- Materials science
- Applied physics
- Chemistry
- Biosciences
- Environmental and technological research
These are broad examples of research areas, not a separate list of guaranteed ADB-funded specializations.
The university’s current program and faculty information determines which research opportunities are available.
Applicants should review the Graduate School of Science and Technology admissions information before choosing a field.
Who Can Apply for the Keio University ADB Scholarship?
Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements of both Keio University and ADB-JSP.
The main scholarship conditions are explained below.
1. Eligible Nationality
Applicants must be nationals of an eligible ADB borrowing member country.
This distinction is important.
Not every country that belongs to the Asian Development Bank is eligible for ADB-JSP.
Countries that are no longer borrowing from ADB are excluded under the scholarship rules.
Applicants should check the current eligible-country information through the Asian Development Bank website.
2. Bachelor’s Degree
Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification.
They should also have an outstanding academic record.
The degree must meet Keio University’s admission requirements for the intended Master’s program.
3. Professional Work Experience
Applicants need at least:
Two years of full-time professional experience after completing their university degree.
This is one of the most important eligibility conditions.
Experience gained only through part-time student activities may not satisfy the requirement.
Applicants should prepare accurate employment records showing their professional responsibilities and employment periods.
4. Age Requirement
The ADB-JSP eligibility conditions generally require candidates to be no more than 35 years old.
Keio’s scholarship overview also describes the restriction as being under 35 at the time of application.
Because the published wording is not identical, applicants close to the age limit should confirm their eligibility directly with Keio University’s admissions office before paying the application fee.
5. English Proficiency
Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in spoken and written English.
They should be able to complete graduate-level coursework, research and academic communication.
The university may require specific language documentation through its admission process.
6. Good Health
Applicants must be in good health.
Successful candidates may need to provide relevant health documentation under the applicable scholarship procedures.
7. Commitment to Return Home
Scholarship recipients must agree to return to their home country after completing their Master’s studies.
The purpose is to help scholars use their education and professional skills to contribute to development in their home countries.
This condition is central to the ADB-JSP program.
8. Residence Requirements
The scholarship normally excludes applicants who are living or working outside their home country.
However, certain situations involving residence in another eligible ADB developing member country may receive consideration.
Applicants living abroad should verify their eligibility rather than assuming that nationality alone is sufficient.
Who Is Not Eligible?
The official rules identify several restrictions.
The scholarship is not intended for:
- Applicants who do not hold nationality from an eligible ADB borrowing member country
- Applicants without the required professional experience
- Applicants seeking undergraduate funding
- Applicants seeking doctoral funding through this Keio scholarship route
- Applicants who cannot satisfy the university’s admission requirements
- Certain ADB officials, consultants and their relatives
- Applicants who do not satisfy the residence or other scholarship conditions
ADB-JSP also does not support distance learning, short-term training, conferences or independent research projects under this scholarship route.
Can Fresh Graduates Apply?
Most fresh graduates will not meet the professional experience requirement.
Applicants must have at least two years of full-time professional experience acquired after their university degree.
Therefore, a student who has just completed a Bachelor’s degree without relevant post-degree employment is generally not eligible.
Can Master’s Students Apply?
The scholarship is intended for candidates entering the eligible Master’s program.
Applicants who already hold postgraduate qualifications should check the wider ADB-JSP restrictions and Keio’s admission conditions.
They should not assume that a second Master’s degree will be supported.
Can PhD Students Apply?
Not through this Keio ADB-JSP route.
The official university scholarship page states that the opportunity targets Master’s students.
Applicants seeking doctoral funding should explore other Keio University scholarships or research funding programs.
Can International Students Apply?
Yes.
The scholarship is specifically intended for eligible international applicants from ADB borrowing member countries.
However, international eligibility does not mean that every nationality qualifies.
Applicants must satisfy the official ADB-JSP country requirements.
Is IELTS Required?
Keio University requires applicants to demonstrate English proficiency.
However, the exact accepted tests, score requirements and possible exemptions are determined by the current International Graduate Program admission guide.
Applicants should review the 2027 guide rather than assuming that IELTS is compulsory for everyone or that no English-language evidence is needed.
Is Japanese Language Proficiency Required?
The relevant International Graduate Program is designed for international graduate study.
Applicants should follow its published language requirements.
They should not assume that a Japanese-language test is required solely because the university is located in Japan.
However, learning basic Japanese can be useful for everyday life outside the university.
Keio University ADB Scholarship 2027 Deadline
The relevant application period is:
IGP-Master’s Application Period I
For September 2027 enrollment, the university has announced:
Applications open: September 1, 2026, at 9:00 AM JST
Applications close: October 31, 2026, at 5:00 PM JST
Applicants must also meet the document-submission requirements.
