As a part of the framework of cooperation with its member states, the European Patent Office (EPO) every year organizes the Candidate Support Programme (CSP) for the preparation of the European Qualifying Examination for patent attorneys. Starting from 2026, the Candidate Support Programme (CSP) will also include support for selected candidates preparing for the European Patent Administration Certification (EPAC) examination.
The examination for this pan-European certificate is divided into four modules and is intended for paralegals and formalities officers performing tasks related to patent administration and the formal examination of patent applications, with the aim of assessing their knowledge of procedures relating to the filing of patent applications, the registration of European patents, as well as post-grant procedures, including those related to the Unitary Patent. There are no restrictions for potential candidates with regard to the minimum level of education or professional experience in the field. Candidates are required to plan to take the examination in 2026, in at least two of the four modules that make up the EPAC. Selected candidate will receive financial, tutoring and training support to prepare for the EPAC exam in October 2026.
All interested parties are invited to apply for this Programme. Applications may be submitted directly to the EPO using the online application form available via the following link, which will be accessible from 30 January to 17 February 2026. Prior to submitting an application, prospective candidates should register and create an account on the EPO Certification and Qualifications Portal (EQC portal) using the following link (registration is available even before the start of the EPAC application period). Further information on the conditions of the Programme and the support measures can be found in the following document, the promotional leaflet, as well as on the EPO website.
Each application must include the following documents in order to facilitate the selection process:
- Completed application form,
- Proof of permanent residence or domicile,
- Motivation letter,
- Curriculum vitae (CV).
Should you have any questions or require additional information regarding this programme, feel free to contact Marko Ilijić (marko.ilijic@zis.gov.rs, +381 11 2025 960) and Tatjana Stevanović (tatjana.stevanovic@zis.gov.rs, +381 11 2025 951).
Please note that applications are submitted directly to the EPO. However, immediately after submitting the application, candidates are required to send information about the submitted application, together with all accompanying documents, by email to the Intellectual Property Office (marko.ilijic@zis.gov.rs and tatjana.stevanovic@zis.gov.rs). All received applications will be reviewed by the Office, after which a list of candidates who meet the eligibility criteria will be established. Subsequently, the Office shall inform the EPO which candidates it is able to support.