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| By DALL·E, OpenAI |
It will be a major improvement for candidates, but it will also depend on how the modules will be made.
Showing posts with label epi. Show all posts
Showing posts with label epi. Show all posts
Thursday, September 1, 2022
New e-EQE has major improvements
Monday, July 11, 2022
e-EQE2022: Main Exam - what to do after a pass or a fail
15-07-2022: added comments about translation errors.
14-07-22 - added note about split exams compensation.
13-07-22 - added "fit to practice" check during marking. A big congratulations to all who passed at least at one exam. None of the exams are easy, and if you are unlucky, it is easy to miss something crucial or to misread a sentence.
The result totals and statistics are available here. The pass rate for B is higher than last year, and D is relatively high compared to previous years (not including D 2021 because of the global compensation for technical issues).
Unfortunately, (since 2021) anonymized individual results are no longer made available, so we cannot calculate statistics or see the mark distributions per exam. Joeri Beetz has a nice website with extensive statistics for the older exams. We were told last year that this omission was due to a lack of capacity.
2021 "Pass rates" - candidates with 45 points or higher:
- Nr of candidates: Main Exam = 2780, A = 1905, B = 2005, C = 1852, D = 2003
- A = 79%, B = 65%, C = 57%, D = 92%
- Passed last exam in 2021: 1093 (= 53 % of all ME candidates)
2022 "Pass rates" - candidates with 45 points or higher:
- Nr of candidates: Main Exam = 1918, A = 886, B = 1158, C = 1400, D = 704
- A = 73%, B = 84%, C = 61%, D = 71%
- Passed last exam in 2022: 885 (= 46 % of all ME candidates)
The Examiners Reports for each exam are also available here. Unfortunately, the marking sheets are missing (they were included in 2021 and previous years). These are the same as each candidate receives, with a rough division of available marks. I don't know why they are not included this year.
For each exam, the Examination Committees have selected Candidates' Answers in English, French and German who scored quite highly with an exam answer close to their desired solution. These are unedited, so they can contain mistakes. Unfortunately, the marking sheets for these candidates are still missing (they were also missing in 2021). These marking sheets were very useful for candidates trying to understand where they missed marks. We were told last year that this omission was due to a lack of capacity.
Still to be published is the Survey report, summarising the answers provided immediately after the exam. It will appear here, at the bottom of the page. Hopefully, it will be back to it's pre-2020 extensive format. In 2021, it was merely a PR folder - we were told last year that this was due to a lack of capacity.
In October (usually in week 42), there will be a meeting of Tutor's and the Examination Committees to directly discuss the exams of 2022, and to look ahead to EQE 2023. No definite date for the meeting is yet available. In 2021, it was online - no word yet if it will be back to an in-person gathering.
If you passed your last exam, double congratulations 🥇and welcome to the post-EQE world 💪.
- For attorneys, request entry onto the list of representatives.
- If you are a national of a non-EPC state and you wish to be on the list, you need to request an exemption under Art. 134(7). This involves extra administration - see the FAQ's. Preston Richard has made a template letter that you can use.
- Relax and look forward to developing other aspects of your career.
- Even though the epi has no formal requirement for permanent education, commit to keeping up your knowledge. You still need up-to-date knowledge to provide optimal services to your clients, especially of changes in EPO procedure:
- Subscribe to a blog that regularly discusses case law and legal changes, like the IP.appify blog
- Go through the yearly changes to the EPO guidelines and follow G decisions
- Use your legal knowledge more in your daily work (see if a colleague needs help with an office action or opposition, give a presentation to your office, check whether your office procedures meet "all due care", teach subjects to trainees, write a legal article).
- Attend or follow the EPO's education sessions related to Applying for a Patent, to Law and Practice, or for Patent Attorneys.
- Become a tutor, or volunteer for an Examination Committee
- If you have added digital notes to EPC.app and PCT.app, they will be updated automatically each year.
Click on READ MORE > > for possible actions after a fail
Wednesday, June 2, 2021
epi online conference - Modernising the EQE - 21 June
On 21 June 1300-1600, epi is holding an online conference. We want a broad perspective from all EPC states, so please join and make your opinion heard. Non epi members are also invited to register and participate.
