IR Career Starters

How To: Compete in the EU AD5 Concours

Posted on by Alexander Borum

Introduction

During every intake, tens of thousands of hopefuls apply for the European Union’s AD5 Generalist competition, known simply as the concours. It is a fierce competition that pits 30-40.000 candidates from across the European Union against each other to secure one of just a few hundred spots on the reserve list — the official gateway to a permanent EU civil servant career.

This guide offers practical advice for students, graduates, and young professionals who want to prepare with purpose. Whether it’s your first attempt or you’re returning with lessons learned, this roadmap will help you navigate the process strategically and confidently, and hopefully narrow the gap between you, and a dream career in the EU.

What Is the AD5 Concours?

The AD5 competition is the main entry-level concours for graduate administrators (AD = Administrateur) in the EU institutions, including the European Commission, Council, Parliament, and EEAS. It is administered by EPSO (European Personnel Selection Office).

Requirements

The process is open to all EU citizens with at least a bachelor’s degree, regardless of field. AD5 concours are generalist by nature, though specialist competitions (AD6–AD7) also exist and run separately. While you are not required to have previous working experience to apply, but it is highly recommended for anyone wishing to be a competitive candidate. If applicable in your country, you have to have fulfilled your military service before applying. Lastly, you have to be proficient in one official EU language (C1) and have at least a B2 in a second official EU language. For most, this will be your native language + english, but this is not specified.

Odds

As there has not been an AD5 competition since 2019, the competition will likely be particularly fierce as six years of candidates might potentially aim for participation in the 2025 Concour. Estimates of 30.000-40.000 applicants are put on the table from different qualified sources, and the expectation is that EPSO will seek to build a reserve list of 1000-1300 candidates for potential recruitment. This translates to 2.5-4.3% of the applicant pool, which might not sound like a lot, but in 2018 and 2019 only about 0.5% made it through.

Stages of the AD5 Competition

The competition typically includes:

  1. Application — Submit your EPSO profile, choose languages, and fill in qualifications.
  2. Computer-Based Tests (CBT) — Verbal, numerical, and abstract reasoning, EU knowledge test and possibly a situational judgement test.
  3. Written test — Simulated job scenario requiring written responses or a written analytical test.
  4. Reserve List — Final selection of successful candidates, from which institutions recruit.
  5. Recruitment — Likely a structured interview.

Each stage is eliminatory — fail one and you won’t advance to the next stage, and failing… is quite easy.

Applying

The application process is straightforward but remains quite exhaustive. EPSO will need all your basic information, language preferences, possible work locations etc.

You will also have to manually enter your CV to provide an overview of your education, any relevant training, your professional experiences and your language skills – you will be expected to provide proof of everything, so it is a good investment to gather, scan and archive all this information for the future.

You will also be asked to validate your eligibility: full citizenship, completed military service (if applicable), character requirements (criminal record), adherence to the admission conditions, and any language and professional experience requirements.

While it may change from competition to competition, you will likely also be asked to complete a Motivation and Strengths section as part of your application. You will be asked to provide written answers to four questions: (1) How your education and experience are relevant; (2) Why you are interested in applying for this career opportunity; (3) What contribution you believe you could make to EU institutions and agencies, and your key strengths; (4) Two main achievements and what you learned from them.

These answers allow you to present your profile beyond test scores, highlighting motivation, transferable skills, and concrete results. Many underestimate this section, but thoughtful, well-structured answers can positively influence your assessment later on.

Tips

  • Be specific and structured. Use short paragraphs or bullet points if appropriate. Link your experience and skills to the profile and the EU context.
  • Show authentic motivation. Go beyond generic statements (“I want to contribute to Europe”), explain why this matters to you and how your background connects to EU priorities.
  • Highlight relevant strengths and achievements. Choose examples demonstrating key EU competencies, e.g. teamwork, problem-solving, resilience, leadership, adaptability, and quantify outcomes where possible.

For more general tips, you are welcome to browse my general guide for writing cover letters; it has good advice that applies here.

HOW-TO: International Relations Cover Letter

Tests

While thousands of initial applicants do not pass the application phase of the concours, the real challenge is the tests. For a select few, these are a breeze, but for the vast majority, they remain a critical challenge that hinders advancement to the later stages. It adds complexity that there is limited information on the testing framework before a call is published, so overpreparation tends to be a hurdle to pass.

For many of the tests, I have included video content from EU Training, the premier provider of EPSO training materials. While they have some free resources, they are mainly a paid service provider. I do not have any ties to them, other than having bought their products and services in the past, so there are no affiliate links or kick-back involved in any purchases.

Reasoning tests are not uncommon in upper-tier recruitment, and I already have a general guide that briefly introduces the framework and gives some concrete tips (below). In addition, EU Training has some old but excellent introductions to tests, giving you a good primer for each.

