UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026 Opens Applications for Tokyo Headquarters Programme

The United Nations University is currently accepting applications for the Junior Fellows Internship Programme for the Spring 2026 term at its headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. This fully funded internship opportunity is open to postgraduate students and recent graduates who are passionate about contributing to the United Nations’ mission through research, policy work, and administrative support. The internship runs for six months, from 2 March to 28 August 2026, and offers a unique chance to gain hands-on experience in the UN system while working alongside international experts at UNU.

Candidates from around the world are encouraged to apply, including those located either in Japan or abroad. Applicants must be under 32 years of age at the time of application, currently pursuing or recently having completed a master’s or doctoral degree within the last two years, and have less than five years of work experience in a relevant field. Fluency in written and spoken English is required, and applicants with proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel, and familiarity with digital communication tools, are highly preferred.

Selected interns, known as Junior Fellows, will work full-time during UNU’s regular working hours from Monday to Friday. Responsibilities include conducting administrative research, drafting internal policy briefs, supporting event planning and coordination, proofreading reports, and managing communications materials such as newsletters and summaries. Fellows will also assist in organising public lectures, academic forums, and conferences, both in-person and online.

UNU provides a monthly stipend to interns who are not receiving financial support from another institution. This stipend is intended to help cover basic living expenses during the internship, including transport within Tokyo. Interns will have access to the university library and on-site gym facilities, and will be introduced to the organisation through a one-week orientation at the start of the programme.

The application process is highly competitive and consists of three stages: an initial review of documents including a CV, cover letter, funding and application forms; a virtual interview with shortlisted candidates; and a timed assignment designed to reflect real tasks within the internship role. Candidates must submit two letters of recommendation from professional or academic referees, and applicants who are not native English speakers or who have not studied in English are required to submit valid TOEFL, IELTS, or TOEIC scores.

This United Nations University internship in Tokyo is ideal for students and young professionals interested in global development, sustainability, diplomacy, and multilateral research. The programme offers real-world experience in a multicultural and high-impact setting, contributing to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and advancing UNU’s partnerships with UN agencies and global research institutions.

Applications must be submitted by 31 October 2025 at 23:59 Japan Standard Time. Interested candidates should visit the official UNU website to access the application form and submit all required materials. The internship is not a pathway to employment with UNU or the UN system, but serves as a meaningful professional experience that supports future careers in international development and public policy.