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. Anonymous16 March 2020 at 09:23
    Comments like this make other serious comments lose their meaning...Are you serious? I think you should never be granted any license for any profession...except maybe for being a clown...
    ReplyDelete
  2. Roel van Woudenberg16 March 2020 at 10:49
    Hi Ash, I do understand the decision. I also think (but my view may be biased due to the local situation in the Netherlands at the time before, on, and after the date of the decision) that the decision was taken at the right moment: earlier was probably too early as it was not yet known that it would become so serious, and later was too late as it was already 11 days before the exam. The developments also went very very rapidly (e.g., in NL, we could move around and meet until last Tue, but yesterday evening all schools, restaurants, bars, ... were closed), so that I can also well understand that there was no clarity yet as to whether a rescheduling would be possible and if so until when, also because noone knows when the situation is safe again (maybe there was an emergency plan for postponing by 1 or 2 months or so, but that does not work now; I agree with others above that September is probably the earliest possible occasion assuming that the Corona is gone well before). If you monitored the EPO website the days before the decision, you will have seen that there were "Corona update" messages on the EPO homepage won 1 March, 4 March, 5 March and 6 March which were indicating with every update how fast the situation worsened - after the 4 March Update, the cancellation of the EQE (almost immediately afert) was not a big surprise. 
      
    As tutor of EQE courses, I am not involved in organizing nor in marking. I do not see any reason why tutors would need to be contacted/consulted by the Supervisory Board to take a decision like this.

    Personally, I consider it understandable and correct that in view of the fast action that was needed, all candidates were contacted before local organizers - who were actually contacted very soon after. Although I understand all frustration and share some of it (I want to see my candidates passing, not needing to wait longer), I think the Supervisory Board did the right thing in cancelling the EQE for this week. I hope it can be rescheduled to early autumn, but I also understand that logistics and uncertainty on how Corona develops prevents at this moment to find a new date.
    ReplyDelete
  3. Roel van Woudenberg16 March 2020 at 10:51
    Last Friday, the epi published "epi view on EQE March 2020 cancellation" on the epi website (https://patentepi.org/en/epi/news/a4e7106e-0f2c-4d35-af84-6b00f6f89f5c).

    The message reads:

    "epi view on EQE March 2020 cancellation
    March 13, 2020

    Last week, the Supervisory Board, which is a joint body of the EPO and epi, informed all candidates of EQE 2020 about its decision to cancel the EQE scheduled for 16.-19. March 2020 in view of the current COVID19 epidemic.

    It is the first time since the EQE was initiated in 1979 that the annual exam has to be canceled. epi regrets that this unprecedented decision was necessary which deeply affects the professional future of thousands of candidates. However, we think that under the current circumstances the decision taken was logical and unavoidable.

    Within these weeks Europe is faced for the first time since decades with a serious pandemic situation, which quickly and increasingly affects public life in most, if not all 38 EPC countries to a large extent. Protection of health and safety of all candidates as well as of the personnel carrying out the exam, including many volunteers, must be the highest priority of those who are deciding and organizing the EQE. Following the recommendations from international and national institutions such as WHO, ECDC, Robert Koch Institut, many governments have taken measures to prevent spreading of the COVID19 disease, amongst them prohibition of public events with a certain size up to putting certain regions under total quarantine with an absolute travel ban.

    Additionally, many companies and employers have also put in place travel restrictions for their employees. It is not possible to carry out a complex pan-European EQE under those circumstances without putting at risk participants and organizers.

    We all do not know, how the situation will develop within the next months. We support and encourage therefore the Supervisory Board, the EPO EQE secretariat and all other bodies involved to explore all necessary measures to carry out an EQE for the candidates who planned to sit in March 2020 as soon as the situation will allow, either still within 2020 or only in 2021."
    ReplyDelete
  4. Anonymous16 March 2020 at 14:14
    we just received this from out outside counsel: https://www.epo.org/law-practice/legal-texts/official-journal/information-epo/archive/20200315_de.html
    ReplyDelete
  5. Anonymous16 March 2020 at 14:24
    Oral proceedings from Munich have been cancelled, probably in relation to the complete close up of Bayern. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous16 March 2020 at 15:33
      Partially incorrect. Only those before the Boads. Not those before the Examining and Opposition Divisions.

      See https://www.epo.org/news-issues/covid-19.html:

      Coronavirus (COVID-19) - continually updated information
      Information for customers, external partners and potential visitors to the EPO

      Last updated: 16 March 2020

      In view of the present situation with the Coronavirus (COVID-19) the European Patent Office (EPO) is adopting the following measures.

      We understand this may cause some business disruption and apologise for any inconvenience caused. We are continuously monitoring the situation and will provide updates as necessary.

      > Oral Proceedings before the Boards of Appeal

      Oral proceedings will not be held in the premises of the Boards of Appeal from 16 March 2020 until 27 March 2020. Concerned parties will be contacted accordingly with a communication.


      > Oral Proceedings before Examining and Opposition Divisions

      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 (see below) 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.
      Delete
    2. Roel van Woudenberg19 March 2020 at 09:12
      Update: see https://www.epo.org/news-issues/covid-19.html "Coronavirus (COVID-19) - continually updated information"

      Coronavirus (COVID-19) - continually updated information
      Information for customers, external partners and potential visitors to the EPO

      Last updated: 18 March 2020

      In view of the present situation with the Coronavirus (COVID-19) the European Patent Office (EPO) is adopting the following preventive measures.

      We understand this may cause some business disruption and apologise for any inconvenience caused. We are continuously monitoring the situation and will provide updates as necessary.

      * Oral Proceedings before Examining and Opposition Divisions *

      The EPO has decided to postpone until further notice all oral proceedings in examination and opposition proceedings scheduled until 27 March 2020 unless they have already been confirmed to take place by means of videoconferencing. During this time the EPO will explore options for further facilitating, where applicable, the use of videoconferencing in oral proceedings.

      Separate notifications about this postponement will be sent to the parties as soon as possible. To guarantee that all parties are informed in due time, the EPO may exceptionally use additional means of communication (e.g. email). The parties are invited to check the respective files online via the European Patent Register where the notice of postponement until further notice of oral proceedings will be available shortly after its despatch.

      Search, examining and opposition divisions will continue with their other activities, as well as holding oral proceedings which have been confirmed to take place by means of videoconferencing.

      > Read the full announcement: https://www.epo.org/news-issues/covid-19/oral-proceedings-examination-opposition.html
       
      * Oral Proceedings before the Boards of Appeal *

      Oral proceedings will not be held in the premises of the Boards of Appeal from 16 March 2020 until 27 March 2020. Concerned parties will be contacted accordingly with a communication.

