The United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship Programme 2026 is a prestigious, fully funded 9-month program designed to build the capacity of professionals from developing countries in the fields of ocean affairs, international law, and sustainable development.
This highly competitive fellowship includes academic training at world-renowned institutions and professional experience at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, equipping fellows with the knowledge and leadership tools to influence policy and governance back home.
Host Organization: United Nations & The Nippon Foundation of Japan
Fellowship Duration: 9 months
Location: Global partner institutions + UN Headquarters, New York
Application Deadline: September 15, 2025
Target Applicants: Mid-career professionals from developing countries
Category: International Training | Research Fellowship
This is a fully sponsored program, covering all essential expenses throughout the fellowship period. Key benefits include:
✅ Monthly stipend (based on UN rates for host country)
✅ $100 monthly book allowance
✅ Round-trip economy-class airfare
✅ Full accommodation coverage
✅ Comprehensive medical insurance
✅ Support for local transportation and mobility
✅ Access to global UN research resources
✅ Networking opportunities with international experts and policymakers
The Fellowship consists of two consecutive phases:
Advanced Academic Research (3 months):
Conducted at a prestigious university or research institution to deepen your expertise in your selected field.
UN Headquarters Training (6 months):
Placement at the United Nations Headquarters in New York for hands-on experience with UN policy-making processes, international legal frameworks, and diplomatic engagement.
To qualify for the 2026 Nippon Foundation Fellowship, applicants must:
🔸 Be 25–40 years old at the time of application
🔸 Hold a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent)
🔸 Be currently employed by a government body, non-governmental organization (NGO), or academic institution
🔸 Show a strong commitment to ocean governance, international law, or sustainable development
🔸 Demonstrate the ability to carry out independent academic research
🔸 Be a citizen of a developing country
Interested and eligible applicants should follow the steps below:
Visit the Official Website:
Access the application portal and download all relevant forms.
Complete the Application Package:
You will need to fill out and submit:
Personal History and Research/Study Programme Form
Nomination and Recommendation Form (to be filled by your nominating authority or institution)
Online Application Form
Submit Before the Deadline:
All documents must be submitted on or before September 15, 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Stay Informed:
After submission, keep an eye on your email for updates regarding selection and further steps.
The UN Nippon Fellowship is more than just an academic opportunity — it is a global platform to develop leadership in marine affairs, influence international policy, and join a prestigious alumni network of change-makers in environmental and legal governance.
| Fellowship | UN Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2026 |
|---|---|
| Host | United Nations, New York & Global Institutions |
| Category | Training |
| Eligibility | Professionals from Developing Countries |
| Benefits | Fully Funded |
| Deadline | September 15, 2025 |
Ready to become a global leader in ocean governance and sustainable development?
👉 Apply Now and take the first step toward influencing international policy and contributing to global change.