The United Nations Geneva Graduate Study Programme (GSP) 2026 is now open for applications. As the UN’s longest-running educational initiative, the GSP has empowered more than 3,500 young leaders from over 120 countries over the past 63 years. This prestigious two-week summer programme, held at the historic Palais des Nations, provides unparalleled academic exposure to the UN system and International Geneva.
What Is the Graduate Study Programme?
The GSP is designed to deepen participants’ understanding of the United Nations and global governance through:
- Expert-led lectures and presentations
- Academic group projects and research
- Visits to key international organisations
- High-level networking opportunities with diplomats, UN officials, and global experts
The programme is highly selective, attracting exceptional graduate students passionate about international affairs, diplomacy, human rights, development, and global governance.
Programme Dates & Theme for 2026
The 64th Graduate Study Programme will take place:
- 29 June – 10 July 2026
- At the Palais des Nations, Geneva
Theme for 2026:
AI and Emerging Technologies: Realities, Risks, and Opportunities
Participants will explore how artificial intelligence and new technologies are transforming:
- Global governance
- International development
- Peace and security
- Human rights protections
Through lectures, institutional visits, and collaborative research, participants will analyse both the promise and challenges of AI-driven global change.
Eligibility Criteria
The programme is open to graduate students worldwide who meet all of the following requirements:
- Aged 22–32 at the time of application
- Completion of a Bachelor’s degree
- Current enrolment in a graduate programme (Master’s or equivalent)
- Fluency in written and spoken English
- Not employed full-time
Applicants are evaluated based on:
- Academic merit
- Extracurricular or professional experience
- Motivation and clarity of purpose
- Strength of recommendation letter
The GSP prioritises gender balance and geographical diversity in its selection.
Application Timeline
- Applications open: 5 December 2025
- Application deadline: 20 February 2026 (12:00 noon Geneva time)
- Results announced: First week of April 2026
⚠️ Late, incomplete, or ineligible applications will not be considered.
Programme Cost – Is It Fully Funded?
Participation in the programme is completely free. However, the UN does not provide financial support.
Participants must cover their own:
- International travel
- Visa fees
- Accommodation
- Meals and daily expenses
Many past attendees secured funding through:
- Their universities
- National governments
- Research foundations
- Alumni associations
Required Application Documents
Applicants must upload the following documents to the official online portal:
- CV (maximum 1 page)
- Motivation video (maximum 60 seconds)
- Recommendation letter (maximum 1 page)
- Copy of a valid passport (EU/EFTA nationals may use a national ID)
- Bachelor’s degree certificate
- Proof of current graduate enrolment
Yenching Global Symposium (YGS) 2026 | Fully Funded Global Youth Conference in China
Important notes:
- All documents must be in English (or accompanied by an official English translation).
- Applicants must upload all documents themselves—referees cannot submit on their behalf.
- The motivation video must:
- Be in English
- Be in vertical format
- Have a plain background
- Contain no edits, filters, or AI enhancements
- Be uploaded via YouTube, Vimeo, Dropbox, OneDrive, or Google Drive
Incomplete applications will automatically be rejected.
Technical & Application Rules
- Applications must be submitted online — email submissions are not accepted.
- No confirmation email is sent; successful submission occurs when all fields are complete and the form is submitted.
- The programme team cannot make edits to submitted applications.
- Applicants may apply only once.
- All applicants will receive the final decision by early April 2026.
What the GSP Offers (Beyond Academics)
While the GSP is not a recruitment programme, it provides invaluable benefits:
- Exposure to United Nations operations and international diplomacy
- Insight into global policymaking processes
- A strong credential for academic and professional advancement
- Access to an international network of peers and UN experts
Many alumni have gone on to work in:
- The United Nations system
- International organizations
- Government ministries
- Diplomatic services
- NGOs and global think tanks
Travel, Visa and Logistics
- Participants are responsible for arranging their own visas and travel.
- Accommodation is self-funded.
- Visa support letters will be provided upon request.
Communication and Follow-Up
Applicants must provide a valid, regularly checked email address. Due to high application volume:
- Individual updates cannot be provided before results are released.
- The GSP team cannot modify applications post-submission.
- If you have not received a response by the end of April 2026, consider the application unsuccessful.
Eligible candidates are welcome to reapply in future years.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official UN Geneva Graduate Study Programme portal during the application period.
