BREAKING NEWS - Cancellation of EQE planned 16-19 March 2020 (possibly postponed)

We have been informed by an EQE candidate that he just received the email below (emphasis added):
EQE 2020 is cancelled, or possibly postponed to later this year - to be continued.


From: HelpDesk <helpdesk@eqe.org>
Sent: donderdag 5 maart 2020 09:10
To:
Subject: cancellation of EQE planned 16-19 March 2020

Dear candidate,

In response to the latest developments about the spread of the novel Coronavirus (Covid-19), the Supervisory Board of the European qualifying examination has decided in line with the EPO’s precautionary measures to cancel the EQE planned to take place 16-19 March 2020.

The Supervisory Board is currently assessing the feasibility of organising the examination at a later stage during the current year. We would kindly ask for your understanding that due to the complex logistic arrangements related to the organisation of the EQE, this assessment will require some time.  The Examination Secretariat will revert back to you as soon as there is a decision taken by the Supervisory Board. Also, please understand that due to the high number of enquiries received, answering individual questions will take more time than usual.

We sincerely regret this highly unsatisfactory situation for all concerned. Further information will follow in due course, in particular related to the reimbursement of the fees.

Best regards

The Examination Secretariat

European Qualifying Examination EQE
European Patent Office
80298 Munich | Germany
Tel. +49 (0)89 2399 5155 (Mon, Wed-Fri 09.00-11.00 hrs, Tues 14.00-15.30 hrs)
Fax +49 (0)89 2399 5140
helpdesk@eqe.org
www.epo.org
 

Please consider the environment before printing this email.



------------
Update 5 March 2020, 15:50:



The EQE website now also indicates the cancellation as well as that an assessment is ongoing as to a possible rescheduling. The EQE website provides:




















-----------------
Update 6 March 2020, 8:50:








A new version of the "Update on Coronavirus" news message in the EPO website now also mentions the cancellation (or possible rescheduling), see here:





















































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Roel is a European Patent Attorney and tutor at DeltaPatents.















Comments









  1. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 16:33
    I have travel planned in the coming months. I doubt that rescheduling the exam qualifies for getting my travel insurance to cover the expenses if I need to cancel.
    ReplyDelete
  2. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 16:33
    In this case most people would just take A and B and compensate for the 45's of C and D, it would be hilarious.
    ReplyDelete
  3. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 16:36
    Someone sends the link of this thread to EQE secretariat.
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Roel van Woudenberg6 March 2020 at 17:52
      As you can see in the message below from Carlos 6 March 2020 at 17:09 "New message from the Examination Secretariat", they have read the blog and have prepared a document with further information that candidates will be able to check via myEQE.
      Delete
  4. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 16:41
    Do not get confused by CIPA. They are not in charge at all. The official authority is the UK-IPO. CIPA is only the sub-contractor. CIPA should refrain from such ambiguous communication. The Supervisory Board has decided. That's it. 
    ReplyDelete
  5. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 16:48
    It will probably be after the summer, because otherwise they will run the risk of having to postpone again.
    ReplyDelete
  6. Gregory5 March 2020 at 16:50
    As a US attorney, I agree the US patent bar is foolish.  However, only 47% or so pass.  Regardless, I think the EPO would benefit from offering it as computer-based test so that candidates can schedule it at different times and locations with ease.  I also don't know of many countries offering computer-based patent exams (to respond to Anonymous's comment above--I'm also curious if that is true); however, many US states allow test-takers to take bar exams on a computer now.  This has been going on for years.  Additionally, I find that most attorneys work on computers and hand-written exams are a way of the past.    
    ReplyDelete
  7. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 16:52
    China has computer-based examination for 5 years, including writing OP or drafting claims. It works quite well, and i guess Taiwan would start the computer-based exam soon. 
    ReplyDelete
  8. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 17:09
    The statement of CIPA seems to be inappropriate, causing uncertainty. Look at the facts. Who is CIPA? They are NOT the national authority in the UK! It is the UK-IPO. CIPA should not pretend being able to dictate Europe what to do. They do not have a say. It is the Supervisory Board. Planning the EQEs for June makes no sense, because it is likely they would have to be postponed again. After the summer break, which is in most countries in September, is very late. When would we have our results? In January? The EQE 2021 is beginning of March!
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 17:36
      The supervisory board is not great either - Poor communication from supervisory board to national associations. 

      The supervisory board MUST consider the impact on students. 
      Delete
  9. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 17:15
    EPO/ EQE did not cause any confusion, their email as well as the notice on the EQE website is unambigous, clear and -in view of the sitation- justified.
    Of course informing the candidates is done first, and the exam centers should only be informed after all candidates. No nothing wrong?!

    CIPA causes the confusion and false hope for the UK candidates.
    ReplyDelete
  10. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 17:17
    Publishing the 2020 papers would at least give some practising material, because I have run out.... so no clue how to "re-prepare" for this.... they really screwed it. Would prefer rescheduling before autumn, in that way candidates loose only about 5 months of their life....
    ReplyDelete
  11. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 17:18
    EQE did perfect: first inform the candidates, then the others involved such as exam centers and local organization.
    Email and notice on website are unambiguously clear.
    Confusion comes from CIPA, not from EQE/EPO.
    ReplyDelete
  12. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 17:19
    EQE has become the new Brexit....
    ReplyDelete
  13. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 17:28
    it is so upsetting to spend all this time preparing only for it to be wasted. What a nightmare situation out of everyone's control but the EPO committee still get paid well. The candidates are suffering with loss of earning and wasted preparation time. 
    ReplyDelete
  14. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 17:29
    Look guys,I need to sit and pass the exam in March 2020.
    A postponement till later this year won't happen cause it is not practical. papers have still to be marked and there must be time to re-apply and attend courses if required.
    So I'm all for the 45 compensible fail compensation...or else my career has ended.
    ReplyDelete
  15. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 17:29
    What a desperation situation. Now we are all in limbo
    ReplyDelete
  16. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 17:32
    CIPA is irrelevant...and the UK is not even in the EU, don't want to be in th UPC and probably will leave the EPC.
    "Put up, or shut up CIPA!!"
    ReplyDelete
  17. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 17:32
    We are are in limbo. uncertain times
    ReplyDelete
  18. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 17:33
    Ans, actually, EPI members are very often biased against candidates. Examples include pressing other EPI members to invent reasons to penalize candidates for easier marking, and so on.
    ReplyDelete
  19. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 17:37
    I believe the decision to cancel it for the planned dates is wise.

    Also it was issued at the first possible moment and at the same time just in time: only the last few days it became clear that the problems are not limited to one small geographical region but infections are widely spread. Some high-placed people already name it a pandemy. In several states, schools and alike are closed and bog gathering forbidden or at least discouraged. They could not have decided earlier.

    It is very unlucky. Similar as if you prepare for this summer's Olympics and the IOC decides to cancel it or postpone it to 2021. But the force of nature is bigger than our own powers, we have no choice but to accept that.

    M
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 17:47
      We do understand EPO's decision but our deepest sympathy must go to the EQE candidates who have spent so many months preparing. Like everyone said, this has a major impact on wages, progression, their health and well-being. 

