Are you a law student interested in technology and intellectual property? The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is inviting university teams to apply for the WIPO Intellectual Property Moot Court Competition 2027. This year’s case focuses on live streaming, where innovation, IP rights and online enforcement meet. The best eight teams will compete in the finals at WIPO headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. Team applications close on 6 November 2026.
Competition at a Glance
- Organiser: World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)
- Who can enter: University teams of law students aged 35 and under
- Topic: Live streaming: innovation, IP rights and online enforcement
- Format: Written submissions, then oral arguments before judges
- Finals: 8–10 June 2027, WIPO headquarters, Geneva
- Application deadline: 6 November 2026
What Is a Moot Court?
A moot court is a simulated court case. Teams receive a fictional legal problem, write formal legal arguments (called memorials or written submissions), and then argue their case orally before a panel of judges, just as lawyers would in a real courtroom. It is one of the best ways for law students to build practical advocacy, research and teamwork skills.
Benefits
- Compete at WIPO in Geneva: The top eight teams argue their case at the headquarters of the UN agency responsible for intellectual property.
- Finalist support: Published listings report that WIPO covers travel, accommodation and visa fees for the eight finalist teams (but not for coaches). Confirm the exact terms in the official Competition Rules.
- Specialist experience: Work on a cutting-edge issue, live streaming and online IP enforcement, that matters to tech companies, creators and regulators.
- International exposure: Argue before expert judges and meet law students and IP professionals from around the world.
- A standout CV: International moot experience is highly valued by law firms, regulators and international organisations.
Eligibility
- Teams must be made up of law students from a university.
- All team members must be 35 years old or younger.
- Each university may enter up to two teams, which are assessed separately.
Read the official Application Guidelines and Competition Rules for full details on team size, coaches and other requirements.
Key Dates
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications open | 12 October 2026 |
| Application deadline | 6 November 2026 |
| Selected teams announced | 30 November 2026 |
| Moot problem released | 10 December 2026 |
| Deadline for clarification requests | 17 December 2026 |
| Answers to clarifications | 15 January 2027 |
| Written submissions due | 1 February 2027 |
| Online rounds | 1–12 March 2027 |
| Quarter-finals (Geneva) | 8 June 2027 |
| Semi-finals (Geneva) | 9 June 2027 |
| Grand Finale and Awards (Geneva) | 10 June 2027 |
Tips for a Strong Team Application
- Make your video count. Selection is based on a competitive video application. Show your team’s enthusiasm, teamwork and understanding of IP and technology issues.
- Prepare on the topic now. Read up on copyright, broadcasting rights and platform liability for live-streamed content before the problem is released.
- Get a faculty coach. An experienced lecturer can guide your research and practise oral arguments with you.
- Plan for visas early. If your team reaches the finals, you’ll need a Swiss (Schengen) visa, so make sure everyone’s passport is valid.
How to Apply
- Read the Competition Rules, FAQs and Application Guidelines on WIPO’s competition page.
- Sign the Declaration Form.
- Complete the online application form.
- Record and submit your team’s application video as described in the guidelines.
- Submit everything by 6 November 2026.
Apply for the WIPO IP Moot Court Competition 2027
