About the opportunity
The Graduate Fellows Program (GFP) helps Fellows develop an understanding of UN issues, policies, and organizations while assisting them in preparing for UN-related careers. Established in 1991, the program brings together the resources of UNA-NCA with students and international public and non-governmental organizations. Program seminars focus on contemporary global issues related to the United Nations and are supplemented by mentoring opportunities and professional development support drawing on UNA-NCA’s extensive professional network. Fellows participate in weekly in-person seminars each Friday during the spring semester, examine pressing global issues with prominent guest speakers, and complete readings and assignments prior to each session.
Funding and benefits
- Mentoring opportunities and career strategy support arranged with seasoned professionals
- Membership in the UNA-NCA Young Professionals Program, including networking event invitations
- Certificate of accomplishment awarded upon successful completion of the program
- Option to participate for academic credit with the home university, including completing a term paper
Who can apply?
- Must be enrolled graduate students studying international affairs, trade, development, or a United Nations-related discipline
- Must attend a university within the DC-Maryland-Northern Virginia (DMV) region, or be temporarily residing in the DMV region and attending an outside school with preliminary approval from the Director
- Part-time students, student interns in the DC area employed in relevant fields, and young professionals in part-time employment are welcome and encouraged to apply
- Must be current, active members in UNA-NCA
- American citizenship is not required; international students are encouraged to apply
Required documents
- Online application
- One-page letter of motivation for the graduate fellowship program
- Copy of the applicant's unofficial graduate transcript (or unofficial undergraduate transcript along with a current letter of enrollment if currently in the first year of graduate school)
- Letter of recommendation
- Updated resume
- All supporting materials must be submitted in PDF format
When to apply
- Applications for GFP 2027 are open until October 4, 2026
- Interviews will be conducted in November
How to apply
- Complete the online application form
- Prepare all required supporting documents in PDF format
- Ensure active membership in UNA-NCA
- Submit the application and supporting materials by the deadline
Additional information
- Commitment of four hours per week is expected from each Fellow, consisting of two hours for the seminar and two hours for seminar preparation, career strategy, and mentoring.
- Fellows must attend at least one UNA-NCA sponsored event during the Spring 2027 semester to earn a certificate of completion.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Graduate students in the DMV region studying international affairs or UN-related disciplines
- Individuals seeking structured mentorship and professional networking in the international public sector
- Students looking to earn academic credit through a formal fellowship program
What should you think carefully about?
- Requires a consistent four-hour weekly commitment for seminars and preparation
- Mandatory in-person attendance in Washington, D.C. on Fridays
- Requires active membership in the UNA-NCA
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
The program is designed for graduate students who want to bridge the gap between academic theory and UN-related career practice. It serves as a strategic platform for those aiming to build a professional network in the D.C. area and gain a deeper, practical understanding of global policy issues through direct interaction with experts.
Our take
Graduate students in the D.C. area with a strong interest in international organizations should consider this for the networking and professional development, though it is less suitable for those unable to commit to weekly in-person Friday sessions.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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