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

http://www.eutraining.eu/epso_glossary Copyright © 2013Arboreus

jargon” Explained: EPSO Glossary

People within the EU institutions and in the media dealing with EU affairs often use 'Eurojargon' 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

People within the EU institutions and in the media dealing with EU affairs often use 'Eurojargon' 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,


essentially the same kind of work as permanent

Commission officials. However, this depends on

factors such as the temporary needs of the

Commission and the situation with regard to

filling vacant posts.

Although the rules on the length of initial

contracts and subsequent contract extensions

vary, as a rule, temporary agents in types (a),

(b) and (d) may be hired by the Commission for

a maximum period of six years and temporary

agents who work in Commissioner's private

offices are hired for a duration linked to the

mandate of their Commissioner.

The Ultimate EU Test Book:

The best-selling preparation book on EPSO

competitions by András Baneth, published by

John Harper Publishing first in 2005 and

updated annually. Currently the 2013 editions

for Administrators and Assistants are available

in major bookshops and via book retail

websites.

Time Limits in the Pre-selection Tests

The following time limits are indicative and may

not be the same for every exam.

- 35 minutes to answer

- 20 verbal reasoning questions

- 20 minutes to answer 10 numerical

reasoning questions

- 10 minutes to answer 10 abstract

reasoning questions

- 20 situational judgment questions in 40

minutes

- 6 minutes to answer 40 accuracy and

precision questions (for AST exams

only)

- 30 minutes to answer 24 prioritizing

and organising questions (for AST

exams only)


ind of work as permanent

Commission officials. However, this depends on

factors such as the temporary needs of the

Commission and the situation with regard to

Although the rules on the length of initial

act extensions

vary, as a rule, temporary agents in types (a),

(b) and (d) may be hired by the Commission for

a maximum period of six years and temporary

agents who work in Commissioner's private

offices are hired for a duration linked to the

selling preparation book on EPSO

competitions by András Baneth, published by

John Harper Publishing first in 2005 and

ted annually. Currently the 2013 editions

for Administrators and Assistants are available

in major bookshops and via book retail

selection Tests:

The following time limits are indicative and may

20 verbal reasoning questions

20 minutes to answer 10 numerical

10 minutes to answer 10 abstract

20 situational judgment questions in 40

6 minutes to answer 40 accuracy and

precision questions (for AST exams

30 minutes to answer 24 prioritizing

and organising questions (for AST

- 25 minutes to answer 25 secretarial

field questions (for AST1 exams only)

Traineeship:

Traineeship in an EU institution is a very popular

first step towards an EU career, though it is

limited to 5 months in duration and cannot be

prolonged (at the European Commission),

though for other institutions the system is less

streamlined and this often results in more

flexibility (e.g. at the European Parli

the Court of Justice).

There are different traineeship schemes, the

most well-known is the so-called "blue book"

one which welcomes some 600 people twice a

year at the European Commission and got its

name from a blue book in which pre

candidates' names were listed in before an

online system was put in place.

Trainees are in most cases paid approximately

1000 euros a month if based in Brussels,

whereas in other countries where EU

institutions are based this sum may vary. For

anyone seeking a career in European affairs a

traineeship provides valuable experience and

insight.

Translators:



Assistant (AST) or contract agent (CAST) exams

may have translation-related profile

announced as well. Translators are usually

required to have a diploma but there is no

obligation to have in translation or language

studies so as to ensure that candidates with a

broad range of profiles are eligible. Translators

are employed by all EU institutions, and many

work in Luxembourg for the European

Parliament or the Council of Ministers in

Brussels.

18

25 minutes to answer 25 secretarial

eld questions (for AST1 exams only)

Traineeship in an EU institution is a very popular

first step towards an EU career, though it is

limited to 5 months in duration and cannot be

prolonged (at the European Commission),

though for other institutions the system is less

streamlined and this often results in more

flexibility (e.g. at the European Parliament or

There are different traineeship schemes, the

called "blue book"

one which welcomes some 600 people twice a

year at the European Commission and got its

name from a blue book in which pre-selected

candidates' names were listed in before an

online system was put in place.

in most cases paid approximately

1000 euros a month if based in Brussels,

whereas in other countries where EU

institutions are based this sum may vary. For

anyone seeking a career in European affairs a

traineeship provides valuable experience and



Assistant (AST) or contract agent (CAST) exams

related profiles

announced as well. Translators are usually

required to have a diploma but there is no

obligation to have in translation or language

studies so as to ensure that candidates with a

broad range of profiles are eligible. Translators

stitutions, and many

work in Luxembourg for the European

Parliament or the Council of Ministers in


Travel Expenses:

See Reimbursement of Costs.

Verbal Reasoning:



required in the Assessment Centre

a short paragraph of text on virtually any topic,

candidates are required to choose from 4 or 5

answer options the one that fully matches the

statements in the original text.

There is always only one correct answer

because other options may contain insufficient

information or false statements. Since 2011

EPSO has requested candidates to sit the verbal

reasoning tests in their Language 1.

Working with Others:





Group exercise. This competency requires

candidates to demonstrate understanding

towards their team members, cooperation with

colleagues and a generally positive attitude

when tension arise within a group. Best tested

in the group exercise and the structured

interview.


selection phase of



a short paragraph of text on virtually any topic,

candidates are required to choose from 4 or 5

answer options the one that fully matches the

There is always only one correct answer

contain insufficient

information or false statements. Since 2011

EPSO has requested candidates to sit the verbal

reasoning tests in their Language 1.

7 competencies that are measured




Group exercise. This competency requires

candidates to demonstrate understanding

towards their team members, cooperation with

colleagues and a generally positive attitude

when tension arise within a group. Best tested

in the group exercise and the structured

19

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Epso glossary