Conference on Modernising the EQE to better test “fitness-to-practise”
21.06.2021
Starts: 21.06.2021 13.00hrsEnds: 21.06.2021 16.00hrs
Venue
Online conference
Description
Moving to a digital testing environment necessitates adaptation of the EQE but also presents an opportunity to review whether the EQE is testing the skills and knowledge required by the European patent attorney of today. The aim of the conference is to explore how to modernise the EQE to better test whether a candidate is ready to practise as an EPA and to help candidates develop the skills and knowledge needed to practise. During the conference, the following topics will be explored:
- the motivation for change
- the essential skills and knowledge of an EPA,
- modernising the structure and timeline of the examination, and
- any impact on national examinations and other national considerations.
Target group
The conference is aimed at delegates who are involved in training EPAs, including training providers, tutors, mentors and employers as well as those who have an interest in maintaining a high standard of training, including professional organisations and patent offices.
Technical requirements
In order to attend the online conference participants need a computer with an internet browser and a high-speed broadband internet connection. For the conference, epi uses Zoom. Security settings on local Firewalls need to be checked.
To access to the conference epi sends out a link shortly before the conference.
Registration
Please note that despite the conference participation being free of charge, the section on billing information in the registration form is mandatory. Unfortunately it is not possible for us to remove that section at the moment.
Working language
English
Contact
For further information, please contact Jacqueline Kalbe: education@patentepi.org
Minimum number of participants
20*
*If the minimum number of participants was not reached by the registration deadline, the seminar will be cancelled. In this case the epi will inform you immediately.
Registration deadline
Registration is open until 14.06.2021. The order of receipt by epi will determine the attendance in case of over-subscription.
(The links below may not work. Alternatively click on link at the bottom of the page or try this one).
Friday, February 19, 2021
e-EQE 2021: Mock2 - D2 Exam - My methodology & solution
Thanks to epi for the Mock2 exams and model solutions - they may not be perfect, but I know how much work it is to make these materials.
- During my first attempt at an e-EQE D2 in Mock1, I tried it mainly on paper. This time, for Mock2, I tried to use the copy/paste much more: for all the things I normally highlight, I just copied the whole paragraphs to the top of my answer instead. I also copy/pasted parts of the answer that were similar in structure and wording.
- My answer was made in Wordpad, which is similar to the Lockdown Browser answer tab. It is a mess, but that is what a real answer looks like 😊.
- I also did not finish in the allotted time, but I was also looking at the Methodology. The EQE 2021 D2 will be shorter than this.
General tips on D2
- See here for a presentation about how to approach D2
- D2 is the most open-ended part of EQE: there is a "golden" solution they are looking for, but very few candidates find it, and it is not required for high marks
- the marks per question are not given because they decide after the exam what the weighting should be based on how the exam was made
- if few get to the end, then they give more marks for the situation-as-is. You cannot predict this when doing it, so push yourself to get as far as possible - there are a lot of marks for improving the clients position.
- It is normal to have no idea of the answer when you start D2. Just work through the info as quickly as possible - once you know the patentability of all the claims (and unclaimed subject matter), it will start to fall into place.
- Your answer is marked as a whole, so it does not matter where you answer the questions. But make sure you answer them - that is where the marks are.
- They have a marking sheet of statements that they want to see. This marking sheet is the basis for the answer in the Examiners' Report = minimum needed for full marks. Typically it is about 1 mark per sentence.
- There are no negative marks - you just lose time by going into great detail about "side-issues"
- Anything you add to the facts given by applying knowledge is ANALYSIS and worth marks. Always include in your answer - if not sure where to put it, put under Initial Analysis
- They like to ask about non-written disclosures. You need to deal with them like you would in opposition, not examination.
- On D2, you need to have a solid analysis of: what will happen to the applications, validity of priority, which claims are novel and inventive, and what will be granted. That part should be same for most candidates.
- Then translate it to the business world of the client - "you cannot make X because it is a species of etc.". Address the client like a real client - "EP1 when granted and validated will give no protection in the US". Explain your reasoning - that gets marks.
- You do not need to explain legal terms like prior right, genus/species etc, A.54(2) prior art, A.54(3) art, A.123(2) extension.
- Then identify the improvements that you can make - that will vary as not everyone will see everything. But you get marks for explaining what each piece is, and what it can do for the client. Explain your reasoning - that gets marks.