      EPO has made a decision and that's fine. Now lets see what can be done as this year's candidates are very disproportionately affected compared to any other previous years. 
      Delete
  20. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 17:49
    Can the supervisory board now notify CIPA and various other organisations now so they can also provide a clear message. What are they doing still not notifying these national organisations. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 17:52
      They have no reason to reply to anyone other than the candidates.
      Delete
    2. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 17:55
      That's nonsense. Mixed messages from everyone creates more uncertainty. They have EVERY REASON to notify national authorities who are running the exam. 

      Candidates needs to be notified first - YES. Now notify everyone else. This period of uncertainty is adding alot of stress. 
      Delete
  21. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 17:50
    My life and career has ended today... PLEASE GIVE ME 45 marks on each paper as compensation so that my employer will keep me on!
    ReplyDelete
  22. Kavi5 March 2020 at 17:51
    a lot of selfish comments from occident-cuddled people. this is an extreme situation all over the world, people losing their jobs, dying, healthcare systems exploding, controls everywhere... losing one year of EQE looks to me not do dramatic compared to the rest. put everything into the right perspective!
    ReplyDelete
  23. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 17:51
    https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMc2001468
    it's not Italy's fault...
    ReplyDelete
  24. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 17:55
    June is ruled out! It is too late to correct papers, re-register on failing and attending a EQE course before March 2021.
    ReplyDelete
  25. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 17:57
    In june.
    ReplyDelete
  26. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 18:01
    NO NO NO! It is WRONG to say if you prepared well so far, you will have it easy in 2021 ! WRONG!! You will have to RESTART EVERYTHING this September!
    ReplyDelete
  27. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 18:03
    What is it happened next year too? 
    ReplyDelete
  28. Pot Stirrer5 March 2020 at 18:54
    I agree with the comments on here. As neurosurgeon who just found out he can't sit his exams, I too think I should be given a free pass. Don't you all agree?
    ReplyDelete
  29. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 19:08
    Can the EPO consider pritorising those who are doing all 4 exams. Maybe they can still go ahead and do them in March which would reduce numbers dramatically. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 19:09
      This is an option. It would reduce numbers taking the exam and would at least ensure some would still go ahead. Use the backup paper for the rest who only need to pass 1 or 2 more papers. 
      Delete
  30. Sandra5 March 2020 at 19:35
    Hi All,
    As someone said, EPO has made a decision and that's fine. Now lets see what can be done as this year's candidates are very disproportionately affected compared to any other previous years !
    Thanks
    ReplyDelete
  31. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 20:14
    The situation is so difficult and it must have been hard for all involved. Absolutely wrecked EQEs candidates for the whole year. The EPO can never compensate loss time and loss of earnings.

    ReplyDelete
  32. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 20:15
    Unfortunately my EQE preparations are now out of the window. I won't be doing anymore revision until I know more. How can we still prepare as normal without knowing a date. 
    ReplyDelete
  33. EQE 20205 March 2020 at 20:19
    The difficult remains being sufficiently prepared especially for paper D topics. Everyone is so geared up to March 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 20:27
      Agreed. Paper D preparation is especially tough. All that knowledge built up. It's difficult to learn it again 
      Delete
    2. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 20:36
      I think it would be wise to provide discretion to paper D. This paper affects candidates the most 
      Delete
    3. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 08:08
      I can see so many issues with Paper D

      Fees will change 
      Dates will change
      Law cut off date will change
      Books will now be outdated
      Is the calandar from EPO still the correct version? 

      Not to mention the agony and pain of learning the law twice or three times. I took alot of days off from work to focus on D and can't do the same again.
      Delete
    4. Roel van Woudenberg6 March 2020 at 09:52
      See below for my view/ suggestions / speculation to my posts on 6 March 2020 at 09:32
      Delete
  34. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 20:21
    I wanted it to be over in March and spent so many months preparing. Will now be quite anxious. I can't bring myself to prepare for it again. 
    ReplyDelete
  35. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 20:31
    Learning the law again is so awful. So much to prepare. Pre Eqe law and Paper D is going to be a nightmare. It's hard to motivate yourself to keep going. 
    ReplyDelete
  36. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 20:33
    Probably best to stop revision until we know more. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 21:12
      I think its best. Lets stop all the worry and stress of revision for now.
      Delete
    2. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 21:43
      100% No point revising now and wait for EPO to sort themselves out. 
      Delete
  37. Sandra5 March 2020 at 21:02
    According to that, the question is: what EPO can do to this year's candidates as they are very disproportionately affected compared to any other previous years !
    ReplyDelete
  38. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 21:10
    My wife has just filed for divorce on hearing the news. Nice one Supervisory Board!
    ReplyDelete
  39. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 21:10
    WHO latest report on coronavirus.

    https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/coronaviruse/situation-reports/20200304-sitrep-44-covid-19.pdf?sfvrsn=783b4c9d_6
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 21:39
      doesn't show any signs of slowing down:(
      Delete
  40. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 21:36
    Just chill out for a few days. I agree with everyone that there is no point continuing intense revision with so much uncertainty. The EPO must give sufficient time for candidates to pick up again. Have a beer or wine tonight and chillax after all the stresses of today. 
    ReplyDelete
  41. Fairness5 March 2020 at 21:41
    As someone said, EPO has made a decision. Now lets see what can be done as this year's candidates are very disproportionately affected compared to any other previous years. Most would acknowledged that something must be done. It is the fairest way from the supervisory board. 
    ReplyDelete
  42. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 22:10
    It is surprising to see the candidates attitude towards EQE, it is not about passing it is about being fit to practice. A lot of the "grandfathers" where not fit to practice and it is beneficial to the system quality that the amount of grandfathers is shrinking. The idea of creating a new group of grandfathers is unthinkable. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 22:41
      Grandfather is not the best but there was a lot of people (older generation) who were grandfathered in. That's not fair as nowadays there are more exams. So its unfair on the younger generation. This year is especially troublesome. 

      Some discretion or considerations would be fair for this year although I agree grandfathering is a little bit too much. 
      Delete
  43. Gilman Grundy5 March 2020 at 22:21
    And the UKIPO delegates the responsibility of holding the exams to CIPA.
    ReplyDelete
  44. Gilman Grundy5 March 2020 at 22:22
    And the UKIPO delegates the responsibility of organising the holding of the EQEs in the UK to CIPA.
    ReplyDelete
  45. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 22:37
    Is there anyway the EPO can consider something for loss earnings. I will lose a lot (career progression, potential wages) due the delay of these exams. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 22:43
      Yes good point. This year's candidates stand to lose a lot both financially and personally. 
      Delete
  46. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 22:46
    It is disappointing but the EPO has no choice I believe. The supervisory board have contacted the candidates which is fine but they could at least contact the national authorities to notify them as someone said earlier. 

    They(EPO) now need to provide more regular communications and NOT to go silence on thousands of candidates sitting the EQEs this year. Far too much is at stake although the coronavirus outbreak is the most pressing thing for now. 
    ReplyDelete
  47. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 22:49
    EPO cannot be blamed for this serious disease.

    Moving it early summer still seem very impractical. It won't suit a lot of candidates and national authorities. Its likely to be next year I'm afraid which is absolutely terrible for everyone. 
    ReplyDelete
  48. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 22:53
    Is late-April still too early?

