The United Nations University (UNU) Office of the Rector is recruiting Junior Fellows for a six-month on-site internship at its headquarters in Tokyo, Japan, running from 1 March 2027 to 27 August 2027. Graduate students and recent graduates aged 32 or under can apply until 01 November 2026, and interns without other financial support receive a monthly stipend. At Youth Works Hub we went through the full announcement and set out every requirement, document and selection stage below.
A Graduate-Level Internship at the Heart of UNU
The UNU Office of the Rector recruits highly qualified applicants to work as Junior Fellows at the UNU headquarters in Tokyo. Junior Fellows are recruited through a competitive application process twice per year, and graduate students interested in the work of the United Nations, and in particular UNU, are encouraged to apply.
What the Programme Is Built Around
The Junior Fellows Internship Programme is centred on creating a dynamic, challenging and rewarding experience for graduate level students and young professionals. Successful candidates contribute to the work of the Office of the Rector, the United Nations University and the UN system as a whole. The programme offers a chance to develop new skills and knowledge and is a constructive setting for the practical application of capacities acquired through graduate studies.
About United Nations University
For the past four decades, UNU has been a go-to think tank for impartial research on the pressing global problems of human survival, conflict prevention, development and welfare.
🔬 Researchers: more than 400 researchers in 13 countries
🎯 Scope: work spanning the full breadth of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, generating policy-relevant knowledge to effect positive global change
🤝 Collaborations: more than 200 collaborations with UN agencies and leading universities and research institutions across the globe
Spring 2027 Term: Dates and Duration
The Spring 2027 internship lasts approximately six months (24 weeks).
🟢 Expected start date: 1 March 2027
🏁 Expected end date: 27 August 2027
Two Selection Rounds a Year
Running parallel to most university semesters, Junior Fellows are selected twice per year: once in May-June for the fall term and once in September-October for the spring term. The spring term runs from March to late August, and the fall term runs from September to late February. This announcement is for the spring term.
Applicants in Japan and Overseas Are Both Considered
For the Spring 2027 term, applicants located both in Japan and overseas will be considered, regardless of their current location.
One-Week Orientation to Start
The programme places a strong emphasis on training, guidance and hands-on experience. It opens with a one-week orientation designed to familiarise Junior Fellows with UNU, their co-workers, facilities and the working processes within the Office of the Rector. The knowledge and practical experience gained are also useful for candidates seeking a career in the United Nations.
Five Purposes of the Programme
The Junior Fellows Internship Programme at the Office of the Rector aims:
💬 to promote interaction and dialogue between young scholars, professionals and UNU
🏛️ to familiarise Junior Fellows with the activities of the Office of the Rector and the work of UNU
🧑💼 to provide opportunities for young professionals to gain in-depth, hands-on experience in a UN agency
🗂️ to expose young professionals to an administrative working environment
🛠️ to provide support to activities within the Office of the Rector
Seven Areas You Will Support
Junior Fellows engage in ongoing initiatives that give a window into the working processes of the University, and support the Office of the Rector in these areas:
📝 Administrative research and writing: preparation of executive briefs on priority issues, plus background research and drafting of topical information briefs in support of internal policy development, related to the functioning of the University
📅 Planning: supporting the development of project management tools and systems
📊 Analysis: using analytical tools, including Microsoft Excel, to conduct internal analyses on university operations
🎤 In person and online event coordination: supporting the organisation of lectures, conferences, workshops and other public events
🗒️ Meeting coordination: logistical support and minute taking
🔍 Editorial support: proof-reading reports and copy editing
📰 Communication: preparation and dissemination of newsletters, event summaries and other communication documents
A Full-Time Schedule in Tokyo
Junior Fellows work full time during the regular working hours of the University, 9:30–17:30, Monday to Friday. Weekends and official UNU holidays are days off, and Junior Fellows are entitled to 1.5 days of leave per month. Work is primarily on-site at the UNU headquarters in Tokyo, with some flexibility for remote work. When working on-site, Junior Fellows are provided office space and facilities as appropriate for their work.
