The United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship Programme has opened applications for the 2026 cohort for eligible professionals from developing countries.
The United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2026 is a fully funded, nine-month training and research programme conducted at renowned institutions worldwide, including a dedicated phase at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, United States of America.
Scholarship Summary
- Host: United Nations & The Nippon Foundation
- Host Country: United States of America
- Category: Training | Fellowships
- Eligible Countries: Developing Countries
- Reward: Full Sponsorship | Monthly Stipend | Book Allowance | Medical Insurance | Air Ticket | Accommodation Support
- Deadline: March 22, 2026
Scholarship Details
The United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship Programme 2026 is a prestigious international initiative jointly implemented by the United Nations and funded by The Nippon Foundation of Japan. The programme is designed to strengthen professional capacity and leadership skills among individuals from developing countries in areas related to ocean affairs, international law, and sustainable development.
The fellowship consists of two consecutive phases that provide fellows with advanced and customised academic research and practical training opportunities. During the first phase, fellows undertake intensive research and training at selected host institutions around the world. This is followed by a second phase at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, where participants gain hands-on exposure to UN processes, policy development, and international cooperation.
Through this structured approach, the programme aims to equip fellows with the knowledge, expertise, and global perspective required to contribute effectively to policy formulation, governance, and sustainable development initiatives in their home countries.
Eligibility Criteria
To be qualified for the United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship Programme, applicants must:
- Hold at least a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent)
- Be between 25 and 45 years of age at the time of application
- Be currently employed by a government agency, non-governmental organisation, or academic institution
- Demonstrate the capacity to conduct independent academic research
- Show strong commitment to contributing to policy and governance in ocean affairs, sustainable development, or international law
- Be a citizen of a developing country
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants of the United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship will receive:
- A monthly stipend throughout the fellowship duration
- Book allowance to support academic research
- Medical insurance coverage
- A round-trip economy class airfare between the fellow’s home country and New York
- Fellowship support during both phases of the programme
Required Documents
To apply for this fellowship, applicants must prepare to submit:
- Completed Personal History and Proposed Research/Study Programme Form
- Nomination and Recommendation Form
- Completed online application form
- Supporting academic and professional documents as required
How to Apply
To apply for the United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2026:
- Obtain and complete all required application forms
- Submit the Personal History and Proposed Research/Study Programme Form
- Submit the Nomination and Recommendation Form
- Complete the online application form via the official website
- Ensure all documents are submitted before the deadline
The deadline for submitting complete applications is September 15, 2025.
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
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