Representation before the European Patent Office

[12] In order to sit the EQE, candidates should notably show that "they possess a university-level scientific or technical qualification.

"[13] An equivalent level of scientific or technical knowledge obtained through at least ten years' experience is also considered sufficient.

A passing grade of 70 marks out of 100 must be achieved to be permitted to write the main exam (EQE) one year later (IPREE, Rule 6).

Due to the introduction of the pre-examination in 2012, starting 2013, three papers of the main exam are shorter than their previous formats so that the EQE now consists of the following papers: The European qualifying examination is held once a year, usually at the end of February or beginning of March,[20] simultaneously in various cities throughout Europe.

[21] In 2013 for instance, it was held in Berlin, Bern, Bristol, Helsinki, Madrid, Munich, Paris, Rome, Stockholm, Taastrup and The Hague.

[21] The marking of the Paper C of the EQE 2007, including awarding no point when candidates failed to select the "right" starting document[notes 1] (for assessing the inventive step of some claims) and the blanket addition of 10 points to the grade of all C papers, was strongly criticized.

[29] The "procedure to be followed [with respect to a change of representation] is governed by Rule 152 EPC in combination with the Decision of the President of the European Patent Office dated 12 July 2007 on the filing of authorisations.