International Court of Justice (ICJ) Judicial Fellowship Programme for recent Law Graduates 2026/2027

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About International Court of Justice (ICJ) Judicial Fellowship Programme for recent Law Graduates

The Judicial Fellowship Programme, formerly known as the University Traineeship Programme, was established in 1999 to enable recent law graduates to gain professional experience by working for the International Court of Justice. The programme aims to improve participants’ understanding of public international law in practice and the Court’s procedures by directly involving them in the activities of the Court.

• Sponsor Organisation: International Court of Justice (ICJ)

Benefits of International Court of Justice (ICJ) Judicial Fellowship Programme for recent Law Graduates

Professional Development

• Hands-on legal experience: Fellows work directly with ICJ judges, conducting research, drafting legal memoranda, and attending hearings.

• Exposure to international law: Deepens understanding of public international law and the Court’s procedures through real-world casework.

Global Networking

• International cohort: Fellows come from diverse national backgrounds, fostering global legal connections.

• Mentorship: Close guidance from judges and legal assistants enhances professional growth.

Career Advancement

• Prestigious credential: ICJ fellowship is highly respected and can open doors to careers in international law, diplomacy, academia, and more.

• Skill building: Strengthens legal writing, analytical thinking, and multilingual communication.

Financial Support (for eligible candidates)

• Trust Fund awards: Available to candidates from developing countries nominated by universities that cannot provide financial sponsorship.

International Court of Justice (ICJ) Judicial Fellowship Programme for recent Law Graduates Requirements

In making its selection, the Court seeks candidates of diverse nationalities.

• To be eligible, candidates should be 31 years old or younger at the start of their fellowship. This requirement may be waived only in special circumstances.
• Candidates must demonstrate excellent results in their legal studies, and an interest in public international law through their studies, publications and/or work experience.
• Candidates must have an excellent command, both written and orally, of at least one of the two official languages of the Court (English and French); a working knowledge of the other language is considered an asset.

Application Date and Process

• Pre-screening questionnaire: The university must complete an online form and designate an authorized focal point.

• Confirmation email: The focal point receives instructions, the ICJ personal history form, and a candidate profile summary table.

• Document submission: The focal point submits six documents per candidate via email:

  • Official letter of nomination

  • ICJ personal history form

  • Letters of reference

  • Official academic records

  • Writing sample

  • Candidate profile summary table

Application Deadline

05 February, 2026

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