EPSO tests: everything you need to know

By Petra Simpalean, 7 minutes

Are you considering applying for a job at one of the EU institutions? If so, you will be required to take a European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO) test. EPSO tests are the most important part of the selection process, as without them, you cannot work in any EU institution. By reading this article, you will find out exactly what these tests entail, tips and tricks that will help you pass them, and much more. Start reading and be a step closer towards accomplishing your goals and working for the EU!

What is the EPSO test?

The EPSO test is a series of competitive exams conducted by the EPSO to evaluate candidates' aptitude. EPSO is like the HR department of the EU, as they are in charge of selecting suitable candidates for all of the EU institutions. EPSO tests are designed to assess the knowledge, skills, and competencies required for each role. The selection process usually involves a combination of computer-based multiple-choice exams and other forms of assessment, such as case studies, group exercises, and oral presentations. This might all sound rather complicated, but you should not worry, as the goal of this article is to make all of these aspects more clear. 

What positions are available?

First and foremost, before applying to any position, you need to make sure that you are eligible to work at the EU. In order to do so, two things are needed:

1. EU citizenship

2. Speak two official EU languages (one of which needs to be English, German or French)

Second, you need to know what position you want to apply for, as the type of EPSO test you will take will depend on this. There are four categories:

1. Administrators: As an AD-level official you can be a trade expert, a lawyer, or an auditor

2. Assistants and Secretaries: Assistants have the same tasks as Administrators, but they have fewer responsibilities; Secretaries work as clerks

3. Translators

4. Specialists: Professionals who deal with specific and concrete tasks. 

The general structure of the selection procedure

The general structure of the selection procedure of the EPSO tests has changed. Below you can find the steps that you will have to take and what you can expect from the selection procedure overall, once you have applied:

1. Reasoning skills: every applicant will have to go through this text, which assesses the candidate’s verbal, numerical and abstract skills. Only if you pass this test first, you will be able to move on with your process (this is also true for all of the steps below). 

2. Multiple choice questionnaire: this questionnaire will depend on whether you are a specialist competitor or a generalist competitor.

• Specialist competitors: you will be asked questions from your specific field.

• Generalist competitors: the questionnaire will be based on your general EU knowledge, such as the functioning of the EU, its procedures and its policies. 

1. Written test: this will assess your drafting skills. 

Candidates who pass the EPSO tests are placed on a reserve list, from which EU institutions and agencies can recruit staff for open positions. The length of the reserve list varies depending on the role and the demand for candidates. Candidates may remain on the list for up to three years. However, it is important to note that you do not require to take them if you are interested in only doing a traineeship at one of the EU institutions. 

The competency framework of the EPSO tests has been modified as of 2023. EU institutions now search for 8 general competencies when hiring new people. Below you can find the general competencies that these tests assess. If you want to find out more about what each competency entails, you should access this website. 

The general competencies:

1. Critical thinking, analysing & creative problem-solving

2. Decision-making & getting results

3. Information management (digital and data literacy)

4. Self-management

5. Working together

6. Learning as a skill

7. Communication

8. Intrapreneurship

Tips and tricks

1. Prepare well: Adequate preparation is crucial, which entails reviewing the materials supplied by EPSO, that are available on the official website, practising comparable exams, and enhancing one's language proficiency beforehand (candidates need to be able to speak at least two of the official EU languages).

2. Time management: EPSO tests are restricted by time, pushing candidates to work rapidly and productively in answering all queries. To hone practical time management skills, it is recommended that one should assign a certain amount of time for each question and adhere strictly to it during practice sessions.

3. Read the instructions carefully: Carefully review the instructions for each section before beginning to comprehend your tasks. Be attentive towards any particular regulations or limitations, like constraints on time or word count.

4. Use elimination: If you're unsure of the answer to a question, use the process of elimination to narrow down your options. Eliminate the answers you know are incorrect, and then make an educated guess from the remaining choices.

5. Focus on accuracy: EPSO tests are designed to assess your skills and competencies accurately, so it's essential to focus on accuracy rather than speed. Double-check your answers before submitting them, and do not rush through the test.

6. Stay calm: EPSO tests can be stressful, but it's essential to stay calm and focused. Take deep breaths, stay positive, and do not let one difficult question or section derail your confidence.

7. Get familiar with the test format: EPSO offers a range of test formats, such as computer-based tests, assessment centres, and interviews. Familiarize yourself with the format of the test you will be taking, so you know what to expect and can prepare accordingly.

Deepen your knowledge

The EPSO website offers plenty of resources to help you prepare for the tests. They have a dedicated section on their website that provides candidates with access to practice tests and sample questions, information on the content of each test, exam formats, detailed guidance on how to approach each exam, and other useful information to help you prepare effectively. The official website containing additional information can be accessed here.