To all aspiring graduate students and recent graduates, do you want to gain real-world experience with the United Nations University while making an impact? Here is an exciting opportunity. Applications are open for the UNU Junior Fellows Internship for fall 2026. This fully funded internship in Japan, organized by the United Nations University, invites motivated graduate students and recent graduates from around the world to gain hands-on work experience on real-time projects under the supervision of UNU experts. The internship lasts approximately 6 months, and selected interns will work as Junior Fellows at UNU Headquarters in Tokyo from September 1, 2026, to February 26, 2027.
It’s a highly competitive program; the institute selects applicants with excellent academic achievements. The internship offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable skills, knowledge, and networks in international settings. The institute invites applications from students currently enrolled in postgraduate studies or who have recently completed their studies within two years of the application, in fields related to the institute’s work, with no more than 5 years of work experience. It’s a paid internship; interns will receive a competitive stipend to cover living costs during their stay.
The application window for the fall session is open, and the last date for application submission is May 8, 2026. Read more details below
UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026 in Japan Overview
- Host Country: Japan
- Location: UNU HQ, Tokyo, Japan
- Host Institute: United Nations University
- Eligible Countries: Open for All Nationals
- Intake: Fall 2026
- Internship type: Paid
- Application Deadline: May 8th, 2026
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Internship Tacks
- Spring term Dates: February to August 2026
- Fall term Dates: August to February 2027
Internship objective
The purpose of the internship program is to:
- Promote dialogues and interaction between scholars and professionals
- Provide students and young professionals with an exposure to UNU work
- Gain real-time work expereince in the United Nations agency
- Assist with day-to-day tasks
Internship Support
It’s a paid internship program; the fellows will receive the following support:
- A competitive monthly stipend to cover living expenses in Tokyo
- Local transportation costs to and from the UNU HQ in Shibuya
- Visa Assistance
- Dedicated office space at the institute
- 1.5 days paid leave per month
Eligiblity Criteria
To be eligible for the UNU internship, you must meet the following criteria:
- UNU is calling applications from all nationals
- Students currently enrolled in a Postgraduate degree program (Master’s or Postdoctoral) in fields related to the institute’s work, such as communication and journalism, law, economics, development, SDGS, Diplomacy, and international relations
- Those who have completed their degree program within two years of application can also apply
- Applicants must be under 32 years of age at the time of application
- Have not more than 5 years of work experience in related fields
- Fluency in the spoken and written English language
- Excellent analytical & research skills
- Commit to full-time participation during internship dates
- Computer-literate with hands-on knowledge of MS Office
- Demonstrate passion to work with the United Nations
Interns Role
During the six months of internship, interns will assist with:
- Carry out administrative research
- Support the development of project management tools
- Data analyses on university operations
- Organize and manage events
- Proofreading of reports
- Prepare event summaries and communication documents
Required Documents
- CV
- Cover Letter
- Application form
- Funding Form
- Language certificate
- Letters of Recommendation
Also, Check: AKS Graduate Fellowship 2026 in South KoreaÂ
How to Apply?
The application process for the UNU Junior Fellow internship is online, via offical portal. Visit the official link below and complete the application.
The selection process consists of three stages;
1: Submission of online application
2: Shortlisted applicants will go through an interview
3: Written assignment
Application deadline: May 8th, 2026
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To know more details and to apply, visit the official link below:
UNU JUNIOR FELLOWS INTERNSHIP ONLINE APPLY