If You Work Remotely
For remote work, Junior Fellows are expected to have access to a personal laptop or desktop with basic functionalities, and internet, for the duration of their internship.
The Monthly Stipend
Interns who are not in receipt of financial support from other sources, such as universities or other institutions, receive a stipend from UNU to partially subsidise their basic living costs for the duration of the internship. Scholarships for academic studies are not considered a source of financial support for this purpose. The monthly amount is determined for each duty station based on the stipend rates in effect, and it is paid on a monthly basis. Part-time internship arrangements are prorated accordingly. The stipend is meant to help cover a portion of living costs, including transport to and from the UNU headquarters in Shibuya. If you are weighing this against grant-funded placements, our guide to how paid internships abroad really work explains the difference between a stipend and a traineeship grant.
Library, Gym and Event Access
Junior Fellows enjoy free on-site and online access to the headquarters library and gym, as available. They also have the opportunity to learn about, contribute to and assist in organising conferences, lectures, academic forums and symposiums, offline and online, that take place throughout the year.
Who Can Apply: The Nine Qualifications
The qualifications considered in each application process include, but are not limited to, the following. The candidate:
🎓 is currently pursuing or has recently completed (within two years of application) postgraduate studies, master's or doctoral, preferably in a field related to the University's work
🎂 is at or under 32 years of age at the time of application
⏳ must not have more than 5 years of work experience in their related field
🗣️ has a native or fluent command of written and spoken English
✍️ has excellent research, writing and analytical skills
🌐 can establish and maintain effective working relations with people from diverse backgrounds
💡 demonstrates resourcefulness and creativity in problem-solving
💻 has advanced computer skills: sound, hands-on knowledge of MS Office applications, with familiarity with ICT tools and a high level of proficiency in Microsoft Excel desirable
🕊️ has a demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and more specifically in the work of the United Nations University
Four Values UNU Expects
The announcement lists four values as part of the competencies:
🤲 Inclusion: take action to create an environment of dignity and respect for all, regardless of age, culture, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, geography, grade, language, nationality, racial identity, religion, sex, sex characteristics, sexual orientation, social origin or any other aspect of identity
⚖️ Integrity: act ethically, demonstrating the standards of conduct of the United Nations and taking prompt action in case of witnessing unprofessional or unethical behaviour, or any other breach of UN standards
🪞 Humility: demonstrate self-awareness and willingness to learn from others
🌍 Humanity: act according to the purposes of the United Nations: peace, dignity and equality on a healthy planet
Five Behaviours UNU Looks For
The competencies also include five behaviours, and candidates may wish to refer to the UN Values and Behaviours Framework for more information:
🔗 Connect and Collaborate: build positive relationships with others to advance the work of the United Nations and work coherently as One UN
🧭 Analyse and Plan: seek out and use data from a wide range of sources to understand problems, inform decision-making, propose evidence-based solutions and plan action
🏆 Deliver Results with Positive Impact: hold oneself and others accountable for delivering results and making a positive difference to the people and causes that the United Nations serves
📖 Learn and Develop: pursue own learning and development and contribute to the learning and development of others
🔄 Adapt and Innovate: demonstrate flexibility, agility and the ability to think and act in novel ways
How to Apply: What to Submit
You do not need an account to apply to UNU. Instead, apply via the apply link, answer a few questions that are tailored to the position, and submit the following:
📎 CV: a current and complete CV in English, attached in the place where it says to upload the P11 Form. Your résumé or CV may not exceed two single-sided pages. The P11 Form is not necessary for this position, so upload your current CV
✉️ Cover letter: inserted as required, in English, stating your interest in and qualifications for the post, no longer than one single-sided page
📋 Application form: fill in the Application Form and upload it via the link. It may be completed using MS Word or printed and filled in by hand
🧾 Funding form: fill in the Funding Form and upload it via the link. It should outline the source, amount and duration of actual and/or projected funding while in Tokyo
🖋️ Two letters of recommendation: submitted by your referees, as explained below
🏅 Language certification: only if you do not meet the English criteria explained below
What Your Cover Letter Must Cover
Your cover letter should include three things:
🔥 your motivations for applying to the programme
🤝 how you feel you may contribute to the work being done at the Office of the Rector
🧗 how this programme relates to your future career goals
Your Two Referees and the Recommendation Letters
You arrange for two letters of recommendation from referees who are familiar with your character and who have agreed to write a recommendation on your behalf. UNU reserves the right to contact your referees.