    They may have to also hold two this year to fit everyone in although how many back up papers does the EPO hold in reserve. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 09:43
      Just at the onset of the expected peak of coronavirus in Europe (May-June)? Beyond the organizational difficulties, any date before the summer seems impossible due to the disease.
      Delete
  49. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 22:56
    Late April is when most candidates would be off as a lot would have booked holidays a few weeks after holidays. It will also clash with Easter Holidays so very unlikely.  

    Plus, coronavirus is still spreading rapidly so I don't think the situation would improve at all from now to July/August. That's assuming best case (according to various governmental reports). 
    ReplyDelete
  50. Enough with the crazy talk5 March 2020 at 23:04
    So let me get this straight, you want to appeal the cancellation decision, hence you want this decision to be set aside and if you’re successful it will mean the decision never happened. It’s gonna take more than 10 days for appeal proceedings to take place, hence if you win then the eqe is not cancelled, but it did not take place and we did not sit it. So how exactly does this improve our situation?!? 
    Reiterate this to the possible postponement decision. 
    ReplyDelete
  51. Anon Y Mouse5 March 2020 at 23:09
    But if they give compensation marks, what then for the candidate who gets an overall pass with marks only just above the pass threshold, or even a "compensable fail" (which is a ridiculous concept to begin with)? They will have passed due to the compensation marks when they should rightly have failed. So awarding compensation marks seems ill-advised as all it will do is to pass people who should have failed. Boosting the marks of those who genuinely pass is of no particular merit either. All it will do is cause employers to look sceptically at the marks achieved by those who pass the EQE at that sitting.
    ReplyDelete
  52. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 23:10
    Makes no sense to have a go at CIPA. I think its right CIPA seeks explanation from EPO - No problem with CIPA sympathising with candidates. Much more sensitive than the generic supervisory standard statement that has affected thousands of candidates.

    Its the EPO decision and they haven't fully communicated clearly to all stakeholders. 

    Some serious consideration is required for all candidates this year. 
    ReplyDelete
  53. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 23:12
    If UKIPO is the national authority that was notified, why haven't we heard anything from them. Can someone poke them to wake them up please. 
    ReplyDelete
  54. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 23:17
    CIPA has its fault but at least this time it rightly needs to investigate the situation.

    EPO need to do a lot better to communicate to all stakeholders - after all its an email that could be sent to CIPA without any issues so just do it. However, they did do the right thing to communicate to students first. 
    ReplyDelete
  55. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 23:26
    My view is that it is impossible to do the exams until after September. There would be a huge uproar if they only shift it to 2-3 months down the line - which is when (as predicted) most people will catch the coronavirus. What is the point in shifting the exams to a time when most people will catch it. 
    ReplyDelete
  56. Anonymous5 March 2020 at 23:40
    You can't just pass everybody. That's insane. Look at how high the failure rates are in normal years. Would you really want to pass everyone and have a cohort of candidates whose competence will forever be in doubt?!
    ReplyDelete
  57. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 00:46
    Which country is that?

    I absolutely agree that events should be postponed, if public health authorities advise so. But we should leave that decision to said authorities and this decision has certainly been taken by the EPO alone and was not required by any authority, since other events involving more people have not been cancelled, particualry other exams here in Munich. Why does EPO think they are smarter than authorities? It seems they have been infected by irrational panic spread by the Media. 

    Breach of Law???? Which law?

    If somebody is afraid of catching a virus (how do they cope with influenza each year?) they could have stayed home. What have these candidates won by cancelling eqe for everyone?
    ReplyDelete
  58. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 00:54
    Breach of Law???? Which law??

    This decision was certainly made by EPO and not by a qualified public health authority. Other events take place here in Munich, particularly exams. So there certainly was no legal requierment for cancellation.

    The infection that seems to be most spread in europe is a complete loss of rational thinking and adequate judgment of Situation.
    ReplyDelete
  59. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 04:57
    Your opinion is dumb
    ReplyDelete
  60. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 08:18
    EPO needs to be compassionate.
    Many candidates are significantly affected by their decision which I admit through no fault of their own. 

    The supervisory board needs to see what can be done and be very fair to candidates. We are going through extremely difficult times
    ReplyDelete
  61. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 08:22
    EPO should consider allowing paper D to go ahead at the earliest opportunity possible as this paper is clearly the most affected with so much riding on the actual date itself. 

    The other papers can be done later when coronavirus peak dips.it doesn't require as much work and effort to re configure the paper. 

    Just split the papers out. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 08:55
      No, I am sorry to disagree. Logistically this cannot be done.
      Delete
  62. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 08:35
    Interruption.

    This is comparable to stay of proceedings. Had we twelwe days to the Paper D from yesterday? And 1+ days for the other ones.

    After resumption, we have the same amount of days until the Examination?
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 08:37
       Paper D is alot of work and knowledge can be lost quickly. There needs to be more time given to recap. 
      Delete
    2. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 08:47
      Ok!
      Delete
    3. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 08:57
      No, it is not comparable to a stay of proceedings nor is it comparable to an interruption.
      Delete
  63. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 08:35
    A key objective from work for me this year is to sit and pass a few EQE papers. My annual review this year is not going to go well. All objectives fail this year = no pay rise. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 09:44
      Its worse for me. I probably get the sack if I don't qualify this year. Its a small firm and they can't afford training me no longer. The pressure is immense. 
      Delete
  64. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 08:40
    It's probably clear Paper D is going to be the most challenging that has arisen from this decision. You can't factor in how important all that time spent revising for the law is. It's alot to learn again. 

    For some that say alot fail paper D, they have time to practice again and learn from their mistakes in the real paper. There will be no such thing here so a discretion particularly to Paper D and law aspect is the most appropriate. 
    ReplyDelete
  65. George6 March 2020 at 08:44
    I was supposed to give all four papers in 2020 for the first time. I invested thousands hours in preparation, i missed my small kid and in general I really tried hard to go well prepared. Therefore, I am completely disappointed with the cancellation and i am struggling to find the courage to proceed and keep the knowledge warm.
    However, I am getting more angry when i read from candidates to give a pass to all. This is unbelievable. We all know people that they just sit the exam, without studying and without having the knowledge of at least the basics ! 
    With all the respect, whoever suggests a general pass, probably is not well prepared and simply wants to take advantage of the cancellation.
    ReplyDelete
  66. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 09:00
    Important for the Supervisory Board to consider is this: a cancellation of the EQE 202 0 is tantamount to failing all papers without paying the registration fee. This therefore justifies some kind of compensation.
    Postponing the exams to another date in 2020 is simply impractical logistically, and might be OK for some candidates and not for others.
    I call for a default 45 marks per paper or reimbursement of the registration fees.
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 10:09
      I somewhat have to agree. Its not ideal but then it is adversely affecting students this year. I qualified last year and I'm so glad/lucky that I did it last year. I feel for all you guys stuck on this boat. 
      Delete
    2. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 20:32
      It is not a matter of registration fee. These for sure will be reimbursed. 
      The matter is those huge efforts for at least six months sacrificing family night and day, working days and holidays,... These efforts are priceless!! 
      Delete
  67. Gilman Grundy6 March 2020 at 09:06
    The grandfather clause at least required that the people being grandfathered in  were qualified nationally.
    ReplyDelete
  68. Roel van Woudenberg6 March 2020 at 09:30
    What a nightmare for all candidates! All fully prepared and in top shape for the exam in 10-14 days from now, everything ready to go, and now this cancellation. And then suddenly… a frustrating disaster for all candidates. 

