MUNICH - The 2025 session of the European Qualifying Examination (EQE) concluded on March 21, 2025, with over 4,000 papers sat by candidates from across the EPO’s member states. The EQE consists of five papers, and notably, this year the foundation paper, paper F, was offered for the first time, according to the official website of the European Patent Office (EPO). 

The launch of paper F marks the beginning of the progressive implementation of the EQE reform. With over 600 candidates sitting paper F this year, it represents a crucial first step in their qualification journey and in the new examination regime.

The foundation paper in the new EQE

In the modernized EQE, aspiring European patent attorneys can sit paper F after one year of professional experience, either under the supervision of a professional representative in an EPC contracting state or as a patent examiner at the EPO.

Paper F is the first examination in the progressive and modular EQE journey, integrating the examination process into the candidate’s professional training. In terms of content, it is designed to assess declarative knowledge of procedural patent law and claim analysis. With paper F, modern examination techniques are introduced into the EQE, aligning the exam with the needs of the profession in today’s digital work environment.

Looking ahead: a transition in phases

The introduction of paper F is part of the broader EQE reform based on the principles of progressiveness, modularity and sustainability, aligning the qualification journey with the evolving needs of the European patent system and modern patent profession.

The transition will continue in the coming years:

• 2026: The last opportunity to sit examination papers A, B, C and D, in line with the transitional provisions offered alongside paper F. Examination papers M1 and M2 will be sat for the first time.
• 2027: The fully reformed EQE will be in place, featuring foundation paper F, examination papers M1 and M2, and papers M3 and M4, which will be sat for the first time.

Key dates for EQE 2026

Candidates preparing for EQE 2026 should take note of the following deadlines:

• Registration must be completed by May 28, 2025
• Enrolment is open between July 8, 2025 and September 22, 2025, via the EQC portal