UN Geneva Graduate Study Programme 2026 (Funded)

The United Nations Graduate Study Programme (GSP) 2026 is one of the most respected educational initiatives offered by the United Nations Office at Geneva. Running for over 60 years, the GSP brings together graduate students from all over the world for an intensive two-week summer programme focused on global governance, diplomacy, international cooperation, and the work of the UN system.

Held in Geneva — the heart of international diplomacy — this programme offers a rare chance to gain firsthand exposure to the United Nations and its partner institutions.

What Is the Graduate Study Programme?

The GSP is the UN’s longest-running educational programme. It is designed to help graduate students:

• Understand the structure and functions of the United Nations
• Explore major global issues such as peace and security, human rights, sustainable development, and humanitarian action
• Engage with senior UN officials, diplomats, and subject-matter experts
• Build knowledge about multilateral processes and international decision-making
• Strengthen research, collaboration, and presentation skills

Through lectures, workshops, group projects, and institutional visits, participants gain insights that are impossible to obtain from classrooms alone.

About the 2026 Edition

The 64th Graduate Study Programme will take place in late June to early July 2026. Each year the programme is organized around a central theme connected to global affairs or the UN’s priority areas.

Participants can expect:

• Morning lectures by UN officials, diplomats, and researchers
• Afternoon group work and research assignments
• Visits to international organizations in Geneva
• Discussions on global issues from multiple perspectives
• Collaborative presentations with peers from around the world

The programme is immersive, intellectually demanding, and deeply enriching for anyone interested in international relations.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Graduate Study Programme, applicants must:

• Be between 22 and 32 years old
• Have completed at least a Bachelor’s degree
• Be currently enrolled in a graduate-level programme (Master’s or equivalent)
• Be proficient in English (working language of the programme)
• Ideally have knowledge of French, as Geneva is a bilingual city
• Not hold full-time professional employment during the programme period

The UN seeks students who demonstrate academic excellence, motivation, and a strong interest in global affairs.

Typical Application Requirements

Although exact details are released closer to the application opening (usually in December), the application package generally includes:

• Updated CV
• Motivation video or written statement
• Recommendation letter(s)
• Proof of graduate enrolment
• Copy of academic certificates
• Copy of passport or national ID

The programme itself is free, but participants must cover their own travel, accommodation, visa, meals, and living expenses.

Why the GSP Matters

1. Learn from Global Experts

Participants engage directly with UN officials and international specialists.

2. Experience International Geneva

The programme opens the door to one of the world’s busiest diplomatic hubs.

3. Build a Global Network

Students meet peers from all regions, forming long-lasting friendships and professional links.

4. Boost Your Career

GSP experience is highly valued in international relations, global development, public policy, diplomacy, and academia.

5. Understand the UN from the Inside

Few programmes provide such close exposure to real UN processes and institutions.

The UN Geneva Graduate Study Programme 2026 is a dream opportunity for graduate students who aspire to work in global governance, diplomacy, human rights, or international development. It provides unparalleled access to UN knowledge, international dialogue, and professional networks that can shape an entire career.