Patent agent eligibility
Answer in brief
You can sit the patent bar if you qualify under one of the USPTO's categories: a listed science or engineering degree (A), another degree with qualifying coursework (B), the Fundamentals of Engineering exam (C), or a design degree for design-only practice (D).
The categories
| Category | Route |
|---|---|
| A | A science or engineering degree on the USPTO's list (Biomedical Science added August 2026) |
| B | Another degree plus qualifying science and engineering coursework |
| C | Practical experience shown by passing the Fundamentals of Engineering exam |
| D | A recognized design degree, for design patent practice only |
Recent change
In August 2026 the USPTO moved Biomedical Science from Category B to Category A.
Check your degree
Use the free Wysebridge eligibility check, then confirm against the General Requirements Bulletin.
Questions & answers
What degrees qualify for the patent bar?
Sources for this entry
- USPTO — Becoming a patent practitioner (General Requirements Bulletin) USPTO
The USPTO's authoritative source for eligibility categories, documents and filing. - USPTO Expands Category A to Include Biomedical Science (Aug 2026) IPWatchdog
Reports the August 11, 2026 update moving Biomedical Science from Category B to Category A. - Wysebridge — Do I qualify? (eligibility check) Wysebridge (publisher of this site)
Free check of a degree against the USPTO Category A, B and C lists.
Practical guidance is original editorial content. Company-published figures are the company's own claims and are labeled as such.
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Cite or share this entry
How to Become a Patent Agent. “Patent agent eligibility.” Wysebridge Reference. Content reviewed 9 November 2026.
https://howtobecomeapatentagent.com/patent-agent-eligibility/