Applications are now open for the 2026 WIPO Young Experts Program (YEP), a unique two-year initiative designed to train and empower the next generation of global Intellectual Property (IP) leaders.
The program equips young professionals with critical skills in IP and innovation to strengthen ecosystems and promote economic development across the world. Participants will gain hands-on experience by contributing directly to WIPO’s wide-ranging initiatives in Geneva, Switzerland.
Although the program is not a recruitment path into WIPO, it is tailored to help professionals create lasting impact in their home countries and beyond. Notably, participants are not eligible to apply for WIPO jobs during and for two years after the program.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: Switzerland
- Category: Training | Fellowships
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Reward:
- Full Sponsorship
- $6,300 Monthly Stipend
- Travel Costs
- Visa Support
- No IELTS Required
- Deadline: August 14, 2025
Scholarship Details
The WIPO Young Experts Program (YEP) is a fully sponsored training opportunity aimed at nurturing young professionals with the potential to drive innovation globally. During the two-year program, participants will engage in the technical and strategic dimensions of IP, while collaborating on real-world projects led by WIPO.
A total of 10 young experts will be selected for the 2026 cohort. The program is based in Geneva, Switzerland, and begins officially on February 1, 2026. Orientation activities will be held in January 2026, and successful applicants must work onsite at WIPO headquarters. Remote work is not permitted.
Eligibility Criteria
To be qualified for the WIPO Young Experts Program 2026, applicants must:
- Be 35 years old or younger at the time of application
- Be available for the full 24-month program (2026–2027)
- Hold a university degree
- Have a minimum of two years’ relevant experience
- Possess excellent analytical, research, and organizational skills
- Demonstrate strong communication and interpersonal abilities
- Be fluent in spoken and written English
- Have knowledge of, or experience in, intellectual property, innovation, or creativity
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants of the WIPO Young Experts Program will receive:
- A monthly stipend of 5,000 CHF (approximately $6,300)
- 50% contribution toward medical insurance costs
- Accident insurance coverage
- Travel cost support
- Possible visa facilitation for entry into Switzerland
- Potential guidance on accommodation arrangements
Required Documents
To apply for this opportunity, applicants must submit:
- Completed application form
- Motivational cover letter explaining your suitability and potential contributions to the program
- Confirmed references (ensure they are up to date and contactable)
How to Apply
To apply for the 2026 WIPO Young Experts Program:
- Visit the official application webpage by clicking HERE
- Submit all required documents before the deadline
- For inquiries, send an email to [email protected] regarding onboarding or logistics
Please Note: Participation in this program disqualifies candidates from applying for any WIPO employment positions during the program and for two years after completion.
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