      > No oral proceedings in the Boards of Appeal 16-27 March 2020 at https://www.epo.org/law-practice/case-law-appeals/communications/2020/20200315.html
      Delete
  6. Gregory16 March 2020 at 14:26
    Can the EPO offer the test via email or by mail?  Just a thought (albeit a little crazy, but I can't think of a better solution that allows candidates to take the test soon).  
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous17 March 2020 at 08:27
      I agree with this. alternative assessments such as coursework should be considered.

      I would like to point out that schools and universities have cancelled their exams and are going towards a coursework/online assessment. 

      I don't see why the EPO can't do this especially given the exceptional circumstances we live in now. 

      Delete
  7. Anonymous16 March 2020 at 18:30
    Does anybody know, if I get the EQE fee back in case of not writing it at the delayed date?
    ReplyDelete
  8. Poor EPO17 March 2020 at 08:22
    I do not understand the Supervisory Board slow and lack of action.

    Surely we must explore alternative assessments such as coursework or online testing. 


    ReplyDelete
  9. Ash17 March 2020 at 08:25
    Thanks Roel. I understand the face pace of this virus. I do hope we can still do exams in September. If this is the case, can the EPO at least release a statement to say that the exams will not be rescheduled at least in the next 3 months. There lack of communication now is not good. 
    ReplyDelete
  10. Roel van Woudenberg17 March 2020 at 10:28
    Advance measures are being taken at the Rotterdam University of Applied Science in the Netherlands

    The Rotterdam University of Applied Science just announced (the English translation is a bit clumsy... if you can read the Dutch original, I suggest you read that):

    "Binding Study Recommendation suspended
    Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences is suspending the Binding Study Recommendation this academic year (2019/2020). Consequently, everyone can continue studying. De Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences does not rule out that at some time a student may get a BSR, but no negative consequences will be attached to this advice."
    https://www.rotterdamuas.com/newsitem/coronavirus-what-to-do-after-returning-from-the-holidays/165099/ 

    Background: By law, when studying at a University, Technical University or Universities of Applied Science in the Netherlands, you will be subject to the binding recommendation on the continuation of your studies (BSA). This means that you will have to gain a minimum of, e.g., 45 ECTS credits (3/4 of the total number of credits) during your first year of studies in order to be allowed to proceed to the second year (number s for TU Delft). If you fail to achieve this norm, your registration for the programme will be terminated and you will not be allowed to register for the same programme for four years.
    So, a positive BSA (usually 75%,of the credits; some require even more) is required to proceed from the first year to the second year of university/university of applied science. With a negative BSA, you are not allowed to proceed at all and you will need to stop that studies (at at some TUs, you can also not enrol for related studies). 

    So, the BSA serves the SAME PURPOSE AS THE PRE-EXAM: keep candidates who have no chance of success out and to lower the cost of the subsequent studies and examination.

    By suspending it, the Rotterdam University of Applied Science allows their candidates to continue into the second year.
    Advancing all Pre-Exam 2020 candidates to the main exam 2021 would be a similar measure.

    The Rotterdam University of Applied Science's measure could be a precedent to support a decision to this effect. (It may be expected that more universities, technical universities and Universities of Applied Science in the Netherlands will follow them in this; I would not be surprise if the Minister of Education and Science takes up the measure as well).
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous17 March 2020 at 12:43
      I think there really needs to be something for EQE candidates this year. Allowing pre-EQE guys to pass through but not give anything to those doing EQEs is extremely unfair. 

      I would hope that pre-EQE candidates are allowed to go on and give EQE candidates 10 points per exam. They too are massively affected by this and had their careers held back enormously. 

      Pre-EQE can continue but EQE candidates can't this year. I hope you understand where I'm coming from. 
      Delete
  11. Anonymous17 March 2020 at 12:46
    I would hope the EPI and EPO board members seriously consider EQE candidates and apply discretion to main EQE if they are to automatically pass pre-EQE candidates. 

    Yes, I agree pre-EQE candidates should get a pass but please do not forget EQE candidates. They have been hugely affected (perhaps more than pre-EQE candidates) this year. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous17 March 2020 at 15:23
      have to agree with this. Something should also be considered for EQE candidates
      Delete
  12. Anonymous17 March 2020 at 15:26
    Roel post would be ideal. Let pre-EQE candidates go through

    Give some discretionary marks for EQE candidates so that it is fair as they are also affected (much more) by this. 
    ReplyDelete
  13. Anonymous17 March 2020 at 23:41
    The UK latest prediction is that this virus could take 18 months.

    We need to explore alternative assessments and like others say provide some discretion for candidates this year. 
    ReplyDelete
  14. Anonymous18 March 2020 at 10:46
    And this is an example how to deal with the Main EQE:

    "University Minister Gaetano Manfredi said the government would let this year's medicine graduates start work some eight or nine months ahead of schedule and WAIVE the mandatory exams they normally sit before qualifying." 

    (https://www.smh.com.au/world/europe/italy-fast-tracks-new-doctors-as-coronavirus-deaths-rise-above-2500-20200318-p54b6h.html) 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous18 March 2020 at 10:54
      Do you really want a doctor that did not pass his or her exams?

      As a volunteer, yes. But acting as if he or she is a real doctor?

      ...
      Delete
    2. Anonymous18 March 2020 at 11:01
      Dear Anonymous of 18 March 2020 at 10:46, you seem to overlook that doctors had many many years of training including exams spread out over all those years. The message from the Minister only relates to those type of professionals: it only waives the FINAL exams for doctors-to=be that are only a few months before those exams. 

      There is no such analogy with the EQE. You did not take exams over many years and you were not supervised as long with the same intensity as a medical semi-doctor. The Pre-Exam cannot be compared with all those earlier exams that doctors take. 

      From the exams over many years and the practical training, the Universities know the quality of their doctors-to-be. It is not like that for the EPO.

      Lastly, their is a clear need for doctors at this moment. With the economics coming to a stand-still, there is no real need for new patent attorneys now. Urgency breaks law. Non-urgency does not.

      So sorry, there is no good reason to waive the EQE.
      Delete
    3. Anonymous18 March 2020 at 11:05
      Please stop pretending that EQE is about Quality. 

      (In any case, there is no demand for it. Most countries, including the most innovative, like the USA, have much easier and frequent exams).

      EQE is about creating a Monopoly making the costs of specifically Foreign applicants higher. European applicants just hire people without any EQE, and the EPO deals very well with them.

      The EQE is also not about "Fit to Practice". Papers are artificially built, artificially marked, and for no reason have to be written under immense time pressure. 

      Often, papers are artificially made ambiguous and difficult. 


