Epso glossary

http://www.eutraining.eu/epso_glossary
“EU Career jargon
People within the EU institutions and in the media dealing with EU affairs often use 'Eurojargon'
words and expressions that they alone understand.
confusing to the general public, which is why
Please note: this glossary, written by András Baneth at Online EU Training,
purely technical or legal terms, or jargon used in only one language.
and it is purely for information purposes.
Abstract Reasoning:
One of the tests in the pre-selection phase of
the EU exams (or for specialists, it may be
required in the Assessment Centre itself). Using
a series of images, this test requires candidates
to identify which one should be next in the row,
based on an inherent logic between the
presented images. Generally, there are 10
abstract reasoning questions in a competition,
and the allocated time is 10 minutes.
Accuracy Test:
the Assistant exams for EU careers. This test
requires candidates to identify, based on a table
and various icons, mistakes, errors, typos or
other 'inaccuracies' in a control line under a
heavy time-pressure. The more inaccuracies can
be identified the usually allocated 9 minutes,
the higher score the candidate gets.
AD5 - AD7 - AD9:
According to the Staff Regulations of European
Union civil servants, all permanent EU officials
who are in the Administrator (AD) group are
categorised into administrative grades rangi
from 1-16. For Administrators, this goes from 5
16 where AD5 is the entry level for graduates
Copyright © 2013Arboreus
jargon” Explained: EPSO Glossary
words and expressions that they alone understand. In the field of EU careers, it
confusing to the general public, which is why the following “plain language guide”
written by András Baneth at Online EU Training, does not include
purely technical or legal terms, or jargon used in only one language. Neither is it legally binding
purposes. Manuscript closed in May 2013.
selection phase of
est requires candidates
to identify which one should be next in the row,
based on an inherent logic between the
presented images. Generally, there are 10
abstract reasoning questions in a competition,
and the allocated time is 10 minutes.
selection phase of
requires candidates to identify, based on a table
and various icons, mistakes, errors, typos or
other 'inaccuracies' in a control line under a
pressure. The more inaccuracies can
be identified the usually allocated 9 minutes,
the higher score the candidate gets.
who are in the Administrator (AD) group are
categorised into administrative grades ranging
16. For Administrators, this goes from 5-
16 where AD5 is the entry level for graduates
with little or no work experience and AD16 is
the highest level in the hierarchic system.
A head of unit, who is the manager of a team
comprising anything betw
administrators and assistants, must have at
least AD9 grade. A Director-General, who is the
administrative head of a directorate (DG), has
the administrative ranking of AD15 or AD16.
European Commissioners, however, are not
ranked according to this system since their
nomination is advanced by EU Member State
governments and they are not permanent
officials recruited by EPSO.
Administrators (AD):
European permanent officials, who
recruited by the European Personnel Selection
Office (EPSO) are categorised into Administrator
(AD) and Assistant (AST) groups. Administrators
must have a college or university diploma
issued on the basis of at least 3 years of studies,
and they must have passed a recruitment
competition to be given an open
permanent contract. There are other criteria
that need to be met, see the article on
Admission criteria.
1
: EPSO Glossary
In the field of EU careers, it can be very
n language guide” was created.
does not include
Neither is it legally binding
with little or no work experience and AD16 is
level in the hierarchic system.
A head of unit, who is the manager of a team
comprising anything between 8-30
administrators and assistants, must have at
General, who is the
administrative head of a directorate (DG), has
the administrative ranking of AD15 or AD16.
European Commissioners, however, are not
s system since their
nomination is advanced by EU Member State
governments and they are not permanent
European permanent officials, who had been
(AD) and Assistant (AST) groups. Administrators
must have a college or university diploma
issued on the basis of at least 3 years of studies,
must have passed a recruitment
competition to be given an open-ended
permanent contract. There are other criteria
that need to be met, see the article on

Admission Criteria:
To become an EU official, applicants must meet
some basic criteria (apart from the specific
requirements for any given competition). These
include a citizenship requirement (must be
citizens of one of the European Union's 27
Member States or in case of competitions
linked to accession, e.g. Croatia, they must have
the given specified citizenship); must have full
rights as a citizen (no criminal record); must
meet the character requirements of being an
EU official (a general rule for proper behavio
appearance, ethical standards etc.); must speak
at least 2 official EU languages (one fluently, the
other one on a strong conversation level); must
have fulfilled all requirements of the military
service (if relevant in the given country).
Admission Test:
See Pre-selection tests.
Age Limit:
There is no age limit to apply for EU careers and
jobs, however, the maximum age is determined
by the retirement limits provided by the Staff
Regulations of EU officials, which is 65 y
in some special cases and on an individual basis,
even before that). The minimum age is not
determined either given the fact that to meet
the formal criteria, candidates are certain to be
at least 18 years old.
Analysis and Problem Solving:
This competency is one of the 7 that EPSO is
evaluating in candidates via the Assessment
Centre exercises and exams. To achieve a good
score in this competency, candidates must
demonstrate they can quickly understand
complex files (e.g. in the Case study), are able to
propose viable solutions and practical
approaches to the matters outlined therein, and
be able to separate key elements and
information from irrelevant data.
To become an EU official, applicants must meet
some basic criteria (apart from the specific
requirements for any given competition). These
include a citizenship requirement (must be
citizens of one of the European Union's 27
ase of competitions
linked to accession, e.g. Croatia, they must have
the given specified citizenship); must have full
rights as a citizen (no criminal record); must
meet the character requirements of being an
EU official (a general rule for proper behaviour,
appearance, ethical standards etc.); must speak
at least 2 official EU languages (one fluently, the
other one on a strong conversation level); must
have fulfilled all requirements of the military
service (if relevant in the given country).
There is no age limit to apply for EU careers and
jobs, however, the maximum age is determined
by the retirement limits provided by the Staff
Regulations of EU officials, which is 65 years (or
in some special cases and on an individual basis,
even before that). The minimum age is not
determined either given the fact that to meet
the formal criteria, candidates are certain to be
demonstrate they can quickly understand
complex files (e.g. in the Case study), are able to
propose viable solutions and practical
approaches to the matters outlined therein, and
be able to separate key elements and
Appeal (or Complaint):
If a decision by the EPSO Selection board is
considered to be unlawful, candidates can
submit an appeal or a complaint against such
decision based on the Staff Regu
officials (e.g.. if the selection board has not
accepted a diploma or other qualification as
relevant to the exam profile and consequently
disqualified an applicant). The European
ombudsman also receives claims but those are
limited to maladministration, which essentially
means that the candidate challenges the rules
rather than the individual decision.
Assessment Centre (or Assessment Center)
A common method of personnel selection in
the public and private sector that has proven to
be one of the best ways to find suitable
employees for a given position. EPSO
introduced Assessment Centres (AC
as part of the reformed EU recruitment system
so that candidates are evaluated on the basis of
their competencies instead of solely on the
basis of their specific knowledge. Assessment
Centres are used for all profiles including
Administrators, Assistants, Linguists and
Specialists on all levels: entry level, head of unit
and even directors or director
The Assessment Centre is always
Brussels (travel and accommodation costs are
reimbursed) where a number of trained
assessors, who are usually seconded EU officials
from various directorates and EU institutions,
evaluate candidates in the different exercises
during a full day. The tests depends on the
given competition one is sitting, nevertheless
they generally include a Structured interview, a
Group exercise, an Oral presentation, a Case
study and in some cases, a professio
test or translation.
2
If a decision by the EPSO Selection board is
considered to be unlawful, candidates can
submit an appeal or a complaint against such
decision based on the Staff Regulations of EU
officials (e.g.. if the selection board has not
accepted a diploma or other qualification as
relevant to the exam profile and consequently
disqualified an applicant). The European
ombudsman also receives claims but those are
inistration, which essentially
means that the candidate challenges the rules
rather than the individual decision.
Assessment Centre (or Assessment Center):
A common method of personnel selection in
the public and private sector that has proven to
f the best ways to find suitable
employees for a given position. EPSO
introduced Assessment Centres (AC-s) in 2010
as part of the reformed EU recruitment system
so that candidates are evaluated on the basis of
their competencies instead of solely on the
sis of their specific knowledge. Assessment
Centres are used for all profiles including
Administrators, Assistants, Linguists and
Specialists on all levels: entry level, head of unit
directors or director-generals.
The Assessment Centre is always held in
Brussels (travel and accommodation costs are
reimbursed) where a number of trained
assessors, who are usually seconded EU officials
from various directorates and EU institutions,
evaluate candidates in the different exercises
tests depends on the
given competition one is sitting, nevertheless
they generally include a Structured interview, a
Group exercise, an Oral presentation, a Case
study and in some cases, a professional skills