👩🏫 Academic expectation: of the two referees, at least one is expected to be a professor acquainted with your academic abilities
💼 If academic references are hard to get: certain candidates may have difficulty obtaining academic references, and it may then be more appropriate to get references from professionals or supervisors
🚫 Who cannot be a referee: family members or friends
📝 One letter each: the two referees each need to complete a letter of recommendation
📨 How it is sent: the letter must be submitted by the referee via email to the dedicated recommendation address listed in the links section. Recommendation letters submitted by the applicant themselves will not be considered
🏢 Email address used: referees must use their official institutional, academic or corporate email address
When English Certification Is Required
Applicants must provide certification in English if they do not meet either of two criteria: the applicant's native language is English, or the applicant completed an undergraduate programme or is enrolled in a graduate programme with English as the medium of instruction. If neither applies, a valid TOEFL, IELTS or TOEIC score report is required, and the original certificate or a photocopy is accepted.
A Three-Stage Selection Process
The application process is conducted in three stages. Any application that does not comply with the information provided on the announcement page will not be considered.
Stage 1: Documents, Desk Review and References
The first stage is designed to measure the applicant's motivation and background and to assess how the applicant's qualifications meet the criteria for selection. It requires submission of all the documents listed above. Evaluation of qualified candidates may include a desk review and/or a competency-based interview, and references.
Stage 2: Telephone or Zoom Interview
Shortlisted applicants proceed to a telephone or Zoom interview, arranged in advance with each of them. The interview helps the Internship Committee better understand the applicant's motivations, expectations and goals regarding participation in the Junior Fellows Internship Programme at the Office of the Rector. It also assesses communication skills, interpersonal skills and proficiency in English. Further details and an appointment schedule are provided at the closing of Stage 1, and only shortlisted candidates may be contacted.
Stage 3: A Two-Hour Practical Assignment
Applicants are asked to complete a short time-restricted assignment similar to the tasks they would work on during the internship. It takes place on the same day as the interview at an agreed time, and candidates should allow up to 2 hours to complete it.
After Selection: Agreement Form and Japanese Visa
Successful applicants sign an Agreement Form that acts as the working contract between the Junior Fellow and the Office of the Rector for the duration of the internship. The form is mailed to those selected, and a signed and dated copy must be returned to the Office of the Rector for the application to be complete. Once that is done, selected applicants begin their application for a Japanese visa, if necessary.
What the Internship Does Not Include
The purpose of the Internship Programme is not to lead to further employment with UNU but to complement an intern's studies, so there should be no expectation of employment at the end of an internship.
🪪 Status: interns do not hold international civil servant status and are not considered a staff member as defined in the United Nations Staff Rules and Regulations
🎙️ Representation: interns may not represent UNU in any official capacity
🏥 Accidents and illness: UNU accepts no responsibility for costs arising from accidents and/or illness or death incurred during the internship
Diversity, Inclusion and Conduct
UNU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities, to apply. Applications from developing countries and from women are strongly encouraged. UNU has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNU, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination.
Your Application May Be Kept for Two Years
UNU reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this internship announcement. It may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this internship cohort for upcoming internships within the next 2 years.
UNU Never Charges a Fee: Scam Warning
UNU does not charge any application, processing, training, interviewing, testing or other fee in connection with the application or recruitment process. If you receive a solicitation for the payment of a fee, disregard it. Emblems, logos, names and addresses are easily copied and reproduced, so apply particular care when submitting personal information on the web. At Youth Works Hub we only list opportunities with a direct application route, and our note on how every listing is checked covers the warning signs worth knowing before applying anywhere.
