Deadline for Japan-funded JDS scholarships extended until December 1

The application deadline for six scholarship opportunities under The Project for Human Resource Development Scholarship (JDS), funded by the Government of Japan, for civil servants, has been extended.

The applications for these scholarships, which opened on September 22nd, was initially set to close on Monday, November 10th.

However, the application deadline has now been extended to December 1st.

The scholarship provides opportunities for postgraduate studies at top universities in Japan. A total of six slots is available across three Master’s programs:

• Master of Arts in Economics or Master of Arts in International Development at the International University of Japan (IUJ)
• Master of Arts in International Relations at Ritsumeikan University
• Master of Science in International Cooperation Policy at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU)

All courses are taught in English, and an IELTS test will be arranged for applicants who do not already possess a valid certificate.

The Japanese government will fully fund tuition fees, travel, living expenses, and return costs for successful candidates.

Eligibility is restricted to Maldivian citizens aged 22 to 39 as of April 1, 2026. Applicants must be full-time civil servants with a bachelor’s degree recognized by the Maldivian government and at least two years of relevant professional experience. This also applies to permanent employees of independent institutions, the judiciary, and the legislature.

An information session regarding these scholarships will be held for prospective applicants on November 20th. Registrations for these online session can be completed via this link.

Further information and application guidelines can be found on the official JDS Maldives website.