For those Specialist exams where the number of
applicants has not reached a certain threshold
(e.g. 600 applicants), the pre-selection tests
comprising abstract, verbal and numerical
reasoning tests are held as part of the
Assessment Centre instead of being held a few
weeks or months earlier.
Assistants (AST):
(AD) and Assistant (AST) groups. Assistant must
have a high school or vocational school
qualification and may or may not possess
professional experience.
For AST3, however, professional experience or
higher level qualification is required as there
are AST3 positions coverin
management, project management,
communication or other related issues.
All permanent officials, however, must pass a
recruitment competition to be given an open
ended permanent contract. There are other
criteria that need to be met, see the
Admission criteria.
AST1 - AST3:
who are in the Assistant (AST) group are
categorised into administrative grades ranging
from 1-16. For Assistants, this goes from 1
where AST1 is the entry level for secretarial
tasks with little or no work experience and
AST11 is the highest level in the hi
system for Assistants.
A senior 'executive' assistant, who is the
manager of a team comprising other assistants
(or even administrators), is usually at least AST5
s where the number of
applicants has not reached a certain threshold
selection tests
comprising abstract, verbal and numerical
reasoning tests are held as part of the
Assessment Centre instead of being held a few
(AST) groups. Assistant must
have a high school or vocational school
qualification and may or may not possess
For AST3, however, professional experience or
higher level qualification is required as there
are AST3 positions covering financial
management, project management,
communication or other related issues.
All permanent officials, however, must pass a
recruitment competition to be given an open-
ended permanent contract. There are other
criteria that need to be met, see the article on
who are in the Assistant (AST) group are
into administrative grades ranging
16. For Assistants, this goes from 1-11
where AST1 is the entry level for secretarial
tasks with little or no work experience and
AST11 is the highest level in the hierarchic
tive' assistant, who is the
manager of a team comprising other assistants
(or even administrators), is usually at least AST5
or higher. From AST3 onwards, a domain
knowledge or other specific qualification is
required, e.g. for project management, ICT
coordination or other types of assistant
positions.
Auditor:
This is one of the profiles in the Administrator
(AD) open competitions, though in some cases
Assistant (AST) exams may have an AST3
auditor profile announced for more technical
positions. Auditors are required to have a
relevant diploma, which is nevertheless not
limited to audit studies but any other that is
closely associated with the tasks of an auditor.
Decision is always made by the Selection board
on the admissibility of the diploma.
Case Study:
One of the exercises in the EPSO Assessment
Centre for Administrators is to complete a
complex cases study task. This means
exam candidates (including Specialists) are
given a comprehensive background file which
they need to quickly read through and answer
2-4 open-ended questions.
The answers need to be written on paper, or
more recently, on a computer screen, and
reflect the candidate's understanding of the
data, issues at stake, ideas and positions that
are outlined in the background file.
The main competency that is assessed in the
case study is the domain-specific knowledge
(which can be demonstrated by adding many
references to EU institutions, procedures,
technical terms, industry jargon, expressions
and notions that reflect the candidate's
knowledge of his or her field), along with the
analysis and problem solving, prio
organising skills.
3
or higher. From AST3 onwards, a domain
knowledge or other specific qualification is
required, e.g. for project management, ICT
dination or other types of assistant
auditor profile announced for more technical
positions. Auditors are required to have a
limited to audit studies but any other that is
closely associated with the tasks of an auditor.
he Selection board
Centre for Administrators is to complete a
complex cases study task. This means that AD
exam candidates (including Specialists) are
given a comprehensive background file which
they need to quickly read through and answer
The answers need to be written on paper, or
more recently, on a computer screen, and
ect the candidate's understanding of the
data, issues at stake, ideas and positions that
utlined in the background file.
The main competency that is assessed in the
specific knowledge
(which can be demonstrated by adding many
references to EU institutions, procedures,
technical terms, industry jargon, expressions
and notions that reflect the candidate's
knowledge of his or her field), along with the
analysis and problem solving, prioritising and

Communication skills are also assessed to a
certain degree, given the written expression
nature of the exercise.
CAST (Contract Agent for Specific Tasks)
CAST exams refer to the EU competitions that
aim to recruit contract agents, though the
primary purpose of the competition is to create
a pool of eligible candidates who can be called
in at short notice if and when a position needs
to be filled due to increased workload, coveri
for maternity leave or other reasons.
CAST exams tend to have only a single round in
which only verbal and numerical reasoning tests
need to be passed by applicants, though CAST
exams for translators also include a second
round in which a translation must be made by
those who have passed the pre-selection phase.
The salary of contract agents depends on which
Function group they are placed in. If it is
function group IV, the salary is quite
comparable to that of an AD5 official, that is,
around 4000 euros net per month, depending
on various circumstances.
Committee of the Regions:
One of the EU advisory bodies representing the
interest of European regions and local
authorities that is based in Brussels, along with
the Economic and Social Committee.
It is EPSO that recruits officials for positions in
the Committee of Regions, along with other EU
institutions and bodies. It is interesting to note
that the Committee of the Regions and the
Economic and Social Committee share the
administrative services, including translation
and interpretation services, which may
therefore affect employment opportunities.
skills are also assessed to a
certain degree, given the written expression
CAST (Contract Agent for Specific Tasks):
e EU competitions that
aim to recruit contract agents, though the
primary purpose of the competition is to create
a pool of eligible candidates who can be called
in at short notice if and when a position needs
to be filled due to increased workload, covering
for maternity leave or other reasons.
CAST exams tend to have only a single round in
which only verbal and numerical reasoning tests
need to be passed by applicants, though CAST
exams for translators also include a second
ust be made by
selection phase.
The salary of contract agents depends on which
Function group they are placed in. If it is
function group IV, the salary is quite
comparable to that of an AD5 official, that is,
s net per month, depending
representing the
the Economic and Social Committee.
It is EPSO that recruits officials for positions in
the Committee of Regions, along with other EU
bodies. It is interesting to note
that the Committee of the Regions and the
Economic and Social Committee share the
administrative services, including translation
and interpretation services, which may
therefore affect employment opportunities.
Communicating:
One of the 7 competencies that are measured
and evaluated in EU competition candidates via
the Assessment Centre's various exercises such
as the Oral presentation, the Case study and
Group exercise.
Competencies:
The generic name for the 7 skills and abilities
that are measured throughout the EPSO
Assessment Centre's various tests, such as the
Group exercise, Case study and others.
Competencies in an EU context are the
following: analysis and problem solving,
communicating, delivering quality and results,
learning and development, prioritising and
organising, resilience and working with others.
Administrators are evaluated on one more
competency, namely that of leadership.
Competency Passport:
A written document that EPSO
recruitment selection procedure is finished. It
includes a full evaluation of the candidate's
competencies based on the matrix EPSO has
created. For successful candidates, it becomes
part of their EU official personal profile so that
future training needs can be planned
accordingly. For unsuccessful candidates, it
serves as a benchmark report so they can draw
individual conclusions and improve where
needed.
Competition Stages and Timing
EU competitions are split into two main stages,
namely the pre-selection part and the
Assessment Centre part. For certain Specialist
exams, the two stages may be held in one single
day or two consecutive days, but whenever
there are lots (more than 600) applicants, the
pre-selection takes places shortly after the
4
as the Oral presentation, the Case study and the
The generic name for the 7 skills and abilities
that are measured throughout the EPSO
Assessment Centre's various tests, such as the
study and others.
Competencies in an EU context are the
following: analysis and problem solving,
communicating, delivering quality and results,
learning and development, prioritising and
organising, resilience and working with others.
aluated on one more
competency, namely that of leadership.
A written document that EPSO issues after the
recruitment selection procedure is finished. It
includes a full evaluation of the candidate's
competencies based on the matrix EPSO has
created. For successful candidates, it becomes
part of their EU official personal profile so that
e training needs can be planned
accordingly. For unsuccessful candidates, it
serves as a benchmark report so they can draw
individual conclusions and improve where
ompetition Stages and Timing:
EU competitions are split into two main stages,
selection part and the
Assessment Centre part. For certain Specialist
exams, the two stages may be held in one single
day or two consecutive days, but whenever
re are lots (more than 600) applicants, the
selection takes places shortly after the