HOW-TO: International Relations Tests & Interviews

Reasoning Tests

Reasoning tests are not exactly IQ tests, despite also testing your wits. They are focused on your ability to analyse information, draw logical conclusions, and solve problems, often with the explicit goal of hiring candidates who are exceptionally good at critical thinking and decision-making.

Verbal Reasoning

The EPSO verbal reasoning test assesses your ability to understand, analyse, and interpret written information. You will be presented with short text passages followed by a statement. Your task is to decide whether the statement is true, false, or cannot say based solely on the information provided, not on prior knowledge or assumptions. This is incredibly important to remember, as your brain will want to gap-fill information, leading you towards false assumptions.

The test is strictly timed: typically, 20 questions must be completed in 35 minutes. It evaluates key skills such as reading comprehension, critical thinking, and logical reasoning — all essential for working with complex texts and policy documents in an international context. Success requires precision, focus, and the ability to distinguish between what is explicitly stated and what is implied. Many candidates find the verbal reasoning test deceptively challenging, so preparation and practice are highly recommended.

Tips

  • Stick to the text. Do not rely on background knowledge or assumptions — base your answer only on what is explicitly stated.
  • Watch for subtle wording. Pay attention to qualifiers like some, always, only, or may, which can completely change the meaning.
  • Manage your time. If one question is taking too long, move on and come back later if time allows.

Numerical Reasoning

The EPSO numerical reasoning test evaluates your ability to interpret and analyse numerical data. You will be presented with tables, charts, or graphs, each followed by a multiple-choice question. Using only the information provided, you must apply basic mathematical operations, such as percentages, ratios, averages, or trends, to select the correct answer.

The test is time-pressured: typically, 10 questions must be completed in 20 minutes. It does not require advanced mathematics; instead, it measures your ability to work accurately and efficiently with quantitative information — a valuable skill when dealing with reports, statistics, and policy data. Many candidates underestimate this test, so targeted preparation is essential. Practising under time constraints and refreshing basic numeracy skills can significantly impact your performance.

Tips

  • Refresh the basics. Ensure you’re comfortable with percentages, ratios, averages, and reading data from tables and charts.
  • Work accurately. Double-check calculations where possible — accuracy matters more than rushing.
  • Practice under timed conditions. The time pressure is real; getting used to it will boost speed and confidence.

Abstract Reasoning

The EPSO abstract reasoning test assesses your ability to identify patterns and logical relationships in visual information. You will be presented with a series of abstract shapes or diagrams and asked to determine which of several options best completes the sequence or follows the same pattern.

The test is also time-pressured: typically, 10 questions must be answered in 10 minutes. It does not rely on language skills or prior knowledge; instead, it measures your fluid intelligence, problem-solving ability, and adaptability to new types of information — all valuable in dynamic policy and international environments. Abstract reasoning can feel unfamiliar to many candidates, but strong performance is achievable with practice. Success depends on developing strategies to quickly spot patterns, eliminate unlikely options, and manage time effectively.

Tips

  • Learn common patterns. Many questions rely on recurring patterns: position shifts, rotations, counting elements, size changes, colours, and symmetry.
  • Don’t overthink. The correct answer is usually based on a simple, consistent rule: avoid looking for complex explanations.
  • Keep moving. If a pattern isn’t clear after 30 seconds, move on — a fresh look at the following question can often help.

EU Knowledge

The EPSO EU Knowledge test assesses your understanding of the European Union’s institutions, policies, and priorities. It is a multiple-choice test, expected to feature around 40 questions with a time limit. This test will likely not be a pass or fail, but might be a ranking test; higher scores push you to the top of the selection pool.

The aim is to check whether you have a solid general awareness of how the EU works, including the roles of its main institutions, decision-making processes, key policy areas, recent developments, and values. You are not expected to be an EU law or treaty expert, but you do need to demonstrate familiarity with the EU’s structure and purpose. EPSO is expected to provide reading materials when the competition is published, but I can only recommend that you develop your understanding of the EU system well in advance.

Tips

  • Use official sources. For accurate, up-to-date information, prioritise the EU’s websites (Europa.eu, Eur-Lex, Council, Commission, Parliament).
  • Know the basics. Understanding the EU’s institutions, decision-making procedures, competencies, and major treaties is a core topic.
  • Stay current. Be aware of key developments in EU policy, such as the Green Deal, digital agenda, external action priorities, and enlargement discussions, which often feature in questions.

Situational Judgement Tests

The EPSO situational judgement test (SJT) assesses how you would respond professionally to challenging scenarios. You will be presented with short descriptions of workplace situations and asked to evaluate the appropriateness of possible responses. Depending on the format, you may need to select the most effective and least effective option, or rank responses according to effectiveness. The test has been heavily used in the past, but chances are that it will not be apart of the 2025 concours.

