Fellowship Program at the PCA Ha Noi Office

The Fellowship Program at the office of the Permanent Court of Arbitration (the “PCA”) in Ha Noi (the “PCA Ha Noi Office”) offers recent law graduates or young legal professionals the opportunity to work at an intergovernmental organization and international arbitration institution for one full year. Over the course of the year, the Fellow will gain experience in the operations of the PCA’s International Bureau and the PCA Ha Noi Office, with an emphasis on both the practical and legal aspects of international dispute resolution.

In addition, the Fellow will work with the PCA Representative in Viet Nam to promote the PCA in the region. The Fellow will hold the title of Assistant Legal Counsel for the period of the Fellowship.

Qualifications

• A law degree that qualifies the applicant to apply for bar admission in their home jurisdiction (through examination, traineeship, or otherwise) is a minimum requirement. The program is open to applicants whose qualifications exceed this minimum requirement (g., advanced law degree candidates and holders, practicing lawyers, and other legal professionals).
• Fluency in English is required. Applications from the Asia-Pacific are highly encouraged.
• Specialization in international dispute resolution or public international law is an asset.

Dates

The Fellowship at the PCA Ha Noi Office shall run for twelve months from the date of hiring. Applications must be submitted by Tuesday, 5 May 2026. Candidates are kindly encouraged to submit their applications at their earliest convenience. The successful candidate will be expected to start the position in June 2026.

How to Apply

Send an e-mail to [email protected], copied to [email protected], indicating “PCA Ha Noi Fellowship” in the subject line, and attaching a single PDF comprising an application package with the following documents:

• A carefully written cover letter that indicates:

(a) how you expect to benefit from the program;

(b) how you can contribute to the PCA; and

(c) a brief description of areas of interest and knowledge of law.

• A curriculum vitae;
• A letter of recommendation from a professor or senior professional;
• Copies of academic transcripts (scans or photos are sufficient); and
• Proof of proficiency in English (for non-native speakers), or request for a waiver of such proof, citing relevant professional or academic experience. The PCA accepts the following as proof of proficiency in English:

(a) A score of 7 or above on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

(b) 600 or higher on the Test for English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). For computer-based tests, a score above 250 will be considered, and for internet-based tests 100 is the minimum score.

Further Information

Fellowships are awarded to individuals with outstanding academic and/or professional records who meet the qualifications outlined above, and who seek work experience in the field of international arbitration.

Only applicants invited for an interview will be contacted.

Although Fellows are not formally considered staff members of the PCA, they participate in the PCA’s activities as members of the International Bureau.

Fellows will be provided a stipend commensurate with experience and the costs of living of Ha Noi.