Explore UNESCO Fellowships 2027, including funded opportunities for students, PhD candidates, researchers, early career professionals, and innovators in education, science, engineering, culture, and sustainable development.
UNESCO Fellowships Programme provides financial support for research, practical training, and innovative projects across UNESCO’s areas of focus. Supported by donors and extrabudgetary funds, these fellowships help students, PhD candidates, researchers, early career professionals, and project leaders gain knowledge, develop new skills, and contribute to sustainable development and international cooperation.
According to UNESCO, more than 450 fellowships are available to support studies, research, and innovative initiatives across multiple disciplines.
About UNESCO Fellowships
UNESCO fellowships are designed as a means of empowerment by providing financial assistance for:
- Academic studies
- Research
- Professional training
- Practical learning
- Innovative projects
The programmes are intended for:
- Students
- PhD candidates
- Early career professionals
- Project initiators
Their objective is to foster growth, innovation, and international collaboration.
UNESCO Fellowships 2027 Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | UNESCO |
| Programme | UNESCO Fellowships |
| Number of Opportunities | More than 450 fellowships |
| Eligible Applicants | Students, PhD candidates, researchers, early career professionals, project initiators |
| Areas of Focus | Education, Science, Engineering, Culture, Research, Sustainable Development |
| Funding | Financial support for studies, research, training, and projects |
UNESCO Japan Young Researchers Fellowships
One of UNESCO’s flagship fellowship opportunities is the:
UNESCO/Japan Young Researchers’ Fellowships Programme (UNESCO/Keizo Obuchi Research Fellowships Programme).
The programme supports young researchers undertaking research in UNESCO’s priority fields.
The current application cycle listed by UNESCO remains open until 30 September 2026.
Fellowships for Students and PhD Candidates
UNESCO offers several programmes for students and doctoral researchers, including:
UNESCO/People’s Republic of China (The Great Wall)
- 75 fellowships
TWAS PhD Fellowships
- 160 fellowships
OWSD PhD Fellowships
Supporting doctoral research opportunities.
UNESCO/ISEDC (Russian Federation) Co-Sponsored Fellowships
- 20 fellowships
These programmes support learning, research, and practical training in UNESCO-related fields.
Early Career Fellowships
UNESCO also supports researchers and professionals at the beginning of their careers.
Opportunities include:
UNESCO/Keizo Obuchi Japan Young Researchers Fellowships
Supporting young researchers pursuing innovative research.
UNESCO/People’s Republic of China (The Great Wall)
- 75 fellowships
UNESCO/Poland Co-Sponsored Fellowships in Engineering
- 28 fellowships
UNESCO/Poland Co-Sponsored Fellowships in Archaeology and Conservation
- 7 fellowships
UNESCO/Republic of Korea Co-Sponsored Fellowships
- 25 fellowships
UNESCO/Kingdoms Institute Kingdom of Saudi Arabia AlUla Fellowships Programme
- 10 fellowships
TWAS Postdoctoral Fellowships
- 100 fellowships
OWSD Early Career Fellowship
Supporting early-career researchers.
Silk Roads Youth Research Grant
- 12 fellowships
Fellowships for Innovative Projects
UNESCO also supports innovative project development through programmes such as:
Green Chemistry for Life
A collaboration involving:
- PhosAgro
- UNESCO
- IUPAC
UNESCO/Nestlé Because Youth Matter
- 20 fellowships
These initiatives encourage innovative ideas and sustainable solutions.
Other Opportunities
UNESCO also lists additional opportunities, including the:
- GEM Report Fellowship
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility varies depending on the fellowship programme.
Across the listed opportunities, applicants may include:
- Undergraduate students
- Graduate students
- PhD candidates
- Postdoctoral researchers
- Early career professionals
- Young researchers
- Project innovators
Applicants should review the specific eligibility requirements for the fellowship they intend to apply for.
Benefits of UNESCO Fellowships
Depending on the programme, fellowships may provide support for:
- Research activities
- Practical training
- Academic studies
- Professional development
- International collaboration
- Innovation projects
- Knowledge exchange
Funding and programme benefits differ by fellowship.
How to Apply
The general application process includes:
- Identify the fellowship that matches your background and interests.
- Review the programme-specific eligibility requirements.
- Prepare the required application materials.
- Submit your application before the stated deadline.
- Await notification from the programme administrators.
Application procedures and documentation requirements vary by fellowship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are UNESCO Fellowships intended for?
UNESCO fellowships support students, doctoral candidates, researchers, early career professionals, and project leaders working in UNESCO’s priority areas.
How many fellowships does UNESCO offer?
UNESCO states that more than 450 fellowships are available across its various programmes.
Are all fellowships the same?
No. Each programme has its own objectives, eligibility criteria, funding arrangements, and application process.
Are there opportunities for early career researchers?
Yes. UNESCO offers multiple fellowships specifically designed for young researchers and early career professionals, including programmes in engineering, archaeology, conservation, postdoctoral research, and youth research initiatives.
Final Thoughts
The UNESCO Fellowships 2027 programme brings together a diverse portfolio of funding opportunities that support education, scientific research, professional development, cultural preservation, engineering, sustainability, and innovation. With opportunities for students, PhD candidates, postdoctoral researchers, and early career professionals, UNESCO fellowships provide valuable pathways to gain international experience, advance research, and contribute to global development.
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