      Also, it is possible to issue the licenses with the note "Potential clients, beware: this attorney have passed only a subset of the EQE Papers". Why are you afraid of letting clients choose whom they prefer? 
      Delete
    4. Anonymous18 March 2020 at 11:40
      Re "Anonymous 18 March 2020 at 11:01" 
      "With the economics coming to a stand-still, there is no real need for new patent attorneys now" 

      - but there is! 

      If there were more patent attorneys (who can offer their services to Foreign applicants), prices would go slightly down, and there would be more patenting and therefore investment in new technologies!

      But your real concern is probably only your own earnings, rather than giving other people a chance to use their skills (and maybe much more Advanced degrees) to more freely breathe in this hard time.
      Delete
    5. Anonymous18 March 2020 at 12:03
      OK, I agree there is such need, What I meant is that there is NO URGENT need, whereas there is a VERY URGENT need for more doctors at this moment.

      If you cannot see the difference... or do not want to see the difference... it is UNCOMPARABLE!
      Delete
    6. Anonymous18 March 2020 at 12:29
      There is a VERY URGENT need for EQE candidates to get licenses to survive. With the number of orders rapidly shrinking, many of them will be ON THE STREET very soon because they are paid only from about 30% of cash flow which they generate. And others will completely lose their mobility due to lack of other jobs, and will fall into SLAVERY at their current workplaces. 

      Again, please stop pretending that EQE is about Quality. It is possible to issue licenses with the note "Potential clients, beware: this attorney has passed only this subset of the EQE Papers: pre-, X and Y". Why are you afraid of letting clients choose whom they prefer? Because you want all money for yourself alone?

      NOT CONDUCTING THE EQE IS NOT FAIR!!! AND THE EQE ITSELF SHOULD BE MADE MORE FAIR!!!
      Delete
    7. Anonymous18 March 2020 at 12:49
      Dear Mr or Mrs Anonymous 18 March 2020 at 12:29.
      I hope you have chosen this job voluntarily. Then you also commit the the rules that go with it. EPO and epi together make the EQE. The exams are fair. Corona is now disrupting the system for several months, not the EQE, EPO or epo. If your boss fires you, he is a bad boss and he clearly does not urgently need you. Address your frustration about losing your ob or slavery to the right person, and that is not the EQE, EPO or epi. Do not make a fool of yourself on this blog. 
      The choice to not conduct the EQE is not about fairness or not. It is about keeping people healthy and alive.
      Delete
    8. Roel van Woudenberg18 March 2020 at 13:34
      @ the various Anonymous-s above: can you please stop your fight here? And stop using the types of words you are using in these last comments? We provide the blog to share opinions and to stimulate discussions, but it is not a platform to fight. 
      Delete
    9. Anonymous18 March 2020 at 13:39
      Dear Mr or Mrs Anonymous (18 March 2020 at 12:49),

      The statement "The exams are fair" is not based on facts. For example, for years the EQE was conducted with double penalization, before some candidates successfully appealed at about 2018. For years, the EQE was conducted with time limits working against candidates with English, French and German being a foreign language. For years there was no pre-EQE, and then suddenly introduced. For years there were separate exams for Chemistry and Mechanics, and then suddenly joined.

      Of course the choice how to deal with candidates who cannot take the EQE due to virus must be about fairness too. 

      If one catches a virus, would he prefer to get a doctor like these fresh Italian or US graduates, or not being able to get a doctor? The answer is obvious. And so is the same for patent applicants, who need to be able to reduce their costs now, due to economy downturn associated with the virus. Public as a whole does not need candidates to lose their jobs now, but needs them to qualify asap.
      Delete
    10. Anonymous18 March 2020 at 16:35
      Also, the EPO does not need the number of patent applications to decline. So, it is in the interest of the EPO to invent something regarding patent attorney licenses this year.

      And what the public, including applicants and candidates, should think about the EPI, if nothing is done to help the candidates? "That was the year which the patent attorneys used very much to their benefit by not doing anything for about 500-700 of younger members, who would normally qualify if not for Corona"?
      Delete
  15. Anonymous18 March 2020 at 10:54
    Also, in the US:

    "Medical board loosens rules for online medicine and physician credentialing because of coronavirus. Doctors can now offer telehealth services to new patients, and LICENSING of medical school grads will be accelerated." 

    (https://www.bostonglobe.com/2020/03/16/business/medical-board-loosens-rules-online-medicine-physician-credentialing-because-coronavirus/)
    ReplyDelete
  16. Anonymous18 March 2020 at 14:04
    Dear all,

    How did you managed yesterday?

    I did quite badly. Even couple of times I boggled that "shouldn't I be today in the EQE?!?!?" That was horrible. Then, in couple of seconds, I again realized/remembered the cancellation.

    This is still so absurd!
    ReplyDelete
  17. Anonymous18 March 2020 at 17:28
    Also, in the UK (from the Guardian):

    "The leadership of the Medical Schools Council (MSC) has advised the UK’s 42 medical schools that they should prioritise qualifying final-year students even if they have missed clinical exams, so they can be provisionally registered by the General Medical Council (GMC) to begin working as doctors as soon as possible.

    “It is important that medical schools do not delay qualification and so prevent new doctors joining the workforce in the summer,” the letter from the MSC’s co-chairs and chief executive said.

    “We suggest that finals are simplified as far as possible, consistent with testing necessary learning objectives. We suggest patients are not used in final clinical exams. Ultimately it may not be possible to deliver any meaningful formal clinical exams, in which case the medical school should review the alternative methods of assessment that are available to them (previous exam results, placement grades etc).”

    If this is possible for doctors, how can this be not possible for the patent attorneys?  In difference to doctors, patent attorney skills are not so critical for successful "treatment": European firms can be "treated" by an unqualified employee.
    ReplyDelete
  18. Encore18 March 2020 at 17:32
    Hi Roel -  Everything is getting shut down included my workplace so I would like to know if my 2 year still counts when enrolment date comes round even if I have a 3 month break. I don't know what the situation is for others but in my place, it is purely survival of the company and there is no training taking place at all. Trainees are expected to cover other areas of the business.   
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous19 March 2020 at 11:27
      It is the same situation here. No training taking place and trainees are being asked to cover other roles if necessary such as invoicing. Attorneys are trying to cover others so no one is getting trained in our workplace. 

      The firm is expecting a big financial hit 
      Delete
  19. Anonymous18 March 2020 at 22:44
    It's interesting that schools and universities as well as other professional bodies are giving qualification for their candidates this year. I'm not saying that EQE candidates should get passes but I do think some discretionary/compensation would be most appropriate. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous19 March 2020 at 11:30
      It is better to move on from this year. This could last for 18 months. Universities and schools across Europe are allowing their candidates qualifications to move on.