application closes, and there is a 2-
between the pre-selection test and the
Assessment Centre.
The timeline usually goes as follows:
1. Exam announced on day X (published in
the Official Journal of the European
Union)
2. Applications can be done online via the
European Personnel Selection Office
(EPSO) website until 20-30 days after
day X
3. The pre-selection exam (if there is one)
can be taken in the period that
about 45 days after day X and lasts
around 4-6 weeks (estimated dates,
may vary for each exam)
4. The Assessment Centre is held in the
period that starts about 6 months after
day X and lasts about 2 months,
depending on the number of candidates
5. The reserve list (names of candidates
who have passed the exam and are
recruitable) comes out in about 9
months after day X - Please note that
the times may vary according to the
exam type, but this is a general
overview of the EU exam timeline.
Complaint:
See Appeal.
Computer Based Tests:
Since 2010, EPSO has been administering all
pre-selection tests on a computer in order to
enhance reliability, efficiency and accuracy of
the exams. This also ensures that candidates
are assessed on an equal and non
discriminatory basis and there is no national,
gender or other bias in the selection methods.
For generalist competitions (Administrators,
-3 month gap
selection test and the
The timeline usually goes as follows:
y X (published in
the Official Journal of the European
Applications can be done online via the
European Personnel Selection Office
30 days after
selection exam (if there is one)
can be taken in the period that starts
about 45 days after day X and lasts
6 weeks (estimated dates,
The Assessment Centre is held in the
period that starts about 6 months after
day X and lasts about 2 months,
depending on the number of candidates
erve list (names of candidates
who have passed the exam and are
recruitable) comes out in about 9
Please note that
the times may vary according to the
exam type, but this is a general
overview of the EU exam timeline.
has been administering all
selection tests on a computer in order to
enhance reliability, efficiency and accuracy of
the exams. This also ensures that candidates
are assessed on an equal and non-
discriminatory basis and there is no national,
other bias in the selection methods.
For generalist competitions (Administrators,
Assistants, Linguists) EPSO many times uses
computer based tests for the Case Study
exercise and/or for the Professional skills tests
as well.
The downside of computer based
candidates cannot highlight, circle or mark parts
of the question, though for numerical reasoning
tests and on-screen and a physical calculator is
offered.
Computer Literacy Test:
This test is part of the Assistant (usually AST1,
secretary) exam in which candidates are asked
questions on their knowledge of Microsoft
Office software. This general includes Excel,
Word, PowerPoint, along with other computer
skills such as online awareness, internet security
basics, e-mail rules and Outlook literacy,
keyboard shortcuts and similar items.
Concours:
The generally used French equivalent for EU
recruitment exams, meaning "competition",
referring to the competitive nature of the EU
selection procedures. The reason for this
competition is that in all cases there are 2
factors that are considered when drawing up
reserve lists: each exam has an objective pass
mark which is usually 50-70% of the total scores
of the given exercise to pass, otherwise the
candidate is ejected from the exam (e.g. a
verbal reasoning exam may have 20 total points
of which 10 must be obtained at minimum),
while the second benchmark is a
achieving candidates of whom only the top x
will be invited to the Assessment centre or will
be placed on the reserve list of eligible
laureates.
Given that the pre-2010 EPSO system had been
based on the French administrative
5
Assistants, Linguists) EPSO many times uses
computer based tests for the Case Study
exercise and/or for the Professional skills tests
The downside of computer based tests is that
candidates cannot highlight, circle or mark parts
of the question, though for numerical reasoning
screen and a physical calculator is
This test is part of the Assistant (usually AST1,
secretary) exam in which candidates are asked
questions on their knowledge of Microsoft
Office software. This general includes Excel,
Word, PowerPoint, along with other computer
ls such as online awareness, internet security
mail rules and Outlook literacy,
keyboard shortcuts and similar items.
The generally used French equivalent for EU
exams, meaning "competition",
referring to the competitive nature of the EU
selection procedures. The reason for this
competition is that in all cases there are 2
factors that are considered when drawing up
reserve lists: each exam has an objective pass
70% of the total scores
of the given exercise to pass, otherwise the
candidate is ejected from the exam (e.g. a
verbal reasoning exam may have 20 total points
of which 10 must be obtained at minimum),
while the second benchmark is a list of the best
achieving candidates of whom only the top x
will be invited to the Assessment centre or will
rve list of eligible
2010 EPSO system had been
based on the French administrative

examination system, even English
would refer to the exams as "concours"
Contract Agent:
Contract agents, similarly to temporary agents,
are EU personnel working for any EU institution
on a fixed-term contract. According EPSO and
the EU civil service portal, there are two su
categories of contract agent.
The first covers those who are hired to work: in
Commission Directorates-General to do manual
or administrative support-service tasks; in
Commission Offices attached to a Directorate
General, such as the two Offices for
Infrastructure and Logistics in Brussels and
Luxembourg and the Paymasters Office; in
Agencies; in Commission Representations and
Delegations. Contract agent of this type enjoy
longer-term employment prospects, with an
initial contract running for a maximum period of
five years and renewable for a maximum of five
years.
The contract can be converted into a contract of
indefinite duration. The second sub
covers contract agents that can be hired to
work in Commission's DGs dealing with other
tasks than manual and administrative support
tasks. That is to say, they are recruited:
temporarily to replace officials absent due to
illness, maternity leave, etc.; as a response to
acute staff shortages at times of intense work
pressure; to undertake work for a temporary
period providing additional capacity in
specialised fields where officials with the
required skills are not available.
Contract agent of this type has short
employment prospects, working on the basis of
contracts running up to a maximum of three
years. The minimum length of contract is three
months.
system, even English-speakers
efer to the exams as "concours".
Contract agents, similarly to temporary agents,
are EU personnel working for any EU institution
term contract. According EPSO and
the EU civil service portal, there are two sub-
The first covers those who are hired to work: in
General to do manual
service tasks; in
mmission Offices attached to a Directorate-
General, such as the two Offices for
Infrastructure and Logistics in Brussels and
Luxembourg and the Paymasters Office; in
Agencies; in Commission Representations and
Delegations. Contract agent of this type enjoy
term employment prospects, with an
initial contract running for a maximum period of
le for a maximum of five
The contract can be converted into a contract of
indefinite duration. The second sub-category
agents that can be hired to
work in Commission's DGs dealing with other
tasks than manual and administrative support
tasks. That is to say, they are recruited:
temporarily to replace officials absent due to
illness, maternity leave, etc.; as a response to
acute staff shortages at times of intense work
pressure; to undertake work for a temporary
period providing additional capacity in
specialised fields where officials with the
Contract agent of this type has short-term
employment prospects, working on the basis of
contracts running up to a maximum of three
years. The minimum length of contract is three
Council of the European Unio
The Council of the European Union (also known
as Council of the EU, Council of Ministers or
simply Council) is one of EPSO's client
institutions to which they recruit EU officials.
However, the Council has one of the smallest
staff among EU institutions given the fact that it
is the "hub" of national governments, therefore
its own Secretariat employs a limited number of
EU officials in its sectoral services, legal service,
communication staff and other areas. The
number of Council staff has been reduced
to the creation of the European External Action
Service (EEAS) in December 2010.
CV Sift:
For Specialist exams, EPSO applies the method
of "CV sift", which essentially means that
candidates' CVs are manually checked and read
to ensure that only those who qualify for the
given position will be invited to sit the
examination. As opposed to general
Administrator or Assistant exams, the CV sift
focuses on specific diplomas, work experience,
industry knowledge or language skills that only
a limited number of candidates are likely to
possess.
The CV sift is partly based on the Talent
Screener, which is an online system in which
candidates provide self-declared answers
regarding their work experience
or knowledge (e.g. ability to give a public
speech, draft a note or work experience in the
field of environmental impact assessment etc.),
which is then evaluated individually for each
candidate by the selection board of the given
EU exam.
Delivering Quality and Results
One of the key competencies EPSO evaluates in
the Assessment Centre, similarly to organising
6
Council of the European Union:
The Council of the European Union (also known
as Council of the EU, Council of Ministers or
simply Council) is one of EPSO's client
institutions to which they recruit EU officials.
However, the Council has one of the smallest
given the fact that it
is the "hub" of national governments, therefore
its own Secretariat employs a limited number of
EU officials in its sectoral services, legal service,
communication staff and other areas. The
number of Council staff has been reduced due
to the creation of the European External Action
Service (EEAS) in December 2010.
For Specialist exams, EPSO applies the method
of "CV sift", which essentially means that
CVs are manually checked and read
to ensure that only those who qualify for the
given position will be invited to sit the
examination. As opposed to general
Administrator or Assistant exams, the CV sift
focuses on specific diplomas, work experience,
try knowledge or language skills that only
ndidates are likely to
The CV sift is partly based on the Talent
Screener, which is an online system in which
declared answers
regarding their work experience, specific skills
or knowledge (e.g. ability to give a public
speech, draft a note or work experience in the
field of environmental impact assessment etc.),
which is then evaluated individually for each
candidate by the selection board of the given
Delivering Quality and Results:
One of the key competencies EPSO evaluates in
the Assessment Centre, similarly to organising