- Then you try and use the pieces to improve the clients business and/or attack any competitors - for marks, it does not matter exactly what you suggest. Some options may be equivalent in this case. Explain your reasoning - that gets marks.
- Even if your solution is not optimal, you will still get good marks. Don't waste a lot of time thinking the best strategy - make sure you write down at least one strategy. Unless otherwise stated, you have unlimited resources:
- I suggest filing 99 divisionals today because ....
- You are infringing in BE - stop production immediately because ....
- If in doubt about subsequent filings, file one or more PCT applications
Methodology: annotated exam explaining how I read it, and my electronic answer
- 1) Open each page (expected 3 - 5 pages) in a separate tab for extracting dates to timelines, key facts for overviews and copying important paragraphs with key words or phrases.
- If helpful, use (coloured) tabs on top edge of your monitor (P1, P2, P3/Questions).
- Do NOT open more than 10 tabs as this crashes the browser.
- 2) Read questions first in last tab so that you know what you need to address in your answer. You are looking for clues to key legal issues, key rights, important countries, and main competitors.
- 3) Copy questions into answer to ensure you answer each question (marks are frequently lost on D2 by not answering the questions) and each part of question. Be explicit about products, countries and parties. I made them red so they would stand out.
- 4) Make a TO DO List on paper for things not to forget. I also made a section at the top of my answer - when I read something unusual, or I did not know what to do with, I copied the paragraph number and that sentence (or the whole paragraph) to the top of my answer (don't make it nicer than it needs to be)
- 5) Add header INITIAL ANALYSIS to answer. Put in here any legal analysis made while considering facts from exam as that will get marks - for example, filings outside 12m priority year, likely publication dates (18m), legal status of applications, period for remedies expired etc. Answer is marked as a whole, so it is not necessary to have arguments fully grouped together. Don't go into great details speculating as you do not know what is relevant. These are pieces that you will need later, but you do not know exactly where they should go.
- 6) Read in assignment tab as this allows temporary selection of text so that you do not lose your place when copying facts/dates between screen and paper. Read each paragraph, sentence by sentence - note dates in a timeline or timeline-table. Also make a note of relevant facts either in your answer or on paper. These are just notes - note paragraph numbers so you can go back for details.
Monday, January 25, 2021
Don't forget to test e-EQE system (epi update)
- Update 10 Feb 21: Ignacio Lobato Holtmann has created a Telegram group for fast exchange of eEQE questions, tips and info. He also proposes forming study groups for the next EQEs.
- Mock2 was intended to test everything with a big load, so the flows will NOT be available later. 4 Feb & 5 Feb are the last chances to test YOUR system before the exam, so login as much as possible. If logging in late, use invigilator password is: xyz
- Updated 3 Feb 21: I have collected crash & restart issues here in a separate post
Updated 30 Jan 21 in purple.
Just received this urgent e-mail from the epi:- The EQE will take place from 1 to 5 March 2021.
- As you know, the EQE will be held virtually this year. You must already connect to the e-EQE platform called Wiseflow, in order to anticipate and solve possible technical difficulties. For example, it will not be possible to use more than one computer screen during the EQE:
- Please note that if candidates are not able to log on to the system correctly on the day of the exam, all the time and effort spent preparing for the exam may have been wasted!
- Candidates can access and test the system as often as they want. The system is permanently available.
- To give you the best possible chance of passing this exam, EQE secretariat together with epi offers to accompany you:
- Mock 1: is intended for candidates to test their equipment and get acquainted with the examination environment. Candidates can access and test the system as often as they want. The system is permanently available only until February 28, 2021: to train on the e-EQE 'Wiseflow' exam access platform
- Mock 2: is only accessible in the “Wiseflow” system from 2 to 5 February 2021, under simulated examination conditions (days and times). The papers and model solutions will be available for free on the epi-learning platform (epi-learning.org) for all EQE candidates in the three official languages of the EPO after each Mock 2 examination paper.
- Note: Mock 2 Pre-Exam available on 1 Feb 21 (not made by epi)
- No registration needed! More information around the eEQE preparation is available here.
- Note: You will need to record your e-EQE reference photo first in WISEflow, (from 29-01-21 14:00). Max. 1 hr after starting, so make sure camera etc. is all working first.
- Candidates who wish to have more insights can register and book with epi a package (costs 60 EUR per paper for epi students, 80 EUR per paper for non epi students,).
