Are you looking to kickstart your international career with the United Nations University (UNU)? Applications are now open for the UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026 in Tokyo, Japan — one of the best paid internship opportunities in Asia. Hosted at the UNU Headquarters in Shibuya, Tokyo, this six-month program offers a unique chance for students, graduates, and professionals to gain firsthand experience working within a UN environment.
The internship runs from March to August 2026 and is open to applicants from all nationalities. As a UNU Junior Fellow, you’ll work alongside experts, contribute to impactful projects, and deepen your understanding of global development and policy.
Details About the UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026
- Host Country: Japan
- Location: UNU Headquarters, Tokyo
- Duration: 6 months (March – August 2026)
- Financial Benefits: Paid Internship + Additional Perks
- Application Deadline: October 31, 2025
Financial Benefits
Selected fellows will receive a monthly stipend to cover living expenses during their stay in Japan. Additional benefits include:
- Monthly allowance for living costs
- Transport reimbursement to/from UNU Headquarters in Shibuya
- Free office space and internet access
- Access to UNU library and gym facilities
- 1.5 days of leave per month
This makes the UNU internship an excellent opportunity to gain professional exposure while living in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
Internship Dates
- Start Date: 2 March 2026
- End Date: 28 August 2026
- Duration: Approximately 24 weeks
Purpose of the UNU Junior Fellows Internship
The UNU Junior Fellows Internship Program aims to:
- Foster collaboration between young scholars, researchers, and the UNU community
- Introduce interns to the Office of the Rector and the broader work of the United Nations University
- Provide hands-on experience in a real-world UN administrative and research setting
- Encourage practical learning through engagement in policy-driven and academic initiatives
MUST VISIT: Erasmus Mundus GLOCAL Scholarship 2026/28 (Fully Funded)
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026, applicants must:
- Be pursuing or have completed postgraduate studies (Master’s or Doctoral level) in a relevant field
- Be under 32 years old at the time of application
- Have no more than 5 years of relevant work experience
- Demonstrate proficiency in English (both written and spoken)
- Possess strong research, writing, and analytical skills
- Be resourceful, detail-oriented, and capable of working in a multicultural team
- Have advanced computer proficiency (especially in MS Office and Excel)
- Show a genuine interest in the mission and work of the UN and UNU
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following:
- Completed Application Form
- Updated CV/Resume
- Cover Letter
- Funding Form (detailing actual or projected financial support)
- Letters of Recommendation and Recommendation Form
MUST VISIT: KYOTO University ADB Scholarship 2026 in Japan (Fully Funded)
How to Apply for the UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026
The application process is entirely online. Interested candidates should complete both the main application form and the funding application form on the official UNU website. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for further steps.
For more scholarship opportunities, please visit International Scholarships.
