Qualifying examinations
When do the Patent Examination Board qualifying examinations take place?
The examinations are held once every year, generally in October. The examination timetable can be found here.
What qualifications do I need before I can take the PEB Foundation Certificate examinations?
You need a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) degree. You can find the PEB Eligibility Policy here.
My STEM degree was awarded by a University outside the UK. Does it count?
You must obtain a Statement of Comparability from UK NARIC that certifies that it is equivalent to a UK degree.
Can I take the Foundation Certificate examinations in any order?
Yes, you can. You must pass FC1 (formerly called P1) before taking any Final Diploma examinations.
How much does it cost to take a Foundation Certificate examination?
You will find the current examination fees here.
Does the PEB grant exemptions from any of the Foundation Certificate examinations?
If you hold one of the law qualifications listed in Schedule 3 of the IPReg Rules for the Examination and Admission of Individuals to the registers of Patent and Trade Mark Attorneys 2011, you may apply to be exempted from FC2- UK Law.
If I have passed a qualifying course offered by another academic provider, do I need to apply for exemption from the Foundation Certificate examinations in order to sit the Final Diploma examinations?
No. When applying to sit the Final Diploma examinations you have the opportunity to tell us that you have passed the Foundation Certificate level examinations set by any other examination agency approved by IPReg listed in Schedule 3 of the Rules for Examination and Admission of Individuals and you must provide a copy of the certificate.
Can I take the Final Diploma examinations in any order?
Yes, you can take the Final Diploma examinations in any order.