and prioritising and other skills. It is most
the case study and the oral presentation that
this competency is tested: candidates must
demonstrate that they are not only able to
identify a problem or analyse a complex file but
they can come with actionable, specific
proposal or plans as a result of their exercise.
Diploma Requirements:
The minimum qualification required to sit an EU
competition and become an EU official varies
whether it is an Assistant (AST1 or AST3) exam
or an Administrator (AD). For Administrators, a
university diploma of at least 3 years (Bachelor
level) is the absolute minimum requirement,
while for Assistants in the AST1 (entry level), no
diploma is required other than a high school or
vocational school certificate (though for AST1
who have no specialised education, generally 3
years of work experience is needed).
For AST3 level, a university diploma is not
required if the candidate possesses a high
school level education and 6 years of relevant
work experience, otherwise a diploma is
needed (usually in field that is relevant to the
topic of the competition, e.g. project
management or audit) with only 3 years of work
experience. The diploma must be recognized by
an EU member state's public authority.
Disqualification:
Candidates may be disqualified in case they
provide false or intentionally inaccurate
information, such as their basic qualification,
citizenship, diploma or other infor
candidate does not show up in the test centre,
he or she can also be disqualified, similarly to
when a candidate fails to submit documents
despite being requested to do so by EPSO, or
breach the rules of the exam in the test centre
or in the Assessment Centre by using
and prioritising and other skills. It is mostly in
the case study and the oral presentation that
this competency is tested: candidates must
demonstrate that they are not only able to
identify a problem or analyse a complex file but
they can come with actionable, specific
of their exercise.
The minimum qualification required to sit an EU
competition and become an EU official varies
whether it is an Assistant (AST1 or AST3) exam
or an Administrator (AD). For Administrators, a
university diploma of at least 3 years (Bachelor
level) is the absolute minimum requirement,
while for Assistants in the AST1 (entry level), no
diploma is required other than a high school or
l certificate (though for AST1
who have no specialised education, generally 3
of work experience is needed).
For AST3 level, a university diploma is not
required if the candidate possesses a high
school level education and 6 years of relevant
experience, otherwise a diploma is
needed (usually in field that is relevant to the
topic of the competition, e.g. project
management or audit) with only 3 years of work
experience. The diploma must be recognized by
an EU member state's public authority.
Candidates may be disqualified in case they
provide false or intentionally inaccurate
information, such as their basic qualification,
citizenship, diploma or other information. If a
candidate does not show up in the test centre,
he or she can also be disqualified, similarly to
when a candidate fails to submit documents
despite being requested to do so by EPSO, or
breach the rules of the exam in the test centre
ssessment Centre by using
unauthorised external help, mobile devices or
other.
An appeal may be launched against any
disqualification in the normal way, ie. by filing a
complaint to the selection board and/or to the
European Ombudsman.
Economic and Social Committee
the Committee of the Regions. It is EPSO that
recruits officials for positions in the Economic
and Social Committee, along with the
Committee of Regions and other EU institutions
and bodies.
It is interesting to note that the Committee of
the Regions and the Econo
Committee share the administrative services,
including translation and interpretation
services, which may therefore affect
employment opportunities.
Economist:
economist or economics
announced for more technical positions.
Economists are required to have a relevant
diploma, which is nevertheless not limited to
studies in economics in a strict sense but any
other subject that is closely associated with the
tasks of an economist is also acceptable.
EPSO:
See European Personnel Selection Office
7
help, mobile devices or
An appeal may be launched against any
disqualification in the normal way, ie. by filing a
complaint to the selection board and/or to the
Economic and Social Committee:
ittee of the Regions. It is EPSO that
recruits officials for positions in the Economic
and Social Committee, along with the
Committee of Regions and other EU institutions
It is interesting to note that the Committee of
the Regions and the Economic and Social
Committee share the administrative services,
including translation and interpretation
services, which may therefore affect
profiles in the Administrator
economist or economics-related profile
Economists are required to have a relevant
nevertheless not limited to
studies in economics in a strict sense but any
other subject that is closely associated with the
tasks of an economist is also acceptable.
European Personnel Selection Office.

EPSO Account (or EPSO Profile):
Each candidate to EU competitions needs to
register in two ways: you need to create an
online account on EPSO's website in which you
provide information about yourself, your
qualifications, language knowledge and other
relevant information. Secondly, you need to
apply for a specific exam that is currently open.
All this information is shown in your EPSO
account (or profile) so you can consult it at any
moment, update contact information if needed
and this is where EU institutions take the
information from when they need it.
EPSO Address:
EPSO' s official address is European Personnel
Selection Office, Candidate contact service,
Office C-25 5/34, B-1049 Brussels. The phone
number is by phone: on +32 (0)2.299.31.31. The
Assessment Centre is located at the corner of
Rue Stevin and Avenue Cortenbergh in Brussels,
Belgium.
E-tray Exercise (or In-tray Exercise)
The electronic, computerised version of the in
tray exercise simulates a work environment on
a computer where e-mails need to be read,
sorted and responded to in a timely manner.
This test is used for Assistant (AST) exams in the
Assessment Centre phase, mainly for AST1
exams (secretaries) but possibly for other AST
profiles as well.
EU Careers:
See European Personnel Selection Office
EU Competition:
See EU Recruitment Exam.
EU Exams:
See EU Recruitment Exam.
Each candidate to EU competitions needs to
register in two ways: you need to create an
online account on EPSO's website in which you
provide information about yourself, your
wledge and other
relevant information. Secondly, you need to
apply for a specific exam that is currently open.
All this information is shown in your EPSO
account (or profile) so you can consult it at any
moment, update contact information if needed
is is where EU institutions take the
information from when they need it.
EPSO' s official address is European Personnel
Selection Office, Candidate contact service,
1049 Brussels. The phone
y phone: on +32 (0)2.299.31.31. The
Assessment Centre is located at the corner of
enbergh in Brussels,
tray Exercise):
The electronic, computerised version of the in-
tray exercise simulates a work environment on
mails need to be read,
sorted and responded to in a timely manner.
This test is used for Assistant (AST) exams in the
Assessment Centre phase, mainly for AST1
exams (secretaries) but possibly for other AST
European Personnel Selection Office.
EU Institutions:
The European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO)
is the centralised recruiting arm of all EU
institutions such as the European Commission,
the European Parliament, the Council of
Ministers, the European Court of Auditors, the
European Ombudsman, the European Eco
and Social Committee, the Committee of the
Regions, and the European Court of Justice. It
does not recruit, however, for EU agencies
located in Member States, nor does it recruit
for the European Central Bank or the European
Investment Bank.
EU Jobs:
EU or European Union jobs can be mainly split
into those in which employees work for EU
institutions directly, and those in th
sector which are nevertheless working in close
cooperation with these institutions, such as
research, academia, consultancy, dip
posts and other fields.
presentation of EU jobs and learn how to gain
employment, please read t
accessible via the link below.
EU Officials:
Anyone who has passed recruitment exams via
EPSO and was placed on the reserve list is
eligible for an EU job in one of the EU
institutions. Becoming an AD or AST level
European official means a permanent
employment contract that is covered by the
Staff Regulations which spells out the rights and
obligations of EU civil servants.
EU Recruitment Exam:
See Concours.
Europass CV:
A special CV format that is suggested to be used
by European employers and job seekers, the
8
European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO)
is the centralised recruiting arm of all EU
institutions such as the European Commission,
the European Parliament, the Council of
Ministers, the European Court of Auditors, the
European Ombudsman, the European Economic
and Social Committee, the Committee of the
Regions, and the European Court of Justice. It
does not recruit, however, for EU agencies
located in Member States, nor does it recruit
for the European Central Bank or the European
EU or European Union jobs can be mainly split
into those in which employees work for EU
institutions directly, and those in the private
sector which are nevertheless working in close
cooperation with these institutions, such as
research, academia, consultancy, diplomatic
posts and other fields. For a detailed
presentation of EU jobs and learn how to gain
employment, please read the free e-book
Anyone who has passed recruitment exams via
EPSO and was placed on the reserve list is
eligible for an EU job in one of the EU
titutions. Becoming an AD or AST level
European official means a permanent
employment contract that is covered by the
Staff Regulations which spells out the rights and
obligations of EU civil servants.
A special CV format that is suggested to be used
mployers and job seekers, the

