To all aspiring students seeking internships in the reputed organizations to gain real-time work experience, today at Opportunities Radar, we are here with an exciting internship opportunity offered by the United Nations specialized institute, known as the academic arm of the UN that contributes to resolving pressing global issues through collaborative research and education. Before wasting any time, let’s dive into the opportunity. The United Nations University (UNU), through its official portal, has recently announced the applications for its flagship “Junior Fellows Internship 2026” and is inviting applications from highly qualified applicants from all around the world to work as Junior Fellows at the UNU Headquarters in Tokyo for a period of 6 months (24 months).
The program is offered twice a year, once in May-June for the fall term and once in September-October for the spring term. Currently, the internship is accepting applications for the Spring term. The selected interns will be working on-site at the UNU Headquarters in Tokyo from March 2nd, 2026, to August 28th, 2026. The UNU is inviting applications from outstanding students currently pursuing a Master’s or PhD degree, or those who have recently graduated in the fields related to the University’s work, to apply.
The UNU Fellow internship offers an incredible opportunity to its interns to gain hands-on experience in a UN Agenecy, gain valuable skills, and build valuable networks with peers and experts in your field. UNU offers a wide range of perks and benefits to its interns that include a competitive monthly stipend, a dedicated office space, transport facility, access to institute facilities, and more. Students and graduates interested in working for the United Nations, especially for the UNU, are highly encouraged to apply. Read more about the UNU internship below
UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026 Overview
| Country | Japan |
|---|---|
| Eligible Countries | Open for All |
| Internship Location | UNU HQ, Tokyo, Japan |
| Position | Junior Fellow |
| Internship Dates | March – August 2026 |
| Duration | Approx. 6 Months (24 Weeks) |
| Application Deadline | October 31st, 2025 |
Also, Check: MITACS Globalink Research Internship 2026 (GRI) in Canada
UNU Internship Purpose
The purpose of the internship is to:
- To promote mutual dialogue and interactions between scholars & UNU Experts
- Provide valuable insights into the workings of the UNU rector’s office
- Provide interns with hands-on experience in a UN specialized agency
- Gain valuable skills, knowledge, and broaden their international network
Perks & Benefits
The UNU Internship offers a wide range of perks and benefits, which include:
- A competitive stipend to cover your basic living costs in Japan
- Work alongside the UNU’s renowned faculty in real-time projects
- 1.5 days of leave/month
- A dedicated space and facilities
- Dedicated laptop/desktop for the duration of the program
- Access to UNU facilities such as the gym, library, etc
Eligiblity Criteria
Candidates meeting the following criteria are invited to submit applications for the UNU Fellow internship:
- The internship is open to both international and Japanese nationals
- Students currently pursuing Postgraduate degrees (Master’s, PhD) or who have recently graduated (within 2 years of applications) in fields related to the University’s work
- Applicants’ age must be under 32 years at the time of application
- Fluent in English, both written & Spoken
- Possess excellent research, analytical, and writing skills
- Demonstrate interest in working with UNU
- Knowledge of MS Office Application
- Holding excellent academic achievements
Required Documents
Applicants need to upload the following documents:
- CV/Resume (2 Pages max)
- Cover Letter – stating interest in the post
- Application Form
- Funding Form
- Two Letters of Recommendation
- Language certification for those whose native language is not English or those who have not completed their degree program with English as the medium of instruction.
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How to Apply for the UNU Fellow Internship 2026 in Tokyo?
The application process for the UNU internship consists of 3 stages that are:
Stage 1:
- Applicants need to submit an online application and upload all the above required documents. All the applications will be reviewed based on your motivation, background, and criteria.
Stage 2:
- Applicants who are shortlisted will be invited for an interview via Zoom or phone call to discuss their motivation, communication skills, and goals
Stage 3:
- Applicants will be asked to complete a short assignment that is similar to the task they would be working on during their internship. The assignment will be conducted on the same day as of interview.
To apply for the UNU internship, visit the official link below:
APPLY FOR 2026 UNU JUNIOR FELLOW INTERNSHIP