    It came unexpected to many, although some may have started to feel the risk when the EPO published the Update on Corona on 4 March providing  “We are postponing all EPO organised events that involve more than 50 participants in March and April” and “We are cancelling all duty travel scheduled for March and April as of 5 March 2020. This includes any travel between EPO sites (except for movements between our local offices in Munich).”… it must also have been a nightmare for the Supervisory Board to take this decision, and also not for the EQE Secretariat who had to communicate it to everybody and now need to try to see whether it can be rescheduled to later this year. 

    Let's hope it will be rescheduled, so that no opportunity is lost. And let's hope that the virus does not spread so much more that it will prevent any possible rescheduling; nor that it infects any of you. Fingers crossed.
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 09:50
      This is a good point Roel. It is predicted (at least in the UK) that 1 in 5 people will catch it. Unfortunately, that means that some candidates are likely to catch it. How is this going to be factored in if they are ready now but fall ill in say 3/4 months time at the re-schedule date. Nightmare 
      Delete
  69. Roel van Woudenberg6 March 2020 at 09:31
    I hope they find a new date for rescheduling. It is complete speculation if they will succeed or not, and when it can be. Nevertheless, it seems to me that before summer is too quick as the virus situation will not be better, so maybe it can be in September? Pre-exam results could then be known by mid October or earlier, so your main exam preparation does not need to be jeopardized too much. Also, that would allow to have all main exam papers marked by January (educated guess), so if you decided to spread your main exams over two EQE years, you can still do so; e.g., if you enrolled to only take ABD this year (with unchanged legal cutoff date) and C next year, you can do so. Resitting would also be possible (assuming the enrolment deadlines are shifted), but preparation time would be limited if you need to wait for the result. 

    We are awaiting the decision before we will decide and communicate on possible courses or (additional) material for preparing for a rescheduled 2020 exam. 
    ReplyDelete
  70. Roel van Woudenberg6 March 2020 at 09:32
    If the exam would be rescheduled to a later date in 2020, the exam syllabus would still be the one of 31 October 2019. Rule 2 IPREE provides: “The examination syllabus referred to in Article 13 REE shall cover only those legal texts referred to in Article 13(1)(a) to (c) REE which are in force on 31 October of the year prior to the examination”
    If the exam would be after summer, it seems fair (in view of the time lapsed since 31 October 2019) in my view to also give full marks for answers relying on and/or citing more recent legal basis. 

    To limit the detrimental effect of a cancellation and the additional effort required in view of possible law changes to prepare for Pre-Exam and D 2021, I can imagine that paper Pre-Exam and D 2021 would also get full marks if you used the legal basis on 31 October 2019 rather than that of 31 October 2020 and/or that the Pre-Exam legal & claims analysis parts and the DI & DII parts have no questions that are affected by any legal changes taking effect between 1 November 2019 and 31 October 2020. 

    Please note that these are just my personal thoughts, and are may be considered speculation. But I thought it could be interested to share my thoughts with you.
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 09:54
      i think  you are spot on Roel and agree with your comments. Legal uncertainty is what attorneys hate the most and we have it here. Candidates are going to struggle revising the correct text, law and have correct fees/rules etc... We need to also mention the cost of buying new books etc which many candidates pay from their own pocket. 

      We will also have to learn it again which is a huge pain. 
      Delete
    2. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 10:15
      Lets be honest, rescheduling to another date is going to throw up a whole host of additional problems - not everyone can make it. Postponing it to next year is going to cause massive backlogs and chaos as exam venues are stretched. Double the marking for examiners, double intake. Not to mention the loss of earnings and preparation time wasted for candidates this year. 

      I don't know what the solution is but its not ideal at all whatever the EPO do. 45 marks per exam doesn't seem unreasonable but then again, is this the most appropriate. My head hurts
      Delete
  71. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 09:42
    June is not a good idea for the rescheduled date. Coronavirus is predicted to peak around June/July time and many would be sick before that affecting revision. 
    ReplyDelete
  72. CIPA annoucement6 March 2020 at 10:11
    This year’s European Qualifying Examinations have been cancelled by the Supervisory Board of the EQE.  We expect no change to that.  
    Over the past 24 hours we have made representations to the Supervisory Board on behalf of our members, without success. 
    We will now focus on achieving clarity and certainty on plans for rescheduling the EQE and will communicate developments to our members as they emerge.

    At least CIPA have tried. 
    ReplyDelete
  73. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 10:29
    Just for the record: I don't agree to rescheduling this year! I have stopped my revision because I do not know when the EQE will take place, and my employer demands that I increase my workload now. My life needs to continue. An EQE in September will mean me cancelling private as well as business events/appointments.
    For me, the complete cancellation of EQE 2020 is the ONLY way to deal fairly with all candidates! The anon comment above about 45 marks for all papers (and equivalent free pass for the pre-exam) is another way in which all candidates would be treated equally!
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 10:32
      I think you are right. Fair treatment has to be priority! I think also CIPA should leave their nose out of this. We must agree that the COVID-19 situation left no other option.
      Delete
    2. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 10:48
      I agree, I told it yesterday.
      This will be a very different situation with respect of 'grandfather clause'.
      Just a few candidates sit all 4 papers, many others, like me, have already pass more than 1.
      It will not be possibile for EPO to do 'the right thing'.
      EPO has to choose the 'less unfair' solution for all candidates.

      I think '45 points each paper' is the less unfair solution.
      Good for the candidates who prefer sit the examination next year,
      good for the candidates who already suffer in the past EQE and have some points to compensate,
      not good enough for those candidates that have could pass all 4 papers simoultaneously, but better than nothing at all.

      Eds
      Delete
  74. Sandra6 March 2020 at 10:56
    Hi Eds,
    Could make sense. What do you mean by '45 points each paper' please?

    Regards,
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 11:09
      If John Doe enrolled for A and B, he will be awarded with 45 for A and 45 for B;
      Peter Strawman enrolled just for D, he will be awarded with 45 for D.
      Jane Allmighty studied 24/7/12 for 2 years and she enrolled for A, B, C, D; she will be awarded 45 each. Not a good situation, she is very well prepared.
      But the alternative for her are: sit just A and B next year, or sit them all. 
      Delete
    2. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 11:11
      I forgot: 45 points allow candidate to re-sit the next year if he/she don't like the rewarding.
      Delete
  75. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 10:58
    Giving everyone 45 points on each paper now means that you will get a full european qualification with 55 points in each of paper A and B next year. 
    I do not think the EPO will allow this
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 11:14
      People already qualify in that manner every year.

      The EPO already allows candidates hold compensating passes in C/D to qualify by using A/B to get them over the 200 mark threshold....

      And any and every combination possible therefore. 

      As long as you have more then 200 marks in total and not less than 45 in more than 2 papers; this year's candidates would still have to score 55+ in at least 2 papers. The same as all previous years' candidates.
      Delete
    2. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 11:21
      It's absolutely delusional. 45 marks without answering a single question? Ridiculous.
      Delete
    3. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 11:24
      "People already qualify in that manner every year."