template of which can be downloaded from the
link below.
European Central Bank:
Based in Frankfurt and responsible for the
monetary policy of Eurozone countries, the ECB
recruits its staff independently of EPSO.
European Commission:
The European Commission, the largest client of
EPSO in terms of recruitment targets, employs
some 32000 permanent officials and several
thousand more temporary agents and contract
agents in Brussels, Luxembourg and around the
world.
European Court of Auditors:
The European Court of Auditors, based in
Luxembourg, is a relatively small institution, but
all its staff is recruited via EPSO.
European Court of Justice:
The European Court of Justice, based in
Luxembourg, employs a large number of
lawyer-linguists, along with others who work in
the secretariat of the Court. EPSO regularly
recruits EU staff for the Court.
European Data Protection Supervisor
The European Data Protection Supervisor is a
small entity compared to other EPSO clients but
occasionally there are specialist or generalist
(lawyer) exams organised by EPSO to recruit for
the EDPS.
European External Action Service (EEAS)
As a main rule, the European External Action
Service (EEAS) comprises national diplomats
designated via their national channels, former
officials from the Council of Ministers and from
the European Commission. EPSO, however, may
template of which can be downloaded from the
Based in Frankfurt and responsible for the
monetary policy of Eurozone countries, the ECB
recruits its staff independently of EPSO.
largest client of
EPSO in terms of recruitment targets, employs
some 32000 permanent officials and several
thousand more temporary agents and contract
agents in Brussels, Luxembourg and around the
The European Court of Auditors, based in
Luxembourg, is a relatively small institution, but
The European Court of Justice, based in
Luxembourg, employs a large number of
linguists, along with others who work in
the secretariat of the Court. EPSO regularly
European Data Protection Supervisor:
The European Data Protection Supervisor is a
small entity compared to other EPSO clients but
occasionally there are specialist or generalist
er) exams organised by EPSO to recruit for
European External Action Service (EEAS):
As a main rule, the European External Action
ational diplomats
designated via their national channels, former
officials from the Council of Ministers and from
the European Commission. EPSO, however, may
organise competitions for the EEAS is the near
future.
European Ombudsman:
The European Ombudsman, similarly to the
European Data Protection Supervisor, is a small
entity with a few dozen EU officials in
Strasbourg. Their posts are neverthel
via EPSO competitions.
European Parliament:
The bulk of the European Parliament's staff is
recruited directly by the Members of the
European Parliament (MEPs) and give
temporary contract that is now under the Staff
Regulations, however, there are a few thousand
permanent jobs at the EP that are filled in via
EPSO recruitment exams.
European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO)
The European Personnel Selection Office
(EPSO), created in 2003, is the centralised
recruiting arm of all EU institutions such as the
European Commission, the Council of Ministers,
the European Parliament, the European Court
of Auditors, the European Ombudsman, the
European Economic and Social Committee, the
Committee of the Regions, and the European
Court of Justice. It does not recruit, however,
for EU agencies located in Member States, nor
does it recruit for the European Central Bank or
the European Investment Bank.
EPSO has been instrumental in modernising the
EU recruitment procedures by not only re
labeling the procedure as EU Careers but also
by making sure that anyone seeking a European
career or job in EU affairs can take part in an
unbiased, streamlined and centralised selection
procedure to work for EU institutions.
9
organise competitions for the EEAS is the near
The European Ombudsman, similarly to the
European Data Protection Supervisor, is a small
entity with a few dozen EU officials in
Strasbourg. Their posts are nevertheless filled in
The bulk of the European Parliament's staff is
recruited directly by the Members of the
European Parliament (MEPs) and given a
temporary contract that is now under the Staff
Regulations, however, there are a few thousand
permanent jobs at the EP that are filled in via
European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO):
The European Personnel Selection Office
(EPSO), created in 2003, is the centralised
recruiting arm of all EU institutions such as the
European Commission, the Council of Ministers,
, the European Court
of Auditors, the European Ombudsman, the
European Economic and Social Committee, the
Committee of the Regions, and the European
Court of Justice. It does not recruit, however,
for EU agencies located in Member States, nor
it for the European Central Bank or
the European Investment Bank.
EPSO has been instrumental in modernising the
EU recruitment procedures by not only re-
labeling the procedure as EU Careers but also
by making sure that anyone seeking a European
ob in EU affairs can take part in an
unbiased, streamlined and centralised selection
procedure to work for EU institutions.

EPSO, as a main rule, handles all recruitment for
permanent posts, and occasionally administers
CAST exams but it does not deal with
selection of individual temporary agents or
contract agents.
European Public Administration (EPA)
(AD) open competitions that tends to be the
most popular one given that any college or
university diploma qualifies applicants to
choose this profile. That may include a diploma
in history, political sciences, languages,
engineering or any other, unlike other profil
which tend to require a "relevant" degree.
Diplomas issues outside the European Union
usually have to be recognised by the
candidate's country of residence or citizenship
to be eligible. Decision on the adminissibility of
a diploma is always made by the Selection
board of the given EU competition. Those who
pass this competition can reasonably expect a
job offer from virtually any EU institution, given
the horizontal nature of their profile.
Financial Policy Officer:
financial policy officer or finance-related profile
Financial policy officers are required to have a
limited to studies in finance in a strict sense but
any other subject that is closely associated with
the tasks of a financial officer is also acceptable.
Those who are recruited on the basis of this
profile can expect to work at the European
Court of Auditors, the various Directorates
EPSO, as a main rule, handles all recruitment for
permanent posts, and occasionally administers
CAST exams but it does not deal with the
selection of individual temporary agents or
European Public Administration (EPA):
competitions that tends to be the
most popular one given that any college or
university diploma qualifies applicants to
choose this profile. That may include a diploma
in history, political sciences, languages,
engineering or any other, unlike other profiles
which tend to require a "relevant" degree.
Diplomas issues outside the European Union
usually have to be recognised by the
candidate's country of residence or citizenship
to be eligible. Decision on the adminissibility of
the Selection
board of the given EU competition. Those who
pass this competition can reasonably expect a
job offer from virtually any EU institution, given
the horizontal nature of their profile.
related profile
Financial policy officers are required to have a
limited to studies in finance in a strict sense but
sely associated with
the tasks of a financial officer is also acceptable.
e admissibility of the diploma.
Those who are recruited on the basis of this
profile can expect to work at the European
uditors, the various Directorates
General (DGs) of the European Commission
dealing with financial policy, financial
regulations, EU budget or anti
possibly at the European Economic and Social
Committee or the Committee of the Regions.
Flagging System:
"Once on the reserve list, candidates (or as they
are called at this stage, ""laureates"") are
""flagged"" by the EU institutions, meaning that
their profile listed in the "
database can be assigned different statuses,
such as any institution can recruit them, they
are reserved for a specific institution etc. Each
flag has a specific color and meaning to it. For
more information, see the The Ultimate EU Test
Book's free chapterhere."
Freelance Interpreter or Translator
Freelance interpreters and translators are not
recruited centrally by EPSO but the European
Commission's DG Translation and the SCIC
(interpretation service) occasionally publishes
calls for applications from private individuals or
service providers to work as an external
translator or on-call interpreter.
More information and an up-
found in our EU jobs menu, available at the link
below.
Function Groups:
Function groups refer to the AD (Administrator)
or Assistant (AST) function group, which is
determined for each recruitment competition
organised by EPSO. Within function groups,
there are different grades, which represent the
level in the hierarchy for Assistants and
Administrators alike.
This is also reflected in the sa
official in that given level. Accordingly, there are
AST1-AST11 levels, whereas for AD there is
10
General (DGs) of the European Commission
dealing with financial policy, financial
regulations, EU budget or anti-fraud efforts, or
possibly at the European Economic and Social
Committee or the Committee of the Regions.
"Once on the reserve list, candidates (or as they
are called at this stage, ""laureates"") are
""flagged"" by the EU institutions, meaning that
their profile listed in the ""E-laureates""
database can be assigned different statuses,
such as any institution can recruit them, they
are reserved for a specific institution etc. Each
flag has a specific color and meaning to it. For
more information, see the The Ultimate EU Test
Freelance Interpreter or Translator:
Freelance interpreters and translators are not
trally by EPSO but the European
Commission's DG Translation and the SCIC
(interpretation service) occasionally publishes
calls for applications from private individuals or
service providers to work as an external
call interpreter.
to-date list can be
found in our EU jobs menu, available at the link
Function groups refer to the AD (Administrator)
function group, which is
determined for each recruitment competition
organised by EPSO. Within function groups,
there are different grades, which represent the
level in the hierarchy for Assistants and
This is also reflected in the salary of the EU
official in that given level. Accordingly, there are
AST11 levels, whereas for AD there is

AD5-AD16, the latter being the level of a
Director General.
Group Exercise:
The Group Exercise is one of the tasks in the
Assessment Centre that is compulsory in all
Administrator (AD) profiles. This means that
groups of 3-6 candidates are required to take
part in a simulation based on a background file
that all of them must read and then try to come
to a conclusion within 30 or so minutes.
Assessors are not part of the group exercise and
they only observe the individual behaviours,
leadership, analytical and communication skills
of each participant.
Head of Unit:
In the EU hierarchy, the first managerial
position is that of a Head of Unit which is
considered a rather senior function given that
at least 9 and in some cases 12 years of work
experience is required to be appointed as a
Head of Unit.
Only Administrators can assume such position
and they must have AD9 grade or higher to be
eligible. EPSO recruits Head of unit in a similar
fashion as other Administrators with the
exception of having additional requirement
leadership and managerial skills.
Information and Communication Technologies
ICT is one of the sub-profiles or domains of the
Administrator exams, though this field is not
announced each year but only upon specific
need from EU institutions.
Internal Competition:
Occasionally every 4-5 years EPSO and EU
institutions may announce internal
competitions in which only existing
Administrator, Assistants and temporary agents
AD16, the latter being the level of a
The Group Exercise is one of the tasks in the
Assessment Centre that is compulsory in all
Administrator (AD) profiles. This means that
6 candidates are required to take
part in a simulation based on a background file
and then try to come
to a conclusion within 30 or so minutes.
Assessors are not part of the group exercise and
they only observe the individual behaviours,
leadership, analytical and communication skills
In the EU hierarchy, the first managerial
position is that of a Head of Unit which is
considered a rather senior function given that
at least 9 and in some cases 12 years of work
be appointed as a
Only Administrators can assume such position
and they must have AD9 grade or higher to be
eligible. EPSO recruits Head of unit in a similar
fashion as other Administrators with the
exception of having additional requirements for
Information and Communication Technologies:
profiles or domains of the
h this field is not
announced each year but only upon specific
5 years EPSO and EU
institutions may announce internal
competitions in which only existing
Administrator, Assistants and temporary agents
(but not contract agents) can take part who are
already working in an EU institution.
The goal is to help in the career mobility of
those who may be eligible for higher positions
or temporary agents who wish to obtain a
permanent employment contract. These exams
follow the same rules as any other set by EPSO
and the Staff Regulations.
Interpreters:
Similarly to translators, interpreters may be EU
officials (or work as external freelancers). To be
part of the core staff, the same EPSO
competition must be passed as for anyone else.
In the annual cycle, the linguist and interpreter
exams are announced in the summer, usually
around June or July of the year.
Abstract, verbal and numerical reasoning tests
must be passed, along with a live translation or
interpreting exercise, group exercis
structured interview and possibly a case study
as well.
In-tray Exercise:
See E-tray Exercise.
Language 1:
See Language Requirements.
Language 2:
Language 3:
Language Requirements:
Citizenship and languages are de
they are not linked in any way, except for
enlargement-related exams where specific
citizenship and language rules are determined.
11
(but not contract agents) can take part who are
already working in an EU institution.
s to help in the career mobility of
those who may be eligible for higher positions
or temporary agents who wish to obtain a
permanent employment contract. These exams
follow the same rules as any other set by EPSO
Similarly to translators, interpreters may be EU
officials (or work as external freelancers). To be
part of the core staff, the same EPSO
competition must be passed as for anyone else.
the annual cycle, the linguist and interpreter
exams are announced in the summer, usually
around June or July of the year.
Abstract, verbal and numerical reasoning tests
must be passed, along with a live translation or
interpreting exercise, group exercise, a
structured interview and possibly a case study
Citizenship and languages are de-connected and
linked in any way, except for
related exams where specific
citizenship and language rules are determined.

