Accepting applications Fully Funded

United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2027 | Fully Funded

Last updated Jul 12, 2026

Deadline

2026-09-13

Country

United States

Level

fellowship

Organization

United Nations Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea

Field

Ocean Affairs, Law of the Sea, Marine Science

Funding

fully funded

Overview

The United Nations – Nippon Foundation Fellowship (UNNF) is a nine-month program designed to provide mid-level professionals and government officials from developing countries with advanced training in ocean affairs and the law of the sea. The program consists of a three-month research phase at the UN Headquarters in New York, followed by a six-month advanced academic research phase at a host institution.

Coverage

This is a fully-funded fellowship. Benefits include a monthly stipend, medical insurance, a return economy air ticket, and a book allowance of $100 per month. Local transport and mobility costs are also covered.

Eligibility

Applicants must be nationals of a developing country (including Ethiopia). Candidates must be between 25 and 45 years old and currently working as mid-level government officials or professionals directly involved in ocean affairs or the law of the sea.

Requirements

Applicants must hold at least a first university degree or equivalent qualification. Proficiency in spoken and written English is required. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to undertake advanced academic research and provide a well-developed research proposal.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted electronically via the Indico.UN platform. You must prepare a personal history, a research proposal, and a signed/stamped Nomination Form from your nominating authority. Visit the official application link to access the Indico.UN portal and follow the instructions provided in the Participant Guide.

Notes

Fellows are expected to return to their home countries upon completion to assist in formulating ocean policy and implementing the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Source & Verification

Host organization: United Nations Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea

Original source: ScholarshipsCorner

Official application page: https://www.un.org/oceancapacity/content/apply-now

Verify the deadline, eligibility, and document list on the official website before applying.

How to Apply

1

Read the full requirements

Visit the official application page and read all eligibility criteria carefully before investing time in the application.
2

Gather your documents

Collect transcripts, certificates, and references. Official copies may require apostille — start this process early.
3

Request recommendation letters

Contact your referees at least 4–6 weeks before the deadline. Brief them on the scholarship and your goals.
4

Write your motivation letter

Be specific about your goals, why you chose this program, and your plan to contribute to Ethiopia after completing your studies.
5

Proofread and submit early

Submit at least 3–5 days before the deadline. Technical issues are common — never submit on the last day.