Study at the UN: Graduate Study Programme 2026

Graduate students worldwide are invited to apply for the 64th edition of the United Nations Graduate Study Programme (GSP), an intensive academic experience hosted at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland. The 2026 programme will run from 29 June to 10 July 2026, focusing on the theme:

“AI and Emerging Technologies: Realities, Risks, and Opportunities”

For over six decades, the GSP has introduced young scholars to the work of the UN system and the international organizations based in Geneva. To date, nearly 3,500 participants have gained insight into global governance, diplomacy, and multilateral cooperation through this flagship programme.

Important Dates

Application Deadline: 20 February 2026 (12:00 noon Geneva time)
Results Announcement: First week of April 2026

Costs

There is no fee to participate in the GSP. However, participants are responsible for covering their travel, accommodation, visa, and meals. Some universities or external donors may provide financial support to selected students.

Why Apply

The UN Graduate Study Programme offers participants:

Direct exposure to the UN system and international policy processes
Interaction with diplomats, UN officials, and experts
Networking opportunities with peers from around the world
Insight into the ethical, social, and governance challenges of emerging technologies
Valuable experience for those aspiring to careers in diplomacy, global policy, or international organizations

Note: The programme is not a pathway to UN employment, but it provides a strong foundation for careers in global governance and related fields.

Programme Overview

Selected participants will engage in a two-week intensive programme, including:

Lectures and sessions led by UN officials, diplomats, and experts
Workshops, collaborative research projects, and interactive discussions
Visits to international institutions in Geneva
Engagement with students and peers from diverse academic and regional backgrounds

The curriculum is designed to strengthen analytical skills, deepen understanding of international policy, and foster dialogue on the global implications of rapidly advancing technologies.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

Age: 22–32 years
Education: Completed a Bachelor’s degree and currently enrolled in a graduate-level programme
Employment: Not employed full-time
Language: Strong command of English; all documents must be submitted in English (translations required if documents are in other languages)
Selection: Based on academic merit, motivation, extracurricular involvement, and overall suitability. The UN encourages applications from all regions for balanced representation.

Eligible Countries