On 16 October, the European Patent Office (EPO) hosted a hybrid kick-off meeting to launch the new cycle of the Candidate Support Programme (CSP) for the European qualifying examination (EQE). The programme provides structured training, coaching/tutoring and financial support, with the aim of increasing the capacity across Europe by increasing the number of qualified and certified professionals, closing the gender gap in the patent profession, and supporting an inclusive patent profession across member states of the European Patent Organisation. 

Aimed at helping future patent professionals develop the knowledge, skills and networks needed for successful careers in the patent system, this year's CSP features a record number of 76 EQE candidates nominated by 33 participating member states. Candidates receive a comprehensive support package including training and coaching across three years, sitting Paper F in their first year, Papers M1 and M2 in their second, and Papers M3 and M4 in their third. 

The meeting brought together all current CSP candidates, epi coaches and national patent office representatives in preparation for the EQE in March 2027. Focused on strengthening the CSP community, the event included plenary discussions and presentations as well as breakout sessions on study strategies, exam preparation and practical tips for successfully sitting the exam.

New Access pillar expands CSP support

Under the current Quality and Gender pillars, each participating member state can nominate up to four candidates for the CSP. The newly introduced Access pillar enables participating member states to benefit from the full EQE enrolment fees being covered for up to six additional candidates. Combined with the existing pillars, this could enable participating member states to support up to ten candidates through the programme. By broadening access and introducing new forms of support, the CSP continues to foster a diverse, inclusive and geographically balanced patent profession across Europe.

Broadening the CSP to support EPAC candidates

The CSP was further expanded this year to include a support pillar for patent administration professionals preparing to sit the European patent administration certification (EPAC). Supporting up to one candidate per participating member state, candidates are selected by their national patent office and benefit from a comprehensive support package that includes training, tutoring, examination fees and a bursary to support their preparation.

Source：European Patent Office (EPO) News；2026-10-19；https://www.epo.org/en/news-events/news/candidate-support-programme-expands-record-participation-and-new-opportunities