      Holding people back here from EQE qualification is not an option
      Delete
  20. Roel van Woudenberg19 March 2020 at 09:30
    This is a strange week... it should have been the week of the EQE, all candidates (and all tutors) were fully prepared and geared up for the pre-exam or one or more of the main exam papers, and now we the only thing we can do is to wait and see how COVID-19 develops... and when it will allow us to live and work normal again.

    Immediately after the EQE was cancelled, it was not yet easy for all of us to understand that is was needed (as is clear from many messages above). Those living and working in areas that were affected early understood, those in countries where there were no infections not. Unfortunately it has now spread all across Europe (and the world) and I think everybody agrees that this week would have been impossible. If only we and the decision makers has a crystal ball... I hope and I wish that there can be a rescheduled version in autumn, but I do not have a crystal ball either... I am confident that the decision makers take the interests of all involved, mostly those of the candidates, in account and aim to serve them best. If that would need to result in a full cancellation, we need to accept it as a fact of life and move on. 
    As course provider, we will support any scenario the best we can, so that EQE2020 candidates can prepare well for a rescheduled EQE2020 (if any) and so that EQE2020 candidates as well as new candidates can prepare well for EQEQ2021. We can however only decide on what we need to offer once it is know how it will develop. For the time being, we assume that EQE2021 will continue as planned, irrespective of the EQE2020 decision, so that new Pre-Exam candidates can (more-or-less) prepare for Pre-Exam 2021 "as normal". For the time being, we hope that Pre-Exam 2020 candidates will be able to sit a rescheduled Pre-Exam 2020 before EQE 2021 (or to get an advance), so that they can continue (unless failed) to main exam 2021: whether that needs a change in the scheduling of our courses or not depends on the decision on Pre-Exam 2020; at this moment I recommend to act as if you passed the Pre-Exam, and now first take a break for a few weeks or months and then take up the preparation for the main exam (starting with improving your legal knowledge for D, e.g., as of June, and preparing for your selection of main exam paper with methodology and practice in autumn/winter).

    I wish you all a good health and good luck!
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous19 March 2020 at 11:23
      Hi Roel - what about EQE 2020 candidates who are taking the main exams?
      Delete
    2. Gregory19 March 2020 at 11:50
      Thank you for the update.
      Delete
    3. Roel van Woudenberg19 March 2020 at 13:24
      @Anonymous 19 March 2020 at 11:23: I would recommend EQE 2020 candidates who are taking the main exams (rescheduled or in 2021) also to first take a break for a few weeks or months and then take up the preparation for the main exam after the decision to reschedule or cancel is taken. You were all fully prepared for sitting this week, so it will require some effort to get to that level again when preparing for a new sit. A problem that resitters often run in to is that they have already practiced all (up-to-date) papers. But one can learn a lot from practicing papers again, even the ones you already did! Yes, you will remember some of the aspects of the paper in some detail, but doing papers (any of the main exam papers) is not just on seeing the main issues, but also largely on addressing those issues in detail and correctly. So, if there are no new papers available for practicing, you can still do a lot. We have not yet decided if, and how much, extra material we will prepare. If you have specific requests, feel free to contact me by email. Please also recognize that we were surprised as much as you, and we also need time to sort out wishes and needs - and then to provide solutions.
      Delete
  21. Anonymous19 March 2020 at 15:55
    Thanks Roel

    I don't know about others but I would be happy to see you include some more recent EQE questions in the law D questions book i.e. 2019 to 2016 if possible. 

    That would help. I guess that I can only really work on D (1-2 hours a week) and leave papers A, B and C closer to the time.

    However, like many of the above have said, things have changed so much at work that we actually need time to adapt to new ways of working so taking a few weeks/months off is a good idea at present. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Roel van Woudenberg19 March 2020 at 16:44
      For the most recent D exams (2014-2019), we have updated exam papers and model solutions in our webshop (https://webshop.deltapatents.com/paper_d_solutions). They include the DI- and DII-questions of those papers, updated for the law of EQE2020 (questions as well as answers). 

      To prevent any spoilers by people that first practice questions from our D-book ("Main exam questions for paper D") before doing the full papers (self-study or during our courses), those DI questions are not included in the D-book.

      All DI-questions from 2009-2013 (except DI 2010, as we use that in our courses) have been included in the D-book already since the EQE2019 edition.

      So, (except DI 2010), all DI questions from the last 10 years are already available, updated for EQE 2020. 
      (Note that the REE/IPREE specify that the law on 31 October of the year before the exam is to be used, so a rescheduled D 2020 paper would still use the same law as the originally scheduled D 2020 paper (as long as it takes place in 2020)). 

      If you have a specific wish, let us discuss by email whether/how I can support you.
      Delete
    2. Amiee19 March 2020 at 19:02
      I'm more worried about keeping up with law changes if it is to be rescheduled later during the year or in 2021. 
      Delete
    3. Roel van Woudenberg20 March 2020 at 09:28
      Hi Amiee, 

      No need to worry if it is rescheduled (as I already indicated in my comment:)

      The Rule 2 IPREE specifies that the law on 31 October of the year before the exam is to be used:

      "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. [...]"

      So a rescheduled EQE 2020  would still use the same law as the originally scheduled EQE 2020 paper (as long as it takes place in 2020)).
      So, you do not need to keep up with law changes for the purposes of a rescheduled EQE 2020. (But of course you need to keep up with law changes for your daily work!!!)

      Furthermore, in the last two D papers the D committee accepted the correct Guidelines reference (the one in force on 31 October) as well as the too-recent Guidelines (the one in force on 1 November) if -for the latetr- it was indicated that that version of the Guidelines was used. I can well imagine that they will do so here (so, you need to answer with GL2018, but you will probably be accepted to answer with GL2019 for a rescheduled EQE 2020).
      I can also imagine that as a kind of compensation they will exceptionally allow the EQE2020 syllabus for EQE2021 answers (but that is speculation), at least for candidates that enrolled for the same paper in 2020.

      But for now, let's wait how COVID-19 develops and what the Supervisory Board can arrange. I would not dare to take a decision now (Early last week, when there was "optimism" that it would "only" last until May/June, I would have guessed September; but now it seems pessimism is more appropriate, and COVID-19 may still be very present after summer... so terribly difficult to decide...)
      Delete
  22. Anonymous19 March 2020 at 18:57
    Everybody is going to be fighting for their jobs, livelihoods, health & well being. No one is going to have time to revise over the next 4-6 months. Just cancel it!!!
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous19 March 2020 at 18:59
      Not to mention we are going to be under severe financial constraints. If the EQE went ahead, we would have been in a much better financial position.

