✅ Application Checklist
Check off all items to optimally prepare your application. Your progress is automatically saved.
ℹ️ This checklist applies to AD positions (Administrator) – the main route for graduates in the EU Concours (EPSO).
🎯 Your Progress
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Preparation & Requirements
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University degree (minimum Bachelor/Licence) confirmed
Degree must be held by application deadline. Recognized degrees from EU Member States are accepted.
EU Member State citizenship confirmed
Have passport or national ID ready. Dual citizenship is not a disqualifying criterion.
Language skills Level C1 in main language + B2 in second EU language
Language 1: Mother tongue. Language 2 must be EN, FR or DE – EPSO's official working languages.
EPSO account created and verified (epso.eu)
Create early! The account is permanently usable for all future concours.
Current Notice of Competition (OJ) downloaded
Visit eur-lex.europa.eu → Official Journal C series → Search for "EPSO/AD".
Online Application & Documents
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Application form in EPSO portal completed fully
Fill all fields without gaps – incomplete applications are automatically excluded.
Passport photo in correct format uploaded
Current photo (max. 1 MB, JPEG/PNG, white background recommended).
Degree certificate uploaded as PDF (officially certified)
For non-English/French/German certificates, provide certified translation.
Talent Profile (Talent Screener / Motivation letter) completed
Some concours have screening questions or motivation letters. Take your time – it counts in the evaluation!
Professional experience evidence attached (if required)
Employment contracts, references or employer certificates.
Application submitted before deadline & confirmation email received
Deadline is the time stated in OJ (Brussels time). No exceptions for technical issues – submit early!
Computer Tests (CBT) – Preparation
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EPSO practice tests (Verbal, Numerical, Abstract) completed
Free on epso.eu under "Prepare" → "Practice tests". Definitely practice beforehand!
Digital Skills test practiced
The Digital Skills test covers AI, GDPR, cybersecurity, open data, and EU digital policy (e.g., Digital Markets Act, Digital Decade 2030). Counts for 25% of your final score.
EU Knowledge test prepared (MCQ on institutions, policies, treaties)
The EU Knowledge test counts for 25% of your final score. Study EU institutions, legislative procedures, treaties, current EU priorities, and key policies.
Test centre & date confirmed (EPSO portal)
Time slots are notified by email. React quickly – places are limited!
Valid photo ID prepared for test day
Passport or national ID. Expired documents are not accepted.
Route to test centre / remote setup checked
Check travel arrangements or test remote setup in advance (stable connection, camera, ID scan).
Written Test & Selection Stage
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Background document studied (received ~2 weeks before written test)
EPSO sends a policy background document before your written test date. Read it carefully — the written exercise will be based on its content. Take notes and identify key themes.
Written exercise practiced (analysis task, ~40 min on test day)
The written test replaces the old Assessment Centre. You analyse a policy scenario based on the background document. Practice writing a structured response: problem – analysis – recommendation. 40 minutes, done in your second language.
EPSO competency framework studied (8 core competencies)
Analysis & Problem-solving, Communication, Delivering Results, Learning Ability, Prioritisation, Resilience, Teamwork, Leadership. Understanding these competencies helps you structure a strong EUFTE essay response.
EUFTE essay structure practiced (Problem → Analysis → Recommendation)
The EUFTE is a free-text policy essay (40 min, L2). Practice writing structured responses on EU policy topics: open with a problem statement, develop your analysis, close with a concrete recommendation. Time yourself strictly.
Talent Screener questionnaire completed accurately (at application stage)
The Talent Screener is a scored questionnaire about your education and experience, filled in when you apply. It contributes to your ranking. Be specific and accurate — vague answers score lower. You cannot change it after submission.
Technical setup confirmed (remote proctoring requirements checked)
The written test is done remotely under proctoring. Check EPSO's system requirements: stable internet, working webcam, quiet room. Test your setup at least one day before. A technical failure does not automatically grant a re-sit.
Re-examination rules reviewed (know your rights)
If you are rejected, you can file a re-examination request within 10 calendar days of receiving your result. EPSO must respond within 20 days. Document your reasoning: procedural irregularity, incorrect scoring, etc.