The test measures key competencies such as decision-making, teamwork, leadership, service orientation, and resilience — all highly valued in EU institutions and international roles. There are no time-consuming calculations, but the test does require sound judgement and a clear understanding of the values and behaviours expected in a diverse, multicultural, public service environment. Many candidates find that preparation, mainly through practice tests and reflecting on organisational values, makes a real difference.

Tips

  • Know the values. EPSO tests reflect the values of the EU public service: professionalism, impartiality, integrity, teamwork, and service orientation. Keep these in mind as you evaluate responses.
  • Prioritise effectiveness. The best answers resolve the situation constructively — avoiding escalation, maintaining professionalism, and fostering cooperation.
  • Practice the format. Exposure to SJT-style questions helps you recognise common patterns (e.g. managing conflict, setting priorities, handling pressure) and sharpen your judgement.

Digital Skills

The EPSO Digital Skills test assesses your ability to work effectively with digital tools and information — an increasingly important skillset in EU institutions. It is a multiple-choice test covering office software (word processing, spreadsheets, presentations), digital communication and collaboration tools, data management, online safety, and understanding basic concepts like cloud computing and digital ethics.

The test does not require advanced technical knowledge or programming skills but focuses on practical digital literacy for a modern office environment. Many will find this test manageable with some modest preparation, especially if they refresh their familiarity with standard office applications and best practices for working securely and efficiently in digital spaces.

NB. This component is not confirmed, but it is included on a rumour basis; better safe than sorry!

Tips

  • Review key applications. Please make sure you’re comfortable with standard office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, Outlook) and how they are used in professional settings.
  • Know safe practices. Understand the basics of cybersecurity, safe online behaviour, data protection, and responsible use of digital tools; these topics often appear in these types of tests.
  • Practice with example questions. If possible, familiarise yourself with the test format using practice materials — knowing how questions are phrased will help you manage time and avoid surprises.

Written Test

The EPSO Written Test evaluates your ability to communicate clearly and effectively in writing, a core skill for working in EU institutions. Depending on the competition, you may be asked to draft a structured text, such as a short report, briefing note, or structured email, in your second language (usually English or French).

The test typically involves analysing documents and responding to a prompt within a time limit (e.g. 90 minutes). It assesses your ability to summarise key points, structure information logically, present arguments clearly, and use appropriate tone and style. Many candidates from international affairs backgrounds are comfortable with writing, but this test requires adapting your style to EU institutional expectations: clear, concise, neutral, and well-organised.

The written test is expected to be a so-called EUFTE: Free-text Essay on EU matters, assessing only written communication skills. You will likely have 40-60 minutes for the written test, which will likely be proctored, and you should expect not to have access to any tools or help, such as Spell Check, Grammarly, AI, Google, etc. You should, however, receive background documentation two weeks before the test.

EPSO expects that the candidate

  • structures the written communication with a logical flow of ideas.​
  • writes concisely without use of unnecessary words and sentences.​
  • presents subject-matter in an understandable way.​
  • adapts/tailors their writing to match the intended audience and purpose.​
  • uses the information provided to deal with the assignment.

Tips

  • Plan your structure. Before writing, take 5–10 minutes to plan your introduction, key sections, and conclusion — this makes your text clearer and easier to follow.
  • Be concise and neutral. EU writing favours clarity and objectivity. Avoid flowery language or personal opinions unless explicitly asked.
  • Practice with time limits. Write a few practice pieces under timed conditions to build confidence in managing both content and timing during the actual test.

How to Prepare Strategically

1. Treat It Like a Competitive Exam

  • Set aside 3–6 months to prepare consistently.
  • Build a weekly plan with practice tests.
  • Focus on time management — speed matters as much as accuracy.

The Concour is incredibly tough to pass, but practice makes perfect. Dedicate as much time as possible to compete, but by all means, compete as many times as you can, to build your understanding of the testing framework, the EPSO logic and the wider framework.

It is quite rare to pass through the process successfully on your first try; this is okay – it is a great opportunity to familiarise yourself with the process.

To best prepare, you should study and practice to build a routine and increase your odds; every mistake in the tests will hinder your progress.

2. Use the Right Tools

I generally refrain from suggesting paid options, but my exception 0 is the concour; I have bought the Ultimate Book when I applied and it has been incredibly helpful, as has paid options for online tests.

There are several options out there, so please browse and check what suits your budget and preferences; there are free resources out there.

I can also recommend that you check if there are any national level options; I have been a national candidate a few times, and have, because of that, been provided with training courses, access to test platforms and coaching. However, this differs from country to country, and is often only provided in countries that are underrepresented in the EU.

