Host Country: Japan
Type: Paid internship
Host Organization: United Nations University
Workplace: UNU headquarters in Tokyo
Length: About 6 months
Closing Date: 8 May 2026
The UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026 offers a paid placement at UNU in Tokyo. It is designed for graduate-level candidates and recent graduates who want practical experience in the United Nations system while contributing to work connected with global development and policy.
What This Internship Covers
The programme provides a monthly stipend, transport to and from UNU headquarters in Shibuya, office space for on-site work, free access to the headquarters’ library and gym, and 1.5 days of leave each month.
Who Can Apply for the UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026
Candidates must:
• Be currently pursuing or have recently completed postgraduate studies, such as a master’s or doctoral degree
• Be at or under 32 years old at the time of application
• Have no more than 5 years of work experience in the related field
• Be fluent or native in written and spoken English
• Have strong research, writing, and analytical skills
• Show interest in the work of the United Nations and UNU
• Be able to work with people from different backgrounds
• Have advanced computer skills, including Microsoft Office, with Excel considered desirable
The official announcement also says applicants from around the world can apply, and that for the Fall 2026 term, applicants located both in Japan and overseas will be considered. The internship is full time, and regular working hours are 9:30 to 17:30, Monday to Friday.
Application Steps
To apply, candidates must use the official UNU application link. No account is required. The application includes a current CV in English, a cover letter, an application form, a funding form, and two recommendation letters. The CV should be uploaded in place of the P11 form, and the P11 form is not needed for this position. The funding form must state the source, amount, and duration of actual or projected funding in Tokyo.
Assessment Process
The selection process is divided into three stages. First, UNU reviews the applicant’s motivation, background, documents, and qualifications, and may also use a desk review, a competency-based interview, and references. Next, shortlisted applicants move to a telephone or Zoom interview. Finally, candidates complete a short time-restricted assignment based on internship-type tasks, with up to 2 hours allowed. If selected, applicants sign an agreement form and may then begin the Japanese visa process if needed.
Deadline and Important Notice
The deadline is 8 May 2026, and applications will not be accepted after 23:59 Japan Standard Time. UNU also states that the internship is not meant to lead to employment, and that no application or recruitment fee is charged.
