UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026 in Tokyo – Apply Now

UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026 in Tokyo – Apply Now

How to Apply for the UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026 in Tokyo – A Complete Guide

Q: How can I make my application stand out?

Highlight relevant research experience or policy work, show familiarity with UNU’s mission and SDGs, write clearly in English, and include strong references or recommendation letters.

Overview of the Internship Programme

The United Nations University (UNU) Junior

Fellows Internship Programme is a paid, six-

month full-time internship located at the UNU

headquarters (Office of the Rector) in Shibuya,

Tokyo. It provides graduate students and

young professionals the opportunity to engage

in projects related to UNU’s mission — global

research, policy development, academic

events, and administrative operations. (unu.edu)

Interns work on-site (with some flexibility for

remote work) during UNU’s regular working

hours (9:30–17:30, Monday through Friday).

(unjoblink.org)

Eligibility Criteria – Who Can

Apply

Must be currently enrolled in or have recently completed (within two years) a Master’s or Doctoral program in a field relevant to UNU’s work.
Under 32 years of age at the time of application.
A maximum of five years of work experience in a related field.
Excellent command of English (both written and spoken). Additional language proficiency is an advantage.
Strong research, analytical, and writing skills, with the ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Benefits & Financial Support

Monthly stipend to help cover living expenses, including transportation to UNU headquarters.
Access to UNU’s library and gym (onsite or online).
1.5 days of paid leave per month.
Dedicated workspace and access to office equipment.

Cost of Living in Tokyo – Budget

Overview

Approximate monthly expenses for interns in

Tokyo:

Category	Estimated Cost (JPY)
Rent (central Tokyo)	80,000
Utilities (gas, electricity, water)	8,000
Health insurance	3,000
Communication (mobile, internet)	10,000
Transportation	10,000
Food	32,000

Total Estimated Monthly Cost: JPY 150,000–

160,000 (approximately USD 1,000–1,500

depending on lifestyle). (unu.edu)

Application Process – Step by Step

Visit the UNU Careers / Office of the Rector official website to find the 2026 term announcement. (unu.edu)
Prepare your documents: CV (in English), cover letter (stating motivation), academic transcripts, and reference letters.
Submit your application before the deadline (Fall term: May/June; Spring term: September/October).
Shortlisted candidates may be asked to complete an assignment and attend an interview.
Once selected, complete visa procedures (if required), arrange housing, and budget for initial expenses in Tokyo.

UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026 in Tokyo – Apply Now

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the UNU Junior Fellows Internship

paid?

A: Yes. Interns receive a monthly stipend to

partially cover living expenses, including local

transportation.

Q: Can applicants outside Japan apply?

A: Yes, the program is open to applicants

worldwide.

Q: What is the internship duration?

A: The internship lasts approximately six

months (24 weeks).

Q: Is knowledge of Japanese required?

A: No. The working language is English, though

Japanese language skills may be useful for

daily life.

Q: How can I make my application stand

out?

Highlight relevant research experience or policy work.
Show familiarity with UNU’s mission and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Write clearly and professionally in English.
Include strong references or recommendation letters.

UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026 in Tokyo – Apply Now

Final Tips

The UNU Junior Fellows Internship is an

exceptional opportunity for students

passionate about global policy, international

relations, sustainable development, and

research.

Final Tips:

Start preparing early — tailor your CV and cover letter to align with UNU’s mission and current projects.
Submit your application before the deadline.
Budget wisely — Tokyo is an expensive city, so plan at least one month of living expenses in advance.
Be ready for the selection process, which may include written tasks or interviews.