The 64th United Nations Graduate Study Programme (GSP) is a free, two-week summer seminar (June 29 – July 10, 2026) in Geneva under the theme “AI and Emerging Technologies: Realities, Risks and Opportunities.” It is open to currently enrolled graduate students, aged 22-32, who are fluent in English and not employed full-time. Selection is based on academic success, motivation, and a one-page CV and 60-second video submission. Participants cover all personal expenses. The deadline is February 20, 2026.
United Nations Geneva 64th Graduate Study Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | United Nations Information Service (UNIS) at UN Geneva |
| Program Focus | AI and Emerging Technologies: Realities, Risks and Opportunities |
| Category | Intensive Two-Week Summer Seminar |
| Eligible Applicants | Currently Enrolled Graduate Students (Ages 22-32) |
| Program Location | Palais des Nations, Geneva, Switzerland |
| Program Dates | 29 June to 10 July 2026 |
| Program Cost | Free Participation (Participants cover travel/living expenses) |
| Application Deadline | 20 February 2026 (12 noon Geneva time) |
United Nations Information Service’s 64th Graduate Study Programme Details
The United Nations Information Service’s 64th Graduate Study Programme (GSP) is the longest-running educational initiative of the United Nations, offering an intensive two-week summer seminar at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland. The 2026 session aims to provide participants with a deeper understanding of the UN’s work and “International Geneva” in a rapidly evolving global context.
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The 2026 GSP will be held from 29 June to 10 July 2026, focusing on the highly relevant and critical theme: “AI and Emerging Technologies: Realities, Risks and Opportunities.”
This program is a unique opportunity for young scholars to engage directly with UN experts through lectures, research, collaborative group work, visits to institutions, and networking, fostering global understanding and professional development.
Program Structure and Key Benefits
Participation in the Graduate Study Programme is free of charge, with the core value derived from the quality of instruction, access, and networking opportunities within the UN system.
Tier 1: Specialized Educational Focus (AI and Emerging Technologies)
- Thematic Immersion: Participants will study the implications of AI and Emerging Technologies across various UN mandates, from peace and security to development and human rights.
- Expert Access: Direct engagement with UN officials, diplomats, and international experts through lectures and presentations at the Palais des Nations.
- Research and Collaboration: Opportunities to deepen understanding through focused research and work in groups, promoting collaborative problem-solving on global issues.
Tier 2: Networking and Professional Exposure
- International Geneva: Insights into the complex network of “International Geneva,” including visits to institutions and specialized agencies.
- Networking: Valuable networking opportunities with peers from over 120 countries and UN staff, essential for young professionals in international relations.
- Program History: Joining a prestigious alumni network of almost 3,500 young people who have successfully completed the Programme over the past 63 years.
Tier 3: Program Logistics and Costs
- Participation Cost: Participation is free of charge.
- Participant Responsibility: Participants are fully responsible for their own personal expenses, including travel, visa arrangements, accommodation, and meals for the two-week duration in Geneva.
Eligibility Requirements for the UN Geneva GSP 2026
The Selection Committee prioritizes currently enrolled graduate students who demonstrate academic success and a strong commitment to global issues, while aiming for gender and regional parity.
- Academic Status: Must be a currently enrolled graduate student (Master’s or PhD level) at a higher education institution.
- Age Limit: Must be between 22 and 32 years old at the time of the application.
- Employment Status: Must not be employed full time by government, state agencies, or the private sector.
- Language Proficiency: Must be fluent in both written and spoken English, as it is the official language of the seminar.
- Screening Criteria: Applicants are screened based on:
- Academic success
- Extracurricular or professional activities
- Motivation statements
- Recommendation letters
How to Apply for the UN Geneva GSP 2026 (Step by Step)
The application process requires careful preparation of both traditional documents and a brief motivation video to convey the applicant’s passion and fit for the program.
- Prepare Documents: Gather and prepare all required application documents, paying strict attention to the specified length limits (one page maximum for CV and letter, 60 seconds maximum for the video).
- Record Motivation Video: Create a motivation video (maximum 60 seconds) that clearly articulates your interest in the GSP and the theme of AI and Emerging Technologies.
- Secure Recommendation: Obtain a recommendation letter (maximum one page) from a professor or supervisor that speaks to your academic success and potential.
- Submit Online: Complete the online application and upload all required documents before the deadline, ensuring the submission is finalized by 12 noon Geneva time.
Application Deadline: 20 February 2026 (12 noon Geneva time)
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the theme of the 64th UN Graduate Study Programme in 2026?
The theme for the 2026 GSP is “AI and Emerging Technologies: Realities, Risks and Opportunities.”
2. When and where will the two-week seminar be held?
The seminar will be held from 29 June to 10 July 2026 at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland.
3. What is the required age range for applicants to the GSP?
The seminar is open to currently enrolled graduate students who are between the ages of 22 and 32 years old.
4. What are the costs covered by the United Nations for the participants?
Participation in the seminar is free, but participants are responsible for all their own expenses, including travel, visa, accommodation, and meals.
5. What are the key elements required in the application documents?
Key required elements include a CV (maximum one page), a motivation video (maximum 60 seconds), and a recommendation letter (maximum one page).
6. What language proficiency is required to participate in the program?
Applicants must be fluent in both written and spoken English, as it is the official language of the Program.
7. What academic status must the applicants hold?
Applicants must be currently enrolled graduate students (Master’s or PhD) at a higher education institution.
8. Is the program open to individuals who are currently employed full-time?
No, the seminar is explicitly not open to applicants who are employed full time.
9. What criteria are used by the Selection Committee to screen applicants?
Applicants are screened on the basis of their academic success, extracurricular or professional activities, motivation statements, and recommendation letters.
10. Does the Selection Committee provide individual feedback to applicants?
No, due to the large volume of applications, decisions by the Selection Committee are final, and no individual feedback is provided.
