United Nations International Law Fellowship 2026

About the United Nations International Law Fellowship Programme

The United Nations International Law Fellowship Programme is a fully funded scholarship offered by Codification Division, Office of Legal Affairs, United Nations for study in Netherlands (Peace Palace, The Hague). The scholarship supports students pursuing Research Fellowship studies in Public International Law, Treaty Law, State Responsibility, International Human Rights Law, International Humanitarian Law, Law of the Sea. Recipients receive A modest stipend provided to cover living expenses in The Hague for a duration of 5 weeks, typically late June to late July.

Eligible applicants: Developing countries and countries with emerging economies. Academic standing: Not specified.

If you meet the eligibility requirements and align with the United Nations International Law Fellowship Programme selection criteria, this represents a life-changing opportunity to study with full financial support. Read the sections below carefully to understand the benefits, eligibility, application process, and deadline before applying.

Scholarship Benefits & What's Covered

Selected recipients of the United Nations International Law Fellowship Programme receive a comprehensive funding package. Here's what the scholarship covers:

• Stipend and allowances: A modest stipend provided to cover living expenses in The Hague
• Tuition fees: Yes, including registration fees for The Hague Academy of International Law
• Accommodation: Yes
• Airfare / travel: Yes, round-trip economy class flight
• Health insurance: Yes. Selected participants must submit a medical certificate of good health and receive medical coverage during the course
• Family / dependants: No
• Program duration: 5 weeks, typically late June to late July
• Number of awards per year: 21 participants

The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means recipients receive complete financial coverage throughout their study period, allowing them to focus entirely on their academic and research goals without financial burden.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the United Nations International Law Fellowship Programme, applicants must meet the following requirements. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected, so review these carefully before applying.

Academic requirements

• Minimum degree level: Bachelor's degree in Law or equivalent legal qualification
• Academic standing: Not specified
• Academic background: Legal degree with professional experience in international law, such as government officials, university teachers, or legal practitioners
• Fields of study: Public International Law, Treaty Law, State Responsibility, International Human Rights Law, International Humanitarian Law, Law of the Sea

Nationality & residency

• Eligible countries: Developing countries and countries with emerging economies
• Residency: Must reside in an eligible developing country or country with an emerging economy

Language requirements

• Language of instruction: English or French, alternating annually. English in 2026
• Language test: Yes. A valid language certification or official proof of language proficiency is required
• Minimum score: Fluent spoken and written English or French

Other requirements

• Age: Not specified
• Gender: Open to all genders. Female candidates are explicitly encouraged

How to Apply for the United Nations International Law Fellowship Programme

Applications for the United Nations International Law Fellowship Programme are submitted through the official channels of Codification Division, Office of Legal Affairs, United Nations. Follow these steps to submit a strong application:

Step 1: Verify eligibility. Confirm you meet every requirement listed above, particularly nationality, academic level, and language proficiency. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected without review.

Step 2: Prepare required documents. You will need to submit: Signed typewritten application form (PDF copy and MS Word copy), legal qualifications certificate, official proof of language proficiency, official nomination/recommendation form. Prepare each document carefully, reviewers typically shortlist based on document quality and completeness.

Step 3: Secure reference letters. Yes, nomination or recommendation by employer or government authority. Contact your referees early. References take time to prepare.

Step 4: Submit the application. Complete the application on the official portal before the deadline. The application deadline for this scholarship is To be announced. Late or incomplete applications are not considered.

Step 5: Await response. Shortlisting typically takes 4–8 weeks after the deadline. Successful candidates are invited to interview or additional assessment. Final decisions are announced 3–6 months after the application deadline.

Visit Application Portal

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the United Nations International Law Fellowship Programme fully funded?

The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means it covers all or most major costs — see the Benefits section above for a full breakdown.

Who can apply for the United Nations International Law Fellowship Programme?

Applicants must be from Developing countries and countries with emerging economies. Additionally, applicants must hold Bachelor's degree in Law or equivalent legal qualification. Full eligibility criteria including language, age, and academic requirements are detailed in the Eligibility section above.

What is the application deadline?

The application deadline for the United Nations International Law Fellowship Programme is To be announced. Late applications are not accepted, so aim to submit at least 2 weeks in advance.

Is there a bond or return obligation?

None specified.

Where do I apply?

Apply directly on the official portal: Application Link. ScholarshipSpace does not process applications on their behalf.