      Now - trainees are the cheapest and easiest to get rid of for firms. 
      Delete
    2. Anonymous19 March 2020 at 19:00
      Like sitting ducks 
      Delete
  23. Sirus20 March 2020 at 12:18
    Here are my suggestion to move on with EQEs

    Candidates who are meant to be taking pre-EQE should be given a pass to go onto main EQEs. hey can take the main EQEs next year (hopefully)

    Candidates who are doing EQEs should be given a pass this year and be given the qualification (many schools and universities along with some professional exams are doing this already). 

    For the EPO to be sure that the candidates who have passed are fit to practice, the EPO should set coursework or regular online assessment for 1-2 years. 

    For example, if candidates who are given a pass this year can write an office action letter that is reasonably competent then the EPO should not hold them back. The EPO can randomly check their work by checking their responses (you can easily do this by searching for their signature names as they will have to sign it off). EPO can always follow up assessments or online discussions to check understanding. 

    It can be the same for drafting specifications. The EPO can randomly spot check their works. 

    For paper D - the EPO can set coursework and assignments.

    For Paper C - the EPO can set a piece of opposition as coursework or assignment. 

    By doing this way, candidates are given the benefit of the doubt during these testing times but the EPO can check their work within 1-2 years to make sure they are fit to practice until we can all do exams again - looks like we may have to wait until 2021/2022. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous20 March 2020 at 15:30
      For papers D & C, the EPO "coursework and assignments" would be, respectively, the D and C EQE papers.

      The solution to this mess is not to come up with a completely new way of assessing competencies - but rather of finding a way of using the existing way as fairly as possible.

      (Don't push the idea of the EPO assessing that letters are "reasonably competent". That could put even qualified candidates' status in jeopardy!!!)
      Delete
  24. Anonymous20 March 2020 at 14:04
    Firstly, I think the approach with the home work is good, but it will take them some years to put in place. They need to hire people, get a process and a system in place and this all costs money. As a side note, I do think that at the moment EPO is quietly laying us, the candidates of 2020, off. We all know what this virus will bring to our jobs, regardless if we work inhouse or in in private sector, we will be the duped of the EPO this year unless they let everybody pass. How many contracts, promotions, jobs depend on these exams? Being dependent on EPO and having no information, this is where we are at since 5th March!!! While we are all very understanding for the complex logistics, there have been many universities and institutions who meanwhile handled exam cancellations with swift reactions. Not informing us, not being transparent, not answering emails, but merely reading blogs at the background, this is not in line with the times we live in. I am wondering, how fit to practice is actually the body which is examining us on the same criteria?
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous20 March 2020 at 15:12
      Indeed, having no information, this is where we are at since 5th March!!! 

      Ridiculous! The Supervisory Board does not take us serious! I feel insulted!

      I would understand if they can not decide. It is all still uncertain. But then they could at least tell us that. And tell us "if..., then". Is their any hope for rescheduling to autumn? Is not, tell us, so we know!

      Do not leave us in the dark any longer! We have more to worry about than this, so get it clear please please please!!!
      Delete
  25. Anonymous20 March 2020 at 16:42
    One thing that leaves me unsettled is STILL not knowing when (and if) they will reschedule EQE. We're STILL left in this limbo of not knowing if we should drop the revisions, or STILL holding on and STILL keep studying for just few or many many months.
    ReplyDelete
  26. D20 March 2020 at 16:53
    Dear Supervisory Board, 

    I was totally heart broken when I learnt about the cancellation and felt quite positive that it was just going to be delayed by a few months to June/July Aug/Sept or whatever, but I was not even willing to consider the possibility of complete cancellation... I slowed down the pace of my studies fearing that if I stopped things will stop being at my fingertips where they are supposed to be...

    Day by day, the pandemic kept worsening and my hopes kept dwindling... I still tried to be brave and hopeful and started planning for Sept exams.  

    For past couple of days with reports that the timeline to recover from this could last upto 12-18 months, I have started wondering if even 2021 exams would happen on the announced dates but I am still trying to study...

    Do you feel I am in a pitiable state.  If yes, please know that I agree with you.  Please have mercy on the candidates and tell us something - best case scenario, worst case scenario or at least something to the effect that "we would give at least three(?) months from the date of announcement of exams for the candidates to complete re-prepare for the exam..." something, anything at all... 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous20 March 2020 at 21:39
      The supervisory board has been shocking at their responses. They should resign.

      EPO/EPI members have been asked for weeks to set up a helpline to help students - NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE

      Candidates are expected to be refunded - NO MORE INFORMATION

      Stop the silence and give candidates a bit more information. 
      Delete
  27. Anonymous20 March 2020 at 20:09
    Yet another example where authorities do as much as they can:

    https://www.gov.uk/government/news/further-details-on-exams-and-grades-announced

    "Further details on exams and grades announced
    Further details on arrangements for exams which have been cancelled to fight spread of coronavirus

    Published 20 March 2020
    From:
    Department for Education and The Rt Hon Gavin Williamson CBE MP

    The exam regulator, Ofqual, and exam boards will work with teachers to provide grades to students whose exams have been cancelled this summer, following our actions to slow the spread of coronavirus.

    University representatives have confirmed that they expect universities to be flexible and do all they can to support students and ensure they can progress to higher education.

    This year’s summer exam series, including A levels, GCSEs and other qualifications, and all primary assessments, have been cancelled as we fight to stop the spread of coronavirus.

    The Government’s priority is now to ensure affected students can move on as planned to the next stage of their lives, including going into employment, starting university, college or sixth form courses, or an apprenticeship in the autumn.

    This means ensuring GCSE, A and AS level students are awarded a grade which fairly reflects the work that they have put in. There will also be an option to sit an exam early in the next academic year for students who wish to. Ofqual will develop and set out a process that will provide a calculated grade to each student which reflects their performance as fairly as possible, and will work with the exam boards to ensure this is consistently applied for all students. The exam boards will be asking teachers, who know their students well, to submit their judgement about the grade that they believe the student would have received if exams had gone ahead.

    ..."
    ReplyDelete
  28. Anonymous20 March 2020 at 21:41
    Many other profession already implement this type of assessment where candidates are judged over a period of time i.e. 1-2 years. The best thing is for EPO to let candidates qualify and provide regular checkups/assessments for 1 or 2 years to make sure. 

    I think this is very reasonable otherwise no one will qualify for the next 2 years. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous20 March 2020 at 21:58
      This is a reasonable alternative solution to sitting the exams and should be explored. 
      Delete
  29. Anonymous20 March 2020 at 21:51
    Supervisory takes no further action and still get paid very good wages/have good benefits while the rest of candidates suffer. Off course I understand that these times are difficult and no one is expecting the supervisory board to magically come up with a solution right away due to the uncertainty.