The university lists October 31, 2026, as the deadline for submitting the required certificates by post.
Therefore, applicants should not wait until the final day to begin the process.
Important: Application Period I vs Period II
Keio University offers more than one application period for its International Graduate Program.
However, the ADB-JSP scholarship page specifically directs candidates to:
Master’s Application Period I for September enrollment.
Although a later September 2027 admission period is scheduled for February–March 2027, applicants should not assume that it is eligible for ADB-JSP.
Those seeking this scholarship should follow the earlier application period identified by Keio.
Application Fee
Keio University charges:
JPY 10,000 per application.
The university states that this fee is not waived and is non-refundable.
Payment can be made using the methods specified in the admission instructions, including credit card or bank transfer.
Applicants should verify their scholarship eligibility before paying.
Required Documents
The exact document list is provided in the official 2027 International Graduate Program application guide.
Applicants should prepare their materials early.
Depending on the admission requirements, documents can include:
- Completed online application
- Bachelor’s degree certificate or equivalent
- Academic transcripts
- Academic recommendations
- English-language proficiency evidence
- Research-related information
- Identification details
- Employment history
- ADB scholarship application form
- Other certificates required by Keio University
Some documents must be uploaded online, while others may need to be submitted through the postal process.
The current admission system also requires two recommenders to provide recommendations online.
Applicants should follow the university’s exact checklist and submission instructions.
ADB Scholarship Application Form
Candidates interested in ADB-JSP must submit the designated scholarship form along with their Master’s application materials.
The form asks applicants to confirm that they satisfy the scholarship conditions.
It also requests information about professional experience and other eligibility matters.
The form is available through the official Keio ADB-JSP scholarship page.
Do not confuse this form with the main university admission application.
Both parts of the process matter.
How to Apply for Keio University ADB Scholarship 2027
Step 1: Review the Official Scholarship Requirements
Start with the Keio University ADB-JSP page.
Confirm that you satisfy the nationality, education, work experience and other requirements.
Step 2: Check the 2027 Admission Guide
Open the International Graduate Program application page.
Download the guide for 2027 enrollment.
Read the requirements for the Master’s program carefully.
Step 3: Choose Your Research Area
Explore the Graduate School of Science and Technology.
Identify a research field that matches your previous education and professional goals.
Follow the university’s instructions concerning academic supervisors and research arrangements.
Step 4: Prepare the Required Documents
Collect your academic certificates, transcripts, references and other required documents.
Also prepare the scholarship application form.
Some documents may require verification or submission by your previous university.
Step 5: Register for the Online Application
Visit the Keio International Graduate Program application portal.
Select the relevant Master’s application period.
Create an applicant ID using your email address.
Step 6: Complete the Online Forms
Enter the required personal, educational and academic information.
Upload the requested documents.
Follow the system’s instructions carefully.
Step 7: Arrange Recommendations
The application system requires two recommenders to submit recommendation letters online.
Contact suitable referees early.
They should understand the deadline and the required submission method.
Step 8: Submit the ADB-JSP Form
Include the required ADB scholarship application form with your Master’s admission materials.
Check that your work-experience and eligibility information is accurate.
Step 9: Pay the Application Fee
Pay the JPY 10,000 application fee using the authorized method.
Keep the payment confirmation.
Step 10: Submit Required Documents by Post
Keio’s admission system includes a postal document-submission stage.
Follow the current application guide to identify which certificates must be sent.
Allow enough time for international delivery.
Step 11: Complete the Application Before the Deadline
Ensure that all required online, payment and postal steps are completed.
Deadline: October 31, 2026, at 5:00 PM JST.
How Does the Selection Process Work?
Applicants must first satisfy the International Graduate Program admission requirements.
Keio University reviews the application and conducts the applicable admission evaluation.
Candidates seeking ADB-JSP must also satisfy the scholarship’s conditions.
Scholarship consideration is separate from simply submitting a university application.
The Asian Development Bank and Keio University follow the applicable nomination and selection procedures.
Therefore, admission to the Master’s program does not guarantee scholarship funding.
When Will Admission Results Be Announced?
Keio University’s published schedule indicates that results for Application Period I are expected in:
Mid-January 2027.
Applicants should monitor the university’s official announcements for admission and scholarship-related communication.
How to Strengthen Your Application
Demonstrate Strong Academic Performance
ADB-JSP targets applicants with outstanding academic records.
Highlight relevant coursework, academic achievements and research experience.
Explain Your Professional Experience
The scholarship requires at least two years of post-degree employment.
Describe your responsibilities and the skills you developed.
Connect Your Goals With Development
ADB-JSP aims to support development in eligible member countries.