In some cases, the candidate’s citizenship or the
given exam’s specific language profile
automatically determines the required first
language (e.g. compulsory French as first
language for translator exams in the French
language), whereas in other instances
candidates are free to choose their first
language as long as the above rules on
citizenship and the official EU language
requirements are respected.
The second language is candidates' first foreign
language and in most cases it must be English,
French or German, except for some linguist
exams (and sometimes for certain Assistant
exams) the second language is usually the one
for which candidates are sought, along with the
third language (if required at all). In no case can
any two languages be the same.
Laureates:
The term laureates refers to those candidates
who have been placed on a reserve list as a
result of their successful application and
examinations and now are recruitable by any
EU institution until the end of the validity
period of the reserve list.
Lawyer (Law):
Assistant (AST) exams may have an AST3 legal
policy officer or law-related profile announced
for more technical positions. Legal affairs
officers are required to have a relevant diploma
in law. Decision is always made by the Selection
board on the admissibility of the diploma.
Lawyers are mainly employed by the European
Commission, the European Court of Justice or
the European Data Protection Supervisor,
any other EU institutions may offer positions for
those who passed a recruitment exam in law.
In some cases, the candidate’s citizenship or the
given exam’s specific language profile
automatically determines the required first
uage (e.g. compulsory French as first
language for translator exams in the French
language), whereas in other instances
candidates are free to choose their first
language as long as the above rules on
citizenship and the official EU language
The second language is candidates' first foreign
language and in most cases it must be English,
French or German, except for some linguist
exams (and sometimes for certain Assistant
exams) the second language is usually the one
didates are sought, along with the
third language (if required at all). In no case can
The term laureates refers to those candidates
ced on a reserve list as a
result of their successful application and
examinations and now are recruitable by any
EU institution until the end of the validity
Assistant (AST) exams may have an AST3 legal
related profile announced
for more technical positions. Legal affairs
quired to have a relevant diploma
in law. Decision is always made by the Selection
board on the admissibility of the diploma.
Lawyers are mainly employed by the European
Commission, the European Court of Justice or
the European Data Protection Supervisor, but
any other EU institutions may offer positions for
those who passed a recruitment exam in law.
Leadership:
Leadership is one of the competencies that is
assessed by EPSO, however, it is onl
for Administrator (AD) roles but not for
Assistants. Leadership does not necessarily
mean a managerial skill but rather the ability to
deliver results, gather a team or co
behind a specific goal, make sure there is no
deviation from plans without prior consent and
a certain level of social adaptability is also
needed.
Learning and Development:
demonstrate they are able and willing to learn
new topics, issues and subjects, and provide
examples from their career or personal
experience of situations where they faced a
challenge by an unknown topic and they
decided to learn about that issue and
succeeded.
Linguists:
Linguists are the common name for translators
and interpreters, however, lawyer
considered as specialists given their required
diploma in law. Linguist exams are announced
each year in June or July for different language
combinations, but the exam they need to pass
is by and large the same as for any other
Administrator profile. Linguists are always AD
level officials once recruited and they can move
to other non-linguistic positions after the initial
2-3 years.
Lawyer-linguists:
Lawyer linguists are always Administrator (AD)
level officials who may even be recruited at a
higher level (AD7 instead of AD5) to attract
most candidates, with the condition being that
12
Leadership is one of the competencies that is
assessed by EPSO, however, it is only required
for Administrator (AD) roles but not for
Assistants. Leadership does not necessarily
mean a managerial skill but rather the ability to
deliver results, gather a team or co-workers
behind a specific goal, make sure there is no
s without prior consent and
a certain level of social adaptability is also
via the Assessment
demonstrate they are able and willing to learn
new topics, issues and subjects, and provide
examples from their career or personal
uations where they faced a
challenge by an unknown topic and they
decided to learn about that issue and
Linguists are the common name for translators
ever, lawyer-linguists are
considered as specialists given their required
diploma in law. Linguist exams are announced
each year in June or July for different language
combinations, but the exam they need to pass
is by and large the same as for any other
dministrator profile. Linguists are always AD
level officials once recruited and they can move
linguistic positions after the initial
Lawyer linguists are always Administrator (AD)
level officials who may even be recruited at a
higher level (AD7 instead of AD5) to attract
most candidates, with the condition being that

they must stay in their position for at least 3 or
more years without being able to transfer to
other EU institutions or positions. A legal
diploma is required, along with the knowledge
of at least two or three languages at a very high
level so that they can carry out translations and
revisions from multiple source languages
Lawyer linguists generally work for the Council
of Ministers, the European Court of Justice or
the European Parliament, though some other
institutions may employ a few of them as well.
Main Language:
Minimum Requirements:
See Admission Criteria.
National Quota:
In EU institutions, there is no national quota for
Member State citizens, however,
requirement in the Staff Regulations providing
that a "proportional representation" is
required.
This means that each Directorate General has
benchmark figures on the nationality of its staff
and aims to recruit new officials in a way that
meets this requirement.
Notice of Competition:
Every EU competition starts with a Notice of
Competition, which is the official and authentic
document in which the details and condi
the exam are provided.
The NoC is published in the Official Journal of
the EU (also online) and it provides the number
of people EPSO plans to place on the reserve
lists, the language requirements, the diploma or
qualification requirements and many oth
details.
they must stay in their position for at least 3 or
being able to transfer to
other EU institutions or positions. A legal
diploma is required, along with the knowledge
of at least two or three languages at a very high
level so that they can carry out translations and
revisions from multiple source languages.
Lawyer linguists generally work for the Council
of Ministers, the European Court of Justice or
the European Parliament, though some other
institutions may employ a few of them as well.
In EU institutions, there is no national quota for
Member State citizens, however, there is a
requirement in the Staff Regulations providing
al representation" is
This means that each Directorate General has
benchmark figures on the nationality of its staff
and aims to recruit new officials in a way that
Every EU competition starts with a Notice of
Competition, which is the official and authentic
document in which the details and conditions of
The NoC is published in the Official Journal of
the EU (also online) and it provides the number
of people EPSO plans to place on the reserve
lists, the language requirements, the diploma or
qualification requirements and many other
Numerical Reasoning:
a table with semi-complex data and multiple
cells, it requires basic calculation (adding,
subtracting, multiplying, dividing), occasionally
also percentage calculation. Generally, there
are 10 numerical reasoning questions in a
competition, and the allocated time is
minutes.
Official Journal:
Published by the EU's Publication Office in
Luxembourg, it is the authentic document in
which all administrative and legislative
documents are published every weekday. In the
EU career context, the Notice of Competition is
also published in the Official Journal given its
legal nature.
Open Competition:
Every EU competition that EPSO
external website is by default open to anyone
who meets the formal criteria (including EU
officials who may wish to apply to jump to a
higher grade, or temporary agents who wish to
"finalise" their contract).
On the other hand, EPSO occasionally (usually
every 5 years) organises internal competitions
which are only open to those already working
as permanent or temporary staff at the
Commission or other institutions (depending on
the exam's specific requirements).
Oral Presentation:
Centre for generalist Administrators and in
most cases, AST3 (senior assistants) is to make a
presentation of up to 10 minutes based on a
background file, and then be ready to answer
questions for another 8-10 minutes.
13
selection phase of
complex data and multiple
cells, it requires basic calculation (adding,
subtracting, multiplying, dividing), occasionally
tage calculation. Generally, there
are 10 numerical reasoning questions in a
competition, and the allocated time is 20
Published by the EU's Publication Office in
Luxembourg, it is the authentic document in
which all administrative and legislative
very weekday. In the
EU career context, the Notice of Competition is
also published in the Official Journal given its
Every EU competition that EPSO publishes on its
external website is by default open to anyone
who meets the formal criteria (including EU
officials who may wish to apply to jump to a
higher grade, or temporary agents who wish to
occasionally (usually
every 5 years) organises internal competitions
which are only open to those already working
as permanent or temporary staff at the
Commission or other institutions (depending on
the exam's specific requirements).
Centre for generalist Administrators and in
most cases, AST3 (senior assistants) is to make a
presentation of up to 10 minutes based on a
round file, and then be ready to answer
10 minutes.

