Women who wish to become European patent attorneys can receive support as they prepare for the European qualifying examination (EQE).

 

The Candidate Support Programme (CSP) is an initiative of the European Patent Office (EPO) in cooperation with member states of the European Patent Organisation. Switzerland is supporting the programme once again too.

 

The IPI will:

• select up to two female candidates for the comprehensive CSP support. This includes high-quality training, coaching from experienced European patent attorneys, and financial support;
  or
• nominate up to three female candidates for which the IPI will cover the full cost of the EQE fees. This includes the enrolment fee and examination fees for all five EQE exams (one attempt per exam).

 

The aim is to support women in the patents field in Switzerland. The CSP can significantly help you to prepare for the EQE. In addition, the CSP builds a network of alumni to provide long-term support to the next generation of talent.

 

Who can participate?

 

You are eligible to participate if you live and work in Switzerland and are willing to take part in a three-year preparatory programme, which is structured as follows:

• Paper F in 2027
• Papers M1 and M2 in 2028
• Papers M3 and M4 in 2029

 

Please submit your application to the EPO online. Please note that this online form will only be accessible until 31 May 2026 (6pm). 

 

To apply, you’ll need:

• a CV
• confirmation of residence
• a letter of motivation
• a letter of recommendation from your employer
• proof of enrolment for the 2027 EQE, Paper F

 

The online form is only available in English. You can submit your letter of motivation and your employer’s letter of recommendation in German, French or Italian. The confirmation of residence must not be older than six months.

 

For further information, please see the EPO conditions for participation.

 

The IPI will select the candidates in consultation with representatives of various patent attorneys’ associations and the Examination Board.

 

Key dates

• Deadline for applications: 31 May 2026
• Selection decision: by 10 July 2026
• Start of the programme (training and coaching): October 2026
• First exam (Paper F): 1 March 2027

 

If you have any questions, please contact:

 
Fragen richten Sie bitte an:
 
Tanja Joerger
Legal Services – Industrial Property Rights
+41 31 377 72 62
Tanja.Joerger(at)ipi.ch