Explain how your proposed Master’s degree could help you contribute to your home country’s development after graduation.
Choose a Relevant Research Field
Select a program that connects with your previous education and professional experience.
A clear academic direction is more convincing than a broad statement about wanting to study abroad.
Prepare Your References Early
Recommendation letters can take time.
Choose referees who know your academic or professional abilities and can provide meaningful assessments.
Follow Every Submission Requirement
The Keio application involves online documents, recommendations, payment and postal submissions.
Missing one required step can affect the validity of the application.
Studying in Japan With ADB-JSP
Japan offers international students opportunities to study in advanced research environments.
At Keio University, Master’s students can develop specialist knowledge and research skills through the Graduate School of Science and Technology.
The scholarship also helps reduce the financial pressure of studying overseas.
However, scholars must understand their obligations, including the requirement to return to their home country after completing the program.
Applicants should view ADB-JSP as both an educational opportunity and a commitment to future development work.
Other Fully Funded Scholarships in Japan
Students interested in ADB-supported graduate education can also explore the University of Tokyo ADB Scholarship, which offers funding for eligible postgraduate study at the University of Tokyo.
Another related opportunity is the University of Hawaii ADB Scholarship, which supports selected graduate programs in the United States through the wider ADB-JSP framework.
Applicants seeking alternative funding in Japan can consider the Japanese Government MEXT Scholarship, which follows different eligibility and application procedures.
These scholarships vary in their academic programs, deadlines and selection requirements.
Students should compare the official conditions before deciding where to apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Keio University Scholarship 2027 open?
Yes. Applications for the relevant September 2027 intake are open through IGP Master’s Application Period I.
What is the application deadline?
October 31, 2026, at 5:00 PM Japan Standard Time.
Is the scholarship fully funded?
Yes. It includes full remission of tuition and entrance fees, a monthly stipend and round-trip airfare, subject to the scholarship conditions.
Is there an application fee?
Yes. Keio charges JPY 10,000.
Is the application fee refundable?
No. The university states that application fees are non-refundable.
What is the scholarship duration?
Up to two years.
Is the scholarship available for Bachelor’s degrees?
No. The relevant Keio scholarship route supports Master’s students.
Is it available for PhD students?
No. The official Keio ADB-JSP page specifies Master’s-level funding.
Is professional experience required?
Yes. Applicants need at least two years of full-time professional experience after completing their university degree.
Can fresh graduates apply?
Generally not, unless they already satisfy the required post-degree professional experience condition.
What is the age limit?
ADB-JSP generally uses a maximum age of 35, while Keio’s overview describes the limit as under 35. Applicants near the threshold should confirm their eligibility with Keio.
Can international applicants apply?
Yes, if they are nationals of eligible ADB borrowing member countries and meet the other requirements.
Is IELTS required?
Applicants must satisfy the English-language requirements in the 2027 admission guide. The accepted evidence and any exemptions depend on that guide.
Is Japanese proficiency compulsory?
Applicants should follow the language requirements of the International Graduate Program.
Is a monthly stipend provided?
Yes. The stipend is equivalent to the applicable Japanese Government Scholarship rate.
Are flight tickets covered?
The scholarship includes one round-trip air ticket.
Can I apply during the second admission period?
Keio’s ADB-JSP page specifically requires Master’s Application Period I for September enrollment. Applicants should not assume the later admission period qualifies.
Do scholars need to return home after graduation?
Yes. The scholarship requires recipients to agree to return to their home country and contribute to its development.
When will admission results be announced?
Results for Application Period I are expected in mid-January 2027.
Final Thoughts
The Keio University ADB Scholarship 2027 is a valuable opportunity for eligible international applicants seeking fully funded Master’s education in Japan.
The scholarship supports study at Keio University’s Graduate School of Science and Technology through the International Graduate Program.
Selected scholars receive full remission of tuition and entrance fees, a monthly living stipend and round-trip airfare.
Funding can continue for up to two years.
However, applicants must meet important requirements, including eligible nationality, strong academic performance and at least two years of professional experience after graduation.
They must also agree to return to their home country after completing their studies.
For September 2027 enrollment, the scholarship requires candidates to apply through IGP-Master’s Application Period I.
The deadline is October 31, 2026, at 5:00 PM JST.
Applicants should prepare their documents early because the process includes online registration, recommendations, an application fee and postal submissions.
For complete details, visit the official Keio University ADB Scholarship page and follow the 2027 application instructions.
Last verified: October 18, 2026
Pathfinderly provides independent educational information about international opportunities. We are not affiliated with Keio University or the Asian Development Bank. Scholarship benefits, eligibility conditions and application procedures may change. Always verify the current requirements through the official university website before applying.