- The package includes:
- videos wherein epi tutors explain the model solution; the videos will be available on epi-learning.org after each Mock 2 paper
- access to a forum at epi learning platform for questions around the Mock 2; available from 2 to 26 February 2021
- the possibility to attend live Q&A sessions with epi tutors (English only); from 8 to 18 February 2021
- Registration for the epi package is available here.
- Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the epi Education Team.
Best regards / Mit freundlichen Grüßen / Sincères salutations
Education Team, epi - European Patent Institute, education@patentepi.org | www.patentepi.org
Tel: +49 89 242052-250 | Fax: +49 89 242052-220
Monday, May 11, 2020
Your chance to help with EQE 2021
- EB expects more candidates than usual in 2021, and would therefore appreciate receiving a large number of applications to guarantee a fair marking of papers
- You can indicate your paper preference
- For 2021-2022 term, applications need to be received by June 9, 2020
- Membership of epi and successful completion of EQE is required
- For marking, a minimum commitment of 120 hours per year, including a minimum of four days of meetings
- Also expected to help with testing and checking of new papers, bench marking or acting as an EQE official, which might require further or different time commitments. These tasks are distributed fairly among members.
- Volunteer, so no remuneration. But travel expenses are reimbursed by epi.
- In particular for this year: those who can can mark papers in German or French
- Appointment is for at least 2 years
Wednesday, April 22, 2020
EQE 2020 officially cancelled, focus on EQE 2021, e-EQE 2022
The decision is available here as well as a communication providing more details.
Some comments:
- "composed of an equal number of representatives of the EPO and the epi" - stresses that it is a joint EPO/epi exam. That saves me having to comment on many blog comments :-)
- "the nearly 3.000 people that participate and are involved in the organisation of the Exams" - based on last year's figures, approx. 900 Pre-Exam, 1700 Main Exam candidates, 400 organizers/invigilators.
- "actively discussing solutions ... strike the right balance between the legitimate expectations of candidates for the 2020 exams and .... health and safety" - thanks to those involved for considering all the options. It is an extraordinarily complex issue to deal with in difficult times, as they also have to consider the future impact of any decisions.
- "the EPO and the epi need to ensure adequate health and safety conditions" - at the moment, there is no agreement yet on what precaution are adequate, but this should develop in the next months as the lockdowns are eased.
- "the EPO and the epi need to guarantee the same basic conditions for candidates from all EPO member states, i.e. that they can all travel to one of the exam venues" - this seems like a big challenge, but could be eased by having more local exam venues.
- "the EPO and the epi need to ... avoid jeopardizing the EQE 2021" - yes, this is a higher priority, and will already require a huge effort.
- ** to see comments above 200, scroll to last comment and click Load more ... **
Wednesday, April 1, 2020
EQE2020 in September (if possible)?
It highlights the desire by the epi to have the EQE go ahead, as well as acknowledging many of the problems that would need to be solved.
"epi letter to the EPO regarding the EQE cancellation
You are no doubt aware that the March EQE session was cancelled, and that it is planned to organise a postponed session in September, if possible. In this regard, the Presidium has decided to send a letter to the President of the EPO, which is published here."
The purpose of the letter was to request the EPO's support so that every possible resource available in the EPO can be used to organise a postponed EQE 2020 - in particular, the finding of suitable locations at suitable dates, the registration of candidates, the invigilation, and above all the marking process. They note that the availability of additional marking capacity among epi members may be limited when the time line is shifted.
It also mentioned:
- ... no firm plans can be made until it is sufficiently certain that the epidemic will be under control, and trusts that every possible option is being explored.
- The ideal situation would be one where the postponed 2020 EQE is organised in such a way that the results are available by end October 2020, in time for the candidates to catch up with the normal timeline. Candidates who failed one or more papers of the main EQE could still register for the 2021 EQE and follow the special trainings for re-sitters.
- We trust that the Supervisory Board will take all necessary decisions to implement exceptions in order to make that happen. Exceptions one might consider encompass abbreviated registration periods for re-sitters. Another possible exception is to skip the pre-examination. In view of Article 11(7) REE, it would not be necessary to organise a pre-examination, but if one is organised, the candidates who passed the pre-examination would still have time to register for the 2021 EQE and follow the usual trainings.
- At the same time, the EQE 2021 should be prepared in parallel and should not be put at risk.
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