Applications are now open for the United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2027, one of the world’s most prestigious fully funded fellowship programs for professionals working in ocean governance and maritime law. Organized by the United Nations Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (DOALOS) in partnership with the Nippon Foundation of Japan, this fellowship equips participants with advanced knowledge of ocean affairs, the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), marine policy, and sustainable ocean governance.
The fellowship is designed for mid-career professionals and government officials from developing countries who are actively involved in implementing ocean-related policies and legal frameworks. Participants will gain practical experience at the United Nations while strengthening their research and leadership skills to support sustainable ocean management in their home countries.
The United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2027 lasts nine months and offers 14 fellowship positions. Fellows will spend the first three months at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, USA, followed by six months of advanced research and professional training at one of the programme’s prestigious host universities or research institutions worldwide.
The fellowship is fully funded, covering a monthly stipend, return airfare, medical insurance, and a monthly book allowance. It also provides an outstanding opportunity to work closely with UN experts, build an international professional network, and gain first-hand experience of United Nations operations.
United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2027 Overview
Host Country: United States (USA)
Organized By: United Nations Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (DOALOS)
Funded By: The Nippon Foundation (Japan)
Host Institutions: United Nations Headquarters (New York) and approved host universities/institutions worldwide
Programme Type: International Fellowship
Duration: 9 Months
Number of Fellowships: 14
Scholarship Coverage: Fully Funded
Eligible Countries: Developing Countries
Application Deadline: 13 September 2026
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be 25–40 years of age.
- Be a citizen of a developing country.
- Hold at least a first university degree from a recognized institution.
- Demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research and advanced academic study.
- Be a mid-career professional or government official working in ocean affairs, the law of the sea, UNCLOS implementation, or SDG 14 (Life Below Water).
- Submit a detailed research and study plan relevant to their country’s ocean governance priorities.
- Be available for the entire nine-month fellowship unless exceptional approval is granted.
- Successfully complete all fellowship requirements, including the research thesis, presentations, and academic assignments.
Fellowship Benefits
The United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship provides comprehensive financial support, including:
- Monthly living stipend throughout the 9-month fellowship.
- Fully funded economy-class international airfare.
- Comprehensive medical insurance.
- USD 100 monthly book allowance during the second phase.
- Three months of professional training at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
- Six months of advanced research at a prestigious host university or institution.
- Opportunity to work alongside UN experts and expand an international professional network.
- Valuable experience in international ocean governance and maritime law.
Note: Fellows are responsible for arranging their own accommodation during both phases of the programme.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents before applying:
- Completed online application form.
- Valid passport.
- Recent passport-sized photograph.
- University degree certificate(s).
- Official academic transcripts.
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Detailed research and study plan.
- Employer nomination or recommendation letter (if applicable).
- Proof of professional experience in ocean affairs or related fields.
- Any additional documents requested by the fellowship organizers.
How to Apply for the United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2027
Follow these simple steps to submit your application:
- Visit the official Indico.UN Fellowship Application Portal.
- Create a new account or sign in to your existing account.
- Complete the online application form carefully.
- Upload all required supporting documents.
- Review your application before submission.
- Submit your application before 13 September 2026.
- Receive an automatic confirmation email after successful submission.
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted individually, while the final list of fellows and reserve candidates will be published by mid-December 2026.
Why Apply?
- Fully funded international fellowship.
- Study and train at the United Nations Headquarters.
- Gain expertise in UNCLOS, marine policy, and ocean governance.
- Conduct research at internationally recognized institutions.
- Build a global professional network.
- Enhance leadership and policy-making skills.
- Strengthen your country’s capacity in sustainable ocean governance.
Application Deadline
13 September 2026
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline.
Apply Now
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2027 fully funded?
Yes. The fellowship covers a monthly stipend, return airfare, medical insurance, and a monthly book allowance.
Who can apply?
Mid-career professionals and government officials from developing countries working in ocean affairs, marine policy, the Law of the Sea, or related fields.
How long is the fellowship?
The programme lasts 9 months, including 3 months at the United Nations Headquarters in New York and 6 months at an approved host institution.
How many fellowships are available?
The United Nations is offering 14 fellowship positions for the 2027 programme.
Is IELTS or TOEFL required?
The fellowship guidelines do not specify IELTS or TOEFL as a mandatory requirement. However, applicants should possess sufficient English proficiency to successfully complete the programme.
What expenses are covered?
The fellowship provides:
- Monthly stipend
- Economy-class airfare
- Medical insurance
- USD 100 monthly book allowance
- Professional training and research opportunities
Can applicants choose their host institution?
Yes. Fellows may select a host institution from the programme’s list of approved universities and research institutions, subject to approval.
When is the application deadline?
The last date to apply is 13 September 2026.
