27.01.2026
Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”, as a member of the Network of Intellectual Property Academies, offers its students a unique opportunity to participate in the prestigious Pan-European Seal Programme (PES). The programme is implemented by the European Patent Office (EPO) and the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) in partnership with leading universities across Europe. The Programme provides motivated students and young professionals with the opportunity to gain valuable practical experience through a paid internship lasting 12 months, with a possibility of extension.
The Programme aims to provide participants with direct experience in the work of international institutions by: supporting the understanding of the core functions and processes of the EPO and EUIPO, developing skills for working in a multicultural and professional environment and encouraging career development through hands-on involvement in various projects. Participation in PES offers students a unique opportunity to acquire international expertise, significantly enhancing their competitiveness on the European labour market.
Target Group and Eligibility Criteria
The programme is intended for:
- final-year students enrolled in Bachelor’s or Master’s degree programmes;
- young professionals (up to two years after graduation).
Internships are available in a wide range of professional fields, including:
- law and intellectual property;
- economics and business administration;
- information technology and digital services;
- international relations and communications;
- project management and administrative activities.
Selection Process
The selection process consists of two stages:
1. Internal university selection
The main application package includes:
- diploma of completed higher education or a document certifying expected graduation;
- CV;
- motivation letter justifying the choice of internship position.
Documents must be submitted no later than 23 February 2026 to the following email address: n.voynova@feb.uni-sofia.bg
2. Official application via the EPO and EUIPO websites
With regard to the application to EUIPO, the University will submit a list of recommended candidates. They can then submit their applications directly to the Office, together with all the required documentation, from 1 March 2026. Applicants to the EPO can do so directly after receiving confirmation from the University, by 9 March 2026.
Key Dates – Internship at the European Union Intellectual Property Office
- 2 February 2026 – Official launch of the PES internship programme;
- 1 March – 31 March 2026 – Online application period for EUIPO;
- 1 – 30 April 2026 – Pre-selection of EUIPO candidates;
- May – July 2026 – Interviews and final selection;
- 16 September 2026 – Internship start date at EUIPO.
Key Dates – YPP at the European Patent Office
- 16 February – 9 March 2026 – Publication of available positions and online application period;
- April – May 2026 – Pre-selection of EPO candidates;
- June 2026 – Selection and interviews;
- 15 September 2026 – Internship start date at EPO.
Opportunities and Benefits for Interns
The internship provides opportunities to build a professional network, develop language skills, and acquire competencies highly valued on the European labour market. Participants perform expert-level tasks and are fully involved in the activities of both institutions. They work in a multicultural environment alongside highly qualified professionals and receive monthly financial remuneration.
Detailed Information and Important Resources
For more information and detailed application instructions:
Young Professionals Programme at the European Patent Office
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c4yGmL-T_mw&t=58sInternship Programme at the European Union Intellectual Property Office (Alicante)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LM3AE6_4Wvo&t=1sOnline Information Sessions – “Discover the European Patent Office Young Professionals Programme”
Virtual Visit to the EUIPO in Alicante: Wednesday, 11 February 2026, 11:30 (Bulgarian time)
Contact person at Sofia University: Assist. Prof. Nikoleta Voynova, PhD, Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, email: n.voynova@feb.uni-sofia.bg