Strong EQE 2026 results highlight success of modernised examination framework

In total, around 2 500 candidates participated in this year’s examination, with over 42% of candidates being women – a number that continues to increase. 535 candidates passed the full EQE, providing the profession with a new cohort of qualified European patent attorneys, while closing the last phase of the transition to a new, modular EQE framework. 

The modular EQE will be fully in place from 2027 and offers candidates a flexible and progressive qualification pathway, aligned with the realities of the European patent profession and supporting its sustainability and accessibility. Further, as per EQE reform objectives, the modular EQE aims to preserve excellence whilst fostering modernisation.

A year of growth and transformation

In 2026, the maturity of the digital examination format made it possible to deliver exam papers under both the previous and the new examination frameworks in parallel. Papers A, B, C and D were offered for the last time, while the new modular M1 and M2 papers were offered for the first time. Feedback confirms that the new papers, with clearly structured questions, enable candidates to manage more efficiently the time they spend on their responses. 

The candidates received their results for these examination papers on 9 July. Overall, the results remained robust and balanced, reflecting both the high level of candidate preparedness and the  well-established examination framework. 

Next steps for newly qualified candidates on MyEPO

Newly qualified candidates can now gain entry on the list of professional representatives before the EPO by using the digital MyEPO platform.

Next steps for candidates who have passed some papers under previous EQE regulations

Candidates who have already passed some but not all papers under the previous EQE framework will be exempt from corresponding examinations under the new modular EQE. The exemption mechanism, which is specifically designed to ensure a smooth transition for these candidates, is further explained in the recently published notice.

Key dates for EQE 2027

The modular examination format, comprising papers F, M1, M2, M3 and M4, will be fully implemented in 2027, when papers M3 and M4 will be offered for the first time. Mock papers have been made available in the EQE Compendium to support candidates preparing for EQE 2027, who are also invited to note the following deadlines:

• Enrolment for paper F and the main examinations (M1-M4) is open to eligible candidates until 30 September 2026 via the European Qualification and Certification (EQC) Portal.
• Registration for the Academy’s “Training for EQE Paper F” course is now open. The course will commence on
  1 September 2026.

The EQE as a mark of excellence

The EQE is a benchmark of excellence for the European patent system, the patent attorney profession and for all those who pass the examination, including many EPO examiners. Since the EQE's launch in 1979, more than 
14 000 patent professionals have been entered on the list of professional representatives before the EPO.

Further details on the EQE reform and examination process are available via the links below.