More Internships to Compare
You can browse more internship opportunities on Youth Works Hub while this one is open.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Junior Fellows internship based?
The internship is based on-site at the UNU headquarters in Tokyo, Japan, in the Office of the Rector. Work is primarily on-site, with some flexibility for remote work.
When does the Spring 2027 internship start and end?
The expected start date is 1 March 2027 and the expected end date is 27 August 2027. The internship lasts approximately six months (24 weeks).
Can I apply from outside Japan?
Yes. For the Spring 2027 term, applicants located both in Japan and overseas will be considered, regardless of their current location.
Is the internship paid?
Interns who are not in receipt of financial support from other sources, such as universities or other institutions, receive a monthly stipend from UNU to partially subsidise their basic living costs. The amount is determined for each duty station based on the stipend rates in effect, and part-time arrangements are prorated.
What is the age limit?
Applicants must be at or under 32 years of age at the time of application.
Do I need to be a student to apply?
You must be currently pursuing or have recently completed, within two years of application, postgraduate studies at master's or doctoral level, preferably in a field related to the University's work. You must also have no more than 5 years of work experience in your related field.
What documents do I need to submit?
You need a CV in English of no more than two single-sided pages, a cover letter in English of one single-sided page, the filled-in Application Form, the filled-in Funding Form and two letters of recommendation sent by your referees. An English language certification is required only if you do not meet the English criteria. You do not need an account to apply.
Who can write my recommendation letters?
Two referees who know your character and have agreed to write for you. At least one is expected to be a professor, although professionals or supervisors can be appropriate if academic references are hard to get. Family members and friends cannot be referees.
How are the recommendation letters submitted?
Each referee submits the letter by email from their official institutional, academic or corporate address. Letters submitted by the applicant themselves will not be considered.
Do I need an English test certificate?
Only if English is not your native language and you did not complete an undergraduate programme, or are not enrolled in a graduate programme, taught in English. In that case a valid TOEFL, IELTS or TOEIC score report is required, and the original certificate or a photocopy is accepted.
How does the selection process work?
There are three stages: a document review that may include a competency-based interview and references, a telephone or Zoom interview for shortlisted candidates, and a short assignment of up to 2 hours completed on the day of the interview.
What are the working hours?
Junior Fellows work full time, 9:30–17:30, Monday to Friday. Weekends and official UNU holidays are days off, and Junior Fellows are entitled to 1.5 days of leave per month.
Can I work remotely?
Work is primarily on-site in Tokyo, with some flexibility for remote work. For remote work you need a personal laptop or desktop with basic functionalities and internet for the duration of the internship.
Will the internship lead to a job at UNU?
No. The purpose of the Internship Programme is not to lead to further employment with UNU but to complement an intern's studies, so there should be no expectation of employment at the end of an internship.
Does UNU charge an application fee?
No. UNU does not charge any application, processing, training, interviewing, testing or other fee in connection with the application or recruitment process.
Deadline
⏳ 01 November 2026 (applications will not be possible after 23:59 Japan Standard Time)
Links
🔗 Job description and application (APPLY): https://careers.unu.edu/o/junior-fellows-internship-spring2027
📋 Application Form: https://onlineunu-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/g/personal/dubois_unu_edu/IQDd46s81uFeQZjKensud4PpAR_plRhKG1kPRxuSWwrs4vo?e=ozeNKe
🧾 Funding Form: https://onlineunu-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/g/personal/dubois_unu_edu/IQAa6qf0qZI0T68U5JPYHuMXAbc6PN5p1Q-XhEfYMMwbpA8?e=fNvZGZ
📨 Recommendation letters (sent by the referees, not by the applicant): ro_internship@unu.edu
📚 UN Values and Behaviours Framework: https://i.unu.edu/media/unu.edu/page/24952/Values-and-Behaviours-Framework_Final.pdf
🌐 United Nations University: https://unu.edu
