PCT Distance Learning Course: Introduction to the Patent Cooperation Treaty

Course Syllabus

Module 1:  What is the PCT?

• 1.1 PCT Contracting States
• 1.2 Role of the International Bureau of WIPO
• 1.3 The PCT – overview of the process
• 1.4 Key parts of the PCT procedure

Module 2: Why Use the PCT?

• 2.1 Brings the World within Reach
• 2.2 Cost and Time Advantages
• 2.3 Strong Basis for Patenting Decisions
• 2.4 Safe and Secure Electronic Filing

Module 3: Preparing the PCT Application

• 3.1 Form and Contents
• 3.2 Other Formal Requirements

Module 4: Filing the PCT Application

• 4.1 The Receiving Office
• 4.2 Checking for Defects
• 4.3 Claiming Priority
• 4.4 Priority Document
• 4.5 Language of the PCT Application
• 4.6 Fees Payable

Module 5: Electronic Filing Using PCT-SAFE

• 5.1 Overview of PCT-SAFE
• 5.2 E-filing Components
• 5.3 PCT-EASY Mode
• 5.4 Validation Function
• 5.5 PCT-SAFE Fee Incentives

Module 6: Patent Agents and Common Representatives

• 6.1 Common Representatives
• 6.2 Appointment of Agents and Common Representatives
• 6.3 Powers of Attorney

Module 7: The International Search and Written Opinion of the ISA

• 7.1 Search Procedure
• 7.2 International Search Report
• 7.3 Written Opinion
• 7.4 Informal Comments
• 7.5 Amendment of the Claims before the International Bureau (Article 19)
• 7.6 The International Preliminary Report on Patentability (Chapter I)
• 7.7 Supplementary International Search

Module 8: International Publication

• 8.1 Effects of International Publication
• 8.2 Content of the International Publication
• 8.3 Language of Publication
• 8.4 The Gazette (“PCT Gazette”)
• 8.5 Preventing Publication
• 8.6 Postponing Publication

Module 9: International Preliminary Examination

• 9.1 The Demand
• 9.2 Amendment of the Claims, Description, Drawings
• 9.3 Written Opinion of the IPEA
• 9.4 The International Preliminary Report on Patentability (Chapter II)
• 9.5 Fees Payable

Module 10: Entry into the National Phase

• 10.1 Basic Requirements
• 10.2 Considerations
• 10.3 Amendments upon Entry in the National Phase
• 10.4 Application of National Law

Module 11: Special International Phase Procedures

• 11.1 Special International Phase Procedures
• 11.2 Rectification of Obvious Mistakes (Rule 91)
• 11.3 Recording of Changes Relating to the Applicant, Agent or Inventor

Module 12: Procedures for Inventions in the Field of Biotechnology

• 12.1 Nucleotide and/or Amino Acid Sequence Listings
• 12.2 Biological Material Deposits

Module 13: Access by Third Parties to the File of a PCT Application

• 13.1 General Principles
• 13.2 Publicly Available Information
• 13.3 Priority Documents
• 13.4 File Held by the International Bureau
• 13.5 Files of National Offices/International Authorities

Module 14: PCT Outlook

• 14.1 PCT Resources
• 14.2 PATENTSCOPE
• 14.3 Strategies for Effective Use of the PCT
• 14.4 Continuous Improvement of the PCT System
• 14.5 Conclusion
• 14.6 Comments and Feedback