      No, those candidates still had to EARN 45 marks in two papers.
      Delete
    4. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 11:29
      The problem is that this year we are not in the position of earning anything!
      What is not clear of the awkward situation we are in??
      Delete
    5. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 11:30
      This year's candidates have had the chance to EARN those marks taken away from them - at effectively the last minute.

      And any candidate receiving 45 is free to enrol again in future years to EARN their marks.

      Delete
    6. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 11:39
      "And any candidate receiving 45 is free to enrol again in future years to EARN their marks."

      Why on earth would they want to do that?

      If I sat just papers A and B last year and got 55 in both, under your scheme I am now a qualified EPA having never sat either of papers C or D.

      This is an absurd situation, and one the EPO will never sign off on. So you should stop presenting '45 marks all roung' as a 'solution'.
      Delete
    7. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 11:45
      If you deem it necessary that everyone should have sat all papers, then restrict the compensating fails to re-sitters only.
      Delete
    8. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 12:19
      It can't be assumed that a re-sitter would have got 45 marks either.

      These exams are to demonstrate fitness to practice. The EPO can't hand out qualifications to candidates who haven't demonstrated the necessary knowledge and skills. That would be an abdication of their responsibility, and its nonsensical to think that any examining body would contemplate this.
      Delete
  76. Sandra6 March 2020 at 11:08
    I see. As someone said this could be Fair treatment for everyone !
    ReplyDelete
  77. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 11:23
    Just people who is already a professional representative opposes '45 points each paper' solution...:-))
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sandra6 March 2020 at 11:30
      What do you mean by that please? 
      Delete
    2. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 11:31
      How is it a solution? It allows candidates to essentially skip two papers. Why should you be given 45 marks for paper D without answering any questions, when in 2019 40 percent of candidates didn't achieve this mark?
      Delete
    3. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 11:44
      Also candidates that are well prepared to go to all four papers and invested hundreds of hours and are aware of other candidates that probably they do not know even the basics, oppose to this 45 without any effort. Are you serious guys? You are underrating the profession with this kind of suggestion.
      Although it will sound harsh, I believe that people suggesting that they are not prepared and they just want to take advantage of the cancellation
      Delete
  78. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 11:34
    I'm jocking with colleagues who already are professional representative, they seem  envious of the fact that a candidate can pass a paper without facing it...:-))
    ReplyDelete
  79. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 11:39
    Who cares of 2019, the apocalypse is now!
    Who in 2019 did not achieve 45 in D could achieve for sure this year, good for them too!
    ReplyDelete
  80. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 11:54
    "Although it will sound harsh, I believe that people suggesting that they are not prepared and they just want to take advantage of the cancellation"

    On the contrary! I want at least the minimum advantage I have could obtain and I probably will never have!!
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 11:58
      'I had could obtain', sorry.
      Delete
  81. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 12:01
    Someone said here already: the EQE 2020 cancelled = all candidates have failed all papers, but get fees reimbursed! In this extraordinary scenario is the "45 marks" a FAIR alternative! What happened in previous years is NOT comparable!! 
    ReplyDelete
  82. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 12:05
    It will certainly not mean that you obtained a "fail", because that would mean that your fee for re-sitting can be increased in the next year. 
    The exam simply did not take place. So i guess everyone will simply get the fee reimbursed and will have enroll anew for the next EQE
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 12:11
      you misunderstood. "Fail" is the equivalent outcome in real life! I cannot qualify and move on!!!!!
      Delete
  83. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 12:05
    It happened in the past, 10 marks were given to everyone in paper C 2007
    ReplyDelete
  84. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 12:09
    It is true. I had a meeting with my supervisor today. She told that no compensation can be offered by the company for me not qualifying in 2020. Either name is in register or not. I have to accept that is fair by the company, but I look to EPO for fair compensation as well. Return of fees does not help me!!
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 12:14
      yeah right. I do think so that 45 for all papers (pass for pre-exam) is compensation for losing a year. Simple and fair
      Delete
  85. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 12:19
    Talking about such "options" in the middle of such a pandemic reminds me of the people who refuse to get vaccinated and think they have "the option" to spread the disease.
    ReplyDelete
  86. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 12:36
    I would much rather have the opportunity to take the test properly later this year and qualify fair and square, than be awarded pity marks (that won't even mean qualification this year)..

    Some people have said people won't be able to make the rescheduled time but those people can take it next year. At least a rescheduled exam this year allows a majority of people to take the test in 2020. Sadly there is no perfect solution and the EPO can only do their best to make a majority happy.
    ReplyDelete
  87. Hilel6 March 2020 at 12:36
    Here is a very serious proposition : 

    "PASS" to all candidates at the PRE-EQE (giving passes at the pre eqe is not a big deal for the EPO as they are not yet allowed to represent and it will enable not to loose any time for candidates!)

    "place the compensable fail line at 40 points instead of 45 points and keep all the other conditions : 200 points and 2 passes out of 4" (this is a compensatory measure and it guarantees a minimum knowledge of the candidates)

    Waiting for your comments...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 12:42
      not a better alternative than the "45 rule" because you are changing the rules for future EQEs as well
      Delete
    2. Hilel6 March 2020 at 12:45
      Well, I was wondering this rule would apply only for paper 2020
      Delete
    3. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 12:54
      Thus, the next year you are also in disadvantage in respect of other regular candidates.
      Scr#wed twice.
      Delete
  88. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 12:39
    Every candidate expected to do the exam in March = fair situation.
    Rescheduling is simply not fair. Why? because it favours come candidates over others.
    That is a fact. There isn't anything to discuss. YOU might be happier, but not someone else.
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 13:01
      Isn't it better that at least some, or even a majority of,candidates get to sit the exam in 2020 rather than blanket holding everyone back? No solution is perfect but reschedule seems fair.
      Delete
  89. Hilel6 March 2020 at 12:42
    This comment has been removed by the author.
    ReplyDelete
  90. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 12:44
    here is another alternative: change profession! Then you don't have to bother with this crazy EQE ;-)
    ReplyDelete
  91. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 12:49
    "Every candidate expected to do the exam in March = fair situation.
    Rescheduling is simply not fair. Why? because it favours come candidates over others."

    Again: who cares of other candidates? Is EQE a competition amongst candidates??
    The fact that someone can 'take advantage' in which way affect you and your job?
    I really don't get it.
    ReplyDelete
  92. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 13:00
    EPO has two choices: to ruin life of the most of candidates (except who is in love with PCT Guidelines and who sleeps with Visser under the pillow), or to do something to make the situation the easiest possible for the majority of candidates. 
    ReplyDelete
  93. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 13:01
    Just received:

    From: CIPA  
    Sent: 06 March 2020
    To: 
    Subject: Update on cancellation of the EQE

    Update on cancellation of the EQE  

    Following representations to the EPO’s EQE Supervisory Board on behalf of our members yesterday, the Board has confirmed to CIPA this morning that the EQEs have been cancelled as a result of the spread of coronavirus and that this decision is irreversible.
     
    The EPO said that the decision was not an easy one and was taken as a preventative measure related to the very serious public health risks posed by COVID-19. Like CIPA, the EPO is fully aware of the inconvenience that this situation creates and, most of all, the effect that it will have on the personal and professional lives of candidates.
     
    The EPO has told us that the Supervisory Board, with the support of the EQE Secretariat, will continue to monitor health and safety conditions posed by COVID-19 in order to explore options to hold the exams later in this year.
     
