The United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2027 is a fully funded international fellowship for professionals and government officials working in ocean affairs, maritime law, marine policy, and sustainable ocean governance.
Organized by the United Nations Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (DOALOS) and funded by the Nippon Foundation of Japan, the programme provides fellows with advanced training and research opportunities related to ocean governance and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
The fellowship lasts nine months and includes 14 positions. Fellows spend the first three months at UN Headquarters in New York, followed by six months of advanced research at an approved host university or institution.
United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2027 Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Country | USA and other host locations |
| Organizer | UN DOALOS |
| Funded By | Nippon Foundation |
| Duration | 9 Months |
| Fellowships | 14 |
| Funding | Fully Funded |
| Eligible Applicants | Professionals from developing countries |
| Deadline | 13 September 2026 |
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should generally:
- Be 25–40 years old.
- Be a citizen of a developing country.
- Hold at least a first university degree.
- Be a mid-career professional or government official working in ocean affairs or a related field.
- Have experience related to ocean governance, UNCLOS, maritime law, marine policy, or SDG 14.
- Demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research.
- Submit a detailed research and study plan relevant to their country’s needs.
- Be available for the full nine-month programme.
Fellowship Benefits
The fellowship provides comprehensive financial support, including:
- Monthly living stipend for nine months.
- Economy-class return international airfare.
- Medical insurance.
- USD 100 monthly book allowance during the second phase.
- Three months of training at UN Headquarters in New York.
- Six months of research at an approved host institution.
- Opportunities to work with UN experts and build an international professional network.
Note: Fellows are responsible for arranging their own accommodation.
Required Documents
Applicants may need to provide:
- Completed application form
- Valid passport
- Recent photograph
- Degree certificate(s)
- Academic transcripts
- Updated CV
- Research and study plan
- Professional experience details
- Recommendation or nomination documents, where required
How to Apply
- Visit the official UN fellowship application portal.
- Create an account or sign in.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload the required documents.
- Review your application carefully.
- Submit it before 13 September 2026.
- Wait for the selection process and further communication from the organizers.
Why Apply for This Fellowship?
The UN Nippon Foundation Fellowship is an excellent opportunity for professionals who want to strengthen their expertise in ocean governance, maritime law, UNCLOS, and marine policy.
Fellows gain international research experience, receive training at the United Nations, develop professional networks, and acquire knowledge that can contribute to sustainable ocean management in their home countries.
Applicants should prepare their documents and submit their applications well before the deadline.
