The United Nations (NFF) Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2026 is a top-tier fully funded 9-month training program. This UN Nippon Fellowship available for professionals from developing countries who work in ocean affairs and the law of the sea. The fellowship has two parts. The first part is a 3-month intensive training at the UN Headquarters in New York. The second part is a 6-month advanced research and study period at a leading host institution worldwide. This program helps participants gain deeper knowledge research skills and global experience in marine governance and related fields.
Key Points:
- Two-phase setup: UN HQ plus global academic research.
- Perfect for: Professionals in ocean affairs, law of the sea & marine policy.
- Target group: Citizens of developing countries.
- Focus: Building skills in international marine law and governance.
- Fully funded: Includes travel tuition research and living costs.
Nippon Foundation Fellowship Summary
| Fellowship In | USA, Europe, Asia, Australia, Canada and more |
| Available For | Internationals |
| Duration | 9 Months |
| Last Date to Apply | 15 September 2025 |
Also Read: Fully Funded NPP Fellowship 2026 in USA – NASA Postdoctoral Program
NFF Benefits
- Full accommodation costs for the entire fellowship
- Round-trip economy flight tickets to and from host locations
- Visa application fees covered
- Monthly allowance for living and personal expenses
- Local transport assistance for daily travel
- $100 monthly book allowance for research materials
- Full medical insurance included
Eligibility Criteria
- Professional Background
- Currently serving as a mid-level government official or professional working in areas such as:
- Ocean affairs
- Law of the sea
- Marine sciences
- Sustainable development (SDG-14)
- Maritime boundaries and zones
- Marine resource management
- Coastal zone planning
- Shipping and maritime transport
- Maritime security
- Marine environmental protection
- Currently serving as a mid-level government official or professional working in areas such as:
- General Requirements
- Citizen of a developing country.
- Hold a university degree or equivalent certification.
- Capable of advanced academic research.
- Mid-level government official or professional.
- Age Limit: Must be between 25 and 45 years old.
- Availability: Must fully commit to the 9-month program without other work duties.
Also Read – Royal Society University Research Fellowship 2026 – Opening Soon
NPP Program Structure
Phase One: UN Headquarters New York USA
- Duration: 3 months (March/April to June)
- Key activities:
- Intensive DOALOS program (UN Ocean Affairs Division)
- Professional skills development
- Exposure to UN policy-making processes
Phase Two: Global Host Institutions
- Duration: 6 months (July to December)
- Key features:
- Advanced academic research and study
- Placement at one of 32 top universities worldwide
- Focus on marine governance and legal studies research
Post-Fellowship Expectations
After completing the program fellows must:
- Return to their home countries
- Apply skills to advance national & regional marine initiatives:
- Ocean policy
- Maritime law
- Sustainable marine development
How to Apply? UN Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2026
- Submit your application only through the official UN Nippon Foundation Fellowship website.
- Read all instructions carefully before applying.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted by the selection team.
Important Note
- The selection committee will reach out directly to chosen applicants.
- No other application methods will be accepted.