United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2027
Between Cycles
About the United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship Programme
The United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship Programme is a fully funded scholarship offered by Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (DOALOS), Office of Legal Affairs, United Nations for study in United States (Phase 1, UN Headquarters New York) and participating academic host institutions worldwide (Phase 2). The scholarship supports students pursuing Research Fellowship studies in Ocean affairs, Law of the Sea, marine science, coastal management, ocean governance, environmental policy. Recipients receive Monthly stipend based on standard UN fellowship rates, scaled for cost of living in New York and the Phase 2 host country for a duration of 9 months for the OALOS track (3 months Phase 1 in New York, 6 months Phase 2 at a host institution). 4 months for the Strategic Needs and SIDS tracks.
Eligible applicants: Developing States, including Small Island Developing States. Academic standing: Not specified.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and align with the United Nations Nippon Foundation 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 Nippon Foundation Fellowship Programme receive a comprehensive funding package. Here's what the scholarship covers:
- Stipend and allowances: Monthly stipend based on standard UN fellowship rates, scaled for cost of living in New York and the Phase 2 host country
- Tuition fees: Yes
- Accommodation: Yes, covered via the fellowship stipend allowance
- Airfare / travel: Yes, round-trip economy class flight provided
- Health insurance: Yes. Medical clearance required, UN medical insurance coverage provided
- Family / dependants: No
- Program duration: 9 months for the OALOS track (3 months Phase 1 in New York, 6 months Phase 2 at a host institution). 4 months for the Strategic Needs and SIDS tracks
- Number of awards per year: 10 to 14 awards per annual cycle per track
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 Nippon Foundation 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 (first university degree or equivalent)
- Academic standing: Not specified
- Academic background: First university degree in Law, Marine Sciences, Political Science, Ocean Management, Environmental Policy, or a related discipline
- Fields of study: Ocean affairs, Law of the Sea, marine science, coastal management, ocean governance, environmental policy
Nationality & residency
- Eligible countries: Developing States, including Small Island Developing States
- Residency: Must reside and work in an eligible developing state, within a government agency or official body handling ocean affairs
Language requirements
- Language of instruction: English
- Language test: No. An official test certificate is not mandatory if proficiency is certified by the nominating agency or demonstrated in the applicant's professional background
- Minimum score: Not specified
Other requirements
- Age: Between 25 and 45 years of age at the time of application
- Gender: Open to all genders. No gender restrictions stated
How to Apply for the United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship Programme
Applications for the United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship Programme are submitted through the official channels of Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (DOALOS), 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: Completed Personal History and Proposed Research Form, official Government Nomination Form, copy of passport, university degree certificates and transcripts. Prepare each document carefully, reviewers typically shortlist based on document quality and completeness.
Step 3: Secure reference letters. Yes, 1 official nomination form from a national government agency or employer. 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 13 September 2026 for the 2027 OALOS track (already passed). The Strategic Needs and SIDS tracks closed 22 March 2026 for the 2026 cycle. All tracks are currently closed as of this listing.. 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.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship Programme is 13 September 2026 for the 2027 OALOS track (already passed). The Strategic Needs and SIDS tracks closed 22 March 2026 for the 2026 cycle. All tracks are currently closed as of this listing.. Application window: June 2026 for the 2027 OALOS track.
We strongly recommend starting your application at least 6–8 weeks before the deadline to allow sufficient time for document preparation, reference letter requests, and revisions to your personal statement. Rushed applications are visibly weaker and reduce your chance of shortlisting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the United Nations Nippon Foundation 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 Nippon Foundation Fellowship Programme?
Applicants must be from Developing States, including Small Island Developing States. Additionally, applicants must hold Bachelor's degree (first university degree or equivalent). 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 Nippon Foundation Fellowship Programme is 13 September 2026 for the 2027 OALOS track (already passed). The Strategic Needs and SIDS tracks closed 22 March 2026 for the 2026 cycle. All tracks are currently closed as of this listing.. Late applications are not accepted, so aim to submit at least 2 weeks in advance.
Is there a bond or return obligation?
Yes. Fellows must return to their nominating government agency or organization upon completion of the fellowship.
Where do I apply?
Apply directly on the official portal: Application Link. ScholarshipSpace does not process applications on their behalf.