The WIPO Young Experts Program (YEP) is a 2-year professional development opportunity for early-career individuals passionate about Intellectual Property (IP) and its role in innovation and sustainable development. Participants gain hands-on experience across WIPO’s initiatives, building technical and strategic skills while contributing to global IP work. The program is focused on learning and career growth, not recruitment, and participants cannot apply for WIPO jobs during the program or for two years after its completion. Application Deadline: 14th August 2025
Basic Information
- Program Name: WIPO Young Experts Program (YEP) 2026-27
- Location: World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Headquarters, Geneva, Switzerland
- Duration: 24 months (February 1, 2026 – January 31, 2028)
- Application Period: July 8, 2025 – August 14, 2025
- Application Deadline: August 14, 2025
- Program Start Date: February 1, 2026
Key Dates:
- Applications open: July 8, 2025
- Applications close: August 14, 2025
- Screening tests: End of August
- Virtual interviews: September–October
- Final selection: November 2025
- Onboarding: December 2025–January 2026
- Program begins: February 1, 2026
University/Institution Details
- Host Organization: World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)
- Type: Specialized United Nations agency
- Address: 34, chemin des Colombettes, CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland
Study Areas
- Primary Focus: Intellectual Property (IP)
- Related Areas:
Assignments are tailored to WIPO’s current projects and may include work in digital outreach, patents, copyright, statistics, and commercialization.
WIPO Young Experts Program Benefits
- Monthly stipend: 5,000 Swiss Francs (CHF)
- 75% medical insurance coverage
- Accident insurance
- Travel expense contribution
- Visa assistance (if needed)
- Support with accommodation
- Professional Development: Mentoring, training, and exposure to international networks
Benefits Not Included
- Full coverage of all living expenses (stipend is intended to cover most, but not all, costs)
- Family/dependent support (program is designed for individual participants)
- Permanent employment at WIPO after completion (participants are not eligible to apply for WIPO jobs during or for two years after the program)
- Tuition fees (not an academic program)
Commonwealth Professional Fellowship 2026 in UK
Eligibility Criteria for WIPO Young Experts Program
- Maximum age: 35 years at time of application
- Available for full 24 months (2026–2027)
- First-level university degree required
- Minimum 2 years of relevant experience
- Strong analytical, research, and organizational skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
- Fluent in written and spoken English
- Knowledge in innovation and/or creativity
- Availability: Must commit to the full 24-month program in Geneva
Required Documents for Application
- Ensure accuracy and completeness before submitting
- Motivational Cover Letter: Clearly stating your interest and suitability for the role
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume
- Updated references: Contact details for professional references (ensure they are up to date)
- Proof of Education: Degree certificates or transcripts
- Proof of Experience: Letters or documents verifying relevant work experience
- Language Proficiency: Evidence of English proficiency if not native
WIPO Young Experts Program Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet all criteria (age, education, experience, skills).
- Prepare Application Materials: Gather your CV, cover letter, references, and supporting documents.
- Apply Online: Submit your application via the WIPO Careers Portal during the application window.
- Initial Screening: Shortlisted candidates will undergo screening tests (end of August 2025).
- Virtual Interview: Successful candidates will be invited for interviews (September–October 2025).
- Selection: Final selection and notifications (November 2025).
- Onboarding: Selected candidates complete onboarding (December 2025–January 2026).
- Program Commencement: Start in Geneva, Switzerland (February 1, 2026).
Tips for a Successful Application
- Tailor Your Cover Letter: Clearly explain your motivation, relevant experience, and how you can contribute to WIPO’s mission.
- Highlight IP Knowledge: Emphasize any experience or interest in intellectual property, innovation, or creativity.
- Demonstrate International Mindset: Showcase multicultural experience and adaptability.
- Prepare References Early: Contact referees in advance to ensure timely responses.
- Meet All Requirements: Double-check eligibility and document completeness before submission.
- Apply Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to avoid technical issues.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Geneva
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (CHF) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 700–1,200 |
| Food | 400–600 |
| Transportation | 70–100 |
| Health Insurance | 200–350 (partially covered) |
| Miscellaneous | 200–300 |
| Total | 1,570–2,550 |
- The 5,000 CHF stipend is generally sufficient to cover typical living expenses for a single person in Geneva.
Why Choose This Internship?
- Global Exposure: Work at a leading UN agency in a multicultural environment.
- Professional Growth: Gain hands-on experience in IP, innovation, and international policy.
- Mentoring & Training: Access to world-class experts and tailored professional development.
- Network Building: Join a global community of young professionals and WIPO alumni.
- Impact: Contribute to shaping global IP policies and supporting innovation worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the program fully funded?
A: Yes, the stipend and benefits are designed to cover living and travel costs, but personal budgeting is advised.
Q: Can I apply if I am over 35?
A: No, applicants must be 35 years old or younger at the time of application.
Q: Do I need to speak French?
A: English proficiency is essential; knowledge of French or other UN languages is an advantage but not required.
Q: Can I apply for a WIPO job after the program?
A: No, participants cannot apply for WIPO positions during or for two years after the program.
Q: Is remote work allowed?
A: No, the program is based at WIPO headquarters in Geneva and requires physical presence.
Q: Are there opportunities for professional development?
A: Yes, the program includes mentoring, training, and exposure to international IP projects.
Official Link:
For more details and to apply, visit the official WIPO Young Experts Program website.
