One of the best internship opportunities in Japan . Applications are now open for the new United Nations University Fellows Internship Programme in Tokyo, Japan . This is a paid internship programme in Japan offered by the United Nations University (UNU) for international and Japanese students. There is no application fee and it is open to students, graduates, and professionals interested in learning about the work of the United Nations and UNU. The internship at UNU is for six months , and Fellows will work at UNU Headquarters in Tokyo from March to August 2026. Applicants from all over the world are eligible to apply. The United Nations University (UNU) is a research centre and academic arm of the United Nations, headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan.
Details about the 2026 UNU Fellows Training Programme
- Country : Japan
- Location : United Nations University Headquarters, Tokyo
- Training duration : 6 months
- Financial Benefits : Paid salary and other benefits
- Deadline: October 31, 2025
Financial benefits
The program covers:
- A monthly salary to cover living costs
- Transportation to and from the UNU campus in Shibuya.
- office space
- Free access to the library and gym.
- 1.5 days off per month.
Training dates
- Contract duration: approximately 6 months (24 weeks)
- Expected start date: March 2, 2026
- Expected completion date: August 28, 2026
Training purpose
- To promote interaction and dialogue between young scientists, professionals and the United Nations University.
- Introduce new colleagues to the activities of the Office of the Rector and the work of the United Nations University.
- Providing opportunities for young professionals to gain in-depth practical experience within a UN agency.
- Introducing young professionals to the administrative work environment.
- Providing support for activities within the Office of the President.
Eligibility criteria
- Training is open to all citizens.
- Pursuing or completing postgraduate studies (Master's/PhD) in a related field.
- Under 32 years of age at the time of application.
- Maximum 5 years of relevant work experience.
- Native/fluent English (written and spoken).
- Excellent research, writing and analytical skills.
- Ability to work effectively with different people.
- Innovative and intelligent problem solutions.
- Advanced computer skills (proficiency in MS Office, preferably Excel).
- Interest in the United Nations and the work of the United Nations University.
Required documents
- to request
- the biography
- cover letter
- Application form
- Financing model
- Letters of recommendation and recommendation form.
- Funding form: Please complete the provided Funding Form and upload it. The form should outline the source, amount, and duration of your actual and/or projected funding while in Tokyo.
- Instead of the P11 form required in the online application, please upload your current CV.
How to apply for a UNU Youth Fellowship training?
The application process is available online. Please complete both the online application and the funding request form. Only selected applicants will be contacted. The official link to the UNU Junior Fellows Internship Programme is listed below.