    We are grateful to the EPO for this clarification and confirmation and we remain committed to work with the EQE Secretariat to ensure that whatever arrangements are put in place are sensible in relation to, for example, the UK exam timetable. 

    ReplyDelete
  94. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 13:07
    I think rather than passing/compensatory failing the candidates automatically the EPO should consider some kind of financial compensation for lost earnings, possibly via national offices. Maybe 30% of the average lost earnings across Europe between pre and post qualified candidates? 
    ReplyDelete
  95. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 13:12
    If it is true that the Coronavirus will (temporarly) disappear during the Spring/Summer, maybe the EQE wil be scheduled again in September-December. More probably, september-november, with an option to pay late the fee for re-sitting the examination in 2021 for the candidates that fail or get an unsatisfactory grade. Normally, the results are published at the beginning of July, so about 4 month after the EQE. If the EQE 2020 will take place in September, results could be published in January-Febrauary, only few weeks before the EQE 2021. This is unthinkable, unless EPO decides to reprogram all future EQEs in September... 
    ReplyDelete
  96. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 13:53
    https://www.cipa.org.uk/policy-and-news/latest-news/update-on-cancellation-of-the-eqe/

    So everything is all right now.
    ReplyDelete
  97. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 14:05
    Was is really situation in somewhere that some compensation was provided by EPO due to cold examination hall??

    I am really wondering, if this is true.

    I only understand this in the case in which candidates were forced to use gloves due to coldness. I can believe that those would make writing cumbersome.
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 14:35
      Yes; see second paragraph of this letter: https://ipcopy.files.wordpress.com/2016/11/open-letter-from-cipa-informals-24-november-2016.pdf

      I am not sure how much many points were added as an increment to those who sat the exams at Ashton Gate stadium that year; it is described as "nominal", so not very many.
      Delete
    2. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 15:31
      Thx!

      Yes, in deed.

      And gloves mentioned. So this is ok, at least for me.
      Delete
  98. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 14:49
    Could the EPO award pass for all pre exam sitters this of this year and 45 marks for all main exam sitters, to be used in one exam the person has enrolled to? This way the pre-exam sitters would not lose one year and could sit the main exam normally next year, and the main exam sitters have the opportunity to use this compensation or sit all exams normally next year if necessary? I doubt that the corona will ease up during the next months. This way the huge efforts and expenses for EPO to organize all the papers and exam halls and staff again would be avoided. Everyone would be treated equally and exams would be held normally next year.

    -JustaThought
    ReplyDelete
  99. REX6 March 2020 at 16:14
    THIS IS MY OPINION
    I actually disagree with the cancellation: there is plenty of space during examination to avoid contagion and nobody is obliged to participate. Those who can't/don't want participate could get a reimbursement of fees.

    The cancellation causes significant damages to candidates. 

    Incidentally, if EQE 2020 is not postponed, there will be an extremely high number of candidates next year.

    Therefore, I warmly recommend to:
    a) organize EQE 2020;
    b) give at least 5 extra points to EQE 2019 cadidates;
    c) and give at least 5 extra points to the next EQE to candidates enrolled for EQE2020.

    Point b) is important because can somehow compensate for the cancellation issue and also can reduce the number of candidates for the next EQE.
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Carlos6 March 2020 at 16:25
      Let me guess Rex, are you missing 5 points to pass your EQE last year (2019) ?
      Delete
    2. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 19:54
      "There is plenty of space to avoid 'contagion'?? I don't think you know the first thing about crisis management. The EPO have acted responsibly.
      Delete
  100. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 16:25
    "German exams are way easier than the UK PEB exams. Not even a close comparison." ..says somebody who has written both, UK and German Exams? It would be nice to keep the discussion less divisive and more factual!
    ReplyDelete
  101. REX6 March 2020 at 16:28
    THIS IS MY OPINION
    I actually disagree with the cancellation: there is plenty of space during examination to avoid contagion and nobody is obliged to participate. Those who can't/don't want participate could get a reimbursement of fees.

    The cancellation causes significant damages to candidates. 

    Incidentally, if EQE 2020 is not postponed, there will be an extremely high number of candidates next year.

    Therefore, I warmly recommend to:
    a) organize EQE 2020;
    b) give at least 5 extra points to EQE 2019 cadidates;
    c) and give at least 5 extra points to the next EQE to candidates enrolled for EQE2020.

    Point b) is important because can somehow compensate for the cancellation issue and also can reduce the number of candidates for the next EQE.

    Legal basis for the extra points could be loss of chance.
    ReplyDelete
  102. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 16:30
    "German exams are way easier than the UK PEB exams..." Evidence please!
    ReplyDelete
  103. Carlos6 March 2020 at 17:09
    New message from the Examination Secretariat : 

    Dear candidate,

    We have prepared an official document confirming the cancellation of the 
    EQE 2020 due to COVID-19. This document will be uploaded to myEQE and 
    may help when trying to reclaim cancelled travel and hotel costs 
    although we cannot guarantee this.

    We have been following the different blogs and have received many 
    queries. We are aware that cancellation of the EQE planned in March 2020 
    has affected candidates in many ways. We again sincerely regret this 
    highly unsatisfactory situation for all concerned.

    Further information will follow in due course. Please understand that 
    due to the high number of enquiries received, answering individual 
    questions will take more time than usual.

    Best regards / Mit freundlichen Grüßen / Sincères salutations
    ReplyDelete
  104. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 17:24
    Would they have reached all candidates? It would be so sad if someone does not know and shows up at the EQE location to sit, surprised there is no one else, and then finding out why... :(
    ReplyDelete
  105. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 17:48
    If the EQEs are scheduled for later during the year i.e. October/November time - then I have lost my Christmas last year and will stand to lose my whole Easter/summer time. I will be absolutely burnt out from all of this. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 17:49
      but waiting for a whole year is completely unfair on these candidates. 
      Delete
    2. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 17:51
      Not to mention that firms will have the majority of their trainees out all at the same time next year. 

      But rescheduling is difficult as it needs to fit in the times of most and who knows when coronavirus is going away. The EPO just don't know and therefore can't set a date. 
      Delete
  106. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 17:49
    I agree, June expected to be Corona-peak, so not June.
    Holidays is July and August.
    Early September: could be? Maybe only Pre-Examination?
    Late September and early October not as Munich will be on the Festwiese.
    Mid October is very tight to have results of main exam before next exam.
    November seems to be too late, but still it is a chance.

    DD
    ReplyDelete
  107. A serious suggestion6 March 2020 at 17:57
    Here are some of my suggestions to be fair to candidates.

    For pre-EQE - lower the pass rate from 70% to 50% (in line with the earlier years)

    For main EQE candidates - give them 5-10 marks per paper. The candidate can then choose to apply all the marks to one paper or spread it out. This way, the candidate is forced to do the papers and will still need show that they are fit to practice but at the same time, not penalised for missing out this year/disrupting their revision or preparation this year. It is also a fair compensation for them missing out both personally and financially for not sitting the EQEs in March. 

    As an example - if you do all 4 exams this year, you will be the most affected. You have 5 marks per paper (so 20 in total). You can choose to apply all 20 marks to one paper or spread out the marks to each paper. 

    If you are a re-sitter and have 1 paper to pass. you will be given 5 marks. Compensation shall still apply so you only need 40 marks instead of 45 marks to pass. 

