Educads
UN United Nations University logo

United Nations University

· Public University

Admissions open
Type
Public University
Founded
Students
International

United Nations University: the applicant's brief

6 findings
  1. The short answer

    The United Nations University is a public institution in Japan with diplomatic status as a United Nations institution. It suits students who want research-focused study connected to global issues in human development and welfare.

  2. What you can study

    The university is described as the think tank and academic arm of the United Nations, with a mission centered on collaborative research and education. Specific degree programmes and subject areas are not published, so the programme catalogue should be checked on the university website before applying.

  3. Getting in

    International applicants should confirm the current application route, entry requirements, and any document checklist on the official website. Because programme details are not published, the first step is to verify what is currently open for application and whether the admissions office requires additional materials for your intended study area.

  4. What it costs

    The university does not publish a tuition fee range, so confirm the current rate with its admissions office. Living costs in Tokyo should be budgeted separately, along with any visa, travel, and study-related expenses.

  5. Coming from abroad

    The language of instruction is not published, so confirm it before applying. Also check whether the programme you want is currently available, what documents are needed from abroad, and whether you will need a visa or other immigration paperwork for study in Japan.

  6. How it compares

    Japan has 571 universities, so this institution sits in a very large higher-education system. It stands apart from most Japanese universities because it is a United Nations institution with a research mission focused on global human development and welfare rather than a broad list of taught degree subjects.

Written from this university's catalogue entry and its cited encyclopedia summary. Figures are only shown where the institution or a cited source publishes them — always confirm fees and entry requirements with the university itself before applying.

Questions about United Nations University

What type of institution is the United Nations University?

It is a public university and the think tank and academic arm of the United Nations.

Where is it based?

It is headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan.

What does it focus on?

Its mission is to help resolve global issues related to human development and welfare through collaborative research and education.

How many universities are there in Japan?

Japan has 571 universities.

Overview

The United Nations University (UNU) is the think tank and academic arm of the United Nations. Headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan, with diplomatic status as a UN institution, its mission is to help resolve global issues related to human development and welfare through collaborative research and education.

Tuition fees & costs

Indicative annual tuition

On request

Indicative living cost

Fees vary by programme and are indicative. Confirm exact fees with the university before applying.

Admission requirements

How to apply

  1. 1Check the entry requirements and intake dates for your chosen programme on the official university website.
  2. 2Confirm you meet the academic requirements (high-school certificate, bachelor’s degree or equivalent) for the programme.
  3. 3Apply directly through the university admission portal, or via its official application platform.
  4. 4Submit your transcripts and English-proficiency scores (IELTS / TOEFL / Duolingo English Test) and pay the application fee.
  5. 5On receiving your offer letter, accept it and begin your student-visa process for Japan.

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Last updated 29 Aug 2026. Information is provided for guidance — verify with official sources before applying.

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