The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) offers internship opportunities to students and recent graduates interested in gaining professional experience in an international organisation. Through its Internship Programme, WIPO provides practical exposure to intellectual property, innovation, administration and international cooperation.
One important feature of the programme is its internship roster. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, meaning candidates do not necessarily have to wait for one annual application deadline. The organisation advertises a new internship roster each year, and applications submitted to the roster are shared with relevant departments as opportunities arise.
upov+1What Does the Internship Programme Cover?
WIPO internships provide practical work experience, professional development and exposure to an international working environment.
The programme offers monthly stipends depending on the internship category:
Undergraduate internship: CHF 1,645 per month.
Graduate internship: CHF 2,170 per month.
Duration: Approximately 2–6 months for undergraduate placements and 2–12 months for graduate placements, depending on the position.
Travel support: Eligible interns from developing, least developed or transitioning countries who are residing in their home country at recruitment may receive reimbursement of eligible round-trip travel expenses up to CHF 1,500.
Other support: Assistance with Swiss visa formalities where necessary, medical and accident insurance, and annual leave.
The stipend is intended to contribute towards accommodation, meals and local transportation. It should not be interpreted as a guarantee that all living expenses will be covered.
upovWho Can Apply?
The programme has different eligibility requirements for undergraduate and graduate internship categories.
For undergraduate internships, applicants may include:
Students in the third or fourth year of an undergraduate degree.
Students who need to complete an internship as part of their degree requirements.
Recent bachelor's graduates who obtained their degree within the previous two years.
Eligible master's students who have not yet completed their coursework or final thesis.
Graduate internship applicants generally need an advanced university degree or must meet the programme's specified graduate-student requirements.
WIPO welcomes applicants from diverse geographical backgrounds. Professional knowledge of English and/or French is required. Relevant fields include law, international relations, political science, economics, statistics, IT, project management, marketing, communications and administration.
upov+1How to Apply
Visit the official WIPO Internship Programme website.
Open the current internship roster or available internship vacancies.
Review the eligibility requirements for your preferred category.
Create a profile in WIPO's online recruitment system.
Complete the application questionnaire and provide a motivation letter.
Submit your application according to the instructions in the roster.
Applications to the internship roster are reviewed on a rolling basis, and submitted applications are saved in the recruitment system for one year.
upovImportant Information
Most internship positions are based at WIPO headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
The internship roster is not a guarantee of immediate placement.
The organisation reviews applications as suitable opportunities arise.
Applicants should check the current roster for specific requirements and deadlines.
Previous WIPO interns cannot apply for another internship category under the programme.
Official Application and Information Links
Source attribution: Information verified from the official WIPO Internship Programme and recruitment information.