The United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship offers advanced training to government officials and mid-level professionals from developing countries in ocean affairs, marine science, and related disciplines, enhancing their professional skills, international legal frameworks, and research abilities.
When is the deadline for applications?
📅 The application deadline is 15 September 2025.
Describe the program to me:
The United Nations – Nippon Foundation Fellowship is a prestigious, fully funded 9-month training and research program designed for mid-level professionals from developing countries working in the field of ocean affairs, marine science, and the law of the sea.
Organized in two phases, it includes advanced training at the United Nations Headquarters in New York and a research placement at a selected host academic institution worldwide. Fellows will engage in hands-on research, gain exposure to global policymaking, and develop professional skills to support sustainable ocean governance in their home countries.
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Which fields qualify?
Applicants must be involved in areas related to:
- Ocean affairs
- Marine sciences
- Law of the sea
- Sustainable development related to maritime policy
The type:
Fully Funded International Fellowship Program (Training & Research)
Who is eligible to apply?
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be aged 25–45
- Hold at least a first-level university degree (e.g., Bachelor’s)
- Be a mid-level professional working in a government, NGO, or academic institution in a developing country
- Be directly involved in ocean policy, marine governance, or law of the sea
- Be able to carry out independent academic research
- Have a nominating authority that supports their application
Women and applicants from underrepresented regions are strongly encouraged to apply.
How do they choose applicants?
The selection committee reviews applicants based on:
- Educational background and professional experience
- Relevance and impact of the proposed research
- Commitment to advancing national ocean governance
- Quality of the recommendation from nominating authority
- Gender and geographic balance
Which nations are qualified?
🌍 Citizens of developing countries from all regions are eligible.
Where will the program be taken?
🗽 Phase 1 (3 months): United Nations Headquarters, New York, USA
🏛️ Phase 2 (6 months): At one of the prestigious host institutions worldwide (see host list on the UN website)
How many honors?
A limited number of fellows are selected each year, typically 10–12 participants, depending on quality and funding.
What advantage does the program offer?
Fellows receive:
- 💵 Monthly stipend (based on UN rates by host country)
- 📚 $100 monthly book allowance
- ✈️ Full round-trip international airfare
- 🏠 Covered accommodation costs
- 🏥 Full medical insurance
- 🚗 Support for local transportation
- 🌐 Access to UN resources and global policy networks
They also benefit from:
- A 100-page thesis
- A presentation of research findings
- An ocean governance matrix
- Professional development and leadership opportunities
What’s the duration of the program?
🕒 9 months total
- 3 months in New York (March–June 2026)
- 6 months at host university (July–December 2026)
How do I apply?
📋 Application documents include:
- Personal History & Research Plan Form
- Nomination & Recommendation Form
- Online application form
📎 All documents must be submitted by 15 September 2025.
Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
🌐 Click here to apply and access forms
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