3. Practice With Others

There is no reason to sit alone with this; a study group for the tests is a good way to progress your learning and fast-track your way to success. Speaking from experience, some aspects of the tests make no sense, and having somebody else share their perspective on a solution or logic can be incredibly useful to overcome these challenges.

4. Learn the Competency Model

Prepare examples (STAR format) that match EPSO’s eight core competencies for a possible interview.

  • Analysis and problem solving
  • Communication
  • Delivering quality and results
  • Learning and development
  • Prioritising and organising
  • Resilience
  • Working with others
  • Leadership

Earlier, I linked my guide on tests and interviews, and I covered several methods you can use to your advantage, along with several relevant tips. The EPSO core competencies are essential, and having a small collection of prepared examples is very useful for a competency-based interview.

5. Language Matters

  • Practice in your second language (usually EN, FR, or DE).
  • Read EU press releases, debates, and policy memos.

Keeping your general knowledge up to date in both your primary and secondary language is a good idea, as it helps to polish your responses when the time comes.

6. Simulate Real Conditions

  • Take complete mock tests under timed conditions.
  • Reflect on performance and adjust.

Time pressure is very much part of the game for generalist and specialist competitions, so make a habit of timing each attempt; anything beyond the time limit is a lost opportunity for a point.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Underestimating the Process

Many smart candidates fail because they treat it like a job application, not a competitive exam. There are several

2. Ignoring the EPSO Logic

The tests have a particular logic, and it’s not always intuitive. Train for EPSO’s style, especially if Situational Judgement makes a return.

3. Failing Time Management

The reasoning tests are timed harshly. Practice aggressively under time pressure.

4. Not Reading the Notice of Competition

This document is your blueprint. Read it line by line and make sure that absorb all the minute details of the competition; each concours is unique, so please read it carefully.

5. Forgetting Soft Skills

Focus on test-taking for now, but remember that you will likely face a structured interview at the end; stage two of your preparations should be aimed at valuable soft skills.

Life After the Concours: What Happens Next?

Being placed on the reserve list doesn’t guarantee a job, but it means you’re eligible for recruitment by EU institutions.

How Long Will You Wait?

  • Some are recruited in weeks, others after 6–12 months.
  • Reserve lists are typically valid for 1 year.

Who Might Hire You?

  • European Commission Directorates-General
  • EEAS, Parliament, Council
  • EU agencies (ECDC, EASA, etc.)

How to Increase Your Chances:

  • Apply for newly accessible positions from the reserve list.
  • Keep your CV updated.
  • Let relevant contacts know you’re on the list.
  • Consider temporary roles.

From Someone Who Tried

I have competed in the 2018 and 2019 AD5 Competitions and, more recently, in the AD7 Specialist Competition for Crisis Management, and I can tell you, this is a tough nut to crack.

In 2018, I was a national candidate and underwent a multi-day training by ENA through the Danish MFA, and despite months of practice, I didn’t make it through. I attempted again in 2019 with similar results; meeting the pass-marks easily, but not qualifying for the next step, the old assessment centre tests (interviews, presentations and group-work).

The concours is one of those challenges, where you can do everything right and still not make it through, but it’s also one of those things, where you can get incredibly far with dedication and effort.

The reasoning tests can be practised into oblivion; you might not reach flawless runs, but you will get to a very comfortable level if you consistently train and learn the logic. EU knowledge can be built, but it is incredibly wide-spanning; it is a new entry, so I have not tried this in an EPSO context, but I have in an EU CSDP setting. I would take this any day over the Situational Judgement tests that should now be retired.

From my attempts, I have learned that the concours is very easy to underestimate, but where the rewards are great, it tends to be challenging, so investing your time and effort into this is worth it if you ask me. If you make it through, you will land a career position and have amazing opportunities to build a career and contribute to the most significant European project in modern history.

Need more help?

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NB. To be clear, I do not get a kick-back or any form of compensation; I have just reached out to them to provide savings for those reading the newsletter and visiting the website.

Final Encouragement

The AD5 concours is tough, and intentionally so. But it’s not impossible.

Many successful EU officials didn’t pass on their first try. What sets them apart isn’t just luck, it’s is preparation, reflection, and consistency.

If you want to serve Europe, this is the best way to do so. Start early, practice smart, and stay resilient. Establish your systemic approach to preparing and practising for the test.

Consider, if you can, investing in materials that might help you, but seek out as much free content as you possibly can in advance. Reasoning tests are not unique to the EU, so don’t be afraid to get creative and seek out whatever might be relevant if you are unable to access paid content.

I hope this guide helps you prepare with clarity, confidence, and realism.

Good luck, and hopefully see you in Brussels!