UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026 in Tokyo, Japan (PAID) Fully Funded

Are you passionate about global development, international relations, and the work of the United Nations? Do you want to gain hands-on experience at a prestigious international organization while living in one of the most dynamic cities in the world? Then here is some good news!

The UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026 at the United Nations University (UNU) Headquarters in Tokyo, Japan, is the perfect opportunity for you.

This fully paid internship is open to students, graduates, and young professionals from around the world who are eager to learn about the work of the UN and contribute to its mission. This internship lasts for over 6 months.

In this internship span, you will gain practical experience in administration, research, and project management, while interacting with a diverse group of scholars and professionals from across the globe.

UNU is based in Shibuya, Tokyo, and acts as the UN’s academic and research hub. As a junior fellow, you will actively work on projects, support the Office of the Rector, and contribute to initiatives that influence global policy and sustainable development.

This internship has no application fee and a comprehensive financial package that covers living expenses, transport, and access to office facilities. This internship provides a life-changing professional experience, helping you build skills, networks, and credentials that can shape your international career.

Interested candidates can apply for this UNU Junior Fellows internship 2025/26 in Tokyo Japan (paid) before the deadline 31st October 2025.

In this article, we have explaiend all the details regarding this internship.

Why Apply for the UNU Junior Fellows Internship?

This internship is designed to immerse young professionals in the work of the United Nations, while offering practical experience in a professional environment. As a junior fellow, you will:

• Foster interaction and dialogue among international scholars and professionals
• Gain insight into the activities of the Office of the Rector and UNU programs
• Get hands-on experience in an administrative and research environment
• Contribute to meaningful projects that impact global initiatives
• Enhance your professional network and develop valuable skills for a career in international organizations

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Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the UNU Junior Fellows Internship, you must meet the following requirements:

• Applicants must be of any nationality.
• Applicants should be pursuing or have completed postgraduate studies (Master’s or Doctoral) in a relevant field.
• Applicants must be under 32 years old at the time of application.
• Applicants should have a maximum of 5 years of related work experience.
• Applicants must be fluent in English, both written and spoken.
• Applicants should have strong research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Applicants must be able to work effectively in diverse teams.
• Applicants should be resourceful, creative, and possess a problem-solving mindset.
• Applicants must have advanced computer skills, including proficiency in MS Office (Excel preferred).
• Applicants should have a genuine interest in the United Nations and UNU’s mission.

Financial Benefits

The UNU Junior Fellows Internship is fully funded and provides:

• Monthly stipend to cover living expenses
• Transportation to/from UNU HQ in Shibuya
• Access to office space, library, and gym
• 1.5 days of leave per month

This ensures that interns can focus entirely on gaining professional experience while living comfortably in Tokyo.

Responsibilities

As a Junior Fellow, you will support the Office of the Rector in the following areas:

• Administrative research & writing – Executive briefs, background research, drafting information briefs
• Planning & project management support – Development of tools and systems
• Data analysis – Internal analyses using MS Office/Excel
• Event coordination – Organizing online & offline lectures, workshops, conferences
• Meeting support – Logistical assistance, minute-taking
• Editorial support – Proofreading, copy editing
• Communication support – Preparing newsletters, summaries, and documentation

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Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following documents:

1. Completed online application form
2. CV (upload your current CV instead of P11 form)
3. Cover Letter
4. Funding Form – outlining the source, amount, and duration of your funding in Tokyo
5. Letters of Recommendation & Recommendation Form

Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for the next stage.

Application Process

The selection process includes three stages:

1. Stage 1: Document review and assessment of qualifications
2. Stage 2: Telephone/Zoom interview assessing motivation, communication, and English proficiency
3. Stage 3: Time-limited assignment similar to internship tasks

Successful applicants will sign an agreement form as the working contract and may apply for a Japanese visa if necessary.

Apply Now

Frequently asked questions

Q1: Is this internship paid?
Yes. Interns receive a monthly stipend to partially cover living costs, transport, and access to facilities.

Q2: Who can apply?
Graduate students and young professionals under 32 years old from all nationalities, including overseas applicants.

Q3: What is the duration and working hours?
The internship runs for 6 months, full-time, 9:30–17:30 Monday to Friday, with weekends and UNU holidays off.

Q4: Are there remote work options?
Yes, there is some flexibility for remote work, but primary work is on-site in Tokyo.

Q5: What documents are required?
CV, Cover Letter, Online Application Form, Funding Form, 2 Letters of Recommendation, and English language certificate if needed.