VIRGINIA - The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) announced that the First-Time Filer Expedited Examination Pilot Program will expire as scheduled on March 11, 2025, according to the official website of USPTO. 

The pilot program, launched in 2023, offers eligible first-time filers expedited initial written feedback on their application from patent examiners, known as the “first office action.” As of March 4, 2025, 393 applications have been granted special status under the First-Time Filer program. 

If you would like to participate in the First-Time Filer Expedited Pilot Program, petitions must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. ET on March 11, 2025. Petitions that are received by the deadline, and are determined by the USPTO to be fully compliant, will be granted.