    I think this is the fairest way whilst also ensuring that candidates are deemed fit to practice. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 18:02
      A seriously good suggestion. Compensation should still apply in all cases.

      Candidates will have to sit all 4 and will still be assessed on fitness to practice. They will have to put in equal effort of preparing for the exams as it will be obvious if candidates are not fit to practice (achieving 25-30 marks in EQEs is still tough). But it goes some way of addressing fairness. 

      I like it.
      Delete
    2. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 18:03
      It means you will have to pass outright with the other 3 papers so that's reasonable. 

      Alternatively, spread it equally across all 4. 
      Delete
    3. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 18:04
      Are you serious? No, you must be kidding! Gives me as a pre-exam candidate still a year delay! Not a serious solution for me. I must be able to move on to main exam.
      Delete
    4. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 18:10
      This works well with main EQEs. I see with pre-EQE, its difficult but you can't just pass everybody at pre-EQE stage. 

      They could arrange a different date for pre-EQE candidates. This can be done much earlier. I don't know why they need to be lumped in together with the main EQEs. 

      The solution works well for main EQEs.
      Delete
    5. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 18:14
      This solution works for main EQE very nicely and also fair to all doing the main exam. It is so much more work than pre-EQE.  I too like this solution alot. 

      We need to think about pre-EQE as they should be able to sit the main exam in Feb 2021. 
      Delete
  108. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 18:06
    Bear in mind - rescheduling exams later this year will also (potentially if they have to re-take) affect their preparations the following year because they will have less time for preparations. 

    I like the idea of applying 5 marks per paper and let the candidates decide. 

    After all, the EQE paper D have recently changed their weighting of the exam so this could be something to consider (at least). 
    ReplyDelete
  109. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 18:06
    From the EPO's newspage:
    ~~~~~~~
    Oral Proceedings before Examining and Opposition Divisions

    With regard to the current spread of the novel Coronavirus (Covid-19), the EPO would like to inform parties and their representatives that oral proceedings before examining and opposition divisions will in principle take place as scheduled.

    Oral proceedings involving parties or representatives who have recently visited high risk areas will be held by videoconference or postponed, upon request.

    In other cases where the general spread of Coronavirus prevents a party or representative from attending oral proceedings, for instance in case of travel restrictions in companies or patent attorney firms, the EPO will do everything feasible to remove the need for the party or representative to travel to oral proceedings. In particular, oral proceedings by videoconference will be offered in examination and, to the extent possible, in opposition proceedings. The relevant party or representative should indicate in each particular case which alternative measures they request."
    ~~~~~~~

    In one situation (EQEs) it's a blanket cancellation and in another situation (OPs) it is not. 

    Disgraceful.
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 18:19
      I must congratulate the EPO for winning the award of the most insensitive organisation. 

      On behalf of candidates, thank you for putting this out to all candidates who this year sadly had their Christmas ruined and is likely to have their Easter and Summer ruined too. 
      Delete
    2. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 18:23
      Yep, agree 
      Delete
    3. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 20:39
      Don't agree. If in Italy the EQE is not allowed to take place, then how can the EQE take place at all? The EQE board has acted in the only way it could.
      Delete
  110. Blink6 March 2020 at 18:08
    Welp, see you all next year.
    To the EPO staff in charge who read this blog, please consider publishing the planned papers in the compendium with an examiner's report, that would definitely help us preparing for next session
    ReplyDelete
  111. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 18:15
    Most sensible suggestion so far by annon (see below) 

    Here are some of my suggestions to be fair to candidates.

    For pre-EQE - lower the pass rate from 70% to 50% (in line with the earlier years)

    For main EQE candidates - give them 5-10 marks per paper. The candidate can then choose to apply all the marks to one paper or spread it out. This way, the candidate is forced to do the papers and will still need show that they are fit to practice but at the same time, not penalised for missing out this year/disrupting their revision or preparation this year. It is also a fair compensation for them missing out both personally and financially for not sitting the EQEs in March.

    As an example - if you do all 4 exams this year, you will be the most affected. You have 5 marks per paper (so 20 in total). You can choose to apply all 20 marks to one paper or spread out the marks to each paper.

    If you are a re-sitter and have 1 paper to pass. you will be given 5 marks. Compensation shall still apply so you only need 40 marks instead of 45 marks to pass.

    I think this is the fairest way whilst also ensuring that candidates are deemed fit to practice.
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 18:24
      Yep, agree to this one rather than the one above. 
      Delete
  112. Magda6 March 2020 at 18:29
    I think the information from Epo has been an absolutly disaser! First an e-mail during the morning, and not until the evening any official notice on their homepage. Why not fix at least that until you update all candidates. I first "hoped" it was a spam or a virus(!). Then during the friday, at least you could expect some information about if they are really considering a re-schedule or if that is only loose plans. First to accept the fact that you are NOT going to write, I was heading for all four for the first time. But then, to continue being in agony if they will reschedule = still being more or less prepaired. Or just say it out, you will not be able until next year! To have no possibility to make any plans or continue live your life, that is what is tearing me down now!
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 20:48
      I'm also doing all 4 exams this year for the first time and its very hard to take - not least because it has affected (already) so much of my personal life. 

      I've come to the conclusion to stop revision! until more comes out. I understand where you are at but its probably best to stop revising as the situation now is far too unclear. 
      Delete
  113. Carlos6 March 2020 at 19:02
    I think it will be very difficult for the EPO to postpone the exams later this year. What about the end of the spread of the coronavirus? What about the availability of candidates (the last quarter has a high workload in a patent law firm)? What about the availability of exam rooms?

    The 2020 EQE will certainly be canceled and not postponed.

    The main problem for the EPO is to face a very large number of applicants next year.

    The EPO must find solutions to limit the number of candidates next year.

    Concerning the candidates passing the 4 exams for the first time, no real solution. It is difficult to consider giving the 4 exams a score of 45 marks. They will probably have to pass the exam in 2021, the EPO having no way of controlling their fit to practice.

    Regarding resitters, the EPO already has an idea of ​​their fit to practice. The EPO could decide to add, for example, 10 points to last year's mark, or else 10 points in total to be distributed over exams taken last year. This could allow certain candidates not to need to enroll in 2021. Another solution could be to grant to candidates who have passed exams several times, to re-use a mark already obtained which would be higher than the score obtained last year (example EQE C 2018: 46 points, EQE C 2019: 40 points> the candidate could re-use the 46 marks as an EQE 2020 note).

    Concerning pre exam, I have no idea. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 20:41
      Nonsense! The EPO cannot and does not manage quotas of candidates!
      Delete
  114. Magda6 March 2020 at 19:19
    I should have cross the street to sit at the Swedish authority. Why coukdn't they hav supervised it!
    ReplyDelete
  115. Magda6 March 2020 at 19:30
    They can still force every candidate to go to their local premesis and trust the local authorities to be garding it!
    ReplyDelete
  116. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 20:57
    The EPO has a tricky and difficult decision that had to be made. I am doing all 4 papers and this decision has affected me massively - no question. I don't ask for a pass - I want to take the exams fairly although I agree that the EPO must taken into consideration of the circumstances of all candidates when deciding their re-scheduling & marking for this year. 