    But DO NOT insult candidates by being silent. Give us your thoughts. Other examination boards for other professionals, schools and universities have at least provided some solution to allow candidates to move forward. 

    Members of the Supervisory board should step down. There has been terrible communication from them and they are doing NOTHING for candidates. We need some communication from the EPO - Please
    ReplyDelete
  30. Anonymous20 March 2020 at 21:56
    I don't think Supervisory board read these blog. They are only saying it to stop people emailing them. The rest of us are stuck in limbo with no clarity.

    At least send a statement to say no exams in the next few months - that is surely pretty obvious enough to say.
    ReplyDelete
  31. Anonymous21 March 2020 at 16:10
    My partner is self employed and has no income. They have underlying health conditions which means that my partner is told to stay at home. We have a family to feed so I will now have to pick up an additional job to cover for income. That means I will have zero time to revise in these next few months. I seriously doubt that we can do any exams in June especially during these time where our finances, resources and health will be tested.

    I would like the EPO to state where they stand at this minute. If can obviously change but it would be nice to know what the EPO is actually doing (if they are doing anything at all). 
    ReplyDelete
  32. Useless committee21 March 2020 at 20:55
    The supervisory board/examining committee have been utterly rubbish and incompetent since the decision has been made. Everybody understand the decision that they had to make but there has been no support or communication from them at all ever since an email to candidates.  

    Are they actually planning anything at all. We've heard nothing from them. 
    ReplyDelete
  33. Anonymous22 March 2020 at 16:02
    Its clear that the virus has had a major impact on communities around the world. Its severity is felt more in some parts of the world than others. I think we should try to keep updating on what's happening in each country on here to help the EPO keep track and to see if things are improving.
    ReplyDelete
  34. Anonymous22 March 2020 at 16:03
    Hi Delta Patents/Roel

    Would you consider (if and when things are rescheduled) to make video live tutorial links available for the refresher courses. I'm sure this would help many candidates. 
    ReplyDelete
  35. Anonymous23 March 2020 at 09:11
    Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: 11.000 participants, 32 locations, 38 sports and even more events - The International Olympic Committee is considering a postponement of Tokyo 2020, and has given itself a deadline of four weeks to make a decision, AND INFORMED everyone about the latter (https://www.bbc.com/sport/olympics/51997540).

    EQE 2020: only 2.500-3.500 participants, only 11 cities/ 12 locations, only 5 events (pre-exam and 4 main papers) - Supervisory Board is already 2,5 weeks after the initial "cancelled for 16 - 19 March, maybe rescheduled" annoucement, but still no indication at all when they will decide on rescheduling or not...
     
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous23 March 2020 at 11:56
      Check out the BBC article below. 

      https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/athletics/52002474
      Delete
    2. Anonymous24 March 2020 at 17:04
      Supervisory Board where are you???

      The IOC took the decision already!!!

      https://www.bbc.com/sport/olympics/52020134 (24 March, around 16:00)


      The Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games have been postponed until next year because of the worldwide coronavirus pandemic.

      The event, due to begin on 24 July, will now take place "no later than summer 2021".

      "I proposed to postpone for a year and [IOC] president Thomas Bach responded with 100% agreement," said Shinzo Abe, Japan's Prime Minister.

      The event will still be called Tokyo 2020 despite taking place in 2021.

      In a joint statement, the organisers of Tokyo 2020 and the IOC said: "The unprecedented and unpredictable spread of the outbreak has seen the situation in the rest of the world deteriorating.

      "On Monday, the director general of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, said that the Covid-19 pandemic is 'accelerating'.
      Delete
  36. Anonymous23 March 2020 at 16:48
    I hate it to be pessimistic. But I also want to be realistic:

    is there really any chance that the EQE 2020 could take place in autumn?

    All messages from WHO and any other health authority indicate it will not continue to become worse for a few weeks only, but for much much longer and that it will only get better when a vaccin is found, tested and widely available. Many say that 18 months is more likely than 2...

    So let's hope that 18 months is too pessimistic and it will be rather 6 months or so, so that EQE 2021 can take place as planned, March 1 - March 4 2021!
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous23 March 2020 at 16:59
      I have the same worries. If only the Supervisory Board could share the concern. And be realistic too. And provide us with information!!!

      if the Supervisory Board would say "It is not realistic that the COVID-19 situation improves to such an extent that EQE 2020 can be rescheduled to autumn 2020. We see no other possibility than to cancel it, and to hope that EQE 2021 can take place as scheduled. We will give a further announcement about EQE 2021 in the first week of September 2020.", I would understand and appreciate. 

      And announce that they will provide compensatory measures in September too.
      Delete
  37. Anonymous23 March 2020 at 16:54
    The complete silence of the examination board is getting so unbearably deafening!
    ReplyDelete
  38. Anonymous23 March 2020 at 19:23
    So, there will be no exams until 1 June... and I am saying this because of the fact that the Dutch government just forbid all gatherings (even those with less than 100 people) until 1 June. So, EPO can come out and at least announce this tomorrow?!
    ReplyDelete
  39. Anonymous23 March 2020 at 20:47
    Now I understand why the supervisory board has such a bad reputation. 

    They have been showing a lack of respect to all affected by not being open and honest. Being silence is the worse of all options they could do right now. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous26 March 2020 at 14:51
      All the people on the Boards do it part-time - they often have full-time jobs to do, either within the EPO or as a practicing patent attorney. Silence means that they are seriously considering all options and the possible consequences, while they attend to other personal and work commitments. 
      The EQE system costs millions each year (the fees do not cover the costs), so there are not a lot of resources to change everything. 
      And they need to continue to prepare for EQE 2021. 
      They also need to consider how to make the EQE "virusproof" - it is likely that COVID-19 will resurface next year at the same time in some form.  
      Delete
  40. Am24 March 2020 at 16:47
    I encourage candidates to start a petition https://www.change.org/en-GB to ask the supervisory board to communicate and to say how they plan to compensate for candidates. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous24 March 2020 at 19:21
      Yes. Do share the link. I'm happy to sign it. 
      Delete
    2. Anonymous26 March 2020 at 15:04
      Be careful what you push for - in the rules, they are only legally obliged to hold the exam every 2 years. If you want a response now, they could respond with the minimum legal requirements (like an airline):
      - No EQE 2020
      - No reimbursement of fees (the money that you paid has already been spent, and they will have lost money due to cancelling flight, venues, accommodations. I do not know what they had in their terms & conditions on enrollment - that will usually depend on their own insurance)
      - They may allow you to "rebook" for EQE 2021 if you pay an administration charge.
      Delete
    3. Anonymous27 March 2020 at 10:01
      It would be absolutely disgusting if the EPO charges candidates EQE 2020 more money to sit EQE 2021. 
      Delete
  41. Anonymous25 March 2020 at 08:06
    Why do you want to transform EPO in our enemy? We will obtain an useless obvious answer. 
    ReplyDelete
  42. Anonymous26 March 2020 at 15:05
    All people here are discussing a postponed EQE 2020...please consider the present situation in Europe, we could be glad if EQE 2021 takes place, better prepare for 2022
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous27 March 2020 at 09:52
      I AGREE - I don't think EQE 2021 is going to take place either. This is going to mess the world around until we can find a vaccine. 
      Delete
  43. Anonymous27 March 2020 at 09:55
    The Supervisory board has been incredible slow, non-transparent and non-communicative. There needs to be questions about the boards after all of this is over because it is not acceptable especially during a moment of crisis. They haven't set up a helpline for candidates despite several request for weeks or provide any communication since March 5th to their stakeholders. 

