The United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2026 is a fully funded program designed for mid-level professionals from developing countries who work in ocean affairs, marine science, or related fields. This 9-month fellowship gives selected candidates the chance to receive in-depth training at the United Nations Headquarters in New York and conduct advanced academic research at leading institutions across the world. Fellows will be mentored by global experts and gain hands-on experience in shaping effective ocean policies.
Get a complete overview of the fellowship requirements, benefits, and a simple guide to help you apply and gain world-class training and conduct advanced research in ocean governance with full funding from the United Nations and The Nippon Foundation.
United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2026 Summary
- Host Country: United States of America (USA)
- Study Abroad: Study in USA
- Category: Training | Fellowships
- Eligible Countries: Developing Countries
- Reward: Full coverage | Monthly Stipend | Book Allowance | Air Ticket | Accommodation
- Deadline: Not specified yet. Apply Early
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United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2026 Details
The Fellowship is divided into two phases:
Phase One – Training at the UN (3 months)
From March/April to June, selected Fellows will be based at the Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (DOALOS) at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. Here, they’ll take part in intensive training, complete assignments, and attend sessions on global best practices in ocean affairs, international maritime law, and marine policy frameworks.
Phase Two – Academic Research (6 months)
From July to December, Fellows will carry out independent academic research at one of several prestigious host institutions worldwide. Under expert supervision, they will write a 100-page thesis, give a presentation on their findings, and design an ocean governance matrix that could directly benefit their country’s policy development.
Watch the full video about this fellowship in the USA on our YouTube channel:
United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2026 Eligibility Requirements
To be considered, applicants must:
- Be between 25 and 45 years old
- Have completed at least a first university degree
- Show the ability to carry out advanced academic research
- Be a mid-level professional working in a government or non-government institution dealing directly with ocean affairs
- Have a role that allows them to influence or contribute to ocean-related policy
- Propose a study topic that aligns with their country’s national ocean policy goals
- Be free of other commitments during the 9-month fellowship
- Be nominated and recommended by a government official or someone who can confirm their role and its relevance
Note: Female applicants and those from underrepresented regions are highly encouraged to apply. Reasonable accommodations will be made for applicants with disabilities.
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United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2026 Benefits
- Monthly stipend: Based on UN rates and adjusted per location, meant to cover accommodation, food, and local travel
- Book allowance: $100/month during phase two (total of $600)
- Round-trip economy class air tickets:
- From the home country to New York
- From New York to the second host institution
- From the host institution back to the home country
- Medical insurance: Provided by Cigna for the entire fellowship period
- Visa support: UN provides a visa support letter (visa fees are the Fellow’s responsibility)
- Academic and professional mentorship: From top global institutions and experts
- Research platform: Fellows contribute to a growing database of ocean policy research
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United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2026 Required Documents
- Completed Application Form
- Personal History and Research Statement
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- University Certificate(s)
- Nomination and Recommendation Form (must be signed by a senior official who can confirm your role and responsibilities)
- Passport copy
- Proof of English proficiency (if required by host institution)
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How To Apply for the United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2026 (Step-by-Step Application Process)
- Check Eligibility – Make sure you meet all age, education, and professional criteria.
- Download Forms – Get the application and nomination forms from the official UN Fellowship website.
- Prepare Proposal – Write a research topic relevant to your country’s ocean policy.
- Secure Nomination – Have your nomination form completed by an eligible authority.
- Gather Documents – Compile all required documents in English.
- Submit Application – Email your complete application during the open call period.
- Await Response – Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next steps.
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Deadline
Application deadline not specified yet. Apply early not to miss this opportunity.
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