The IPO takes place every year in May and lasts four to five days:

• 1st day: Arrival, welcoming and introduction of all delegations. The Organizing Committee submits twelve topics for the competition to the Steering Board. The Steering Board selects four topics.
• 2nd day: Essay-writing (four hours). In the afternoon: sight-seeing for the students. Assessment of the essays. (1st lecture on the theme of the IPO)
• 3rd day: Guided tour for all participants. (2nd lecture)
• 4th day: Award ceremony. - Farewell party. (3rd lecture)
• 5th day: Departure
  
  On the 3rd or 4th day there should be time to discuss the theme of the IPO.