Specialists usually are not required to perform
this exercise given their relatively different
profile. In most exams, it measures
competencies such as:
• resilience
• communication
• analysis and problem solving
• delivering quality and results
Organising and Prioritising Test:
requires candidates to check a table with
various information about schedules,
timetables, agendas, vehicle capacities and
other practical information and find the best
solution to a practical organisation or logistics
problem. The tasks tend to be relatively easy, it
is the time pressure that makes them rather
challenging.
Preparatory Courses:
Many candidates of EU Career exams decide to
practice and learn in a dedicated manner and to
have the guidance of a professional trainer.
Methodology in the EPSO exams is crucial,
therefore preparatory courses can increase
performance in the pre-selection tests
significantly. Moreover, these courses often
cover tips and tricks for the Assessment Centre,
which can prove also highly practical to learn
about EPSO assessors' expectations.
Pre-selection Tests:
Pre-selection tests refer to the exams that EU
career competition participants are required to
sit to be considered for the Assessment Centre.
For most exams, pre-selection tests are
required given the large number of applicants.
However, when the number of applicants (most
for Specialist exams) is lower than approx. 600,
EPSO does not require these tests to be taken,
Specialists usually are not required to perform
this exercise given their relatively different
profile. In most exams, it measures
problem solving
delivering quality and results
selection phase of
reers. This test
requires candidates to check a table with
various information about schedules,
timetables, agendas, vehicle capacities and
other practical information and find the best
solution to a practical organisation or logistics
end to be relatively easy, it
is the time pressure that makes them rather
Many candidates of EU Career exams decide to
ted manner and to
have the guidance of a professional trainer.
Methodology in the EPSO exams is crucial,
therefore preparatory courses can increase
selection tests
significantly. Moreover, these courses often
r the Assessment Centre,
which can prove also highly practical to learn
about EPSO assessors' expectations.
selection tests refer to the exams that EU
competition participants are required to
sit to be considered for the Assessment Centre.
selection tests are
required given the large number of applicants.
However, when the number of applicants (most
n approx. 600,
EPSO does not require these tests to be taken,
though there is still a pre-screening in the form
of a so-called Talent Screener.
Typically, the pre-selection tests include
abstract, verbal and numerical reasoning tests
and a Situational Judgment Test, and for
Assistants, there are extra tests such as
accuracy and precision, and organising and
prioritising. The language of the pre
tests is Language 1, except for the Situational
Judgment Test which is usually conducted in
Language 2.
Professional Experience:
EU career exams usually require the following
professional experience: for general
Administrators, on AD5 level exams no work
experience is required; on AD7 level, at least 6
years of experience is required (for lawyer
linguists this is usually only 3 years); for AD9
level, at least 12 years is required.
For Specialists, it depends on the specific
profile, but usually the same number of years is
expected.
For Assistants on AST3 level, the rule is either
having a secondary education diploma in the
given field and 3 years' of experience, or any
qualification giving access to post
education and then 6 years' of relevant
experience. It is important to
requirements of each competition as it may
vary from one exam to another.
Recruitment:
Recruitment is final phase of the selection
procedure and it is NOT handled by EPSO
only deal with 'selection' of potential new
officials but they don't themselves recruit). It is
up to the specific Directorate General or EU
institution to decide who they wish to invite for
14
screening in the form
called Talent Screener.
selection tests include
abstract, verbal and numerical reasoning tests
ment Test, and for
Assistants, there are extra tests such as
accuracy and precision, and organising and
prioritising. The language of the pre-selection
tests is Language 1, except for the Situational
Judgment Test which is usually conducted in
EU career exams usually require the following
professional experience: for general
Administrators, on AD5 level exams no work
AD7 level, at least 6
years of experience is required (for lawyer-
linguists this is usually only 3 years); for AD9
at least 12 years is required.
For Specialists, it depends on the specific
me number of years is
For Assistants on AST3 level, the rule is either
having a secondary education diploma in the
given field and 3 years' of experience, or any
qualification giving access to post-secondary
education and then 6 years' of relevant
check the specific
requirements of each competition as it may
vary from one exam to another.
Recruitment is final phase of the selection
procedure and it is NOT handled by EPSO (they
only deal with 'selection' of potential new
officials but they don't themselves recruit). It is
up to the specific Directorate General or EU
institution to decide who they wish to invite for

a final interview from among those who had
been placed on a reserve list.
Recruitment happens after 2-3 candidates are
invited for a 'classic' interview in which they are
asked questions on their knowledge in the
specific field, motivation and personal profile. A
medical examination is required and if all goes
well, a job offer is extended towards the
candidate who then becomes an EU official,
with a 9-month probation period.
Reimbursement of Costs:
In order to provide equal chances for all
citizens, EPSO reimburses a flat-rate travel cost
and hotel expenses for those who need to
travel to Brussels to the Assessment Centre.
For the pre-selection exams, there is no
reimbursement possible (even if a candidate
has to travel to another country where an exam
centre is located in case there is no exam
opportunity in his or her own country
each EU Member State has at least one exam
centre, the above situation may happen in
other continents around the world).
The reimbursement may take a few weeks but
it is a right that all candidates have once they
are invited to the Assessment Centre.
Reserve List:
After passing all stages of an EPSO competition,
successful candidates (also called 'laureates')
are placed on a so-called reserve list.
This list is published in the Official Journal of the
EU and everyone on it can be recruited by any
EU institution for a permanent post. Each
reserve list has a validity of 1
depending on the competition and also on
when the next competition in the same field is
due to be published.
a final interview from among those who had
3 candidates are
invited for a 'classic' interview in which they are
asked questions on their knowledge in the
specific field, motivation and personal profile. A
medical examination is required and if all goes
l, a job offer is extended towards the
candidate who then becomes an EU official,
In order to provide equal chances for all EU
rate travel cost
and hotel expenses for those who need to
travel to Brussels to the Assessment Centre.
selection exams, there is no
reimbursement possible (even if a candidate
ry where an exam
centre is located in case there is no exam
opportunity in his or her own country - though
each EU Member State has at least one exam
centre, the above situation may happen in
other continents around the world).
a few weeks but
it is a right that all candidates have once they
are invited to the Assessment Centre.
After passing all stages of an EPSO competition,
also called 'laureates')
called reserve list.
This list is published in the Official Journal of the
EU and everyone on it can be recruited by any
EU institution for a permanent post. Each
reserve list has a validity of 1-3 years,
ing on the competition and also on
when the next competition in the same field is
The validity can be extended in case there are
still candidates on the list, based on the
decision of EPSO.
Resilience:
as the Oral presentation, the Structured
Interview or the Group exercise.
Resilience refers to the 'ability to cope under
pressure' and 'maintain an effective
performance under heavy workload'. It can also
refer to the ability to handle 'organisati
administrative stress'.
The most common exams in which this
competency is tested is the oral presentation
and the structured interview. The most
important aspect of resilience in the structured
interview is to demonstrate a specific event
when stress management or the efficient
handling of a frustration can be proven via a
specific, unexpected event instead of talking
about a prolonged period of heavy workload
Salary of EU Officials and Civil Servants
The salary of EU officials, civil servants,
temporary agents and contract agents is set out
in the Staff Regulations and multiple factors are
considered. These include the official's
seniority, work experience, the exam (s)he had
passed and on the basis of which (s)he was
recruited, child allowance, the place of
recruitment (expatriate allowance) and other
factors.
The average net monthly salary of an Assistant
at AST3 level is around 3200 euros, while for an
entry level AD5 Administrator would earn
around 4500 euros.
15
The validity can be extended in case there are
still candidates on the list, based on the
as the Oral presentation, the Structured
erview or the Group exercise.
Resilience refers to the 'ability to cope under
pressure' and 'maintain an effective
performance under heavy workload'. It can also
refer to the ability to handle 'organisational or
exams in which this
competency is tested is the oral presentation
and the structured interview. The most
important aspect of resilience in the structured
interview is to demonstrate a specific event
when stress management or the efficient
stration can be proven via a
specific, unexpected event instead of talking
about a prolonged period of heavy workload.
Salary of EU Officials and Civil Servants:
The salary of EU officials, civil servants,
temporary agents and contract agents is set out
in the Staff Regulations and multiple factors are
considered. These include the official's
seniority, work experience, the exam (s)he had
f which (s)he was
recruited, child allowance, the place of
e allowance) and other
The average net monthly salary of an Assistant
at AST3 level is around 3200 euros, while for an
entry level AD5 Administrator would earn

