Candidate Support Programme expands access to EPAC certification in Europe

The European Patent Office (EPO) has launched the first Candidate Support Programme (CSP) cycle dedicated to the European Patent Administration Certification (EPAC), marking a step in broadening access to professional certification.

The Candidate Support Programme (CSP) is an EPO initiative, implemented in cooperation with national patent offices, aimed at building a patent profession that is more inclusive, skilled and balanced in terms of geography and gender.  In 2026, the CSP introduced a dedicated pillar for patent administration professionals, supporting the European Patent Administration Certification (EPAC). Selected candidates receive a comprehensive package, including training, tutoring, exam fees, a bursary and learning materials, to support their preparation and progression towards full certification.

Strong uptake in the first year

Sixteen member states participated in this first cycle. The application period ran from 30 January to 19 February 2026, attracting 62 applications. This strong response reflects growing interest in certification for patent administration, supported by improved accessibility through the digital format.

Applicants came from a range of professional environments: 52% work in patent attorney offices, 24% in industry and 24% in academia or public institutions. Women accounted for 73% of applicants.

For the first time, the programme supports up to one EPAC candidate per participating member state, selected by national patent offices (NPOs). Sixteen candidates from 16 member states were nominated by their respective offices for CSP EPAC support.

Launching the preparation phase

The programme has now entered the preparation phase. An online kick-off meeting on 27 March brought together selected candidates and EPO staff, providing an opportunity to connect and outline next steps.

Candidates have started their EPAC training courses provided by the European Patent Academy, complemented by dedicated tutoring sessions. The modular EPAC examinations will take place on 5 November 2026 with enrolment starting from 15 April until 15 September.

Background on EPAC

The European Patent Administration Certification (EPAC) is a pan-European certification for IP and patent professionals. Introduced in 2022, it validates the knowledge and skills required to manage European and international patent procedures and has attracted more than 1 800 candidates across 60 nationalities worldwide.

From 2026, EPAC is offered in a modular and flexible format, attracting professionals across the innovation ecosystem, from early career entrants to experienced patent administrators, formalities officers and paralegals. Candidates can complete four topic-focused modules, each awarding an EPO diploma; completing all four earns the full EPAC certificate. This approach supports progressive, targeted learning, while maintaining the recognised quality and value of the certification.