Candidate Support Programme accepts record-breaking number of EQE candidates
The Candidate Support Programme (CSP) continues to create opportunities for aspiring European patent attorneys and administrators. Under the EPO's Strategic Plan 2028 and in co-operation with national patent offices (NPOs), the programme aims to build a patent profession that is more inclusive, skilled and balanced in terms of geography and gender. It does so by supporting selected candidates in their preparations for the European Qualifying Examination (EQE) and European Patent Administration Certification (EPAC).
The 2026 cohort for the EQE reflects the programme’s expansion: 48 candidates from 17 member states have been nominated by their NPOs for support, while a further 38 are continuing participants from last year. The total number of EQE candidates has nearly doubled since the programme’s modernisation in 2025, representing a more than seven-fold rise compared to the 2023-2024 cohorts.
Strong participation of women
Of the 48 EQE candidates selected for 2026, 34 are women, representing over 70% of the beneficiaries. This highlights the programme’s contribution to broadening participation in the patent profession and increasing diversity among European patent attorneys.
Comprehensive support for future European patent attorneys
The CSP provides a single framework through which aspiring European patent attorneys can apply for EQE support measures. NPOs of participating member states can select up to 10 CSP candidates per cycle, giving them flexibility and the ability to direct support where it is needed most.
Of the selected candidates, ten will receive support covering full EQE enrolment and examination fees. A further 38 will receive comprehensive CSP support, including EQE preparation training, coaching from European patent attorneys in co-operation with the Institute of Professional Representatives before the EPO (epi), a financial bursary and coverage of examination fees.
All CSP-supported candidates will receive ongoing assistance as they progress through the modular EQE for up to three years, sitting Paper F in year 1, Papers M1 and M2 in year 2, and Papers M3 and M4 in year 3. Training will run from October to February, and the next EQE will be sat in March 2027.
Growing impact across Europe
Since the CSP was modernised in 2025, 33 NPOs have joined the initiative, leading to a substantial increase in the number of beneficiaries. In 2026, the programme expanded its scope to also support EPAC candidates, with 16 welcomed in the first cohort.
With patent filings on the rise, the programme is helping to strengthen patent expertise across Europe. It supports a more diverse, resilient and geographically balanced patent profession, contributing to quality at source across EPO member states.