Sample Tests:
EPSO itself makes sample tests available for
candidates on its website, and Online EU
Training has also a large number of free tests
and a free demo available for anyone interested
in EU career exams.
Scientist and Scientific Jobs:
EPSO from time to time published open
competitions for scientists and scientific jobs as
"Specialist" exams. These always include a
Talent Screener in which candidates are
required to state their professional background
and prove their profile's relevance to the job.
Other than that, candidates are still required to
go through an Assessment Centre and in mos
cases they also need to take an abstract, verba
and numerical reasoning test.
The most likely place of employment is in DG
Research of the European Commission, or the
Joint Research Centre of the Commission, which
has offices in several EU countries.
Seconded National Experts (SNEs):
The so-called Seconded National Experts (SNEs,
or based on the French abbreviation, ENDs) are
civil servants from an EU Member State who are
sent for a specific amount of time to work in a
European Commission or European Parliament
directorate. The goal is to bring a national
perspective or a subject matter expertise to the
given unit's policy work.
Selection Board:
A Selection Board is an independent body set
up for every competition that EPSO announces
and administers. Legally speaking, each
Selection Board acts on its own and it is
responsible for the proper management and
supervision of a given competition.
EPSO itself makes sample tests available for
candidates on its website, and Online EU
Training has also a large number of free tests
anyone interested
EPSO from time to time published open
competitions for scientists and scientific jobs as
ams. These always include a
Talent Screener in which candidates are
required to state their professional background
and prove their profile's relevance to the job.
Other than that, candidates are still required to
go through an Assessment Centre and in most
cases they also need to take an abstract, verbal
The most likely place of employment is in DG
Research of the European Commission, or the
Joint Research Centre of the Commission, which
:
called Seconded National Experts (SNEs,
or based on the French abbreviation, ENDs) are
civil servants from an EU Member State who are
sent for a specific amount of time to work in a
European Commission or European Parliament
directorate. The goal is to bring a national
perspective or a subject matter expertise to the
A Selection Board is an independent body set
up for every competition that EPSO announces
and administers. Legally speaking, each
Selection Board acts on its own and it is
responsible for the proper management and
The Selection Board can also check the pre
selection tests that candidates are required to
set, and in most cases it is the Selection Board
members who act as assessors during the
Assessment Centre.
It is also them who decide on the eligibility of
candidates' work experience and qualifications.
They are not part of EPSO but composed of EU
officials who volunteer to become members of
a Selection Board. There is usually a staff
representative and/or a trade union member in
each board, along with an administrative
assistant from EPSO who is formally speaking
not part of the board.
Situational Judgment Test (or
Judgement Test, SJT):
Situational Judgment Tests are part of the pre
selection tests in most competitions and they
require candidates to choose the most
favorable and least favorable course
a given situation.
It is a computer-based multiple
candidates are expected to have a basic
understanding of EU institutions' values,
corporate culture and code of conduc
successfully pass the test.
Specialists:
Among Administrator (AD) exams, we can
distinguish between generalists, specialists and
linguists, though in administrative terms there
is no such distinction at the time of recruitment
or employment.
Exams which are not scheduled on a regular
annual basis and the ones requiring specific,
usually scientific, legal or economist profiles
with experience in a specific field would be
considered as a Specialist exam.
16
The Selection Board can also check the pre-
selection tests that candidates are required to
set, and in most cases it is the Selection Board
members who act as assessors during the
ecide on the eligibility of
candidates' work experience and qualifications.
They are not part of EPSO but composed of EU
officials who volunteer to become members of
a Selection Board. There is usually a staff
representative and/or a trade union member in
each board, along with an administrative
assistant from EPSO who is formally speaking
Situational Judgment Test (or Situational
Situational Judgment Tests are part of the pre-
selection tests in most competitions and they
require candidates to choose the most
favorable and least favorable course of action in
multiple-choice test, and
candidates are expected to have a basic
understanding of EU institutions' values,
corporate culture and code of conduct to
Among Administrator (AD) exams, we can
distinguish between generalists, specialists and
linguists, though in administrative terms there
is no such distinction at the time of recruitment
Exams which are not scheduled on a regular
s and the ones requiring specific,
usually scientific, legal or economist profiles
with experience in a specific field would be
considered as a Specialist exam.

These competitions have the same tests as the
others but there is a more stringent Talent
Screener in which the profiles, work experience
and other factors are carefully checked to make
sure that only candidates with a fully relevant
profile are allowed to take part in the
Assessment Centre.
Staff Regulations:
EU officials, temporary agents and contract
agents are bound by the Staff Regulations which
is the official 'labour code' setting out the rules
of their employment, obligations, rights,
pension, salary and any other matter
concerning their relation with the EU institutio
or body they are working for.
The reason for the Staff Regulation's existence
is the independence these 'agents' or 'servants'
enjoy from any governmental or other entity:
they are not bound by the labour laws of any EU
Member State given their only affiliation is
towards the EU institution that employs them.
Statistician (Statistics):
This is one of the profiles in the Administrat
statistician policy officer or statistics
profile announced for more technical positions.
Statistics policy officers are required to have a
limited to studies in statistics in a strict sense
but any other subject that is closely associated
with the tasks of a statistician officer is also
acceptable.
on the admissibility of the diploma. Statisticians
can mainly expect to work for EUROSTAT, the
European Union's statistics agency in
Luxembourg, or various other departments of
These competitions have the same tests as the
others but there is a more stringent Talent
ener in which the profiles, work experience
and other factors are carefully checked to make
sure that only candidates with a fully relevant
profile are allowed to take part in the
EU officials, temporary agents and contract
agents are bound by the Staff Regulations which
is the official 'labour code' setting out the rules
of their employment, obligations, rights,
pension, salary and any other matter
concerning their relation with the EU institution
The reason for the Staff Regulation's existence
is the independence these 'agents' or 'servants'
enjoy from any governmental or other entity:
laws of any EU
Member State given their only affiliation is
towards the EU institution that employs them.
statistician policy officer or statistics-related
profile announced for more technical positions.
Statistics policy officers are required to have a
ch is nevertheless not
limited to studies in statistics in a strict sense
but any other subject that is closely associated
ian officer is also
he diploma. Statisticians
can mainly expect to work for EUROSTAT, the
European Union's statistics agency in
Luxembourg, or various other departments of
the European Commission such as the
directorate for Regional affairs.
Structured Interview:
The Structured Interview is one of the key
exercises in the EPSO Assessment Centre. It is
not to be confused with a classic job interview
which it is not: candidates are asked questions
about past situations in their life to
demonstrate to which level they possess (or do
not possess) a given competency from the 7 or
8 competencies identified by EPSO.
Assessors tell candidates which competency is
being tested so they can adapt their answers
accordingly. Given that the style and type of
questions that are asked are relatively known, it
is possible to prepare very well for this exam.
Talent Screener:
See CV sift.
Temporary Agent:
According to EPSO and EU civil service portal,
temporary agents may be employed to perform
a wide variety of tasks, within one of the
following categories: (a) for non
(highly specialised jobs) or temporary tasks (b)
to make up for staff shortages in cases where
competition reserve lists have been exhausted
; (c) for Commissioners' private offi
('cabinets'); (d) for specific requirements in the
scientific sector. As a temporary agent in type
(d), candidates could work in one of the various
research centres set up by the EU to promote
research and to manage European framework
programmes for research and development.
As a temporary agent in type (c), candidates
could work in the private office of a
Commissioner during their term in office.
Temporary agents in types (a) and (b) can be
employed to do a wide variety of work,
17
the European Commission such as the
directorate for Regional affairs.
The Structured Interview is one of the key
exercises in the EPSO Assessment Centre. It is
not to be confused with a classic job interview
which it is not: candidates are asked questions
st situations in their life to
demonstrate to which level they possess (or do
not possess) a given competency from the 7 or
ompetencies identified by EPSO.
Assessors tell candidates which competency is
being tested so they can adapt their answers
ingly. Given that the style and type of
questions that are asked are relatively known, it
is possible to prepare very well for this exam.
According to EPSO and EU civil service portal,
temporary agents may be employed to perform
iety of tasks, within one of the
following categories: (a) for non-standard
(highly specialised jobs) or temporary tasks (b)
to make up for staff shortages in cases where
competition reserve lists have been exhausted -
; (c) for Commissioners' private offices
('cabinets'); (d) for specific requirements in the
scientific sector. As a temporary agent in type
(d), candidates could work in one of the various
research centres set up by the EU to promote
research and to manage European framework
search and development.
As a temporary agent in type (c), candidates
could work in the private office of a
Commissioner during their term in office.
Temporary agents in types (a) and (b) can be
employed to do a wide variety of work,

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