    All I ask is that the EPO now make more training materials available for all 4 papers for free, for example - they could provide new daily D questions to help candidates. 
    ReplyDelete
  117. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 21:20
    Decision made by EPO. Whilst it's not ideal we have to accept it. I'm sure they were just in agony as we are.

    There is not going to be a right answer or a best solution. I would hope the EPO would look at this year's candidates exceptionally as it really is the worse situation possible. Let's see what can be done for all but for now it is sensible to sit, wait and see what the situation is with coronavirus.
    ReplyDelete
  118. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 22:16
    Dear EPO,

    If you are reading this, as you say you do, my question to you is: and CORONAry disease doesn’t kill?  Because let me tell you, my body cannot take another year of this extreme sedentary life.  I, as all in this business, have a very demanding job, with a non-stop sedentary life as it is... studying for the EQE has made me have a completely unhealthy lifestyle, where I sit at work all day, I study all night Mo-Fri, I take a 6 h paper on Saturdays, and 2 4h papers every Sunday.  And then, I start it all over on Monday.  I do not spend any time at all with my child, nor with my spouse... for now the fourth year in a row because of this cancellation?  You understand the practical implications are that this is as if we had all failed, right?  We have to keep on studying, and keep on studying.  
    Having lost a parent to a heart attack, this is no joke to me. The time I spend sitting down, I want to spend very efficiently, and studying for the EQE is not I am afraid. There is a lot of running around like headless chickens for no reason: “why is this answer like this and not like that?, with nowhere to turn to for the answer. Especially with the old papers, this is painfully true.  The “closest prior art” to go no further, which is so central to C, is a hit or miss by the engineers that take this exam.  To begin with, if “closest prior art” was a claim term, it would be objected to for lack of clarity by the EPO...but somehow, if we don’t get it, we don’t pass.  And year after year, generation after generation, about 50% of well educated, intelligent people, get it wrong.  If there was a cancer predicting test that was 50% right, who would buy it?  Maybe not such a good test after all... Eventually we all get it... but is the time that it takes really necessary?  If it was a well defined, infallible concept, couldn’t the Exam Committee teach it to us in ...an afternoon? 
    The EQE is too based on punishment and too little on education and sharing of knowledge.  Please have the Committees share their knowledge of the law, with all its glorious twists and turns, with us, and then test us on it... but the motivation of the exams in the current system is... well an old school punishment system.  Please consider the collateral damage you are causing on us, our spouses, our small children, our jobs.
    B last year was an act of cruelty. I have many years of experience and I have not worked with a range once! Sure we need to know the law, including the ranges, but do we need to know every  case?  I read the recension on the case the exam was based on in the Case Law book and it was... well...incomprehensible... do we need to read all the original cases? Is that a reasonable expectation?
    High quality:yes, but the road to get there has to be more effective: more educating, by the Committees, not by third parties, and less senseless punishing.  Less drama building up to the exam, please.  Can’t we all be a bit more practical?
    And while I am at it, I might as well say: 2018 C was offensive.  That dandruffy, Benny Hill, boys club type of humor should have no place at the EPO.  Where were the women in the Committee?  How could they not stop this? Not cool EPO, not cool.
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous7 March 2020 at 00:02
      Yeesh, calm down
      Delete
    2. Anonymous7 March 2020 at 01:06
      "And while I am at it, I might as well say: 2018 C was offensive"

      Ahahahah :-))

      That f@#king cow with the teats in the river, I drowned in that river and failed the paper...

      eds

      (I laugh now because I passed C 2019)

      Eds
      Delete
  119. Anonymous6 March 2020 at 23:33
    Unfortunately my whole life is now on hold throughout the summer while I wait for the EPO to reschedule. I cannot relax. I have to keep going being on standby. It is crazy. I've not had a break since last summer. I took time of work to revise - yes to revise. To take 6 hour practice exam. 

    Some say I've picked the profession which is true. But I'm sure everyone understand juggling work and revision is very tough and you cannot keep going for several months without it having a significant impact. Now we have to keep going for several more months. 

    My spouse just asked whether we can take a break somewhere but I can't. I am fearful that if I do, the date will be rescheduled to the date I am away and I will have to cancel everything. I lose out financially but also that quality time with family. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous7 March 2020 at 00:15
      Same here. I can't plan or do anything in my personal life. 
      Delete
  120. Anonymous7 March 2020 at 00:09
    It's basically going to be around a whole year being constantly on edge. It's not good for the health and well being.

    It's so difficult for the EPO but the candidates have to suffer so much this year. 
    ReplyDelete
  121. Anonymous7 March 2020 at 00:13
    The problem is that this uncertainty is going to linger on for a while as the corona situation is changing so fast.

    In the end, candidates will suffer no matter how well they have prepared. Unprecedented times. 
    ReplyDelete
  122. Anonymous7 March 2020 at 00:24
    A perfect storm and candidates are stuck in the middle. 
    ReplyDelete
  123. U carcamagnu7 March 2020 at 01:13
    This comment has been removed by the author.
    ReplyDelete
  124. Anonymous7 March 2020 at 01:14
    Oh well, now we have a touching letter from EPO to ask our money back from hotels and railway companies.
    Hooray!
    ReplyDelete
  125. Anonymous7 March 2020 at 08:42
    What's going to happen to those who can't make the rescheduled date. I'm expecting a baby this summer so that is me out... For at least 2022.

    my employer is not going to be happy but my life can't be on hold any longer. It's already on hold enough and I'm sure all this stress is no good for little one. 
    ReplyDelete
  126. Anonymous7 March 2020 at 08:47
    June is way too soon. Its not a good idea to move it to then when the virus show no end of stopping. If it is rescheduled it will have to be September/October time. This is hugely upsetting for the EQE candidates involved. It's going to disrupt their personal time.

    I hope the EPO takes into account that candidates now have to keep preparing for many more months which is going to result in a stage of Burn OUT 
    ReplyDelete
  127. Anonymous7 March 2020 at 08:49
    CIPA are acting for their members which is great. Why aren't other organisations in Europe doing the same. At least put out a statement. They've all gone silence. Why are we paying national member fees to them. 
    ReplyDelete
  128. Anonymous7 March 2020 at 08:49
    Day 3: feeling worse and don't know how I can go back to my normal life or back to work on Monday. the EQE preparation is a long race. like all races you  manage your energy so that you can get to the finish line. And when you get close to the finish line, you give it all you have. Except the finish line was moved on us at the last minute. and I crashed. of course we all prepare with the possibility of going back the following year. but lets be honest, who prepares for the possibility of having to re-study for the 4 exams twice. No one. I would have been energized by passing a few exams, and who knows, maybe all. But now, how can someone find the energy to start over. There isn't anything that can be done now to fix this. if I can get myself back up, there is no way I will have even half the energy I had this year for this. even with those crazy suggestions that we all get 45, I still had a better chance to pass this year than with any compensation they may give, but you guys are all dreaming. there is no compensation we are getting for this. we only have our eyes to cry.  THE ONLY THING THEY CAN NOT GIVE US IS ENERGY, AND THAT IS WHAT WE ALL NEED.. moving it to later this year is a terrible idea. I can't live through another cancellation. too much risk. really a desperate situation. people will not get sick from the Coronavirus, but they may very well suffer other health issues from this. 
    ReplyDelete











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