    It is poor leadership. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous27 March 2020 at 09:59
      No one is questioning the decision they have made to cancel EQEs. However, When all of this is over it is right to scrutinise the EPO and supervisory board's conduct during these moments after the decision was made. 
      Delete
  44. Anonymous27 March 2020 at 12:33
    Unfortunately no news yet on the rescheduling.


    Anonymous 26 March 2020 at 14:51 above has a good point with:

    "All the people on the Boards do it part-time - they often have full-time jobs to do, either within the EPO or as a practicing patent attorney. Silence means that they are seriously considering all options and the possible consequences, while they attend to other personal and work commitments.
    And they need to continue to prepare for EQE 2021.
    They also need to consider how to make the EQE "virusproof" - it is likely that COVID-19 will resurface next year at the same time in some form."

    My hope is a decision next week, so I can plan mu study and my life.

    Work is getting less due to the virus hitting clients, so I will have time to study the next months. But does not make sense to study already now if there is no EQE in late August or September.
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous27 March 2020 at 14:26
      Next week?  Is there something special next week?  As in I am wondering is there some specific reason to expect the decision next week?
      Delete
  45. Anonymous27 March 2020 at 17:54
    I have absolutely no motivation to study. I tried really hard last week to do something but the focus is not there. Its difficult to keep going when  there appears to be no end date.

    It would be better if the EPO comes out with something soon. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous28 March 2020 at 14:58
      It is pointless trying to study if you are not motivated - you will not remember anything anyway. Find something else to do instead. 
      Delete
    2. Anonymous29 March 2020 at 18:51
      Agree. There is little or no point in candidates revising through this period. You be better off giving yourself a break and no bother with any revision until a date is provided.

      Not having a date in mind means that there is a lack of focus and motivation. There will be no point so spend time with family instead and do what you enjoy for now. 
      Delete
  46. Anonymous29 March 2020 at 18:53
    I've stopped revision completely and have been catching up on missed series.

    I need to know a date before I can start revision again. I do hope they give 8-10 weeks at least because many of us have stopped revision completely for various reasons. 
    ReplyDelete
  47. Anonymous29 March 2020 at 18:58
    I think some of the tutors early advice to continue revision is now redunant given then evolving situation. There is little to no benefit in revising now (even for only 1-2 hours a week) as there is little motivation now and you burn yourself out.

    Just relax and take weeks off. You can't revise for something which has no exam date. 

    Tutors should revise their advice. It's clear we are not having an exam in the next 6 months.

    It may be rescheduled this year(Oct/Nov) but the chances of that happening is also questionable. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Roel van Woudenberg30 March 2020 at 09:04
      I agree, as a general advice, to take a break at last until a decision is made on rescheduling or definite cancellation of EQE 2020. 
      However, some candidates may wish to continue revising e at a low effort level, as a kind of pilot flame - e.g., at such a level as you will continue to do after you qualified to keep up-to-date.

      Also refer to my comment above of 9 March (Roel van Woudenberg9 March 2020 at 09:47)
      Delete
  48. Roel van Woudenberg30 March 2020 at 08:56
    The EQE website now provides:

    Please be informed that enrolment to the main examination 2021, which was due to start on 1 April 2020, has been postponed until 4 May 2020.

    (See https://eqe-deltapatents.blogspot.com/2020/03/enrolment-to-main-examination-2021.html)
    ReplyDelete
  49. Deepak Bhandari30 March 2020 at 15:27
    epi hopes to organise a postponed EQE 2020 with the aim of declaring the results by October 2020.

    UPDATE: Letter to EPO
    The epi President sent a letter to the EPO President, requesting his support to make every possible resource at the EPO available for enabling the organisation of a postponed EQE 2020. Ideally the results of the postponed EQE 2020 should be available by the end of October 2020. Despite all the difficulties connected with additional workload and other necessary resources, the epi hopes that the EPO together with the epi will strive towards making a postponed EQE possible.

    https://patentepi.org/en/epi/news/a4e7106e-0f2c-4d35-af84-6b00f6f89f5c
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous30 March 2020 at 15:43
      Its nice to see the EPI is taking some steps on behalf of candidates. 
      Delete
  50. Anonymous30 March 2020 at 15:42
    So the UK government has mentioned that restrictions are to be in placed for at least 6-7 months. 
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous2 April 2020 at 10:44
      I can't see how exams are going to take place this year. 2020 has been terrible for candidates. 
      Delete
  51. Anonymous31 March 2020 at 12:14
    Keeping up with the law - I can sort of understand how you would do this, 

    How do I keep up with Paper C, Paper A and B. These papers are so difficult to keep up to date as they require long hours (especially Paper C). All preparation for these papers have now been lost.  
    ReplyDelete
  52. Anonymous31 March 2020 at 15:44
    I received an email today from EQE Secretary writing: "We expect to be able to inform all candidates concerned in the course of next week at the latest."
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous31 March 2020 at 16:55
      Good news!!!

      I did not receive such email.

      Did you get a personal email after a specific inquiry made by you?

      Or would it be different for pre-exam and main exam candidates?
      Delete
    2. Anonymous9 April 2020 at 16:16
      Hi Anonymous 31 March 2020 at 15:44. 

      Tomorrow is Good Friday, so today is the last day of this week. I did not get any message yet. Did you? 
      Delete
  53. Anonymous2 April 2020 at 10:42
    Are you able to share the contents of the letter on here. 
    ReplyDelete
  54. Anonymous2 April 2020 at 10:43
    I haven't received any letters from the EPO. 
    ReplyDelete
  55. Anonymous7 April 2020 at 11:52
    I also believe that it would just be fair to this year's sitters to somehow hold the exam considering the personal and financial concessions that these candidates have already made. 