After the Process
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Result notification in EPSO portal checked
All results are communicated exclusively via online portal – log in regularly.
If placed on reserve list: Started applying to EU institutions
Reserve list ≠ job offer. Actively apply for positions at Commission, Parliament, Council etc. (EPSO is just the entry point).
Appeal deadline observed (if result should be contested)
Within 20 days of result notification, you can file a "Re-examination request".
Network built (EU LinkedIn, candidate groups)
Many job postings for reserve list candidates come through informal channels. Use LinkedIn and EPSO forums.
📅 EU Concours 2026 Timeline
Typical schedule for an EPSO/AD General Concours. Specific dates are from the respective Notice of Competition in the Official Journal.
⚠️ Note: Exact deadlines and phases may vary by concours profile. Always use the official Notice of Competition as the binding source.
1
Phase 1 · Jan 2026
Publication of Notice of Competition
EPSO published the official Notice of Competition (EPSO/AD/427/26) in the EU Official Journal on 5 February 2026. It contains: profile, tasks, requirements, 1,490 reserve-list places, languages and exact deadlines.
✓ Done
- Download Notice & read carefully
- Create EPSO account (if not already done)
2
Phase 2 · 5 Feb – 10 Mar 2026
Online Application Window
Applications closed 10 March 2026 at 12:00 (Brussels time). A record 174,922 candidates applied for 1,490 reserve-list places.
✓ Done
- Upload profile & documents completely
- Complete Talent Profile questionnaire
- Select languages (L1 for reasoning tests, L2 = EN/FR/DE for scored tests)
- Submit application before deadline
3
Phase 3 · Autumn 2026
Online Tests (CBT) – Fully Remote
All eligible candidates take five tests in a single remote proctored session at home (no test centres). Exact dates will be communicated by EPSO in advance.
⚡ Upcoming
- 🔒 Numerical + Abstract Reasoning — pass/fail gate (20 questions, 30 min, min. 10/20) · L1
- 📖 Verbal Reasoning — 35% of final score (20 questions, 35 min) · L1
- 🇪🇺 EU Knowledge — 25% of final score (MCQ) · L2
- 💻 Digital Skills — 25% of final score (MCQ) · L2
- ✍️ EUFTE Essay — 15% of score (40 min · top ~2,235 candidates only) · L2
4
Phase 4 · Late Autumn 2026
EUFTE Essay (Top Candidates Only)
The top ~2,235 candidates by combined score are invited to write the EUFTE — a free-text policy essay in their second language (L2). There is no interview.
Coming
- Background document sent ~2 weeks before essay date
- 40 minutes to write a structured policy response based on the document
- Conducted fully remotely under live proctoring · no travel required
- Counts for 15% of the final ranking score
5
Phase 5 · End of 2026
Results & Reserve List (1,490 Places)
The 1,490 candidates with the highest combined scores are placed on the Reserve List and published in the EU Official Journal. The list is typically valid for 1–2 years.
Coming
- Reserve list ≠ job offer – active applications still needed
- EU institutions independently select and contact candidates from the list
- Recruitment negotiations & medical examination follow
6
Phase 6 · From 2027
Employment as EU Civil Servant
Candidates on the reserve list are selected and hired by individual institutions (Commission, Parliament, Council, CJEU, ECB etc.) for specific positions. Classified as AD 5 grade.
Coming
- Probation period: 9 months
- Duty station: Brussels, Luxembourg or delegations worldwide
- Salary: ~€5,000–5,500 gross/month (AD5 step 1) + allowances
💡 Tips & Tricks for Success
Proven strategies from successful concours candidates and EU civil servants.
Start Early
Begin 3–6 months before application deadline. CBT tests – especially numerical and abstract reasoning – require regular practice. 20–30 minutes daily is more effective than marathon sessions.
Take Numerical Test Seriously
Many candidates underestimate the numerical test. Practice percentages, table interpretation and chart analysis daily. Apps like "EPSO Numerical Test" or Sova Assessment books help specifically.
