WIPO Japan Launches 2026 Short-Term IP Fellowship for International Students in Japan

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Japan Office, with backing from the Funds-in-Trust Japan Industrial Property Global initiative, has officially opened applications for its 2026 Short-Term Fellowship Programme. This programme is designed specifically for international students currently enrolled in universities or graduate schools in Japan.

Spanning five days, the fellowship provides participants with practical exposure to intellectual property (IP) through a combination of training sessions and workplace experience at prominent Japanese patent law firms. The initiative aims to immerse students in Japan’s intellectual property sector, offering valuable insights into professional patent law environments.

The programme is particularly relevant for international students who have an interest in intellectual property law, innovation, technology, international development, or aspire to careers with organizations such as WIPO and the United Nations.

Structured as a short-term internship, the fellowship allows participants to engage in hands-on activities tailored to their academic backgrounds and interests. Groups of up to five students will participate together, with customized activities potentially arranged to align with their expertise.

Eligibility is limited to international students who meet specific nationality, study, and language requirements. Applicants must be citizens of countries classified under at least one of the programme’s stated development criteria, including those ranked low or medium on the United Nations Development Programme’s Human Development Index. This criterion ensures the fellowship is especially suited to students from developing countries pursuing higher education in Japan.

While prior knowledge of intellectual property is desirable, it is not mandatory. An expressed interest in working for international organizations, including the United Nations, is considered an advantage.

Participants will be assigned to host institutions based on their academic interests and areas of expertise. This placement is intended to provide practical insight into how intellectual property matters are managed within Japan’s professional patent law sector.

The programme is free to participate in. However, selected fellows may receive financial support to cover certain expenses. Depending on their place of residence, eligible costs related to travel to the programme venue and accommodation may be reimbursed. Applicants are advised to carefully review the official programme information for details on the scope and conditions of financial support.

Interested students must submit a completed official application form along with a curriculum vitae written in either Japanese or English. Following the initial application review, selected candidates may be invited to participate in further assessments or interviews.

This fellowship represents a unique opportunity for international students in Japan to deepen their understanding of intellectual property law while gaining practical experience in a leading global IP environment.