    I would suggest rescheduling the exam somewhere in August. Considering the current situation nobody is planning any holidays anyway. Also, finding an appropriate place to hold the exam should not be a problem: one could simply use public school buildings which are usually empty during summer and which have an appropriate number of rooms to ensure that people are kept at the required distances from each other.    
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous8 April 2020 at 00:01
      August is a bad idea. Many candidates would have kids so July to start of September is out of the question until kids can go back to school. 
      Delete
  56. Anonymous7 April 2020 at 13:55
    Over a month now since the initial statement from the EQE and while it was almost certainly the right decision, the lack of communication since then has been appalling.  The EQE's treatment of 2020 candidates boarders on disrespectful.
    ReplyDelete
  57. Anonymous8 April 2020 at 01:58
    Well, after today's message from the EPO's president (see EPO news page) swearing in the quality that will be provided on all levels (while we are to be laid off), I would expect that the next message this week would be the kick off of the exams, probably in some video form, and some sort of minimal credits to cover for us complaining. 
    ReplyDelete
  58. Anonymous8 April 2020 at 16:43
    Should the reports that lockdown measures are gradually being eased give us some hope that we will actually see a September EQE 2020?


    https://www.ft.com/content/9c6d9b2f-fdca-4cd6-a909-0a08d9f7b8c1 

    https://www.cnbc.com/2020/04/08/coronavirus-some-european-countries-set-to-lift-lockdown-measures.html
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous8 April 2020 at 21:02
      Maybe in your country. Not everywhere. And list of High risk countries on EPO countries only gets longer, not shorter. I hope your optimistic will be reality. I am not so optimistic. Of course I wish they decide to reschedule to September, but they will need to tell that it is not guaranteed yet and that they will finally decide 2 weeks before that it happens or is cancelled again and it needs to be March 2021.

      https://ahvalnews.com/turkey-coronavirus/turkeys-death-toll-hits-649-erdogan-announces-pandemic-hospitals-istanbul-live
      Delete
  59. Anonymous10 April 2020 at 11:01
    No news? September or March? Compensation? Pre-Exam 2020 people moving on to main 2021 or year delay (unfair: 90% pass rate!)?
    ReplyDelete
  60. Anonymous11 April 2020 at 18:44
    It doesn't look like it can happen this year unless everyone has been tested. I don't think the governments would allow mass gathering even after the ease restrictions.
    ReplyDelete
  61. Anonymous11 April 2020 at 18:45
    They will have to consider compensation for this year's candidates. Definitely. 
    ReplyDelete
  62. M15 April 2020 at 08:45
    What do you think about September for rescheduling?

    I saw that EPO has stopped on 10 April to update the list of high risk countries. They now consider all countries to be high risk countries. So, the situation has only become more and more severe in their view. As well as in the view of many other authorities. I am afraid that it will not happen this summer or autumn.

    Check EPO page 'Coronavirus (COVID-19) - continually updated information' of 14 April which says:

    External partners

    We are requesting external partners to abstain from visiting the EPO if they have recently visited a high risk area.

    International risk areas

    As of 10/04/2020 countries and regions are not longer classified as international risk areas. Due to pandemic spread, there is a global risk of acquiring COVID-19. In a considerable number of countries there are outbreaks with sometimes large numbers of cases; the exact numbers of cases in other countries are not known. Therefore there is a risk of transmission in Germany as well as in many other, not always well-defined regions worldwide.

    Please note that the definition of areas affected by the spread of the Coronavirus may be subject to change.
    ReplyDelete
  63. Anonymous15 April 2020 at 13:34
    I think personally the EQE Secretariat should just come out and say EQE will not be held in 2020.  At least this would give candidates some certainty and allow them to plan the rest of their year and for EQE 2021.  
    ReplyDelete
  64. Anonymous16 April 2020 at 14:38
    I doubt the EPO has been tracking any of these blogs otherwise they would have responded. Its a shame but it appears the EQE boards have stopped listening/reading a long time ago. 

    The supervisory board in my opinion has been absolutely terrible since 5th march and devoid of any leadership. 

    It feels that they have been disrespecting candidates (sorry but this is how I feel) by not responding or updating or even putting out a helpline when candidates need it most. Now is not the time but after this situation has passed, some serious questions and accountability needs to be held against the various exam boards. 
    ReplyDelete
  65. Anonymous21 April 2020 at 09:22
    I hope there will be a fair solution. It seems that other exams are either followed through or a fair solution is provided so that not a whole year is lost (see e.g. UK A-levels or German Abitur).
    ReplyDelete
  66. Mikk22 April 2020 at 09:15
    No European qualifying examination (pre-examination or main examination consisting of papers A, B, C and D) will be held in 2020. 
    Communication from the Supervisory Board of the EQE
    http://documents.epo.org/projects/babylon/eponot.nsf/0/49492721c255256ec125854c00498eac/$FILE/SB_communication%2020_04_EN.pdf  

    Decision of the Supervisory Board
    http://documents.epo.org/projects/babylon/eponot.nsf/0/cda002e5755d7730c125854c00496e80/$FILE/Decision%20of%20SB_EN_20_04.pdf
    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Ila22 April 2020 at 09:49
      how did you get this info and the links? there is still no official announcement on the EPO website!
      Delete
    2. Anonymous22 April 2020 at 09:55
      Thx, but this information is not yet available on the EQE webpages, so how did you get it? can we trust it?
      Delete
  67. Anonymous22 April 2020 at 10:03
    I got the same information by email one hour ago...
    ReplyDelete
  68. Roel van Woudenberg22 April 2020 at 10:18
    See the new blog post:

    http://eqe-deltapatents.blogspot.com/2020/04/the-decision-is-out-no-eqe-in-2020.html
    ReplyDelete
  69. Alex22 April 2020 at 10:19
    "4.  For the 2021 main examination only, candidates' answers will be marked either on the basis of the legal texts and document versions in force on 31 October 2019, or on the basis of those in force on 31 October 2020, depending on which of the two dates would give the candidate the higher mark."

    This seems to be the only "compensation" EQE2020 candidates will get. Disappointment.
    ReplyDelete
  70. janosik12 October 2020 at 18:06
    Convid -19 benefit from crown technology Get yours Magic Atm Card from Crown tecnology today and Become rich Whatsapp +1 (213) 421-8707 email atm.tecnology@gmail.com I got my already programmed and magic ATM card to withdraw the maximum of $2,500 daily for a maximum of 1 year. I am so happy about this because i got mine last month I have used it to get $30,000. crown tech. is giving out the card just to help the poor and needy Atm Card from crown tecnology today and Become rich
    ReplyDelete











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