Launch of CSP Support for EPAC Candidates Starting in 2026

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Starting in 2026, the new Candidate Support Programme (CSP) will expand its support to candidates preparing for the European Patent Administration Certification (EPAC).

EPAC is a pan-European certification, designed for paralegals, patent administrator and formalities officers to validate their knowledge and skills related to the administration of patent procedures, including filing, prosecution and grant of European and international patent applications before the EPO, as well as post-grant procedures including Unitary patent.

Within bilateral cooperation agreements from 2026 onwards, the Intellectual Property Office of Ireland can select yearly one EPAC candidate to receive financial, tutoring and training support to prepare for the EPAC exam in October 2026.

The CSP application process for EPAC 2026 opens on 30 January 2026 and closes on 17 February 2026. The Intellectual Property Office of Ireland will select the candidate by early March and CSP training and tutoring sessions will kick-off in mid-March.

See below link for further information: Overview-of-CSP-on-EPAC.docx (size 76 KB)

Apply now for CSP support for preparing for EPAC 2026

The Candidate Support Programme (CSP) is expanding its support to candidates preparing for the European Patent Administration Certification (EPAC). Selected candidates will receive a comprehensive support package between March and October 2026 with the aim to enable them to pass EPAC exams.

The CSP application form will be open from 30 January to 19 February 2026 and is targeting candidates preparing for four (highly recommended), or at least two of the modules of the EPAC 2026.

How to apply:

  1. Complete the ID verification step on the EQC portal (open all year).
  2. During the application period 30 January to 19 February, submit the CSP online application form . The form will be available only from 30 January (from 09:00) to 19 February 2026 (until 18:00).

Candidate’s application must include:

  • - Proof of permanent residency
  • - Motivation letter
  • - Curriculum vitae

Full details of the conditions for participation in the programme are available here Conditions.docx (size 55.3 KB)

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