WIPO Scholarship in Intellectual Property and Development Policy 2026
Scholarship Description
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Scholarship in Intellectual Property and Development Policy is a prestigious program offered through the WIPO Academy in collaboration with the University of Turin. This scholarship supports participants in the Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Intellectual Property or the Professional Master's program in Intellectual Property and Development Policy.
The program is designed to equip professionals, policymakers, and academics from developing countries, least developed countries (LDCs), and countries in transition with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively navigate the complex field of intellectual property. Participants gain a comprehensive understanding of IP law, policy, and its role in economic and social development.
Scholarship Location
The program is delivered through a combination of online learning and in-person attendance at the University of Turin in Turin, Italy. The WIPO Academy's distance learning platform also allows participants to access course materials from anywhere in the world.
Scholarship Deadline
Application deadlines for the WIPO Academy programs vary by course and intake. Prospective applicants are strongly advised to check the official WIPO Academy website for the most current deadlines and application cycles.
Application Period: Annually — check the WIPO Academy website for updates
Recommendation: Submit your application well before the deadline. Late applications are not accepted.
Host Institution
The WIPO Academy is the centre of excellence for intellectual property education, training, and research at the World Intellectual Property Organization. It offers a wide range of programs for government officials, business executives, IP professionals, and students. The University of Turin, one of Italy's oldest and most prestigious universities, collaborates with WIPO to deliver the master's programs.
Level and Fields of Study
Level: Master's (LL.M. or Professional Master's).
Fields: Intellectual Property Law, Innovation Policy, Development Economics, Technology Transfer, Patent Law, Copyright Law, Trademark Law, IP and Public Health, IP and Agriculture, and related areas.
Target Group
The scholarship targets government officials, policymakers, IP professionals, academics, and researchers from developing countries, least developed countries (LDCs), and countries in transition. The program aims to build capacity in IP law and policy to support economic and social development.
Scholarship Duration & Amount
Duration: Typically 10–12 months for the full master's program.
Scholarship Coverage: WIPO offers a limited number of full and partial scholarships for eligible candidates. These typically cover:
- Tuition fees
- Travel expenses (for in-person components)
- Accommodation
- Living expenses
- Medical insurance
Note: Scholarship availability and coverage vary by year and program. Applicants should check the specific program details on the WIPO Academy website.
📊 Summary of Benefits:
Scholarship Types: Full and partial scholarships
Coverage: Tuition + travel + accommodation + living expenses
Duration: 10–12 months
Scholarship Eligibility
Essential criteria:
- Nationality: Nationals of developing countries, least developed countries (LDCs), or countries in transition.
- Education: Bachelor's degree or equivalent in law, economics, or a related field.
- Professional experience: Relevant work experience in intellectual property, law, policy, or development is an advantage.
- Language: Proficiency in English (the language of instruction). Some programs may require knowledge of French or Spanish.
- Commitment: Demonstrated commitment to using IP knowledge for development purposes.
✅ Eligible Candidates
- Nationals of developing countries, LDCs, or transition countries.
- Bachelor's degree in law, economics, or related field.
- Relevant professional experience in IP or development.
- English proficiency.
- Commitment to development and IP policy.
❌ Ineligible Candidates
- Nationals of developed countries (unless specific programs allow).
- No relevant academic or professional background.
- Insufficient language proficiency.
- No demonstrated interest in development.
Application Procedure
- Visit the WIPO Academy website – Go to the official WIPO Academy page to review available programs and scholarship opportunities.
- Select the appropriate program – Choose the Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Intellectual Property or the Professional Master's in Intellectual Property and Development Policy.
- Check eligibility – Ensure you meet all nationality, education, and experience requirements.
- Prepare required documents – Gather the following:
- Completed application form
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Letter of motivation
- Letters of recommendation (typically 2)
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
- Copy of passport
- Submit your application – Submit the completed application through the WIPO Academy application portal by the specified deadline.
- Application review – WIPO Academy reviews applications and selects candidates based on academic merit, professional experience, and development potential.
- Scholarship notification – Successful applicants are notified of admission and scholarship decisions.
Important notes: The WIPO Academy offers a wide range of IP training programs. Scholarship availability is limited, and competition is intense. Applicants are encouraged to apply early and ensure all documents are complete and accurate.
Official Website & Application Links
WIPO Academy – Intellectual Property and Development Policy Program
WIPO Academy Main Website: https://www.wipo.int/academy
💡 Final Thoughts and Key Requirements
The WIPO Scholarship in Intellectual Property and Development Policy offers a unique opportunity for professionals from developing countries to gain world-class training in IP law and policy. With the support of the WIPO Academy and the University of Turin, scholars develop the expertise needed to shape IP policy and promote innovation in their home countries.
Key strategies for a successful application:
- Ensure you are a national of a developing country, LDC, or transition country.
- Demonstrate strong academic performance and relevant professional experience.
- Write a compelling motivation letter that highlights your commitment to development.
- Secure strong letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
- Meet the English language requirements (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).
- Apply early — deadlines are strict and competition is intense.
Important reminders: The WIPO Academy offers a wide range of IP training programs at various levels. For the most current information on program availability, deadlines, and scholarship opportunities, always refer to the official WIPO Academy website.
WIPO Scholarship in Intellectual Property and Development Policy 2026 – FAQ
What is the WIPO Scholarship in Intellectual Property and Development Policy?
It is a scholarship program offered by the WIPO Academy in collaboration with the University of Turin for professionals from developing countries to study IP law and policy.
Who is eligible to apply?
Nationals of developing countries, least developed countries (LDCs), and countries in transition with a relevant bachelor's degree and professional experience in IP or development.
What does the scholarship cover?
Full or partial tuition fees, travel expenses, accommodation, living expenses, and medical insurance.
What is the application deadline?
Deadlines vary by program and intake. Check the official WIPO Academy website for current dates.
How do I apply?
Apply online through the WIPO Academy application portal. Submit a completed application form, academic transcripts, CV, motivation letter, recommendation letters, and proof of English proficiency.
What are the language requirements?
Proficiency in English (the language of instruction). Some programs may require knowledge of French or Spanish.