United Nations Scholarships and Fellowships – Overview (2025).
The United Nations (un) is an international organization composed of numerous specialized agencies, programs, and offices that tackle issues like peace, development, human rights, climate change, and public health. While the un itself does not offer traditional academic scholarships in the same way universities do, it provides a wide range of fellowships, internships, and training programs that serve a similar purpose: empowering individuals—especially from developing countries—to grow professionally and contribute to global development.
These opportunities are perfect for students, researchers, and professionals who are passionate about international development, diplomacy, policy, sustainability, human rights, gender equality, and other related fields.
Scholarships and Fellowships that are Not Related to the Main Topic.
1: United Nations University (UNU) scholarships.
The United Nations University (UNU) provides graduate-level degree programs through its global institutes. Certain universities, including those in Japan, Germany, and the Netherlands, provide master's and doctoral scholarships, particularly for students from low- and middle-income countries.
Areas of expertise: sustainability, governance, public policy, environment, global health, and economics.
Benefits: tuition waivers, monthly stipends, and research grants (depending on the program and funding source).
2: UNF:
This esteemed program provides fully funded fellowships to professionals from developing states who are involved in ocean affairs, maritime law, or the sustainable development of the seas.
The duration of the program was 9 months, which included both academic study and practical training.
The benefits of this program include travel, accommodation, stipend, and full academic sponsorship.
3: Unesco fellowships and scholarships.
The organization that focuses on education, culture, science, and communication, known as unesco, provides numerous programs that promote research and capacity-building in these fields.
Examples::
Unesco/isedc co-sponsored fellowships (in energy and sustainability).
Unesco-kalinga fellowship (for science communicators).
4: Collaborations for Experts
Numerous non-profit organizations provide mid-career fellowships specifically tailored for government officials, non-profit workers, and researchers.
Examples::
The African People's Organization for Human Rights Fellowship.
Climate Change Conference
A fellowship program that supports human rights.
These frequently entail training at a central location and work placements in field offices or collaborating institutions.
General eligibility criteria.
Citizenship from a developing or least-developed country is typically a prerequisite.
A strong academic foundation in fields such as international relations, development studies, law, health, education, or science is highly relevant for this position.
For professional fellowships: 2–5 years of work experience.
Proficiency in English or French is usually necessary.
How to Utilize.
Visit specific un agency websites (e.G., [www.Un.Org](https://www.Un.Org), [www.Unesco.Org](https://www.Unesco.Org), or [unu.Edu](https://unu.Edu)).
As part of the application process, make sure to have a well-crafted CV, a compelling motivation letter, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
Make sure to adhere to the deadlines for program applications, as they differ by program but typically occur between September and April for the following year's intake.
Result:
The United Nations offers a range of scholarships and fellowships that are highly esteemed and influential. They not only assist in your educational and professional growth but also connect you with a worldwide community of individuals dedicated to making a positive impact. If you are enthusiastic about making a positive impact on the world, these programs provide an ideal opportunity for personal and professional growth.