Deepen EU Knowledge
EU Knowledge counts for 25% of your final score. Study institutions, treaties, legislative procedures and current EU priorities. Read Euractiv, Politico Europe and EUR-Lex regularly. Practice MCQ questions specifically.
Master the EUFTE Essay
Only the top ~2,235 candidates write the EUFTE essay (15% of your score). Read the background document carefully 2 weeks before. On test day: open with the core issue, give structured analysis, end with a clear policy recommendation. Practice with real EU policy papers — time yourself to exactly 40 minutes.
Join Study Groups & Forums
Join EPSO study groups on Facebook (e.g., "EU Concours Preparation") or Discord. Exchanging with other candidates greatly accelerates preparation and provides moral support.
Avoid Common Mistakes
Submit your application well before the deadline — no extensions granted. Specify languages correctly (L1 for reasoning tests, L2 = EN/FR/DE for scored tests). Technical test setup must work before test day. The pass/fail gate (Numerical + Abstract, min. 10/20) trips many candidates — don't skip it.
Recommended Resources
Official EPSO/OAT practice tests (free on eu-careers.europa.eu). Courses: EU Training (eutraining.eu), PassEPSO (passepso.com). For Digital Skills: study EU digital policy docs. For EUFTE essay practice: use real EU Commission communications as source texts. Check the Official Journal regularly.
Written Test: Structured Thinking Wins
In the written exercise, structure matters as much as content. Open with a clear problem statement, develop your analysis methodically, and close with a concrete recommendation. Practise with real EU policy papers. Time yourself strictly to 40 minutes.
🏅 Pro Tip: After your written test, write down the key themes and how you structured your answer while it's fresh. If you file a Re-examination request or sit another concours, these notes are invaluable.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about EU Concours.
What degree do I need for an AD Concours?▼
For AD 5 positions (entry level), a completed university degree of at least 3 years (Bachelor, Licence, B.Sc.) is usually required. For higher entry levels (AD 7, AD 9), additional professional experience or a Master/Doctorate is needed. Details are always in the Notice of Competition.
How many languages do I need?▼
At least two EU languages: your first language (L1, level C1) is usually your mother tongue — reasoning tests (Verbal, Numerical/Abstract) are taken in L1. Your second language (L2, level B2) must be English, French or German — EU Knowledge, Digital Skills, and the EUFTE essay are all done in L2.
What's the difference between reserve list and job offer?▼
Placement on the reserve list means you are fundamentally suitable. However, it's not a guarantee of employment. The reserve list is forwarded to all EU institutions, which independently decide whom to invite for interviews. You must actively approach institutions and apply for posted positions.
How long is the reserve list valid?▼
Typically 1–2 years, with possibility of extension by EPSO. The exact validity period is stated in the Notice of Competition. During this time, institutions can select candidates from the list for positions.
How many times can I sit the concours?▼
There is no formal limit on attempts. Many successful EU civil servants participated multiple times before passing. Each new concours is an independent procedure – previous results are not transferred.
Is there still an in-person Assessment Centre for AD5 2026?▼
No — and there is no competency interview either. For AD5 2026 (EPSO/AD/427/26), the entire selection process is online and remote: five tests in one proctored session (Verbal, Numerical/Abstract, EU Knowledge, Digital Skills) plus the EUFTE essay for the top ~2,235 candidates. No travel to Brussels or Luxembourg is required at any stage.
Can I apply to multiple concours simultaneously?▼
Yes, you can apply to several running concours – provided you meet each one's eligibility criteria. However, keep in mind that preparation for each process takes time. Overlapping test dates may create conflicts.
What does an EU civil servant (AD 5) earn?▼
Basic salary at AD 5 (step 1) is approximately 5,000–5,500 EUR gross per month, plus various allowances (household allowance, child allowance, overseas service allowance). EU civil servants pay EU tax (lower than national taxes) and are covered by a separate social security system (JSIS). Net income is attractively high depending on personal circumstances.
🔗 More information directly from EPSO: epso.europa.eu – here you'll find current calls, practice materials and the official FAQ section.